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| 210 |
Shall I Open a Shanghai BBS @jian shuo - Hello, my friend. I'm wondering what the maintenance time will be also - I guess it depends on traffic. I've just started a bbs forum as part of the Shanghai Junction site (my wife and a few of her friends were asking me to)... it's just only now gone live, so only a few members. Will see how it goes before I decide if I'll maintain it permanently (perhaps I can hand it over to Sammi and her friends to moderate)... also looking for suggestions / recommendations for categories to add. Take care, Pete... can find the BBS here: http://bbs.shanghaijunction.com |
| 209 |
Bad Behavior, Its Reason, and Future Hi Jian Shuo, I thought I would add my 2 cents worth here too... now please, to all the SGpean readers, I am in no way complaining about this wonderful city or it's people, I am just making an observation (perhaps it's also a little off-topic). Although Singapore is renknowned globally for it's cleanliness, and strict laws and fines for what some people would consider minor infractions, after having lived here for near on three years (in the heartlands), it is not always all as it seems on the surface. Sure, if one travels to Singapore and only visits tourist locations and stays in the Orchard Road or city area (and surrounding townships), one will see the kind of lovely and beautiful side of the country that it is well known for. However, in the heartlands areas (I live in Woodlands near the causeway at the Malaysia border), it is not uncommon to see people spitting in the streets... walking along Woodlands Ave 7, it is very common to see rubbish all along the side of the footpath (beer cans and bottles, food packets, cigarette butts, etc etc). I have personally witnessed a child getting hit by a speeding push-bike on the footpath and knock two of her teeth out. It is common all across SG for bike riders to illegally ride on the sidewalks - the government are helping this situation somewhat by installing dual designated footpaths in some areas now, and I applaud this initiative. I have even seen (more than once), parents letting their children defecate outside the Admiralty train station. Right in public and on the walkway. Anyway, as I said, I am not complaining - we love living in Singapore. I am just stating my observations, given the comments in your previous post... it's important to note that unseemly behaviours can be found in some people in every country... it is not restricted to any particular location. To all my SGpean friends - please don't 'attack' me on this... most people are law abiding, caring and respectful people here. |
| 208 |
Hello! Hello! I am Back Hi Jian Shuo - noticed the outage, but all seems ok now - in fact the blog is running faster than I've ever experienced. |
| 207 |
Who is Chris Devonshire Ellis @jian shuo - mate, I wouldn't be too concerned. Your policy of not deleting comments is admirable, and I have the same policy on my blog (regardless of the sometimes racist connotations from those who detest foreigners living in SG)... as you know, I've been the target from time to time also here (and a couple of times felt it to be very personal), but I would never ask you to delete an offender's comment - it's everybody's right to state an opinion... and to be honest most times I've disagreed with people vehemently on your blog, over time I have established an extremely close 'online bonding' - it encourages this sort of empathy between people who have very different values and beliefs. Keep up the good job!! DISCLAIMER: I have not read the comments or the links about this Chris Ellis - I too, don't really care. Will contact you later next wee about the boys meeting up - we will arrive in Shanghai early this Mondat morning (and will stay for almost a month). Cheers!! |
| 206 |
Shanghai to Beijing? Train is Better than Air Thanks @scholar5354 - I suspected as much, because the inflow of traffic from mainland China stopped. I'm worried now, because we'll be in Shanghai for CNY and will stay from 25th Jan to 21st Feb... don't think I can abstain from blogging for 1 month. :( Actually I think I'll still be able to publish articles but will not be able to view the completed article on my site or view or respond to comments... |
| 205 |
Where is This Tunnel I was at Narita Intl airport just two weeks ago but do not remember seeing this tunnel. |
| 204 |
How Many of My Readers Use FaceBook? Use FB daily. |
| 203 |
Shanghai Population Hi Jian Shuo - I thought you might find this study interesting (and even a little scary)... kind regards, Pete http://www.mckinsey.com/mgi/publications/china_Urban_Billion/slideshow/main.asp |
| 202 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai @Gweilo - wow, you are so articulate. *that's sarcasm* - I have been to all the countries you list, and suspect I am much more widely travelled than you (over 100 business trips to all parts of the globe annually) - Shanghai still ranks number one in my mind. The topic is "10 thinigs you love/hate about shanghai" - agree, not "10 most racist and shallow things I can think of to insult people in the city where I live" - to then go ahead and insult my wife - perhaps you can't get a woman (or maybe you don't want one - your gay lover might suffice your needs). Wanker. |
| 201 |
Shanghai to Beijing? Train is Better than Air Thanks Jian Shuo and Michelle - this is so very exciting for me... I don't know what happened, but it really is unblocked now in mainland China. Yoohoo!!! Now our family can see our blog! |
| 200 |
Shanghai to Beijing? Train is Better than Air Sorry to post this on this particular thread Jian Shuo, but I have just noticed that I have started getting traffic on my blog coming in from Beijing and Shanghai... this has never happened before, as previously discussed, it was blocked by the GFW. I used my 'testing' tools, and it seems it really is now unblocked, so just wanted you or one of my other mates to check if you really can access it now from the mainland?? This is such good news if it's real and stays unblocked... I've been getting over 1,000 visits a day, without 1/6 of the world's population able to access until now... :D http://www.aussiepete.com/ |
| 199 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners This thread just got ridiculous. |
| 198 |
Top Commenter of 6 Years Hoho - congratulations to the winners... I feel special making the Top 5!!! |
| 197 |
Update about Yifan Thanks Jian Shuo... just today back from Chicago... yes, I spoke to Sammi and we think that would be a great idea. Let's talk offline and aim at a meetup (perhaps dinner) when we're back in Shanghai next CNY... :D |
| 196 |
Update about Yifan Hi Jian Shuo - from Aussie Pete's blog entry for Jaime's birthday: Jaime's First Birthday And ZhuaZhou 27th August, 2008 saw our baby turn one year old. We celebrated in a mix of Chinese and Western cultures and 'old and new' traditions. I also took the opportunity to take a well-deserved vacation day away from the office. JAIME ZHENG JIAYANG - BIRTHDAY AGENDA - Visit to the Singapore Zoo - Opening Birthday Presents - ZhuaZhou Ceremony - 抓周 - Birthday Party ZHUAZHOU (抓周) The articles we chose and meanings we associated with them (some traditional, others are own interpretation): Shoes - represents a Traveller Paint Brush - represents an Artist or Writer Spring Onion - represents a Lawyer (or someone clever and adept in speaking) Orange - represents someone with Good Luck - or getting things with little effort Software CD - represents Computers (eg. programming, computer engineering, etc) Book - represents a Scholar or Teacher Chopsticks - represents Epicure and also the Food or Restaurant Industry Calculator - represents a Scientist or Engineer Money - represents an Entrepenaur or Stock Broker Rubber Stamp - represents a Politician or association with the Government Mobile Phone - represents the Telecommunications industry or an Electrical Engineer Pocket Knife - represents a Strong Body (eg. Sportsman, the Army or Police Force) Tape Measure - represents an Architect BP Monitor - represents a Doctor or Medical related field Sunglasses - represents a Movie Star or Celebrity We found that Jaime was probably more interested at first in the video camera recording him - maybe this represents the film industry?? Anway, after a little coercian, he made it clear which items he was not interested in, by throwing them away. The article/s he showed most interest in, were first and foremost the money, then perhaps the orange and finally the shoes (near the end of the selection). From this, we deduced that his future path may be something like this: "A successful entrepenaur who will have much luck and assitance in creating his own business/es, and his dealings will lead to (or include) much global travel." You can see the video here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9H3HjPbjMMw Kind regards, Pete... |
| 195 |
Update about Yifan Hi Jian Shuo... how time flies!! It is such a joy watching our babies grow up... Jaime is now also starting to walk (while holding my hand of course), but can stand on his own without any assistance for very long periods of time. I couldn't resist the opportunity also to let you know that tomorrow is Jaime's 1st Birthday!! Jaime Zheng Jiayang Breitkreutz - Born 27th August, 2007!!! Blessings to you all... :p |
| 194 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai Hi autumn - per all the above comments - this was not the intention of my words. I know now that I could have been wiser with the way I structured my sentence. Please forgive and forget. :p |
| 193 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai Hi @Griffin - mate, apology totally accepted - consider it forgotten, my friend. Please also accept mine. :D |
| 192 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @DB - good post by the way. Understand your analogies and point completely. |
| 191 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Hi budong - I certainly understand the point you are trying to make. As far as advantages - Sometimes I cannot help but feel I'm the one who has taken advantage of the beautiful in-laws I've inherited - they have accepted me unconditionally. They are much better off financially than I was accustomed to growing up. My wife was already very 'worldly-travelled' before we met and a successul business woman in her own right... in short, she didn't need my passport, money or assets (pittance in comparison to what my in-laws have). I've never worked in China on an expat package (local package - we've covered this on another thread). The only thing left on your list is my white skin (which has black heritage)... we all looked past that many years ago. Race and culture blending can be a beautiful thing. My mum in Australia loves and boasts about the fact that my wife is Chinese. We married out of love for each other - absolutely no hidden agendas - and we are completely dedicated to each other, our families, our baby boy and our life together. I also know other couples with similar circumstances to ourselves... it may not be the norm, but it happens. :p |
| 190 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai Hi Jen. Thanks for the comments. I've fogotten about the other 'stirrer' now - I think I was more suffering from a bad day than too worried about what he said. We have a saying in Australia - "it's like water off a duck's back". It was really great to meet you and the team last week also, and I did hear that I made the news. :D One of my colleagues has video-taped it for me - I'm really interested to see how I come across with my voice over-dubbed with Malay. I should be in Thailand around end of September. Sammi and Jaime will visit our families in Shanghai for a few weeks while I'm in Chicago (after Jaime's 1st birthday on 27th August - their first time flying alone without me). I'll make a quick stop in HK, then will pick them back up again from SH - unfortunately I won't get to stay more than a couple of nights this time. Oh well, CNY will be back again before I know it and I'll take the regular 3-weeks vacation then (and will surely gain the 10kg back that I've spent all year losing). Just sent you an email with some suggested date/s for TH. |
| 189 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai @Griffin - what's up your ass? - we all have made our peace here, so why are you trying to inflame it all again... Ling and I are both long-term contibuters to Jian Shuo's blog and had a quick misunderstanding... FYI - I'm happily married to my wife from Shanghai and have a beautiful baby boy... you are the one being unpleasant now, and for absolutely no reason. You don't know me, nor me you... I have no understanding about your youtubue comment - strange. Finally, I give aussies a bad name? - lucky you can hide behind a post on the internet, you gutless little man. Nothing more to say. Take care. |
| 188 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Heh - this thread always comes back... I know guys similar to the one described by budong - also know ladies similar... I think the point is that nationality or country is not the factor here - once a dog, always a dog... it could be a chinese lady and chinese man, or american lady and american man, or a lady from finland with a man from africa... if a person plays up on his partner I don't see how nationality or heritage plays a part?? Any situation and characters could get written into any story and made sound relevant. |
