Officer Voon

Are we doing more damage than good?

2012-02-12T11:02:00.000-08:00

(The thoughts reflected here are based on the BB Malaysia context and not of the BB in other parts of world)

Recently several cases have caused me to ponder the overall direction of the BB and if we are truly making the impact we've set out to do.. or if we could in fact be paving the way for to the demise of lives.

One of BB's greatest strength's - loyalty - is also turning out to be one of it's greatest flaws. I suppose it is good to cultivate a sense of loyalty which comes with values like commitment, sacrifice, interest and passion which are things good for them to have in their future workplaces, families and so on.. so by most counts, this strength on it's own is not a bad thing. But if our members overemphasis on loyalty, like say, giving up a life decision for BB - this becomes destructive. Surely we cannot be teaching our members to be more committed to BB rather than their work or family.. but in some instances, that appears to be the case.

There is a root cause to that - all companies aspire to be bigger. To do that, you need more officers to take up positions, manage programs, to give personal care to our members and so on. With this knowledge, we mastermind how to retain or create a higher pool of office. While in some cases we are able to recruit non-rank and file officers, the default mindset is to prepare our members and NCOs from the rank-and-file to become officers in the future. This is achieve through instilling a strong sense of loyalty. Though this itself is not wrong, there is a potential danger in what seeds we sow. If it has reached a level where our members think "BB is life!" or "I don't want to be anywhere else but here in BB", we as responsible officers should start being worried.

We do not want to train our members, or future officers to be fanatic BB drones - we want them to be effective leaders in their workplaces.. people who can bring a positive impact to society and most of all, shine the Light. Unfortunately, in some cases our hunger for more members and to retain officers at all cost has significantly hampered their lives. We have become too protective on our members, barring them from trying out other activities beside BB, where in companies where this problem persist, BB is not a once a week event, but probably 3-4 times (unofficially) a week. To enforce this further, we punish our members who are "irregular" by decreasing their chances for promotion and creating an environment where if one is to do well in BB, they truly need to give up everything.. or resign. There are even companies discouraging their members from thinking through round, after round of punishments (into the thousands).. and the end objective is to make them understand that "an officers word is final".

Shouldn't we be encouraging our members to get out there.. perhaps joins other societies, church/CF programs, go for their friends birthday parties and so on - rather than always locking them in on their BB parades. Perhaps the interest, skill or experience God wants them to gain is not in the BB? I'm sad to see that some of our members struggle with reality when they hit tertiary education and fare even worse in work (assuming they only have BB as part of their lives).. but that is hardly surprising when BB is all they have known, isn't it?

Here's a real-life situation of what typically happens:
There is this person who has graduated from a local university, but is not able to get a job (yet). He has spent most of his time in BB, serving diligently and is well love by his offices for his enthusiasm and participation in all BB activities. The problem is that in his career line, he should have done internships during his holidays. Internships are typically 2-3 months long in most industries but he has never done any because he has choose to spend his time in the BB.. and in some cases through the insistence of the officers/captain. Because he has nothing to show for, he can't get the job he wants. So who's fault is it? His officers for urging him to come back on Saturdays? Or himself for his unquestionable loyalty to the BB?

I had a chat with a friend years ago.. young officer and nice chap. He was a proud BB member - but that's all he knew about. He was sure that if one came from the BB and did well, many organisations will hire - especially as a BB members reputation for loyalty is well known. I was quick to drop the bombshell in him. If I were an interviewer and the person hiring, I will most likely not hire a BB member if that's all they've ever joined.. regardless if they're Sergeants or Staff Sergeants with a President's Badge. Not being exposed to how other organisatiosn function, no prior job experience.. even casual/part-time experience.. probably no interpersonal skills (BB is very command and control.. and is far worst in companies with both Boys and Girls - extremely superficial behaviour) and most of all - no life! Seriously, I would want to hire a person with some personality.

(Having said all that, I have to note that BB members who are loyal and are also active in other activities do stunningly well in their careers and have a huge network of friends and contacts. Unfortunately, these are also the ones who normally have hell from officers for "dividing their attention" between BB and something else).

Though what I'm reflection on could only be the based of certain individuals (and surely a small percentage of members going through our ranks will not do too terrificly in life), there is still a responsible need to analyse if there was anything we could have done to prevent the worst from happening.. or discover if the current BB program has actually contributed to it. It also must be said that smaller companies seldom have a choice when it comes to the need to enforce this sense of loyalty - if the company only has 2-3 officers.. the situation is more desperate and their actions cannot be taken out of context.

This is something we need pondering upon.

The straightforward answer is that we need to allow our members some flexibility - let them do other things once in a while - let them take leave, not too often, but enough to at least try something different and to spend time with the non-BB peers. Perhaps when a member comes to a time closer to their careers, encourage them to do that all important internship and force him too if he doesn't.

The easiest to do is to remember what BB is about - building the leaders of tomorrow. Officers must remember the BB Object and readjust if there has been deviation. This must be dealt with some amount of importance as these are lives we are dealing with.

10th Annual General Meeting

2012-01-08T00:49:00.000-08:00

The Kuala Lumpur State Council of The Boys' Brigade in Malaysia held it's 10th Annual General Meeting at Sekolah Sri Sempurna, home of the 10th Kuala Lumpur Company, on the 8th January 2012. It was a routine meeting and the first one I organised for the Council. All companies were present along with over a dozen observers from various companies, as well as from KL Stedfast Association.

The meeting in session

Made a few typo errors in the booklet, but overall I was happy with the meeting, though I hope companies can see beyond their own interest and support the Council's activities. At the same time, I understand that companies are struggling are need to focus on preventing their own ship from sinking first. Hopefully, somewhere, I can make a difference.. not sure how yet.

Group photo of the 10th AGM of KLSC

First Parades of 2012

2012-01-07T00:42:00.000-08:00

My first parades of the year took place in four companies. The first stop was 6th KL which is officially revived (though under probation under the church, but ok in the eyes of BBM) after a two year recess due to the lack of officers. 13 Boys were present, including three already in secondary school, manned by three officers (excluding myself). A joint program was conducted with several dozen members of the 4th KL Girls' Brigade which focused on having fun programs that day. Overall, it was a great job by all the adults from BB and GB. Well done!

Fun activities being conducted with the BB and GB members at Holy Light Church

Closing parade in 6th KL

4th KL having a band practice

After 6th KL, I had a little time to spare (or so I thought) and decided to drop by St. Gabriel's for awhile, in doing so catching the 4th KL band in practice. It was only a 10 minute visit, but it's good to see them in action. They've mentioned that recruitment has not been favourable in St. Gabriel's school this year with only 7-8 members. Need to pray for more!

Boys and Girls in CMC Kepong having fun activities

At 2.30pm I proceeded to my next assignment at Chinese Methodist Church Kepong. Results there was less encouraging as the Boys are quite undisciplined and naughty. Much work to be done here. Big credit to Mr Low Zhen Yu who was able to control the Boys much better than I. We also did a fun orientation program for the Boys and Girls. But with them hard to control and not cooperating, it was pretty frustration. There were only 8 Boys that day as well. We need another 10 at least to meet BBM's requirements to form a company. I believe the struggles today can be overcome by prayer and proper planning of our roles and programs. Let's see how that goes.

After Kepong, I headed back to the YMCA in time to catch 3rd KL having their early year promotions to deserving new and old NCOs for their hard work.

