College Options For Zharif

My son, Zharif, would like to enroll in Diploma In Hospitality Management program but was not sure which college to go to. While he has submitted his application via the UPU portal for options in any Public Universities, he also would like to look at the private colleges options.

So, we visited two private colleges that offers this program. First, we went to Berjaya University College of Hospitality. Situated on the 11^th Floor of Berjaya Times Square, the reception area was impressive. It is like a hotel lobby. According to the program councilor, BUCH concept is to immerse their students into the actual hotel environment, from class room (that looks like a meeting or conference room), the kitchen, to the café and restaurant. The layout of the library is contemporary, so is the computer lab. Accessibility is rather easy by LRT and monorail. The atmosphere is filled with friendly staff and students. The various awards won by the students were on display for public view. The college guarantees student placement for their practical in the Berjaya owned hotels or affiliate hotels.

Next, we visited Taylors University College at Subang Jaya. Zharif had gone there a few months earlier with his cousin while it was my first trip there. I feel that its location is quite far from where we stay and the hostel facilities cost quite a bit. Environment wise, it is a typical private university. The library is just as typical college library and we were not shown the classrooms. Teaching restaurants were viewed from the front only and we could not view the kitchen. The place is just like any typical private college filled with unfriendly, rich youngsters and stressful staff. Even the councilor who guided us looked stressed. For students practical placement, the college only has one of its own teaching hotel. Most students will be placed at affiliate hotels of own choice.

Now, it is for a family discussion to decide which college is the best option for Zharif. Next intake is 7 May 2012, so  we got to be quick.

Al-Fatihah - Raja Ashman Shah

I was shocked upon reading in the news that Raja Ashman Shah had passed away.

Seems like the good ones are “taken away” early.

Raja Ashman can be considered only an acquaintance. However, an acquaintance that brought a great meaning to what a good man has to be.

Back in the 1980’s when he said he will only marry Noraini Jane and nobody else, I thought he was joking. Then, came his wedding invitation and I realized this was a man what in Malay we say “Diam-diam ubi berisi”. He was a man, despite his royal family status, who was not aloof or behaved as if he was above the rest.

May Allah include him amongst the well rewarded.

Al Fatihah.

Close brush with an accident this morning

It was a rainy morning again today. Just as last Friday. Traffic was jammed as usual on the DUKE Highway towards Jalan Kuching. To release stress, I stopped to rest at the BHP station after exiting from DUKE.

After 15 minutes rest and a drink of canned coffee, I continued my journey towards Bukit Jalil via Jalan Istana/ Sungai Besi - Seremban Highway. The flow of traffic was rather smooth and fast here. Increased my speed a little bit and down-shift my gear before approaching the curve into Sungai Besi Highway.

Damn, the car in front of me slowed down and I hit the breaks. My car skidded as it entered the turn (the road was still wet from the rains) and it just seemed to glide towards a taxi on the left. My hands were still on the steering wheel and I was still in control. Fortunately for me, the car in front of me picked up speed and I was able to avoid a collision.

Phew! Thank you, God. That was a great relief.