| 187 |
Beijing Airport Terminal 3 (T3) Opens Hi DB - good to hear from you - I think to answer your question, it totally depends on the company one works for and the package offered. Sorry for the long-winded response following - so difficult to explain all the nuances without citing some of my own experiences... The package you described seems very attractive indeed - if this was offered to me, perhaps I'd think about switching jobs! The reason many MNCs are opting away from expat packages is so as not to be liable for many of the elements to which you have referred (to increase shareholder sat and earnings). The tax advantages of accepting a local package is one of the biggest benefits for me, and I do get tax advice as part of my package, however I really wish tax-equalization was on the table. Then I would not have had to liquidate all of my assets in Australia (inc. property, shares, etc) so as to avoid any income from there, and remaining an Australian 'tax resident'. And yeh, my salary is much, much more than a local in a similar role - it needed to be for me to move my whole life. Of course, my experiences are specifically referring to Australian citizens... Once one opts to become a non-tax resident like I have (and most Aussies working in SG within the same company for which I work - otherwise, no tax advantage, no sense in relocating financially), one forfeits any social security coverage, medical benefits etc back in Aust... so I had to ensure that part of my package was a strong local healthcare scheme... as a SG income earner, I am only earning the nominal CPF capped amount for retirement as opposed to the very attractive superannuation schemes mandated by the Aust govt... Annual leave is around 25% less than if I was on an expat package, I don't receive 'R&R' (1 week every three months vacation with airfares included), local housing provision, driver and car..... and many other things included in standard expat packages. After 1st year or two, foreign residency status obligations are passed on to the employee - specifically in SG, this introduces a whole new slant... does one stay as a P1 (professional employee from a foreign country), or does one apply for PR (permanent resdient status) which offers further tax advantages? If one was to go 'all out' and become a SG citizen - substantially less tax to pay again... we have opted for PR, because without it, we would've needed to keep paying the HUGE rental amounts in SG for accomodation - unless one is PR status, one is not allowed to purchase an apartment of any kind - even as a PR, the best we can do is condo apartment or 5-yr old HDB apartment (one is not eligible for the same as citizens). Nor can a PR purchase 'landed property' regardless of money in the bank, money earned, assets owned or anything else. The biggest downfall to becoming PR is the fact that our son is now liable for Singapore NS (National Service)... if we decide to leave SG before his time to serve arrives, then the liability goes away (along with our PR status), and the really unfortunate thing there is that although he may have done nearly all his schooling in SG, there is a good chance the govt will never again allow him to work or study in SG because we have revoked his NS liability by leaving the country - this is a choice I've had to make for my son, even though he's now only 10-months old, but it could effect the rest of his life. Anyway, you probably think I've gone way off topic, I think I could go on and on for a long time (you've stated four points around the differences between expat vs local packages, but I could probably come up with at least another 100+ that I needed to take into account - and still considering now, years later - when relocating my family and entire life to a different country). The important thing to note, is that all the things (and more) that I've mentioned above, salary related, family related, residency status, etc all become relevant when on a local package - if I was an expat, I'd just accept the benefits, keep all my assets in Australia, bank nearly all my earnings, never pay for housing or transport or education at the top private international schools or travel, enjoy better vacations with free travel... then head back to Australia at the end of assignment a much, much wealthier individual... Take care, my friend - hope this answers your question? |
| 186 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai Hi - no, the SG government will take talent from anywhere as long as they fit certain criteria - education level, no criminal record, etc... |
| 185 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai You have a nice weekend too, Ling :D God bless. |
| 184 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai Whoa - read what u said - u were shallow and insulting... you still don't acknowledge that perhaps you jumped to an early conclusion before insulting me... As for NS - I totally disagree that every male in SG is mandated for NS... but that is a totally different debate, and many SG citizens also disagree with it and would not undertake military training if it was not mandatory - you should know this. On this, you may have your opinion, but it has nothing to do with my contribution to my new country. Nor does it have anything to do with patriotism - as a PR, my son is liable for NS whether I like it or not... hopefully by the time he's old enough the laws may have changed. Historically, when SG has been at war, many other countries have assisted in fighting off the enemy (including my very own Grandfather who was captured by the Japanese in SG and made work on the railway in Burma)... this is what compassion and cooperation is all about.... Oh by the way - when did you complete your NS? You do know that it is compulsory for girls in many countries too... once again, nothing to do with their love for their country - but since you are so passionate about it - I'm sure you have done your bit... This is getting nowhere - I in no way bad-mouthed SG people or the country - you have started all this from nothing... give it up and try and pick a fight with someone who doesn't love Singapore... THIS IS MY HOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Whether you like it or not!!!!!!!!!!!! Get over it that OUR government want westerners to immigrate here - we have a problem with reverse population growth and the talent loss of emigrating locals... you also know this!! |
| 183 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai @Ling - your comments had so inflamed me, that I have relooked at my post to hardlinejuan. I am in no way apologising for my post, but I can now see where you have incorrectly interpreted my words... I was sticking up for the honour of ALL women... hardlinejuan made a comparison between the women of two locations, which is degrading and offensive... I reiterated his words and told him 'he must be joking'... you interpreted this to mean that I was suggesting that Singaporean women were unattractive - this is a totally incorrect assumption, and anyone that has read any of my posts or comments in the past would know that I would never suggest something so downgrading or in fact, bordering racist. Should you have questioned my comment and sought clarification of the intent of my words, as opposed to 'jumping down my throat', I probably would have apologised for not being clear enough in my comment. However, given you ridiculous suggestion that I should leave my home (Singapore) to go back to my country of heritage, I am so offended that I will be apologising to you for nothing at all - you don't deserve it. Finally, just because your ancestors (or past generations at least) played a part in building up Singapore to where it is today, does not in anyway suggest or mean that you contribute anything more or less than me in today's SG multicultural society - perhaps we are just seeing the true colours of Ling in terms of her attitude toward westerners working and living in Singapore. Hmmm???? This is my home too - not just yours!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Tch tch... |
| 182 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai @Ling - You have chosen to try to read implications (that don't exist) into what I wrote - I did not put anyone down. For you to infer I meant anything other than what I have said is showing your defensiveness... why? And further to tell me to go home - what for?? I love this country and I love the people - I have always emphasised this point. Next time, before you jump to incorrect and inappropriate conclusions, you should look hard at yourself and the reasons why you wish to insult people that contribute to your (our) country, when you have clearly misinterpreted my words. Thank God the rest of this beautiful country are not as shallow as you, and respect me for my value-added contributions to my society. At least you have used the word 'assuming' - ass-u-me... please keep your degrading comments to yourself. I've not put anyone down (except hardlinejuan for the insults he posed to Shanghai and its people) - your wish here is to put me down - a little bit of the pot calling the kettle black, don't you think!! A group of my Singaporean friends (male and female, attractive and unattractive alike) are here now at my home, and I have showed them your post... they are disgusted for your words and apologising on your behalf... I've told them not to, I know that the majority of SGpeans are not as shallow and insulting as you. I think an apology directly from you for your incorrect assumptions, inapproriate inferences and narrow-mindedness would suffice!! ANGRY NOW!!!!! You are so wrong in every statement you have made in your post (on so many levels)!!! |
| 181 |
10 Things You Love/Hate About Shanghai @hardlinejuan - it sounds very much like your 'hates' are actually your problems and perceptions, not those of the beautiful city or the people... On your opening comments - attractive Asian women (in Singapore) - compared to Shanghai?? You MUST be joking right???????? If you can't say 'f**k off', then you obviously havn't lived in Shanghai long enough yet. Anyway - if you hate it so much, why don't you just 'f**k off' home instead of complaining? |
| 180 |
Beijing Airport Terminal 3 (T3) Opens No this is not the case, DB... I have never experienced no wireless access at any airport in the world in the last 2 years (except for India). We were all talking in the lounge, and we all had the same problem. All told, about 30 of us. The airport management were very aware of the problem and very apologetic, but that did not help any of us. This is an absolute 'gimme' as far as basic requirements of a business lounge at an international airport and MUST be rectified. No one in any of the multinational companies (at any level) for which I've worked has a GPRS card (with the exception of some lower level sales people who travel internally in their country but not internationally, and operate remotely nearly 24/7 on the road with no office to attend) - we have smart phones with GPRS so we can do email, but this does not enable VPN access to company networks and infrastructures. As an aside, you will see that most multinationals are beginning to move away from 'expat' packages and overseas assignments are paid via local means (albeit very good packages). |
| 179 |
Avoid Blog Blocked in China @Meg - I have a widget that will test urls on servers in Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong - just type in your URL, verification code and click 'test it'... if the widget doesn't display the first time you enter the following link, just refresh the page. http://www.aussiepete.com/2008/04/blogging-goes-live-great-firewall-of.html |
| 178 |