Newly Promoted Sergeant Wong Kin Phan receiving his sash

Performance at 1 Utama for Selangor State Government

2011-12-10T18:30:00.000-08:00

On the Christmas of 2011, 3rd Kuala Lumpur Company was given a rare opportunity to perform a band performance at 1 Utama for the Selangor State Government. VIPs included the State's Chief Minister, Tan Sri Dato Seri Khalid Ibrahim and members of the Selangor EXCO. The purpose of this occasion was celebrate the joy of Christmas, a Christian event, with other Malaysians regardless of race or religion.

3rd KL band performing outside 1 Utama New Wing

Despite a relatively last minute arrangement (one week notice), the Boys played alright. The band wasn't the only performance from us, also lined up was a choir led by Mr Lawrence Tay.

It also so happened the 4th Johor Bahru Company was in town, mid-way through their tour of several towns as part of their year end trip. They were also given a slot to perform their fancy drill/dance which they performed during their recent fundraising dinner.

4th JB Fancy Drill/Dance Performane

All in all, it was an interesting outing for all of members, making it a productive holiday.

3rd KL and 4th JB group photo

Write up on 3rd KL Website

3rd KL Year End Camp

2011-12-05T22:09:00.001-08:00

I participated in 3rd KL's Year End Camp cum Band Camp at Chefoo Centennial Methodist Center at Cameron Highlands, which was held from 3-7th December 2011, though I only joined them on the 2nd Day at night. We took to longer route to Cameron's via Kampung Tanjong (which I honestly thought would be faster) and ended up reaching Camerons later than expected. Upon arriving, I was greeted by a bunch of Boys, some which looked tired after a long day of activities, in the hall rehearsing songs which were to be presented just a week later during a public Christmas event hosted by the Selangor State Government.

The night was young when I arrived. In fact, the plan was to catch them in time to go for the Camerons Night market. After that, I was meant to conduct devotion and vesper that night which we based on a movie, Facing the Giants. Despite some extensive preparation, I found my "preaching" skills quite rusted and require more practice. I also gave the Boys a good old fashion time-challenge as I found their standards of tidiness grossly under-par, in particular the way the arranged their shoes outside the hall (no shoes allowed in the hall). As a BB Company, it is good to give them these reminders once in a while.. not have a "fun" camp and forget everything else.

Heading up and down to a trail - apparently they went the wrong way

And up they go into the abyss!

The next morning the Boys had an interesting 4-5 hour walk along the great tracks of Brinchang Hill. Yen Mun and I only walked them to the entrance of the trail.. though we initially planned to follow them, laziness got the better of us. We joined Lawrence and Joe Wong at Berinchang Town instead for a nice breakfast, shopping for items the NCOs needed to conduct games and enjoyed a nice piece of durian!

It wasn't all fun and games for me either. I was requested to head up to Camerons to support the officers in keeping more eyes on the Boys. That didn't mean that I could stop working with my job at the KL FTO. I brought my laptop and monitor to Camerons and spent significant hours working on various assignments during my stay there. It almost seemed "anti-social" but that was how it was.

The Boys getting briefed of a game

The camp committee - made out of Form 4s conducting a night program

An interesting highlight of the trip was the Boys helping out in community work by assisting the Local Town Council clearing up overgrowth and rubbish along one of the Cameronian Trails. It was good exposure for the Boys as these program helped instill a sense of selflessness. All of them were cramped unto a truck like cattle on the way there and back.

The Boys clearing up one of trails

Band session

Character and Team Building Games

What I particularly liked about this camp was that it was organised by the Form 4s (aged 16 or 17 if they were in removed classes). Most are Privates and have not been given the opportunity to show what they are made off. This camp certainly has given them a chance to shine and most would stand a chance in getting promoted. But ranks alone is not what it is about, BB is here to train leaders and getting the younger ones involved will boost experience and sharpen skills necessary in becoming a model citizen.

This camp was also laying the foundations for the highly (over-emphasised) Pesta which will be held Kulai, Johor in June 2012. So.. we're back to this Pesta madness. God help us all.

Read 3rd KL article here.

The First KL EOTC For A While..

2011-11-12T04:53:00.001-08:00

On the 12th November 2011, the Kuala Lumpur State Council organised an Elementary Officers Training Course which was held at Menara Wesley, Kuala Lumpur. It was a relatively last minute course, which was pushed through just a little more than a month ago.. partly due to my insistence. There were a few new Companies which were in dire need of training, which was the cause of my urgency.

Participants at their first activity - ice breaking

We had 18 participants, including 3 instructors. Participants comprises from the existing companies - 1st Kuala Lumpur and 10th Kuala Lumpur. The highlight was curious participants wanting to know more about the BB from the soon-to-be reactivated 6th Kuala Lumpur Company and also from prospective BB Companies from the Kepong Chinese Methodist Church, Emmanuel Methodist Church, Taman Ujong Methodist Church as well as a school - SMK Bukit Mewah. If all works out, three new Companies will pop out from this very training, excluding one reactivated company.

During lunch time, the officers had a chance to see the 1st KL BB band in action

We carried out the usual BBM EOTC syllabus. By now I'm quite comfortable running one of which this is probably my third of the year. I made a few upgrades to my existing slides, more graphics, facts and a video which was pretty effective. I hope to continue improving things. The notes have also been modified, somewhat substantial in certain parts to suit the needs of this State Council.

Mr Lim Cheng Hin going through roles and responsibilities of an officer

I got more people to help out in this times training, with Mr Lim Cheng Hin teaching Roles and Responsibilities of Officers and Mr Yee Mun Theam doing Junior Program Planning. Both officers though well, but I was particularly inspired by Mr Yee's creative methods of teaching Juniors which made the class very interesting. Some ideas seemed simple, but were quite ingenious. Brilliant!

Mr Yee Mun Theam on his session of Junior Planning using creative methods

Towards the end we got the participants to share and I was very moved and encourage by some of the things shared. Some of the participants who were unsure of BB before the course are now excited and impatient to get their companies going. Some participants whom were the rank and file initially thought the teachings will be a replica of NCO Training and Target badge, but too gained much. I hope and pray that the Lord will inspire servanthood amongst the participants, for new Companies to arise and reach out to more young people. All in all praise and glory to Him for a smooth session!

Group photo of participants of the KL EOTC 2011

Mr Lawrence Tay in The Star

2011-11-06T05:44:00.000-08:00

Mr Lawrence Tay was featured in The Star national newspaper on the 6th November 2011, Sunday. The article was written by my one and only who had this article in the waiting list for.. pretty long. Glad it was featured.

Well done Mr Lawrence. You made the BB proud!

KulGames 2011

2011-10-29T09:00:00.000-07:00

This years Kulgames was one of my first assignments as the new KL Full Time Officer. But rather than just running around and handling administrative matters, I was glued down to manage the Table Tennis Competition. It was also one of my first times (that I can remember) handling a sporting event as chief umpire.

It was pretty fun and easy despite much running around to do. It was simply a matter of figuring out your systems and procedures before hand, getting reliable umpires and of course, praying for the conditions to be right.

We managed four categories, Junior Singles, Junior Doubles, Senior Single and Senior Doubles. It was just eleven (11) points for a set, with the best two sets (out of three) proceeding to the finals (there was a qualifying round - so the Boys all get to play a few times). During the finals (as in the top 4), we increased it to the best of three sets out of five, to make it just a little more fun.

In the end, turns out that 4th KL did a clean sweet - winning a 3 of the 4 categories, with 2nd KL taking the Senior Doubles.

All in all, a very good KulGames. Special thanks to Mr Terence Tay, the chief organiser and Mr Vincent Puah and Benny Tham for being the umpires for Table Tennis. And of course, glory to God for his faithful guiding hands!

Read article on 3rd Kl Website

First Day at Work as the KL State Full Time Worker

2011-10-15T10:33:00.000-07:00

My first assignment as the KL Full Time Officer (official title is Executive Secretary, but it sounded too chim for a nature it ought to be) started with a visitation to the 2nd Kuala Lumpur Company on the early mornings of 15th October 2011, a Saturday. Parade was held at their usual grounds at Grace Methodist Church Sentul. Attendance was hampered mainly by exams and a non-BB excursion some of the Boys were having, but that didn't stop a loyal 10 Boys and the one steadfast captain from coming!

2nd KL Opening Parade - Attendance was poor mainly due to exams

2nd Kuala Lumpur is one of those companies which has roughed it out over the years. Having being formed in 1957, pretty much the same year as the country, was one of the few companies formed when BBM was still the FCMBB. In the past decade, it has constantly been threatened to closure due to its relatively small membership, partly due to the shrinking population of recruitable Boys in their school base, Methodist Boys' School Sentul (SMK (L) Methodist, Sentul). Still, the moral of the 2nd KL story is that not once did it go in-active or close down. That's the meaning of Steadfastness!

The Company has saw three different captains in the last 4 years, dues to various sensitive reasons. At present, Mr Cephas Yap faithfully leads the Boys and it's few officers. The was a standard BB program - the opening parade, singspiration, games, band, Christian Education and closing parade. There was no drill that Saturday as they extended the band to practice for an upcoming performance for school.

Pte. Terence Lee doing a forfeit during an games session

Personally, I do not find 2nd KL Boys any different from those from other all Boy companies. The passion and yearning for brotherhood is exactly the same. This is key towards the attractiveness of the BB, that is fellowship - BB's main source of retention. From there, the Object too can be realised.

In the last year, Cephas was able to stabilise the programs and make things more consistent - another thing which is extremely crucial. Our Boys can clearly see our mistakes, as much as we like to assume how dumb and inexperienced they are, when in actual fact they see our cover ups and excuses as clear as day. In the past 2nd KL was plagued by officers and senior NCOs who go absent at will, something absolutely unacceptable no matter what background one is from nor whatever the circumstance. This will only lay a dying foundation, spiraling out of control year after year, until one day people just decide not to come altogether, for a few weeks, which eventually turn permanent. Fortunately, this culture is slowly being weeded out of the company through firm discipline and care.

I'm confident 2nd KL will recover to a greater strengths in the future. With people such as their capable officers and enthusiastic Boys laying a foundation to the future, things will slowly but surely improve. There are talks of them acquiring another school for recruitment next year. I hope I can assist them the best I can.

It's high time The Boys' Brigade in Kuala Lumpur to shine!

1st KL's And There War Light

2011-09-03T20:00:00.000-07:00

We were given a real treat by the 1st Kuala Lumpur Company on the 2nd September 2011 with their highly anticipated Cantata.. which is a musical-story telling thing. Many 1st KL Boys, past and present were involved in this production, but what raised my expectations was the involvement Mr Terence Yap, who is well known for producing quality performances.

That night, the Wesley Methodist Church Kuala Lumpur Sanctuary was transformed into a dazzling display of colourful lights. The Boys did well.. each item held it's own surprises. Above all, it was FREE.. even had a free bookmark to bring home.

With 3rd KL celebrating it's 55th Anniversary next year.. hopefully this didn't cause my own officer to dream too big... as such productions require mammoth amounts of time and effort.

KL State Basic NCO Training

2011-09-03T11:30:00.000-07:00

On an odd Saturday morning, I was dragged out of bed to ferry the KL State Treasurer, Mr Terence Tay, to Sekolah Sri Sempurna as he was the Guest of Honour.. and he didn't know the way there.

The NCO Training scene in Kuala Lumpur is one of ups and downs.. but at least it's been consistent for the past three years. I was not at this year's BNTS, but it looks like it went okay. Special thanks to Mr Andrew Tan and the 10th Kuala Lumpur Company for hosting the State.

Well, it was a worthwhile trip to see the members in the closing ceremony. Pity Mr Terence, had so many hands to shake and salutes to give.

Johor State's NCO Training and 3rd KL's Leaders Retreat

2011-09-02T02:29:00.000-07:00

Another round in Johor, this time for the real show. Finally after several attempts, there is finally an ANTS in Johor Darul Ta'zim. Praise God! In total, there were 23 ANTS and 56 BNTS participants, and roughly 20 of so Officers and helpers converging in the humble town of Kluang, Johor in the confides of SJK (C) Chong Eng from the 27-29th August 2011. It was (supposed to be) a combined effort by both Selangor and Johor State Councils, with Selangor contributing (one) Officers and Johor hosting.

Overall, I am pretty satisfied with the outcome of the camp, despite a few unforeseen circumstances and some questioning of how the NTS system works. All in all, some mistakes made, lessons learnt and all that is necessary to lay foundations for the future. I was focused mainly on the ANTS side while the BNTS was managed by the 1st Johor Bahru Company. I believe they did an excellent job, so well done.

As for the members, participants from 1st Johor Bahru, 4th Johor Bahru, 1st Kulai, 1st Kluang, 2nd Kluang, 1st Klang, 1st Kajang, 4th Petaling Jaya and 8th Penang made up most of the participants in this course. This group was an interesting one and I am touched by their willingness to make sacrifices for one another. Good stuff.

Late night jogging!

There was one unpleasant moment when we had no choice but to chase away 6 participants from a local Company of which has not been through the Basic NCOs' Training School. Their Officers have claimed that they have conducted their BNTS as part of the regular Company programme, but after thorough investigation, we found that their syllabus is outdated - which is the current ENTS syllabus. It pains me to break the news that they needed to be transferred out of Advance and be put into Basic.

I hope BB Officers man up and be responsible for their members. All BNTS and ANTS organised needs a green light from Headquarters and the Brigade Training Chairman (at the moment it's Mr Loh Pau Joo). That goes with a Training Application Form and other formal procedures. Only ENTS can be done by Companies on their own without need for application.

BNTS and ANTS participants from Johor and Selangor

My special thanks to the young State Commissioner and 2nd Kluang Captain, Mr James Soo Ya Ge for his efforts in making this course possible. You are a living testimony to the saying "let no one despise your youth". Also would like to thank all coaches.. Madam's Ang Yiu Fei (1st Kulai), Tan Wee Ling (1st Kulai) and Tan Giok Hui (1st Petaling Jaya) who have made so much preparations in terms of materials.. as well as Joel (1st Klang), Leshvind (1st Klang), Peow Teik (4th Petaling Jaya), Jye Yng (4th Johor Bahru) and Boys from 2nd Kluang for all the hard work put in.

3rd KL NCOs Council 2011/2012

The course ended at 1.30pm and I wasted no time in hitting the road again. I was hoping to reach Fraser's Hill by 7pm in time for dinner. 3rd Kuala Lumpur was having it's Leaders Retreat and I was hoping to catch the last night and day at least rather than missing out completely. No regrets rushing up and down - it was fun.

1st Ipoh 20th Anniversary Dinner

2011-08-16T08:49:00.001-07:00

I received an invitation over Facebook from friends made in Ipoh. A couple of years ago, I did not have a single contact in Ipoh. Now, they are one of my key partners in the Brigade ministry and I am glad to know so many fine people serving in this Company.