Beijing Airport Terminal 3 (T3) Opens Hi Jian Shuo... as you know, I am a very frequent business traveller. As fate has dictated, this week was only the first time that I got to use the International arrivals and departures of the new Terminal 3, and my impressions are this: Firstly, the architecture and size etc are really amazing... a job well done. As far as the logistics are concerned, they have a very, very long way to go in order to get ready for the 2008 Olympic visitors. I arrived at T3 in Beijing on a red-eye flight from Singapore (SIA) at 7:20am on Tuesday morning. Due to the class travelled, the status of my kris flyer membership, and the APEC card I hold to move through the diplomatic channel at immigration, I was the first to arrive at the baggage collection - so far no problems. After collecting my bag from the carousel, I was the first to head toward customs to exit the terminal. This is where things went very wrong. The signage (of which there is very little) for arrivals is very misleading. After asking a security office for directions to customs, I ended up in a queue, and after 10-min waiting was asked for my boarding pass. When I explained that I was arriving, the attendant could not speak english and my mandarin was too poor for her to understand. She called another security person to talk to me, who then advised that I was in fact on the wrong floor - I needed to leave floor 2 and go to floor 4. Even though I was dubious about this, I got on the elevator to floor 4, where I exited into the main part of the terminal (in departures) with absolutely no security or customs check - lucky I was not a terrorist or drug trafficker!! Then I had to cross to the other side of the terminal, get an elevator back to the 2nd floor (where I saw that I was on the outside of the customs area), and an escalator ride down to where I eventually caught a taxi - total time after collecting baggage was about half hour, and no security checks - as a traveller who visits numerous airports, this was a very daunting and amazing experience for me - goodness knows what infrequent travellers will go through in August?? When I was departing - I went up the diplomatic channel again at immigration... this time there was no-one in attendance, and once I was on the other side (unchecked), I had to ask someone at baggage scanning to get someone to go back and stamp my passport for me (which they did) - otherwise they would think I was still in China. Once I cleared immigration and baggage scan, I headed up to the BGS premier lounge - the common lounge for nearly all airlines - only to discover that the wireless internet connection was not working - I was advised that they had not finished setting it up... I lost 2 critical hours that I needed to complete some urgent work. I sat there frustrated with a huge number of other business people looking at laptops with no online access... In all, I was very disappointed with the experience, after all the hype... I was looking forward to visiting T3... my colleagues that also landed in to Beijing this week all had similar (or even worse) experiences... I sincerely hope that they fix all the bugs before the Olympic traffic hits... it doesn't matter how pretty or state of the art the design, runway, architecture ete etc is, without the proper logistics and support for the traveller, it's similar to travelling through sub-standard airports like those in India. Disappointed!!!! |
| 177 |
Car Towing at Owner's Expense? Hi 'The Cyndicate' - I actually cannot even remember what I wrote on this post it must have been so long ago. I'm not familiar with American law, but certainly in Australia, parking offences are covered under legislation. They are covered under the 'Australian Road Rules', which is a document developed by the National Transport Commission in consultation with all Australian governments through their transport agencies and police, the Commonwealth office of Legislative Drafting and the Parliamentary Counsel's Committee. Illegal parking can cause siginifcant danger on the roads (as well as inhibiting and affecting undeserving innocent companies)... I say that the authorities should enact the laws and throw the book at these people who show no concern for their fellow citizens - if they cannot honour the road rules and respect their fellow countrymen, then they should use public transport, cycle, or walk to their destination - in many countries, driving is a privelege. |
| 176 |
The World is Not Created by Genius - Part II Here are some data that a friend sent me today... What Makes 100%? What does it mean to give MORE than 100%? Ever wonder about those people who say they are giving more than 100%? We have all been to those meetings where someone wants you to give over 100%. How about achieving 103%? What makes up 100% in life? Here's a little mathematical formula that might help you answer these questions. If: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z is represented as: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 It is obvious that H-A-R-D-W-O-R-K 8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98% And K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E 11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+5 = 96% But A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E 1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100% While B-U-L-L-S-H-I-T 2+21+12+12+19+8+9+20 = 103% Finally, and most effectively A-S-S K-I-S-S-I-N-G 1+19+19+11+9+19+19+9+14+7 = 127% So, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that while Hard Work and Knowledge will get you close, and Attitude will get you there, it's the Bullshit and Ass Kissing that will put you over the top ! :D hehe - numbers don't lie... |
| 175 |
Happy Children's Day Hi Jian Shuo... Happy Intl Children's Day to Yifan (hehe - and you and Wendy) - ahhh... and cannot forget wonton (we're all kids at heart). :D Lucky baby Jaime Zheng Jiayang gets to celebrate 3 children's days now - China (1st June), Singapore (1st Oct) and Australia (4th Wed of October - this year, the 22nd). Many countries place more emphasis on Intl Childrens Day than others, but most countried 'officially' celebrate to some degree... for example it is only just beginning to take on some meaning in Australia. Here's an extract (by country) from the blog entry I wrote on this today: Australia Australia celebrates "Children's Day" on the fourth Wednesday of October. In 2008, it falls on the 22nd of October. It is part of a week long celebration of "Children's Week". It is a time when children of all ages receive gifts and celebrate their special week. Argentina Children's Day is celebrated on the second Sunday of August. Brazil Children's Day is celebrated on October 12, which is also the day of Our Lady of Aparecida, a public holiday in Brazil. Bangladesh In Bangladesh, Children's Day hasn't been celebrated in a manner that may let know the community know about the importance of Child Rights. However on November 20 YCM(Youth Change Makers) plans to inform people of Children Day by holding huge children competitions and fashion show. Though it wont be considered as a holiday. Canada Canada's "National Child Day" is held November 20th each year as enacted in Bill C-371, otherwise known as the Child Day Act, by the Parliament of Canada in 1993 to fulfill Canada's commitment to the United Nations General Assembly's recommendation to observe a Universal Children's Day.Canadian Children's Rights Council It is not a holiday in Canada. Central Africa On Congo, Congo DR, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Chad, Central African Republic, São Tomé and Príncipe Children's Day is celebrated in this country on the December 25 to honour all the children. Chile Children's Day is celebrated the first Sunday of August. Colombia In Colombia Children's Day is celebrated in the last weekend of April. Costa Rica Children's day is celebrated on September 9 in Costa Rica. Cuba Children's day is celebrated in Cuba on the third Sunday of July. El Salvador In El Salvador, Children's Day is celebrated on October 1. Former and current Communist and Socialist countries In Russia, as well as other former Soviet Union states, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Estonia, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Moldova, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, other former or current communist states, Albania, Angola, Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Croatia, Cuba, Czech Republic and Slovakia, Ethiopia and Eritrea, Germany, Laos, Republic of Macedonia, Mongolia, Montenegro, Mozambique, Poland, Serbia, Slovenia, Tanzania, Yemen, Children's Day is celebrated on June 1. This list includes 25 countries which regained independence from USSR, seceded from Yugoslavia Federation, as well as Czechoslovakia, Ethiopia after their respective splits. Germany During the Cold War, the Children's Day (Kindertag) was handled quite differently in the two states. The date was different (GDR: June 1, FRG: September 20), the name was slightly different (GDR: "International Children's Day" ("Internationaler Kindertag"), FRG: "World Children's Day" ("Weltkindertag")), and most notably: the customs. In the GDR, the holiday was introduced in 1950, and was from then on a yearly highlight for the children. On this day of the year, one typically received congratulations and presents from one's parents and did special activities in school, such as field trips and the like. In the FRG, Children's Day did not have such meaning to the children, and was even mostly unknown to many people. Since the affiliation in 1990, the date and name used in the FRG have become the official ones for the former GDR as well. This however was not accepted by large parts of the former GDR population, so that still many parents celebrate with their kids on the former date, June 1, and even Children's Day public events take place on the old date. Guatemala In Guatemala Children's day is celebrated on the first day of October. Honduras In Honduras Children's Day (Día del Niño) is celebrated on September 10. Hong Kong Children's Day is celebrated on April 4 each year (the same day as the Republic of China (Taiwan) since ROC established the Children's Day on April 4 in 1931. The ROC government combined Women’s Day with Children’s Day on April 4 in 1993, officially calling it Women’s and Children’s Day, making it a day for women, mothers, and children. The practice is still observed by both the Hong Kong SAR Government and the public after the handover in 1997, though this festival has not been a public holiday before the handover. Hungary In 1931 Children's day started although then it was called Children's Week, but since 1950 it has only been a day technically the last Sunday in May. India In India Children's Day day is celebrated on November 14 every year. This date the marks the anniversary of independent India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. Children's day is celebrated on this day in recognition of his lifelong passion and work for children. Israel Children's Day is celebrated. Italy Children's Day is not celebrated. Japan Japanese families fly carp kites on Children's Day.May 05 is Children's Day, called こどもの日 ("Kodomo no hi", こどもの日?) in Japanese; the festivities used to be called Boy's Day , called 端午の節句 (Tango no Sekku, 端午の節句?) in Japanese , to distinguish it from Girls' Day, called 桃の節句 (Momo no Sekku, 桃の節句?), ひな祭り (Hinamatsuri, ひな祭り?) in Japanese , March 3). Both of these days are marked with a lot of activities for children. On this day, children display samurai swords, armor, and Kintarō dolls. Two important symbols of Children's day are carps and irises. Traditionally, families fly carp kites with a carp .representing each son. Mexico In Mexico Children's day is celebrated on the 30th of April. New Zealand Children's Day is celebrated on the first Sunday of March each year. Children's Day provides New Zealanders with a special opportunity to spend time with their children, create positive memories, and take part in fun activities that start new traditions as well as continue old ones. The vision of Children's Day is to see children celebrated, nurtured and treasured by all. Nigeria Children's Day is celebrated on the 27th of May. North Korea North Korean Children's Day is celebrated on June 1 (국제 아동절). Before 1945 it was celebrated on May 1, But in 1945, it was changed to its current date. South Korea In South Korea, 5th of May is officially the Children's Day. Pakistan In Pakistan, Children's Day is celebrated on November 20. There is no holiday on this day but it is observed by NGO working on Child Rights. Peru In Peru, Children's Day is celebrated on October 14. Paraguay In Paraguay, Children's Day is celebrated on August 16, day of the infamous Battle of Acosta Ñu, where 20,000 thousand men of the Brazilian Army crushed a Paraguayan battle made up of 3,500 children ages six to fifteen - even though Paraguay had been already completely defeated (see more in War of the Triple Alliance). It's a national holiday, used to remember the atrocities the Brazilians committed during the five-year war. People's Republic of China In the People's Republic of China, Children's Day is celebrated on June 1 and is formally known as "The June 1st International Children's Day" - 六一国际儿童节). When the People's Republic of China was first established in 1949, the State Council (Cabinet) designated a half-a-day holiday for all primary schools on June 1st. This was later made into a full day's break in 1956 with The Announcement by the State Council to make June 1st Children's Day a One Day Public Holiday (国务院关于“六一儿童节”改为放假一天的通知). Schools usually organizes activities such as camping trips or free movies on Children's day to allow students to have fun, and Children of civil servants might also receive small gifts from the government. Entrance Ceremonies of the Young Pioneers of China (similar to boy scouts in the West) are frequently held on June 1st as well. Poland Children's Day is celebrated in Poland on June 1. The International Children's Day was introduced in Poland in the early 1950s. It coincides with the beginning of summer and it is usually treated as a holiday, as it takes place near the end of the school year. Schools usually organize special activities for the day of the celebration, and the first week of June is a time of the festivities organized in parks and entertainment centers for children. Parents usually buy some small gifts for their children. Portugal and former colonies In Portugal, and also at some of its former colonies - Guinea-Bissau, Macau, Cape