On the 7th August 2011, the Company was celebrating it's 20th Anniversary (since revival) and celebrated together with Wesley Methodist Church Ipoh's anniversary, which is their Sponsoring Authority.

Mr Wong Chee Khoon leading the Guest of Honour Mr Lim Chong Ho, TRAC Representative

In year 1991, the Company was revived with Dr Ting Cheh Sing spread heading the effort. Dr Ting is still going strong serving as the Company's Honorary Captain. Though 1st Ipoh has been through it's ups and downs since revival (I remember seeing their school magazine which needed three pages to report on BB as well as a year when 20 Founder's Man were produced), it has remain to be one best Companies in Malaysia.

Dr Ting doing the first part of MCing

How does one determine the best company? Most would say numbers/sizes or from Competitions. However, I believe success is determined on how many Boys going through the ranks perform well in society and making a social impact. That is - something that resembles the BB Object. Many 1st Ipoh Boys have gone on to do pretty well in their studies and careers (though some may argue that it's due to their Life Chances) which no doubt had help from the BB in terms of character building, especially in the area of Christian Manliness.

The evening's programmes was simple. I had good Company being on the same table as the 1st Teluk Intan Boys. One (Sgt. Wesley) was receiving his President's Badge that night. Congratulations!

Well done 1st Ipoh. Hope more is to come!

Johor NTS Coach Clinic @ Kluang

2011-07-23T23:00:00.000-07:00

I've never been to Johor before.. or at least in my recent memory (I did go there in 1994, but I was just 10). That made setting foot in Kluang was something I looked forward.. it was just like going into another country! And finally I get to drive through Ayer Keroh instead of turning off into Melaka.

The purpose of my visit to Kluang was not for a holiday though (not entirely), but to conduct Johor State's first ever NCO Training School Coach Clinic. In BBM, it is mandatory for all Officers intending to coach in the Basic and Advance Levels of NCO Training School to have this clinic. Johor has not had an ANTS before, making this Coaches Clinic particularly important. This would also be the fourth clinic conducted by me this year. After completing this one, BBM has for the first time successfully trained all State's which this Clinic (Melaka joined in as well).

I've put up a night, reaching on Friday.. a day before the clinic. On Saturday I had an early start. Even paid the famous Kluang Rail Coffee a visit.

We first dropped by Herald Presbyterian Church, the Sponsoring Authority of 2nd Kluang Company which was located right smack in the middle of town. There we caught a glimpse of it's programmes with a sizable Juniors Section. Yen and I decided to observe Mr James Soo, it's new Captain and the recently appointed State Commissioner, who was in action teaching the members some Safety lessons. James is only 23 this year, making him one very young, but truly capable State Commissioner.

2nd Kluang Captain and Johor State Commissioner, James Soo, leading Safety class

After a short 30 minute stay, we were lead to the school platoon of 1st Kluang. Mr Charlie Ang, the Honorary Captain and one of the veterans of the Company, lead us to SMK Jalan Mengkibol (which they affectionately call SJM). The boys and girls were running their drill programme. Mr Charlie took some time to introduce me and invited me to give a speech. That caught me a little off guard. Hope I managed to inspire them though..

1st Kluang being briefed by Mr Charlie Ang

We headed back to Herald in time for the clinic which started at 10.30am. Turnout was fantastic with Officers and Instructors from 1st Kluang, 2nd Kluang, 1st Muar, 1st Kulai, 1st Johor Bahru, 4th Johor Bahru and 2nd Melaka.. totalling up to approximately 25 attendees, of which half came from 1st JB.

The clinic was smooth. I personally felt I was out of form.. But I am thankful for the participation and willingness of all that was present to take on this (relatively easy) task. It is the start to something great!

Participants of the Clinic listening attentively

This is also my last Coach Clinic in my official capacity at the BBM Training and Extension Executive. However, it will probably not be the last Clinic I am required to conduct =)

My First Head Coaching Experience

2011-06-03T19:32:00.000-07:00

Just a four weeks prior I was around to conduct a NTS Coach Clinic for a hopeful group of 20 plus Officers and Instructors.. soon I found myself back in the humble town of Ayer Tawar, Perak to conduct my first ANTS as the Head Coach. To be honest, it wasn't something I looked forward to. Who in the world looks forward to doing something for the first time which they aren't sure of? Oh well..

There is still a job to do. An odd group of 40 Boys and girls from all 1st Manjung, 2nd Manjung, 3rd Manjung, 1st Ipoh, 1st Teluk Intan and 1st Kulai were present, representing most of the Companies from The Perak State Council. On the same dates (28-30th May 2011) the Basic NCO Training School was also running in the same compound. Most of the same Companies were present, along with an addition of 6th Ipoh, 7th Ipoh and 4th Kampar. I'm deeply troubled that 2nd Kampar wasn't among us.. hope the Company is doing okay.

ANTS Participants waiting for.. something =)

Due to the confidential nature of the ANTS, I cannot disclose the process of what happens.. aka.. no tips for those who haven't attended. But I can comment on what I felt about this batch.

The experience handling and observing this group was quite different from the ones I've seen in KL. These individuals seem more independent in thought and action. Perhaps a result of being in smaller towns, means greater street smartness.. especially if they were required to work part-time which is a more common experience for teenagers out here. In KL, they on start working part time when they are in college at best.. or during the school holidays. However, all groups displayed one thing in common - laziness. Perhaps this is something we need to work on when we "change their mindset" right at the beginning.

I didn't perform as well as I like. Really need to toughen myself up and be more fierce.. and not smile too much. What a challenge. Another ANTS coming in Johor.. hopefully I'll be able to do better in that one. But to be honest, I was disappointed with myself that I couldn't perform as well as Mr Loh Pau Joo.. but I'll try to do better next time.

Squad Hebrews lead by Mr. Wong Chee Khoon (1st Ipoh) having one of it's modules

"Hurry! Time is running out!!!"

I am very glad and proud of the team that I was with. Madam Nga, the State Training Chairperson and the Captain of 3rd Manjung Company did extremely well in putting this NCO Training School together. It is Perak's first State organised ANTS as well as the first combined course. Hopefully this will be carried on consistently for years to come. The helps and coaches we had for this course performed extremely well and I am owe my thanks to each one of them for their hard work put in. In terms of organisation, this NTS is on par with Penang, KL and Sarawak.. which is a great sign. Praise God for his faithfulness.

Perak State Coach Clinic and Pengkalan Hulu Enrolment Service

2011-05-08T02:16:00.000-07:00

It was quite a weekend away, driving my dad's fat van up north right to the border, literally. Leaving KL at 6.30am in order to make the 2 hour drive to Ayer Tawar. The driving wasn't the problem.. it was the sleep. Anyway, all part of the fun (and part of the job of course).

A group of about 30 Officers and Instructors from all over Perak came to listen to me yap for a good 5-6 hours. They are preparing for a camp just 3 weeks after this course finished. BBM has made it mandatory to attend this course, dubbed the NCO Training School Coach Clinic, otherwise, one cannot be allowed to coach in BNTS nor in ANTS. This also needs to be done yearly. Quite a inconvinience, but some what a necessary one.

It was my second time running such a clinic, the first being one two months prior for hte Kuala Lumpur State Council. My second attempt proved to be much better... to me anyway. Gaining experience does count. Was more confidene and sure of my stuff.. perhaps more bored already doing it the second time. But all that proved key towards a good presentation and bringing the message accross. I hope the Perak guys benefitted from what I taught though... most of them were Chinese ed.. so.. some might not have understood a single thing I said. Oh well.

I really thank Madam Nga, Captain of 3rd Manjung and the State's Training Chairman for hosting and fixing up this event. Also a special thanks to Madam Lau from 2nd Manjung for handling the administration as well.

Foo Chow food was fantastic. We were treated to a mountainous meal after the clinic. Awesomely tasty! I was quite amazed the ladies can stomach so much but yet remain relatively thin. Their intake of food should qualified them for obesity. Must be something to it..

After dinner Yen Mun and I continued our journey Northwards in the van using the smaller roads which was apparently more direct. I thought it would be a better call to head their right away rather than put a night in Ayer Tawar - if I did that I'd probably not go at all cause I won't ever wake up. It proved to be a trecherous ride.. mainly cause I was already so tied. The roads weren't well lit either and at one point I almost drove off road. Had to let Yen take the wheel once we hit the highway cause I just couldn't keep my eyes open. After a quick power nap I was back on it all the way to PH.

The place itself was not as "ulu" as one might perceive. I was given the impression that it was an isolated place and pretty much still in the past.. with non-tarred roads, wild boars running around and wooden houses. It was quite the opposite - quite developed and nice. Even the hotel I stayed in was pretty good (and cheap too!).

We were to attend the 1st Enrollment Service of the 1st Pengkalan Hulu Company, the first Orang Asli (Natives) Company in Peninsula Malaysia. The Company is attaced to the Lutheran Church of Malaysia and Singapore (LCMS), so unsurprisingly it's planting was done by 1st Kajang which is also under the same denomination. It was a long road for this Company which actually began it's trials two years back. The only barrier to them not getting registered was not having completed the mandatory Elementary Officers Training Course. This was finally done at the end of January when Chee Khoon (1st Ipoh) and myself went up there.

There on the 8th May 2011 on a noisy Sunday, we saw the official installment of the Company (though there was actually some paperwork not done.. but oh well), all nicely in uniform and was even able to treat us to a drill display. Well done to it's Officers! Special thanks to 1st Kajang Company which planted the Company as well as Mr Andrew Lim for much guidance to it's Pastor.

Back on the road towards KL - a long 5-6 hour drive

Statement of My Resignation

2011-04-03T06:49:00.000-07:00

First off, no - not a resignation from BBMHQ (at least not yet).. referring to the other BB entity I'm deeply associated with.

I felt that I own an explanation to all my fellow 3rd KL Officers and Boys for the "sudden" (well, not quite either) announcement of my resignation from the Company. Over the recent few months, work at BBM Headquarters has been at it's hardest. With one colleague leaving, another going on maternity for a couple of months and generally a excessively understaffed office.. my work at headquarters has increased three fold.

On top of that, I am finding myself missing more often due to regular National activities as well as those unplanned for. I remember a time when I was still in my blues after having earned my first stripes.. that I would get really annoyed with Officers who do not show up for parade.. affecting badgework, programs, etc. I also got annoyed with Officers who didn't seem to know much about what is going on in the Squad he is assigned to. What was the point becoming an Officer? Well - lately I know I've been become that same Officer.. regardless whether or not my reasons are legitimate or not.

Therefore, the need to avoid hypocrisy is my main reason for resignation. I know Officers must be committed to the task and should relinquish it if one is not able to perform.

However, I have decided NOT to resign from the Company, but instead only wish to be released from all all positions held, especially asthe Senior Section Chairman, Squad Officer and from Badgework. I will keep my membership alive in 3rd KL until a time when I feel it is truly time to let go. I know some of my bosses will not like the fact that I am attached to 3rd KL (or any Company) for good reasons. But our Founder, Sir William Smith was also and always has been attached to his home Company of 1st Glasgow until he died. So - just following footsteps =)

3rd KL Company Year End Camp 2010

2010-12-21T01:16:00.000-08:00

The day didn’t start as well as planned. Was to head to the LCCT to fetch Lawrence who’s fresh back from a trip in Medan. Got a shattered windscreen from a rogue rock kicked up from a white Estima in front of me. Had to send the car in. But we were soon on our way again as I picked up my dad’s van.

The Boys were in Gua Tempurung for a caving excursion while Lawrence and I were en route to Ipoh, allowing me to save the trip there for another time. I received good feedback on the place. We both reached Wesley Methodist Church Ipoh within 2 hours and the Boys were just settling in. There wasn’t much to do for the rest of the day, so we spent our time at night at Ipoh Parade, catching a movie – Tron Legacy. Pretty gay show, but interesting concept. An odd 49 of us packed out the cinema, probably the most number of people I’ve ever been to cinema with.

The next day we attend the main church service at 8.15am. We were given a warm welcome by the church and it’s pastor, Timothy. Our Boys gave a song presentation led by Mr Lawrence.

I took the opportunity after church to hand out with the 1st Ipoh Officers and Primers at a nearby coffee shop before heading off again at 11.15am towards Sitiawan. Lunch was sponsoured by a friend of Mr Lawrence who once lived in Sitiawan. It was a unique Foo Chow lunch at the Ah Hing Restaurant. We immediately checked into the Sitiawan Wesley and got a good rest before moving out yet again to Chin Hock Chinese Methodist Church to have fellowship with the 2nd Manjung Company. I managed to finally meet Madam Lau Wai Hong who I’ve been dealing with via BB Shop for a long time. At Chin Hock both Companies played sports, singspiration, ad a wonderful dinner and play games. Fellowship was great and hopefully these new friendships made will go a long way among our Boys/members. I wasn’t that socialable that night, going off earlier as I was pretty drained out from all the driving. The Boys came back to Sitiawan Wesley at 10.30pm. I had to wake up from my evening “nap” to lead in the vesper before out somewhere nearby for supper.

The next day I skipped breakfast, deciding to opt for a seemingly more worthwhile extra hour of sleep. During morning devotion, Lawrence preached after the singspiration led by Sean Au. Next up, we headed direct for Lumut to take a ferry over to Pangkor. We checked into Seagull Resort just in time for lunch, rested for a hour before heading out again for the beach. The resort manager, Mr Tan, promised us a private beach. I was imagine the truly private and serene beach I went to once in 1997. This one was anything but private. It seems like the OBS were based there, the place was dirty and the water more salty than usual (I suspect the fishing trawlers dumped fish blood into nearby waters). However, all that did not curb our lust for a swim. We were joined by our Captain Mr Tan Chee Keong, Terence Tay and – a big surprise – Huey Ding who just came back from the United States. Towards the night we headed to a Chinese restaurant in Pangkor town. After dinner a dozen of us went for an hour of good fun in the cybercafé playing CounterStrike (there was nothing at all to do in Pangkor at night). Great fun.

Headed back to resort and had a good Ramly and ikan goring supper with Ding, Terence and Han Sheng. The next morning I shared the devotion talking once again about fellowship, spreading the spirit of friendship as well as the importance of working together as according to 1 Corinthians 12. Right after devotion me and Ding said our goodbyes and left the Company for the ferry, reaching KL at 4.30 having left at 11am.

KL State Fundraising Band Concert

2010-12-14T22:29:00.001-08:00

11th December 2010 - For weeks, the Kuala Lumpur State Companies have been working hard together to come up with a worthy performance together with PJ Philharmonic Orchestra.