Verde, East Timor - the Children's Day is celebrated on June 1. Romania In Romania the Day is celebrated on June 1. Singapore October 1 is the day which Singapore officially celebrates Children's Day, a similar event celebrated every year is Youth Day which is celebrated on the first Sunday of July each year. Slovakia In Slovakia, the day is called International Children's Day and is celebrated on June 1. Sri Lanka The Universal Children's Day is celebrated on the October 01. Sweden The International Children's Day is celebrated on October 2, though there are very few actual celebrations. Taiwan The Taiwan designates April 4 as Children's Day (兒童節), pursuant to Article 5 of the Order to Implement Commemoration Days and Holidays (紀念日及節日實施辦法). Despite not being a legal holiday, schools often hold special activities in order to celebrate the occasion. Due to pressure from parents that demanded to accompany their children in the celebration, the ROC government recognized Women’s Day with Children’s Day on April 4, 1993. Thus, the celebration is technically called Women’s and Children’s Day. Thailand The second Saturday of January is Children's Day in Thailand. Turkey In Turkey, Children's Day has been celebrated on April 23rd since 1935. It originated from the first gathering of Grand National Assembly on April 23rd, 1920, during the Turkish Independence War. After the Ottomans were defeated during World War I, Turkish land had been occupied by other European countries such as England, Italy and France. Ataturk, an Ottoman commander, broke his ties with the dying Empire and started the war for independence against Allied forces and the old Ottoman regime. After years of fighting Turkey won full independence. Turks consider Ataturk to be "The Father of Modern Turkey". After the war, Ataturk refused the role of Sultan or King and established a modern Republic instead. He gifted April 23rd to the children for the country, so that they would cherish the independence that cost so much, but at the same time walk the path of "Peace at Home, Peace in the World" On April 23rd children from around the world come to Turkey. They're hosted by families who have children of a similar age. Festivities last over a week and the visiting and Turkish children spend a lot of time together. Many children, often not even speaking the same language, create lifelong friendships. Several of the events are broadcast on television, showing the children in their traditional national outfits, dancing singing and exchanging gifts. The United Nations participates the events. Every year on April 23rd, the seats of Parliament are held by children, and a child becomes President for a day. The child President delivers a speech on national television. United States of America Children’s Day observations in the United States predate both Mother’s and Father’s Day. The celebration of a special Children’s Day in America dates from the 1860s and earlier. In 1856, Rev. Charles H. Leonard, D.D., then pastor of the First Universalist Church of Chelsea, Mass., set apart a Sunday for the dedication of children to the Christian life, and for the re-dedication of parents and guardians to bringing-up their children in Christian nurture. This service was first observed the second Sunday in June. The Universalist Convention at Baltimore in September, 1867, passed a resolution commending churches to set apart one Sunday in each year as Children’s Day. The Methodist Episcopal Church at the Methodist Conference of 1868 recommended that second Sunday in June be annually observed as Children’s Day. The General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in 1883 designated the “the second Sabbath in June as Children’s Day.” Also in 1883, the National Council of Congregational Churches and nearly all the state bodies of that denomination in the United States passed resolutions commending the observance of the day. About this time many other denominations adopted similar recommendations. Chase’s Calendar of Events cites Children’s Sunday and notes that The Commonwealth of Massachusetts issues an annual proclamation for the second Sunday in June. Numerous churches and denominations currently observe the second Sunday in June including the African Methodist Episcopal Church and the Church of the Nazarene. Children's Day, was proclaimed by President Bill Clinton in October 2000. He declared that it be held on November 16th. "National Child's Day" was proclaimed by the President of the United States of America, George W. Bush, as June 3, 2001 and in subsequent years on dates in early June. In 2003, he proclaimed June 1st. In 2004, he proclaimed June 6th. In 2005, he proclaimed June 5th. In 2006, he proclaimed June 4th. In 2007, he proclaimed June 3rd. The White House Proclamation by the President of the United States of America, 2001 Nowhere in any of the proclamations did the President refer to the United Nations or the UN Resolution about Universal Child Day. It is important to note that The United States of America is one of only two countries in the world that have not ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. As of November 2007, 193 countries have ratified the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, (UNCRC). The only other country that has not ratified the UNCRC is Somalia. United States position on the UNCRC In 2007, Illinois Governor Rod R. Blagojevich issued a proclamation proclaiming the second Sunday in June as Children's Day. The mayors of Aurora and Batavia, Illinois, also issued proclamations. Uruguay In Uruguay, Children's Day is celebrated on January 6th. Venezuela In Venezuela Children's Day is celebrated the 30th of April. Vietnam Children's Day is celebrated on June 1 as ICD and on the full moon of the 8th lunar month during the Mid-Autumn Festival. Visit the full story (if you can get across the GFW): http://www.aussiepete.com/2008/06/advantages-of-mixed-cultures-children.html |
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Chinese Internet Turns Black and White Hehe - not-so-Chinese-savvy?? Nearly all aussies know what this term means in China... I'm with you on this one, Wonton!... |
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Chinese Internet Turns Black and White hi peter. i don't have time to write lengthy responses like u, but i wasn't inferring ignorance due to language nor was i defending aust or any other countrty u brought up. many of this person's comments were iignorant (point 1). point 2 to have german language and criticisng another country's govts position or stance gave me shivers. i think i'm alowed my opinion here am i not? or are u the post police? |
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Chinese Internet Turns Black and White I got a 'shiver' reading through these posts... memory went to past history... talk of oppressive govts, liberty of people, etc etc... then finish with 'Auf wiedersehen'... the language of what could well be regarded as the most oppressive and cruel govts of the 20th century... always love it when outsiders post in ignorance. |
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How We Can Help? Message just issued to employees from Motorola President, Asia Pacific: Motorola continues to support Sichuan earthquake disaster relief Total donation reaches RMB15 million Motorola today announced additional donations to support the disaster relief in Sichuan, bringing the total cumulative amount to RMB15 million in cash, mobile networking equipment, mobile handsets and two way radios plus related onsite technical services. Motorola employees in China and around the world are participating in the disaster relief effort by donating cash valued over RMB2 million, matched by Motorola funds amounting to over RMB4 million. We want to let you know that Motorola Foundation was overwhelmed by the extent of the tragedy and equally overwhelmed by the generous response of our employees worldwide. On Monday they called an emergency meeting of the Motorola Foundation Board to raise the amount of their matching donation to USD250,000 (RMB1.75 million). The Foundation will continue to work with the China Management team to provide further support for rebuilding activities in the future. Apart from the donation in cash, we want to highlight the rapid response and significant contribution from each of our businesses. Immediately following the earthquake we began working with our customers and partners to restore communications in the impacted areas and donated a wide range of equipment and services, including TETRA portable radios, CDMA mobile phones, Remote Speaker Micro-phone, GSM network equipment and services. As the extent of the damage has become better understood, our businesses have expanded these donations and our technical teams have moved onsite to work closely with the customers, partners and related organizations to provide communications for the affected areas as quickly as possible. This rapid and ongoing response is something we should be proud of! We are also touched by what Motorolans are doing to support the relief effort, whether through cash donations or voluntary donations of critical necessity items such as flashlights, blanket, and clothing for the people in Sichuan. The efforts are deeply appreciated. Once again, we want to express our sincere gratitude to all Motorolans who have helped through different ways. It is a blessing that we can give to those in need, but we must keep in mind that our individual and company aid and assistance will continue to be needed over the days, weeks and months ahead. Please continue to keep the Sichuan people in your thoughts and prayers. |
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Requirements for Websites Related to Earthquake It was sent also out by the govt in Hefei, Anhui province. |
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Requirements for Websites Related to Earthquake I posted a similar article on my blog Jian Shuo... one thing I noticed (as my wife uses it regularly) , is that although liba.sh is all black and white, the discussion and topics don't seem to be vetted in any way... just seems like 'business as usual' for them. |
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How We Can Help? @PLA man - for us our efforts have gone off perfectly - u are talking from some sort of personal experience? Or u just trying to inflame people in this time when people need our help? Be gracious and have a heart - take this strange line of discussion off this post please. |
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How We Can Help? @PLA man - I'm proud to say that all our help has gotten through completely fine - and as well as all the RMB millions worth of cash, equipment and infrastructure we have sent, we have many engineers successfully deployed and working on-site in the immediate affected area. This is in relation to emergency response communications equipment and mobile communications infrastructure equipment... we have had full co-operation from all authorities... no underground powers, no political influence - just complete support to help the victims... |
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How We Can Help? Hi @TibetanLady - I understand the criticism you were trying to make. My point is that this post is to see how we can help the victims of the disaster, not a platform to begin debate again on China / Tibet and the Chinese Govt - there are many other posts where you can (and have) posted your point of view. There are many people that do or do not support the Chinese Govt, but although they happen to work for the Govt, they too are actually human beings, and it is not nice to infer that anyone deserves what has occurred on 5.12 or for anyone to suggest that it was a 'mandate from heaven' (a statement which in many religions would be considered blasphemous). God bless!! |
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Thoughts after One Week of Earthquake Motorola continues to provide disaster relief support to China earthquake. Following the first announcement of donation valued RMB2 million in cash and equipment on 13 May and the grant from Motorola Foundation to International Red Cross, Motorola today announces to donate additional RMB5 million worth of cash, mobile communications infrastructure equipment, mobile devices and related field technical support and services for the disaster relief and recovery. To date, Motorola has donated over RMB7 million in cash, products and services. The second phase of donation includes RMB2 million in cash, of which the amount from China employees alone has reached over 1.65 million so far; and RMB3 million worth of equipment. Once again, we want to express our sincere appreciation to Ruey Bin Kao, president of China, and the local team’s immediate response and initiation to offer help and support to the affected area. The emergency response communications equipment and mobile communications infrastructure equipment that Motorola donated have already arrived Sichuan, and the mobile phones are also on their way. Our Motorola engineers are on-site in the affected areas working with our customers and partners to provide technical support. During this time when we are still coming to grips with this profound tragedy, we have been touched and are proud of what the employees, businesses and functions are contributing towards the disaster relief efforts. http://www.motorola.com.cn/news/2008/05/080513.asp http://www.motorola.com.cn/news/2008/05/080519.asp |