The occasion - to raise funds to employ KL State's Full Time Officer. Although the most densely populated place in the whole country, Kuala Lumpur only has 6 active Companies.. FAR too little than it should have (KL should have like 20-30 Companies to me). The primary goal of the FTO is to strengthen Companies as well as establishing new ones. Let's hope and pray that this will take off!

It was great being able to play the clarinet in a band again. Would probably do it again. A special thanks to the Stedfast Association of Kuala Lumpur for planning this event as well as the Kuala Lumpur State Council, each single member for the great experience.

Communication Basic 2010

2010-12-14T05:27:00.000-08:00

Hi guys,

Here are all the notes. Study them well (and smartly)!

Communication Introduction and Media

The exam details are as follows:

Date: 1st January 2011

Time: 12.00pm

Venue: YMCA, Lounge Area

Also, PRESENTATIONS ARE CANCELLED. No time to do everything. Just focus on exams will do.

Thank you and happy new year (hope I didn't spoil it)

Company Year End Camp Rekkie

2010-10-26T22:50:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend of 23-24th October, a few of us went to Perak, namely the towns of Ipoh, Sitiawan and Pulau Pangkor to make arrangements for 3rd KL's Year End Camp.

It looks like it's going to be a good one.

Pangkor - quite a few water based activities lined up as well as an expedition course

Checking out Gua Tempurung - Caving cum River trekking

Seniors thinking of missing it, think again - you will miss the fun

3rd KL on the Tele and Newspaper

2010-09-30T07:31:00.000-07:00

3rd KL's been getting alot of media attention lately (as if the ones we got for Milk Day weren't enough).. really praise God for that. It's not that I wanna make BB look like we're attention seeking, but as non-profit organisations it is important to highlight ourselves to that the funds come in. Still the focus isn't on fame - the news highlights to me were always just a bonus.

The recent on with our Junior, Dominic, being featured on Project Sunshine, NT7. The segment really increased my perspective for single disabled parents (Dominic's mom is blind) who are still able to find jobs and be as independent as they can. Dominic has not been a burden to the mom, in fact has been helping her alot. Good job Dominic!

Click this link to watch the video which can be found on NTV7.

A snapshot from Project Sunshine 2, Episode 3

The other highlight was that 3rd KL's SMK Taman Desa drill team, which was .. not so recently.. crowned drill champions in school.. was featured on the Sin Chiew Daily (KL Metro section). It's drill commander Charn Chuen was given a lot of publicity. Good thing he's a modest guy.. otherwise his head will be somewhere in the sky now.

Good on you guys! This may be the only moments of fame you'll ever have. Savour it.

KULSEL Basic and Advance NCO Training School 2010

2010-09-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

On the 4-6th September 2010, the Kuala Lumpur and Selangor State Councils had a combined NCO Training Course. The committee composing Officers from both State's contributed to the running of this course. In total 248 trainees excluding observers and Officers converged to the National Service campsite in Bidor, Perak. This camp featured both Basic and Advance NCO Training.

I really don't know what to talk about the course. My job was simple - observe the ANTS Head Coach and prepare to fill his shoes in the coming ANTS. So I pretty much had nothing to do but watch and learn. I felt kinda guilty actually, so much so till I decided to pay my own camp fee and not treat this as a working event.

I've gotta say that this bunch was a little different from the two batches I seen before. There were more ... self-centered. Hopefully the participating Companies (who I thank for sending observers - now you know why) can look into developing these areas and make them more caring or to at least give-a-damn and not let their fellow brother fall while saying "it's not my problem".

I believe this pretty much was a result of the lack of bonding. If they technically aren't friends, they won't bother looking out for a stranger (though they still should). I think several factors attributed to this - the fact that English and Mandarin speaking members were not separated and the fact the squads were too big (15 members per squad). Perhaps this is something we can be more firm on in the future..

Mr. Lim Chong Ho, Captain of 1st Teluk Intan Company and the Deputy Perak State Commissioner for the closing ceremony

Mr Cheong Sing Yuen, KL State Commissioner as the Guest of Honour for Opening Ceremony

Well, apart from that I'm glad to see more Officers take part for this important annual event - but certainly could do with even more (apparent there are 200 Officers in KL-Selangor). It was a different perspective walking around to see the various Coaches teach with different styles. I think I'm ready to be head coach now.. (fingers crossed). The next ones will be in Perak in November with another one being planned in March in Johor. This makes a total of FIVE ANTS courses running during the month of March 2011. Busy times ahead.

NCO Training is one of two of my main jobs. This year's one is the second successive ANTS held by KL State Council while the first for Selangor (this first BNTS Selangor co-organised for awhile). My hope is that in the future, both State Councils will be able to organise their own ANTS and BNTS independently. The number of participants in this camp was pretty overwhelming.. so much so that it greatly affected bonding and regrettably the level learning as well. The fact that the high number of participants affected learning also means that we need to limit numbers of participants in the following years. But I'd hate to see people loose out.. so the only solution is if all State Councils will have their own ANTS and BNTS in the future. God willing, this will all take place within a year.

3rd KL Leaders Retreat

2010-09-01T03:37:00.000-07:00

It's been donkey year's since I've been for a Company Retreat for the obvious reason that I've been away in Australia. OCF Retreats are different from BB ones - it's more of a workshop cum fellowship trip (maybe that's just Clayton..). BB retreats focus more r

eflecting on it's programmes and what to do next year and beyond.

The past few retreat's I had with 3rd KL is always at Fraser's (cause it's someones favourite spot). This year we headed to somewhere different for a change - Melaka. We stayed at the Wesley Methodist Church Melaka hostel and had our meetings there. It was a pretty rushed retreat as it was still a school day, compromising on meeting times. Perhaps we'll make it on a holiday for sure next time.. which in turn requires the E&A (for promotion of NCOs) to happen earlier as well.

To me the retreat has several main objectives.

1. To evaluate the past

2. To know where/how we are at present

3. Plan for the future.. like 3 years ahead

4. To realise why we are serving in BB

5. To fellowship and enhance relationship with one another

6. To have fun and get away from work

I can't say for sure if we have achieved all our objectives, but we definitely knew how to move ahead. Hopefully, we'll see a stronger 3rd KL in time to come.. blessing the needs of many Boys in the future.

We had some time to explore the town.. which I've been to so many times. But it was only the second time I was there for the weekend.. when it was far more happening than the weekdays. Unfortunately, I was holed up in the restaurant waiting for the 2nd Melaka Officers who got stuck in traffic on the way to the riverview restaurant. Still, it was a great view.. Melaka is definitely getting prettier year after year.

Great view from the restaurant. Picture snapped by me by the way!

Satay Kelup! Too bad these kids ain't fond of it. They wanted McDonalds! GOSH.

Well, 3rd KL.. hopefully God will continue to lead us and sustain us.

BB Asia Full Time Workers Conference

2010-08-25T10:14:00.000-07:00

From the August 19-22nd, 2010 the BBM Headquarters was deserted as it's staff descent Fraser's Hill for the first ever BB Asia Full Time Workers Conference. The day before, the BB Asia Secretariat was officially opened at Menara Methodist (where BBM HQ used to be based on the same floor by the way).

The purpose of this Conference was to strengthen ties between the BB Asia countries, to share knowledge and resources as well as to equip ourselves further in the Advancement of Christ Kingdom.

I have to admit, most of us were dragging our feet to this conference. There was just too much work to do on this period. But I've been to Fraser's before and really missed the place for its awesome climate and food.. so there was some personal incentive for me. It was also high time to build bridges with BB Full Time Workers from other countries. Countries represented were Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia and of course - Malaysia.

The programme was dominated by sessions of workshops. The first was lead by Mr Lawrence Tay who talked about BB Asia's formation, history and Purpose. We also had an invited speaker all the way from Glasgow, Mr Eric Woodburn, who was also the Secretary of the World Conference - the body

which BB was the founding member. He talked about works in Africa and the situation faced by the BB in UK.

On the second day was lead by Mr. Timothy Tan, who is a Trainer/Consultant by profession and was the former Captain of 2nd Penang Company BB. His session focused on personality issues, with the take away point that to change and improve, one needs to focus on attitude.

Mr Francis Chiong, the second BB Asia Executive Secretary also lead several session - but was getting mainly at how to share resources among BB Asia.

Well, it would've been a really dull conference if weren't for the fellowship and food. Fraser's Methodist Bungalow never fails to disappoint. Instead, throwing in a few surprises in meal varieties.

Apart from the sessions and food, we made a familiar trip to Jeriau Falls - the only other excitement in Fraser's apart from the town itself.

On the last night we had a nice relaxing BBQ dinner outside in the breeze. Good conference. Well done Mr Lawrence Tay and Francis Chiong!

Perak EOTC 2010

2010-07-24T09:14:00.000-07:00

Rick and I were tasked to take up some sessions for Perak's EOTC this year, which was held in Wesley Methodist Church Ipoh. Normally, we would encourage the State to organise it themselves... EOTC isn't hard after all. But for this case I made an exception as there were two potential new Companies in Ipoh - one in Wesley Methodist School Ipoh and the other based in SMK Menglembu. Potential-Officers (instructors/helpers) and Officers from 4th Kampar and 1st Ipoh were present as well.

Seeing these new Companies pop up is probably the thing I love best about my job. I just hope and pray that they will flourish to become something great and significant in the lives of the Boys. God willing, it will!

1st Petaling Jaya BB & GB Enrollment Service

2010-06-26T21:09:00.000-07:00

Was driving out of the house at 8.15 am today, late as usual (event starts at 8.30am) but it's the earliest I've been awake since Day 0 of Pesta. The rains have just stopped and it was a beautiful morning plenty with silver clouds mixed with shinny rays. Really reminds me of Australia. I was up early to attend 1st Petaling Jaya BB/GB's Enrollment Service. It was a typical service, with Boys being promoted, both organisations taking their enrollment pledge, special item presentations and of of course the marching in and out of the Colours. I was there mainly to show my support.

1st Petaling Jaya was originally formed in 1959 by Mr. Henry Goh, but went through some difficulties through the course of it's existence. It was reorganised in 1983 and today is one of the model Companies in Malaysia. They have two school bases located in SMK (L) Bukit Bintang and SMK (L) La Salle PJ. Today it is under the Captainship of Miss Tan Giok Hui, who was a former GB Officer in Kota Bahru.

It encourages me to see BB and GB doing so well in these churches. Nowadays with youth problems and so many young people being distracted by what the negative influences of the world. Organisations like BB and GB have a part to play, especially in a society which is slowly accepting the "anything goes, this is the new age" mentality. A sense of control and discipline is what is needed among the youth to encourage obedient citizenship.

World Milk Day

2010-06-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

World Milk Day 2010 was held at 31st May 2010. It was endorsed by the EXCO and was to be carried out primarily in KL and Melaka.

The objective of this event was to create community awareness of the "goodness of milk" as a vital health supplement. Apparently an average Malaysian consumes only 1 full glass of milk every month.

The main programmes was an attempt to set a record with the Malaysian Book of Records for the Most Number of People Drinking Milk at the Same Time. After that, BB and other NGOs were required to distribute milk to the public, which was also part of our community service component. BB was required to send 300 members for this record attempt. Though we did not quite hit 300, the numbers require were more than sufficient with more than 3200 candidates showing up, 700 more than what the organisers needed.

All set to set the record!

Members from KL and Selangor State were present 1st KL, 3rd KL, 4th KL, 10th KL, 12th KL, 1st Serdang, 1st PJ, 1st Kajang, 3rd Kajang and 1st Klang were present. I do not have the official count as some who promised didn't show up while some others came, but I would estimate the number around 250-280.

I was a little disappointed as I had the impression we were to flood the streets of KL handing out free milk to the public. This counts as a form of community service as we are creating public awareness of the healthy aspects of milk (despite this being debatable). In the end, the organisers only need 20 of our guys to distribute milk in Lot 10 along with the other uniform bodies. At the end of the event, all participants who took part receive certificates to show that they have made the record breaking attempt. Each participants also received two special edition milk packs, a RM10 McDonald's voucher (last for a year), a World Milk Day tshirt and several other goodies. Company who had more than 20 participants also managed to get a free bus ride from a pick up point of their choice. Not bad at all!

3rd KL members pose for the camera

From KL, the organisers have arranged some Radio Cruisers (those who travel around town) to deliver more free milk to selected cities in Malaysia. One of those cities is Malacca where all our Companies there were mobilised 30 of its members to help out. The event there was successful as members from the State eagerly participated. My special thanks to Mr. Boh Chek Sing, Melaka State Commissioner for coordinating the Melaka effort. Also a special thanks to the KL and Selangor State Council for making this event a huge success in terms of publicity for the BB.

BB members in Melaka possing in front of Radio Cruisers

BB members in Melaka handing out milk to the public

Did I also mention press coverage? In my view, the BB received unprecedented press coverage for this event, with articles and pictures of BB in almost every newspaper. BB was also on NTV7 and TV3. Check them out below.

The Sun, 6th May 2010

Star Metro. 20th May 2010

News Strait Times - 31st May 2010

China Press, Page A12 and Kosmo! 31st May 2010

Sinarharian - 31st May 2010

News Strait Times -Life and Times, Page 4, 31st May 2010

Utusan Malaysia - 3 June 2010

Sin Chiew, Metro - 31st May 2010

Berita Harian- 31st May 2010

NEWS VIDEOS

Video from The Star

News on 8TV

News on NTV7

TV3, Wanita Hari Ini

Cheers to milk!

In the end of the day, I really thank God for such an oppurtunity to make the BB proud. Hopefully we can engage more in community service events. Let's see how it goes.

The Busy Month of March

2010-04-04T10:45:00.001-07:00

I gotta admit that I haven't been updating this blog as often as I'd like. It's quite a waste.. with so much BB events going on.. most of them worth mentioning, that I'm on the verge of letting these memories fade away forever. Perhaps I need to make another pledge similar to the one I did in my personal blog to always blog every major BB event that unfolds.
As for now and the events already lapse. I guess just a summary will do for the time being.

Penang Advance NCO Training School (ANTS) 2010 : 13-15th March 2010
My first assignment as the Training Executive for BBMHQ to learn up how ANTS is conducted in hopes that I will be able to run and teach others how to run a similar course in the future. However, I was called in last minute to coach as well. I've done this before.. like 4 years ago. Had to play catch up and honestly, never read up the notes in detail before the camp - I doubt I'd remember point by point anyway. The camp commandant was Mr. Loh Jau Poo who is the current Captain of 16th Penang, the BBM Vice-President and also - my direct boss. I've learned quite alot from him.. and hopefully some day will be able to conduct this course as well as he did. As for my squad - I got a good mix from Penang and Ipoh.. and thank God it's an English speaking bunch. Quite proud of these guys.. none of them fell asleep in my class and most of them participated well during all the modules. Hopefully, they learned something useful from me.. otherwise it'll be a real shame.