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How We Can Help? @TibetanLady - how can you even suggest this disaster is a 'mandate of heaven' on anybody in such a tragic time? So much loss and suffering. Yesterday was Vesak day - your post is not akin to the teachings of the Dharma. Shame on you to use this tragedy as a platform to criticise anyone and then try and disguise it with prayer. |
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How We Can Help? This blog topic is reaching out to ask how we can be of help to the suffering people, not a platform for people to air their political beliefs and agendas - there are many other topics here where one can do this. All should be respectful to the victims of this tragedy and take out the heartless political banter and criticism of the government from this particular discussion. We should all be united in this time of need!!! Think of others and not just yourselves - what if your family was affected by this tragedy?? |
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How We Can Help? @jian shuo - I'm proud to say that the company I work for, as well as donating a huge sum of money themselves, has setup a special web portal with the American Red Cross to allow Motorola employees to donate money for direct support (shelter, food, clothing, etc) for those victims in need. Every donation that we employees make, gets matched 'dollar for dollar' by the company. |
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How We Can Help? @DC - thanks kindly for your wishes... @Brian - what's up?? Why are you so heartless in this time of such tragedy and devestation? There are very few countries in this world (even on fault lines) - apart from Japan - that are prepared for earthquakes of this magitude. |
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My Google PageRank Increases to PR5 Hi Jian Shuo - not sure if u are aware, but you can now add html code to your FB profile... so what I did, was used my feedburner RSS feed to create a 'headline animator' and then copy and pasted the code into the html code application... so now I have a button on my FB profile that displays the latest blog post from my feed, and if users click on it, they can subscribe to my feeds... pretty neat in case you are interested.... :D |
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Earthquake is Much More Terrible than I Thought Hi Carroll - thanks for the concern - yes, my colleague is safe. Unfortunately though, they cannot go to work or go to their home. They are stuck living in a vehicle provided by the government right now. Given the suffering of so many others, I think they can probably count their blessings that they are unharmed. |
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My Google PageRank Increases to PR5 Hi Jian Shuo - by the way, this site is now PR of 6 in case you were not aware. I'm interested if after you blog, you ping? I understand that 'blog and ping' is a sure fire way to increase unique readers and therefore potentially more one way links. |
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Earthquake and Flee from 18th Floor One of my very close friends and colleagues (who lives and works not far from the epicentre) is still missing and we fear greatly for his safety. We cannot raise him by phone. My prayers to him and his family. |
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Meeting Place: Starbucks at Jinyan Road, Pudong @jian shuo - although the one you had looks like a 'lemon lamington', the most common ones in Australia are chocolate - here's the background and recipe: Chocolate Lamingtons: Small squares of plain cake, dipped in melted chocolate and sugar and coated in desiccated coconut. Said to have been named after Baron Lamington (see below), a popular governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1901. SPONGE CAKE 3 eggs 1/2 cup castor sugar 3/4 cup self-raising flour 1/4 cup cornflour 15g (1/2oz) butter 3 tablespoons hot water Beat eggs until thick and creamy. Gradually add sugar. Continue beating until sugar completely dissolved. Fold in sifted SR flour and cornflour, then combined water and butter. Pour mixture into prepared lamington tins 18cm x 28cm (7in x 11in). Bake in moderate oven approximately 30 mins. Let cake stand in pan for 5 min before turning out onto wire rack. CHOCOLATE ICING 3 cups desiccated coconut 500g (1lb) icing sugar 1/3 cup cocoa (extra cocoa can be added, according to taste) 15g (1/2oz) butter 1/2 cup milk Sift icing sugar and cocoa into heatproof bowl. Stir in butter and milk. Stir over a pan of hot water until icing is smooth and glossy. Trim brown top and sides from cake. Cut into 16 even pieces. Holding each piece on a fork, dip each cake into icing. Hold over bowl a few minutes to drain off excess chocolate. Toss in coconut or sprinkle to coat. Place on oven tray to set. (Cake is easier to handle if made the day before. Sponge cake or butter cake may be used. May be filled with jam and cream.) BARON LAMINGTON: Rt Hon Charles Wallace Alexander Napier Cochrane Baillie, Baron Lamington, GCMG, Governor of Queensland from 9 April 1896 to 19 December 1901. Whilst the origin of the name for the lamington cake cannot be accurately established, there are several theories. One of these theories is that it was originally the slang term for the homburg hat, worn by Baron Lamington, and these cakes were named for him. Another theory is that they were named after Lady Lamington, the wife of the Governor. |
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Meeting Place: Starbucks at Jinyan Road, Pudong Haha - @dezza - it does too - reminds me of the lamington drives we used to have in school!!! |
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Error in Western Media Report about Tibet Why the personal attack on Joyce? - although there is some opinion in her post, most of it is hard historical fact. Which part is offensive? |
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Introduce Yourself @jian shuo - I think you already know much about me over the years... in summary, Peter Breitkreutz - Australian living and working in Singapore - married to ex-colleague from Shanghai, Sammi (used to work together in Kodak). 'Mixed' baby Jaime Zheng Jiayang, born in Singapore on 27th August, 2007. Global Strategic Sourcing Manager for Marketing, Motorola. www.aussiepete.com |
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Error in Western Media Report about Tibet @rick - my ancestors are from Australia. - the aborigines were some of the first human beings to inhabit this planet... I'm confused - where did u want me to go to? I'm living in Singapore now - are u saying I should go back home to Australia? |
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Photos of Shanghai in May, 2008 @shanghai-ren... u are a very strange person. |
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Slow Internet Connection in Early May @wonton - thanks for the wishes - almost completely recovered now!!!! *Whew* - was pretty bad for a while there... am I correct to assume that you have a way to somehow get around the GFW of China to be able to view aussiepete.com?? Maybe you could share your secrets with me?? FYI (and Jian Shuo) - just posted the latest instalment on my blog which may be a little controversial give the online gaming culture here in SG - "Regulation of Cyber Cafes in Singapore (Internet Cafes) and Gaming Addiction of our Youths"... this topic is getting a bit of airplay here in SG media right now... take care... http://www.aussiepete.com |
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Slow Internet Connection in Early May Hi @Jian Shuo - after years of following your blogging site, you have inspired me to begin my own to keep track of our day-to-day activities and live as a tribute to our lives abroad. I have posted a link to this site on the opening entry. Please have a look at our site... I don't think the China GFW will allow you to visit the URL 'proper' so also post the direct blog link which (hopefully) can be accessed form the China mainland: http://www.aussiepete.com From mainland China: http://jaimezheng.blogspot.com Kind regards and thank for the inspiration... :D |
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Wired Photos... Long Time Ago @Jian Shuo - I hope you enjoyed an evening with no laptop!! I cannot imagine what that would be like - the computer is almost like an extension of me these days. I think I would feel very inadequate just one day without my laptop (although it would make my wife very happy I suspect) :D Very clever pictures!! FYI - Jaime turned 8-months old the other day, and now has his first two teeth - I hope Yifan is also doing well. @shanghai-ren - hmmm... what is your problem? Did you forget to take your medication?? |
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"Love China" Blooms on MSN Messenger @rat in hat - just saw your post to me - sorry I've been travelling for business and not had opportunity to visit this site for a few days... I beg to differ on your suggestion that Buddhism in China is more about culture than faith... I understand the point you're trying to make, but it's very a very general one (perhaps based upon your observations? - I'm not sure of your (strange) thought processes). I don't think it's really for you to say whether or not praying for luck is a valid form of faith - if one believes in something without hard evidence of it's existence, is it not faith? - this is the fundamental groundstone for any religion today. Most of my family and extended family in China are very strict in their Buddhist beliefs (them, and also many generations before them). My own immediate family are Christian - it would be naive of me to try and make a call on who is right and who is wrong - or which religion is better for that matter... I have my own beliefs and they are very personal to me. Regardless of your own faith or beliefs, I strongly suggest you refrain from insulting or pretending to understand the intricasies of others' beliefs - especially with the gross generalizations and inaccuracies of your last post on this thread - are you one of these self-proclaimed theologists perhaps?? I recommend you look to 'real history' rather than rely on media or anecdotal discussions to attain your knowledge. |
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"Love China" Blooms on MSN Messenger Just a point of note - after attending (and being swept along) with the sea of people at the Jing'an Temple in Shanghai for the last two years in a row on CNY morning... there is definitely some religious 'collective thinking' there... :D There are more people in attendance on this one day than at the busiest Australian Rules football match on a sell-out day at the MCG in Melbourne. |
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"Love China" Blooms on MSN Messenger @nick - I'm a 'western guy' but don't tell you or anyone else that I know yours or anyone else's country (or island) better than you... I am respectful - so no need for you to generalize - keep it impersonal hey? |
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"Love China" Blooms on MSN Messenger Hahahahaha - @belacqua - now things are getting really dangerous!! |
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Yifan in His 9th Month Wow!! Crawling...!!! These babies are growing so quickly - Yifan is so very, very cute!!! Jaime is no almost 8-months, and trying his very hardest to crawl... just not strong enough yet... :p I started a group for him on Facebook - would love for you to join!! http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=17335466083 |
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"Love China" Blooms on MSN Messenger Hi @summer_go... ahem... ahhh... actually there is no such word in the English language "UNFREE"... :D |
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Real Pictures of China with My Experience @shanghai-ren... xenophobic is clearly not the appropriate descriptor. There are reasons behind everything (rightly or wrongly), but the Carrefour incident is clearly not due to a 'fear' of foreigners. |
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Friends Started to Boycott French Products @Richard - I am not agreeing nor disagreeing with your post (you are obviously very passionate - given your controversial proclamation that 'we were right on Iraq' - millions would disagree with you) - as I have said many times on these threads, it is not my position to do so (as an outsider)... most non-Chinese do not understand the intricacies of the situation or the history leading up until now (no matter how much they -we - think we are knowledgable or how strong the views). I would however like to make a brief comment on your statement: "why did they jail a non-violent political opponent for 6 years?"... on this point, I think it's open to interpretation - it depends on what one's definition of 'non-violent' is. I'd like to take the opportunity to repost this link from a couple of week's ago (apologies to those people whose servers are on the China mainland and may be affected by the GFW). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xsoc4-QnplY On the 'non-violent political opponent' descriptor, I think the jury is still out - does a person who makes 95% of his innocent country people suffer dire hardship and starvation under a 'theocratic' regime (in the name of religion) allow that person to get away unscathed because he is 'non-violent' by not physically hurting someone with a weapon? In other circumstances, what the theocracy had done in Tibet could be considered 'crime against humanity' and perpertrators could be subject to more than just 6 years jail (could it not?). Once again, I am not taking sides here - I am just suggesting that you should not learn your history from western media. Especially as it relates to China and Tibet. Take care and God bless!! |