3rd KL Pre-Pesta Preparation Camp: 18-21st March 2010

Almost immediately after Penang, I was busy with another camp.. this time for my Company, 3rd KL. About 50 over of my guys went on band practice steroids for 4 days, with a odd group of 15 occasionally using the free time for drill practice. The camp went well, apart from some complaints from the locals that we were too noisy in the night thanks to the last post. After the camp, we found out that the school wanted to start BB! Praise God!

Talk at 12th Kuala Lumpur : 27th March 2010

Gave a short talk at 12th KL at Mr. Koh's request, as they lost Christopher, their Senior Section Officer a couple of weeks back. I just shared my BB experience and why I decided to stay and serve in 3rd KL and BBMHQ. These guys just took a bad hit as they got closed off from the primary and secondary school bases in Bandar Sri Damansara. Hopefully, their current members won't be deterred and persevere for the Lords faithfulness and timing.

2nd Puchong Company

2010-02-09T19:49:00.000-08:00

It always excites me to see the birth of a new company. This is however is still on trials and so happen to be the church I'm trying out - Life Methodist Church, Puchong. This company is also is first company in Peninsula Malaysia since 1992 to consist only Boys (as the church also has a GB attached). GB already has a school base nearby. Very exciting!

Hope this company will reach greater heights in the years to come!

Recruits - how numbers do matter

2010-01-17T06:14:00.000-08:00

Some people will tell you that whatever number of recruits you get, it is not about the quantity but it's the quality that matters. While that certainly holds some truth, churning out a good number from a recruitment campaign IS important.

Say, you have 100 members signing up - that is just putting their names and contact details down during recruitment day, half will turn up on the actual meet or parade. The following week, expect a handful to drop out after they find out BB's not exactly that they expected it to be. You can expect that figure to drop by another half by the time you reach Enrolment and Awards Day. By the end of the year, another half - you'll usually end up with about 12. This equation goes on, but on average, of the strong batch of 100 sign-ups in Form 1, 2-3 will stay till form 5.

Recently, 3rd KL's recruitment drive at SMK Taman Desa smashed into a huge stump. Only 17 new faces during the club's first AGM. Based on the progression I just drew up, a maximum of two will stay by the end of the year. By Form 5, only their hair and dry skin will remain.

So does that mean if there happens be to just, say, 10 sign ups.. is it the end of the company? Probably not.

An element of faith - there is a need to remember that God gave us those recruits, no matter how little or how numerous, we still need to give thanks for it. It's difficult to judge how things will turn out in the future. Maybe among 10, one of them will end up becoming the company's captain who'll lead the company to even greater heights the company can only dream about. In fact, most companies started small.. thanks to a bunch of curious dumb kids who honestly have no idea what they're getting themselves into.

Still, no excuse to not do our best! Recruitment does dictate if you have a good 3-4 years as numbers effect delivery of programs (if not enough people in a class, how to start?), manpower and .. well, fun (more friends).

So whatcha waiting for? Get your friends to join BB!

Fundraising Dinner and Bringing BB Australia members around

2010-01-13T03:56:00.000-08:00

10th January 2010 - A successful fundraising dinner which saw 3rd KL raising RM40,000 for the band to buy more instruments in hope of giving a better performance in the years to come, as well as to give better opportunities for more Boys to pick up an instrument.

The next day, Lawrence and I took 4 BB members from Brisbane, Tim Rogers, Chris, David and Nathan, for a trip to Melaka. We managed to cover the main landmarks, but there was simply not enough time to cover the museums and the variety of food with the time. Still, it was fun hanging out with the Aussies. Learned quite alot from Tim, even on somethings about BBM and even the BB work in Asia.

Interview tomorrow at BBHQ. Hope it goes well!

I'm back!

2010-01-12T06:45:00.000-08:00

Entering the year with great expectations - mostly bad ones, but those that are necessary for the advancement of Christ kingdom.

Band and Drill Camp 2009

2009-12-24T10:43:00.000-08:00

For a period of four days (18-21st December) before Christmas, the Senior Section of 3rd KL held a band and drill camp at Sekolah Seri Cahaya, Shah Alam. About 60 Boys, including 3 Juniors, participated in this camp to brush up their skills and to learn a couple of new songs. Some time was given to sharpen their footdrill as well, led by the NCOs and Staff Sergeants. The company's former band officer, Joe Wong, was also present to guide the band. Lieutenant Lawrence Tay, led the devotion sessions sharing of the obedience of Daniel.

The objective of the camp is to prepare them for the upcoming Pesta in Penang. Band Officer, Warrant Officer Jasper Low's vision for the company is to be the overall champion once again and for the band to be the 1st-runner up. However, it is still a long way to beat 1st Johor Bahru in the band competition category.

Training aside, this camp has also allowed the Boys to bond and develop a strong company spirit, which is something any company needs to excel. The company intends to have several more camps like these in hopes of not just winning the Pesta, but to impart a lesson in the Boys that effort is necessary to improve and succeed.

If you think this company is kiasu - you're quite right.

Remembering tense moments

2009-11-04T05:47:00.000-08:00

Pesta 2006 Drill Competition. Round 1, immediately before 3rd KL's team went in.

Han Sheng: Sir, they've instructed us not to march on the right of that cone.
(A cone was placed at the entrance of the drill ground to prevent teams from using the back of the field. 3rd KL's plan was to begin sizing up from there).

Voon: What nonsense. Okay, march the team on the left side of the cone and immediate break right after you clear it.

Han Sheng: (Dumdfounded face) You sure?

Voon: Yes. Heck it.

After the Boys went in and did their thing, we found out our team got through to the next round.. and that they moved the judges table further front from the back so that we couldn't do the same thing again. Lol.

Facebook's Even Better than a Website

2009-11-02T04:15:00.000-08:00

I was strolling through facebook recently, with a random search for BB groups. To my surprise, it is quite a treasure trove of information! Even better than search results on Google. Not only can I find companies which do not have their own websites, Facebook groups are updated more frequently (compared to company websites which take ages to update) and are easier to manage.

Among my findings are:

1st Serdang
1st Kuantan (closed, but very interesting pictures)
2nd KL - great pictures!
1st Sibu - good videos

There's probably a Facebook group for every company.. even more than one group for the same co.

Among the things that you can find are..

1st Sibu Band Practice

1st Kuantan Enrolment Day - 1982

Facebook's not seen as an official channel by the older officers. Even blogs, which have more information than a company's official website, updated up Boys which have more time to spare than their officers. Official or not, these sites are what's keeping things interesting in the BB web circle.

My First Encounter

2009-10-24T04:04:00.000-07:00

It has been the first week of secondary school, moving from the dark blue shorts to the odd green pants, moving into an environment where everyone's taller than we were. I was on my way to the teachers staff room to sign up for scouts till the bell rang for the morning assembly. It was probably God's intervention. It was a special assembly. Some group wanted to do a presentation.

That's when I first saw the people in BB Blue. I changed my mind instantly to join them instead.

A BB-dedicated Blog

2009-10-21T06:14:00.000-07:00

After much deliberation and reluctance to abandon my old blog site, I've decided to set up a parallel site to my Xanga.

As a big part of my life revolves around BB and most of my readers come from a BB background, I find it more practical for a purpose-made blog for Boys' Brigade related articles, which will not only save readers time scrolling through the various nonsense in my main blog, but also avoids the risk of having random people looking through personal life (which can be controversial at times).

Therefore, I'm dedicating this blog towards most of my BB articles. May God bless it's future contents.