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Living Cost in Shanghai Hi @DB -I agree completely with the message you are trying to convey here, but disagree a little with the method. Let me briefly explain why... In absolute terms, you are quite correct, Shanghai doesn't even come close to being one of the most expensive in the world. In relative terms (your point 3), I do not have data to support my observations, but for the average local hard-working Shanghainese (let's say in the construction or manufacturing industry), I'm led to believe that the cost of living is extremely high. In the 'early' days of my marriage (whilst living in Shanghai), it was not uncommon for me to buy a particular item, and then make a statement as to how extremely cheap that item was (obviously when said item was bought from my Australian salary, and when the same item is compared to Australian prices). Such a statement actually put strain on my relationship (one of the very few issues we had when 'blending' our cultures) - my wife would immediately reply that it wasn't cheap - for us, and compared to Australia, yes it didn't cost much relatively, but for the average Shanghainese, the item was unaffordable and considered and impossible luxury. So I fleshed this out a bit more with my wife over the years, and now understand that although I may see something as inexpensive, it is not appropriate - and often downright offensive - to comment on the same to local Shanghainese - it can be perceived as showing-off or trying to act elitist (even though this was clearly never the intent). Nowadays, out of respect to my in-laws, my wife and I can discuss perceptions on living costs in Shanghai relatively (between ourselves), but would never again consider 'belittling' my Shanghainese relatives and friends by making the same relative statements to them. As I said - I have no data to support the relative cost for locals in Shanghai, but I do hear from many people who are struggling day-to-day to make ends meet - having said this, I know people in many other countries that are facing the same problems - if I talk to many SGpeans, I get the same response - cost of living is way too high relative to average wages (whereas I find SG extremely inexpensive - once again it's relative)... these days I find Australia very expensive (which before relocating to SG, I had never even given a thought) - I can buy an entire dinner for my family at the local hawker center in SG for the same cost as two soft drinks in a 7-11 in Melbourne (although I earn much more in SG than I did in Australia, partly due to the massive tax advantages in SG). Anyway, in summary, I agree completely with the point you are making on absolute terms, but I think for you to rate number (3) as a valid way of measuring cost of living in Shanghai, then you have been a victim of your own observations with your opening comment that "this is simply bullshit"... to your position and income, relatively perhaps it is - but for the local Shanghainese, such a comment could be considered offensive (the latter making up a large population of Jian Shuo's readers). Take care @DB... |
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Living Cost in Shanghai - Part II @Troy, I think to gain information on living standards and cost of living in Shanghai, you have certainly come to the right place for advice. However, as for the question concerning US citizenship and taxation implications, my advice to you is to seek professional advice. Although you may get some sound opinions and first-hand experiences here, this blog is not the appropriate forum for this sort of advice. Taxation is a very personal matter, and each individual will face different issues, depending on income, assets, investments etc (at home and abroad). To outline this a little further, let me share my own experience. I have lived and worked abroad for a number of years. Now I know obviously, Australian and SG tax laws are much different to the US and China - I am merely offering my case as an example of why professional advice is warranted. My family and I are currently, residing in Singapore on P1 employment pass and dependent passes. When I made the shift to SG, I was allocated the services of a 'global' taxation partner (PCW) through my company, who assisted in my tax matters in both Australia and Singapore. It became glaringly obvious early, that the state of my residence in SG had some (but very little baring) on my tax position. There are many taxation advantages by residing in SG whilst maintaining a 'non-resident for taxation purposes' in Australia.... this is the critical point - if I retained substantial assets back home (eg. house, shares, other investments, etc) or received any form of income (inc. significant interest dividends etc) in Australia, I would need to continue as a 'resident for taxation purposes' in Australia - this would negate any taxation benefits in SG, because I would have to pay an 'equalizing' tax (or if you like, double tax). By 'liquidating' and selling off Australian assets, I am now taxed only in SG at a much much less rate than I would be if I were still in Australia. This as I said, as an employment pass holder... we will become PRs (permanent residents) of SG in a month or two, which offers a couple more percentage points in tax advantage, but to move toward citizenship would offer only a further small incremental gain. This would not be acceptable given my loyalty to my country and heritage (Australian through and through, regardless of where in the region I reside). Also, although Australia recognizes dual citizenship, SG do not (nor do China), and I would not be relinquishing by Aussie status for one or two percentage points of tax gain - totally unacceptable to me. Finally, a very important point to note, is the usage of the term 'expat'. Although, all of us on overseas assignments 'generally' refer to ourselves as expats, it is critical for you to understand the business implications and translation of this term. If you are an 'expat' in it's true business sense, your company will be sponsoring all your costs (living away from home allowance, driver and vehicle, regular R&R and associated travel costs, etc etc), and this money would be paid from your home country (hence the potential for heavy taxes), but generally these packages are quite attractive - I suspect this is not the case for you, because a US$75K package wouldn't cut it (wouldn't even come close). Your HR dept should be able to advise you on this - that's what HR professionals are paid to do - they should have the knowledge base on this. Anway - I've been super long-winded - in short, you MUST engage professional advice on the taxation matters - as you rightly point out, this is a life changing opportunity and you should therefore give the decision the respect it deserves by doing your homework completely. PD: Disposable Income? - depends on you - how do you spend your time? Window shopping or shopping at Gucci? That's a real tough question without the background. |
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My Experience of Culture and Religion in Tibet @Wayfarer - please note that the 'concensus' on this blog is not that China places too much emphasis on English langauage or that the English requirement in schools should be dropped. This is just a line that three people have been pushing (yourself, Perkins and Gunyan) - and after studying the content and structure of the posts it is extremely obvious that you three people are one and the same person (remember, that Jian Shou records and can view IP addresses, so changing your name to post the same material is very obvious to him - this 'different personality' syndrome must be very interesting - if not amusing - to him). English and Chinese Mandarin are the two languages needed for successfully conducting business across Asia, and to suggest students in China should not study English language can be very damaging to the young folk reading this blog - please all young Chinese people, do not believe what this one person (with different personalities) is posting - keep up your studies for your own sake (and future success). In ours and your lifetimes, the schematics of global business language will not change (or have major shift). Anyway, to summarize - dropping English in schools in China is not the concensus of this blog - just the belief of one person. Take care... :D |
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More Discussion on Tibet Hi Gunjan...?? or is it Ambassador Perkins? Do you mind me asking which part of India you come from? I travel at least 1-month a year across most of the major cities in India, and it's important to note that not all schools are teaching Hindi. I've had this discussion numerous time with my colleagues in India, and many of their children do not study the 'official' language - in fact many people right across India cannot communicate (the dialects are just too diverse), hence the drive in our MNC for common English as the business unifier. |
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Error in Western Media Report about Tibet Just a quick note to @perkins... as far as international language is concerned - my experience is very opposite to yours. Having spent two decades living & working in various countries across Asia Pacific (south, south-east and north) and the US in senior executive positions in MNCs (predominately concerned with technology and telecommunications globally), I strongly recommend English and Mandarin as what you have decribed as your 'tier 1' languages in order to be a successful global player. I am fluent in both (oral and written - as well as average oral skills in Shanghai dialect, German, Malay and Tamil). Although Portuguese and Spanish would be a 'nice to have', it's easy enough to get by with in-company translators for the minimal ROI that Sth American countries offer (inc. Brazil). Asia (specifically China) is destined - as we are all aware - to become the world's financial superpower, hence the importance of Chinese Mandarin as we move forward. Also - in respect of Hindi - yes, it is 'officially' the national language of India, but unlike Chinese Mandarin, it is yet to be adpoted by the population as a 'common' language for all... to succeed in business across south and south-east Asia, one would be best to learn Tamil as opposed to Hindi (both would be almost ideal - as ideal as Indian languages are concerned - there would still be millions of people one would not be able to converse with). Finally, when you speak of 'Chinese', I assume you are referring to Mandarin (orally) and simplified Chinese characters?? If you just mention Chinese language in many parts of southern China & HK, the locals would be right to think you are talking of Cantonese (or even Hokkien in areas such as Fujian province). Take care.... :D |
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Error in Western Media Report about Tibet I am purposely keeping opinions on this entire issue to myself - I have had numerous discussions with my father-in-law in Shanghai on this and many other issues, and the main lesson I have learned is although I may have opinions derived from my culture and upbringing, enhanced by media (correctly, or incorrectly), I have no right as a foreginer to make comment. Anyone from the 'outside' who even thinks they have anything close to understanding of the intricacies of current events is delusional. I'll probably get 'slammed' from people for stating the above (especially by the supporters of the 'neocon' and other conspiracy theories - *sigh*), but the reality is that I cannot compare current events with anything that I have encountered in my (long) life. I do not necessarily agree with all of my in-laws' beliefs on certain issues (Tibet and Taiwan, to name just a couple), but I certainly have an understanding of the compelling reasons why many local Chinese people believe (historically) the things they do, and their passion for the same. For this reason, I restrain from posting my misinformed 'outside' opinions. In all, one thing I can say with confidence (and have done before), is that to use the Olympic Games as a political platform is just wrong, especially trying to relate current world events and perceived breaches of human rights to the games that bring the world together. Boycotting the games (or threats of the same) as a publicity stunt to promote political beliefs is so very wrong and is not, and will not, be tolerated by the Olympic organizing committee, or those people who understand the real reasons behind this great event... it has been tried before, and has failed with disastrous and deadly consequences... good luck Beijing and China for 08/08/08!!!! |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Question for "MRMA" - where did u get your stats? Mind me asking? |
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Why I Didn't Cover About Tibet @wonton - I've purposely not been stating my opinion on this subject - it's not for me to say. However - congratulations on your post!! It is the most sensible one I've read on this topic yet. |
| 131 |
Why I Didn't Cover About Tibet Wow - conspiracy theory at it's best - and lengthiest. |
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Prostitution in China Hi @oncrest... hehe - I think I'd get in to big trouble if I go and checkout Geylang nowadays - I think I understood your point, but didn't make myself very clear - I have no doubt that the percentage of prostitutes in SG that are Chinese is high, what I was trying to say is that the percentage of the total Chinese national population in SG that are prostitutes is low - which is why the perception that all Chinese nationals in SG are prostitutes is wrong... it's sort of like saying that because most suicide bombers are of islamic faith, therefore every moslom is a terrorist bomber, or because most kebab shops are owned by people from Turkey, that every person from Turkey owns a kebab shop... anyway, you get my drift - I've actually been confronted with the misconception that all Chinese nationals are prostitutes many times whilst living in SG - there is no way that the people with this view can be swayed otherwise, and I find it a little strange... Cheers. Sorry all for going way off topic here. Oh - and my 'blind China lover' reputation precedes me.... lol :D |
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Prostitution in China @ - @oncrest - I agree with you on this incorrect 'perception', and would like to add that the % of prostitutes of total population of Chinese nationals is very low in SG... I love living in SG, but this deep-seeded 'perception' in some SGpeans you describe is very, very true - and very, very wrong. It will take some time for the 'old school' Chinese national-haters to ween out of mainstream. I'm so glad you understand the issue so well... Let's keep on the govt's back to clean up geylang, and let's keep the open discussion going to remove the incorrect perceptions of 'old school' SGpeans that all Chinese nationals are prostitutes. Interestingly, we got rid of similar incorrect perceptions in Melbourne many years ago (that most asian girls are prostitutes), by lobbying the local, state and federal govts to change advertising laws. At that time, some brothels were advertising services by 'Asian only' - and went further to define by country of origin - it was possible to call and book time with a SGpean (or Chineses or Japanese or Malaysian or Korean etc, etc) if that was one's requirement... this practice is now illegal in Australia thank goodness - the world's 'oldest occupation' attracts workers from every walk of life, every country and every culture - no one country or race is immune. |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @DB - *sigh* I don't even know why I'm wasting my time... you've confused me by your timeframe - I referred to your 'mini-attack' (the incorrectly spelt "ditto") in a single post - to u and to yippee... As for "and please please do yourself and ALL of us one favour" - contrary to your own beliefs in your own popularity, you are not the king (or queen) of blogging, and you don't have any right to speak on behalf of ALL other readers of Jian Shuo's blogs. As Jian Shuo rightly posted - keep it about the subject, not the person. Feel free to have the last say here, because I refuse to answer anymore little personal digs... just really wasting my valuable time by even responding to this last one. Gotta go - got some real work to do now. All the best!! |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @john - take it easy mate... @db - once again, you have agreed with my post - no substantaited data exists. Your real-experiences lack the appropriate sample size to be validly considered data (China's population is >1.4bln - foreginer population reading this blog? I'm not really sure)... everyone is entitled to their own opinions on any topic, and I encourage and applaud open debate (when it is meaningful). To post % numbers that are just subjective opinion is just down-right silly. As a statistican, I cannot accept opinion stated in terms of data... it is valid for a person to say something like "in my experience, most of the people I know..." or "I've witnessed a large % of people..." etc... but to quote actual numbers with no further substantiation of where they are derived - this is inadequate and ignorant... I merely asked the question "where did u get the data from?" - why are u so excited about me asking the question?? Have an opinion sure, but you cannot convince me that using data that is flawed or has no substance can lead to meaningful debate. Your real-life experiences (not data, by definition) help form your subjective opinion (which is absolutely fine), but in no way can be representative of the entire population of China or mixed-country relationships. PERIOD!! As far as "AussiePB" bashing - actually, MrMa (who was not the original poster of the 'data') suggested I lacked commonsense by asking the source of the data - I used the commonsense angle back to him - then you (unprovoked by me), used it also on me (by the way, "ditto" is spelled with two t's)... yeepee's comments then further inflamed this 'mini attack' by you. Let's leave it at that - we obviously disagree on this topic, and we are both entitled to our opinion - but please just re-read my post asking where the data came from (as I asked you to before) - you seem to have misinterpreted my question as something to be offended by or to warrant your 'mini attack'. Take care... |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @db - you have supported my point exactly... I wasn't sprouting data - someone else was... if it's not real, why post it? There are people that read stuff on blogs like this and believe it. Also completely agree that my experiences are not necessarily reflective of the entire population of China - I never once suggested otherwise. @yeepee - I didn't mention my wife in my most recent post about the substandard data that was posted. Actually what I do take offense to is people making pointed remarks at skin colour - since you are so hung up on colour, what colour would you decsribe my son as?? Be careful, coz it could lead to a punch in the nose in other circumstances - also FYI, not sure of your heritage or financial position, but since you brought up my wife - We met in a professional environment, she is well-travelled, extremely highly educated and comes from a very well-to-do family (much more well-to-do than mine actually), with no need for green cards, money or anything else you might suggest. Also, I'm not naive enough to believe that all cross-border relationships have the same base (just check with people who have experiences with Mexico and foreign relationships). You agree with db's post about data not being available in China, but then continue on to quote a number of 80% again - do you agree with db's post, or just his AussiePB bashing. To you both, please review my post in reponse to the data again... I never once generalized nor tried to offer any data. As a person qualified in statistical analysis, I will always question any data that is unsubstantiated... that's all I did and referenced my personal experience / circles... what's with the poignant attack from you?? Perhaps it is you who have issues with cross-cultural marriages and your way of subtly getting your feelings across is to bash me for a very innocent post questioning the validity of data that someone posted... when I questioned it, MrMa suggested that I lacked common-sense. My family are members of groups that socialize together - happily married mixed couples with children... western men/chinese women, chinese men/western women, african women/chinese men, european men/south american women, and many, many more combinations... some have them have just now read the above posts and cannot believe some of the negativity associated with many of these posts - especially this latest unwarranted 'attack' by yeepee. I implore you both to please re-read the previous few posts and allow me to question unsubstantiated data - please let's just continue with good-hearted, positive debate based upon opinion and experiences without the personal attacks - this is what I've grown to love about Jianshou's blog over the years... God bless!! :p |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners I speak to many people 'on the streets' everyday (maybe I move in different circles to you) - perceptions of biased individuals vs reality - it's difficult to convince people otherwise - commonsense?? - I suggest you use yours in this discussion. Show me data and not opinion - I want to know where this data came from - valid question to ask I think!! Fear not - wisdom will come with age and experience. In the meantime, feel free to have your opinion, just don't try and subsantiate it with substandard or invalid data. |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @mrMa - do you mind me asking the source of your statistics?? Or are you just making some numbers up for fun to suit your opinion? |
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I Love Koala! Koalas are very cute too look at. But it should be noted that Koalas in captivity are much different to those in the wild. In the wild, they can be very, very agressive, especially around mating time (and the sounds they make can be very scary). Their claws are very dangerous. Also, they can move very fast when they want to. I used to live on 10-acres in Qld surrounded by National Park, and Koalas in our back yard were a very common experience (same with kangaroos). The best thing that humans can do for these beautiful marsupials is too leave them alone. My wife loved seeing Koalas in the wild in Victoria. |
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Being on TV is Nothing @Jian Shuo... what?? No papparazzi trying to take pictures with telephoto lenses through your bathroom windows?? :D |
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Welcome ICS Readers I wish we had ICS here in Singapore - so interested in Jian Shuo's appearance on TV!! Maybe we need to ask for autographs now - you are more famous than ever before!! What were the lady's discussion points that Jerry is talking about? Did you manage to keep control of the interview? |
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I am a RUBIK Cube (Magic Cube) Solver When I was in high school (around 1980) my best time was 26 seconds... it's actually quite simple, once you know the 'secret formulae'... the trick is memorizing the formulae and then more speed only comes from hours of practice... In my old age this skill has gone completely - I cannot remember any of the formulae required. :( As most people my age from Australia, the 1980s have become a bit of a 'blur' - too much excess and partying - and memory was the first thing to go!! |
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Some Interesting Random News Jianshuo.tv - cool concept... :) Look forward to wireless rollout Shanghai-wide... this has always been a big problem for me (not having wireless access as I move about the city)... 2010 - only a couple of years away!! |
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"The Right to Refuse Service to Anyone" @Erika - I am not agreeing or disagreeing with the 'one child' policy with the following post, however you need to research and investigate a little more before making generalized blanket statements about how the policy is enforced. The actions you have described are not the norm. In short, any abuse of human rights is abhorrent, but unfortunately it occurs in most countries to some degree around the world - I'm not sure of your heritage, but "let those without sin cast the first stone" - how's your backyard? As per the Steven Spielberg's (ridiculous and mis-informed) reasons for 'boycotting' the games, to try and link the great Olympic Games to a political agenda should not and is not tolerated by the majority of governments and world-leaders - you should find another soap-box rather than waste your time flogging a dead horse... Take care - I truly mean no offense - to reiterate, I just think your generalizations are a little too tough (and as generalizations, incorrect) on mainstream China and it's predominately loving and caring people. Also, even if your statements were legitimate, it is very wrong to try and use the Games as your political platform. |
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Yifan and Me are Exactly the Same Hehe - the resemblance is uncanny!!! @Jian Shuo - FYI, I had trouble getting the IP assigned to me across the China GFW... so anyway in the short term, I've registered another (free) domain that IS accessible in China (Beijing and Shanghai)... checkout Jaime's home page (flash site) at http://jaimezheng.co.nr/ The flash page takes a few moments to load, but once it's up and running everything works at ok speed... let me know what you think!! |
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CZ3456 Black Box Audio Revealed OMG - so scary (and sad)... as a very frequent flyer, things like this make my skin crawl... :( |
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Advice Needed on Rental for Foreigners @jian shuo - *sigh* - I'm a real novice at this - been trying to change my IP address... but in reality I don't think I have any idea what I'm doing... :( |
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Advice Needed on Rental for Foreigners @jian shuo... I was wondering if I could urgently seek your expertise and advice on a seemingly 'technical' issue that I think might relate to the China 'great firewall'. I have created a website on google pages for my son jaime. The 'raw' url works fine and is accessible (on google pages) in all countries around the world (inc. China)... However, my problem is that I purchased and registered a domain name that 'pulls' the page/s from the googlepages url address. The domain is working everywhere around the world (so far we've got friends to verify in our home country Singapore, Malaysia, Australia and the US). However the domain does not seem accessible from China (we've had a few different people in different parts of China attempt to access it for us, but the site will not load). Like I said, if internet users in China type the full 'raw' url using the google pages extension, it works fine for them and they can access, but they cannot access the same pages with our own domain name. Is this a problem with the GFW? Do we need to do some sort of registration or verification process with the 'China Internet Network Information Center'? This is really important to us, because we want our family and friends to be able to view Jaime's growing up and experiences on the internet by using our personal domain. Thanks mate - look forward to your advice - I'm gettiing very frustrated with this... Pete :) |
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Advice Needed on Rental for Foreigners @jian shuo... I was wondering if I could urgently seek your expertise and advice on a seemingly 'technical' issue that I think might relate to the China 'great firewall'. I have created a website on google pages for my son jaime. The 'raw' url works fine and is accessible in all countries around the world (inc. China)... the address is: http://www.jaimezheng.com-a.googlepages.com However, my problem is that I purchased and registered a domain name that 'pulls' the page/s from the googlepages url address above. The domain is working everywhere around the world (so far we've got friends to verify in our home country Singapore, Malaysia, Australia and the US). However the domain does not seem accessible from China (we've had a few different people in different parts of China attempt to access it for us, but the site will not load). Our domain / url is: http://www.jaimezheng.com Like I said, if internet users in China type the full 'raw' url http://www.jaimezheng.com-a.googlepages.com it works fine for them and they can access, but they cannot access the same pages with our own domain name. Is this a problem with the GFW? Do we need to do some sort of registration or verification process with the 'China Internet Network Information Center'? This is really important to us, because we want our family and friends to be able to view Jaime's growing up and experiences on the internet by using our personal domain. Thanks mate - look forward to your advice - I'm gettiing very frustrated with this... Pete :) |
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China Eastern Airlines Hi @Jian Shuo - I had not noticed this blog entry before... I have only travelled twice on China Eastern, and both times had very, very bad experiences... long queues at the Beijing airport flying back to Shanghai, but worse still, flights were delayed (one for almost 6 hours) - I missed a very important business meeting. I have vowed never to fly CE again... when flying domestically in China (I only shuttle between Shanghai and Beijing) now I always opt for Air China. |
| 111 |
Yifan Eats Orange @Jian Shuo - wow - he must eat as much as our baby does... :p Please find a link to some of the pics from a photo shoot that Jaime had while we've been up here in Shanghai for CNY... this is a link to the pics on my FB... he's now just over five and a half months... how time flies!! http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=18751&l=79b02&id=626433457 |
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Readers Wanted for TV Interview @Jian Shuo - I would love to have participated, but although I'm back in Shanghai today, I fly to Malaysia tomorrow morning to speak at a conference and won't be back to Shanghai until 10:30pm Friday night - very disappointed that I cannot participate!!! |
| 109 |
Cold Winter Comes Maybe it shrunk coz of the cold weather.... |
| 108 |
What is Knock Knock? @wangzi - is this your attempt at humour? |
| 107 |
What is Knock Knock? @wonton... ahh - only disagree with you on one point - even 'old' people like me can still get a real laugh out of 'knock knock' jokes... the more stupid and nonsensical the funnier!! - Maybe it's a culture thing? Or maybe just shows my level of immaturity... :p |
| 106 |
GPRS Package from China Mobile Hi - When I roam anywhere in the region, I can access and synch my work email (outlook) through my smartphone - since I've been in Shanghai the last few weeks, I have not been able to do this... very frustrating!! Is this because there is no 3G network available?? Does anyone else use a Motorola Q9h or Blackberry to access and synch outlook work email in China?? I'll spend the next couple of days in Beijing - maybe 3G is available there?? |
| 105 |
What is Knock Knock? @Mark - I remember the 'boo who' one as: A: Knock knock B: Who's there? A: Boo B: Boo who? A: Oh... no need to cry!!! |
| 104 |
What is Knock Knock? Hehe... we grew up with 'knock knock'... the original version of the 'orange' one is: A: Knock knock B: Who's there? A: Orange B: Orange who? A: Orange u glad I didn't say banana! But I personally love this one: A: Knock knock B: Who's there? A: Interrupting dog B: Interrupting dog w....? A: Whoof whoof!!!! (Sounds funny when the other person is just in the middle of saying "Interrupting dog who" - so the dog interrupts) :p |
| 103 |
Overseas Chinese Get Back to Home @jonathon villicana - wanna see something even more gay?? Look in the mirror, Jerk!! Hmm - and I'm sure you've seen a lot of shit in your time. Oh, and perhaps you want to go back to school to learn how to write in english... Fool!! |
| 102 |
Snowing in SJTU (with Kijiji Logo) I really hope that our SIA flight can land at Pudong on Saturday... the forecast is looking pretty bad for Friday (just the day before), and I believe they expect huge delays and cancellations again at Pudong on Friday... :( |
| 101 |
Traveler Tide in Spring Festival @Jian Shuo - all our blessings for the New Year... my wife, baby and I will arrive in Shanghai this Saturday - it is a very important time for our families. We will stay for almost the full month of February (I will work in the 3rd week, alternating between Shanghai and Beijing). |
| 100 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @wonton... I'm with u on this one... speechless - for my benefit, what is MCP? |
| 99 |
Fight Between Foreigners and Local @aetherunknown - I have been accused on many occasions of stealing jobs from local Singaporeans because I live and work here (which is ridiculous)... this goes on no matter which country you're in. @DC - I do not need a visa to enter China, because I travel using APEC card (Asia Pacific Economic Co-Operation), of which both China and Australia (along with 17 other economies) participate. This gives me a sort of diplomatic status, and I'm pre-cleared to enter any of these economies for the next 3-years. Chinese nationals that travel regularly for business can also apply for this 'pre-cleared' status for the participating economies - most civilized countries in our small world are getting closer and adopting strategies for improved trade. |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @DB - in the case of Australia and China it's simple. Just because the marriage is registered in China only makes no difference, it is still recognized as a valid and legal marriage under Australian law... proceedings can be undertaken in either country. |
| 97 |
Where to Buy Digital Cameras and Phones @Mr Jerry Smith... the iPhone will work with any network (carrier)?? How can this be? And what of the recent breakdown of negotiations between Apple and China Mobile? If it can be used with any network, why the big 'broohahaha' about this, and Apple's announcement that they will not be launching anytime soon in China as a result? Pardon my ignorance - I'm just confused now... |
| 96 |
Car Towing at Owner's Expense? @The Cyndicate - hmmm... interesting viewpoint. I'm a little lost though - wouldn't the easiest solution be to just not break the law? If we are talking private property, what "rights" (as you put it) do you have to use my property without asking me, by parking your car there?? Frankly, I don't have much sympathy for people who get their car towed for parking illegally or without permission - especially if there are signs warning them - don't want your car towed, don't park there. Period!! And to say you would shoot someone for towing your car after you do park illegally - hmmm - I hope you will enjoy your prison life. :D Your statements actually don't make any sense at all. |
| 95 |
Top 3 Issues of Shanghai Tourism @Simba - firstly, you are insulting the ladies in China... sex for a handbag? - you idiot. Secondly, "they are bad to speaking english"... most people I know in Shanghai speak much better English than what you have posted here... I doubt these ladies would want to spend time with someone so shallow as you and who has such poor english language skills. If your reason for going to Shanghai is to have sex for money or a handbag, then my recommendation to you is - STAY AT HOME!!! |
| 94 |
Happy New Year 2008 What the hell is that?? He's from the Cayman Islands? They must use some heavy drugs there.... |
| 93 |
Happy New Year 2008 Happy New Year Jian Shuo and blessings to your family... and @wonton - blessings to the 2007 "king of controversy" and your wife. I look forward to this year's CNY celebrations when we are in Shanghai. |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners My wife says that 崇洋媚外 has negative connotations. |
| 91 |
Getting U.S. Visa in China Hi Timothy - I'm not sure where you get your information from. I am based in SG and am responsible for dealing with government officials from many countries around the world on a daily basis. There are very stringent policies and rules now, that failure to adhere will lead to imprisonment for a very long time - many officials and company directors are sitting in prison as a consequence of the legislation. There are a list of countries that are considered 'high risk' and the USA is certainly not one of them. Any favours or kickbacks from govt officials in any country is regarded as breaking the law under US legislation, and it is no good anymore for one to say it is just a 'business custom' - certainly not when dealing with any multi-national organization. Remember, China are now playing in the global economic community, and will be the economic super-power in the future. Corruption cannot and must not be tolerated... and I am not American, but you should not be so intolerant or single-minded - "useless way of life"?? Very harsh words indeed. We are a global community. |
| 90 |
Chinese Middle Name for Erik's Baby @wonton - well written, I fully support your sentiments. |
| 89 |
Chinese Middle Name for Erik's Baby Wow - thanks wonton - these particular parents need to be 'drawn and quartered'... the poor kid!! No child should be treated in such a way. There should be some sort of severe punishment for this!! I really hope that the 'successful' international adoptions far outway these sort of cases - I've not seen any statistics to make a judgement call on that though. |
| 88 |
Hope for Microsoft Web Effort They also have a very nice Windows Live Mobile application that I use on my Motorola Q9H smart phone... now as well as staying connected to work email (outlook via airsynch), the net and normal phone services (voice, sms, mms, etc), I can also use windows live email, msn, and all other live components... very neat and simple to use - mind you, this new smart phone is an amazing piece of work. All the bugs have gone, and they've really got a winner with this one - much better than blackberry - now I'm completely connected around the globe anywhere I travel... (MOT have also now invested in a smart phone application for Facebook... I can't wait until that one's available too)... :p |
| 87 |
Went to Shanghai Community Church @wonton - I couldn't imagine you being pissed off?? :D |
| 86 |
Chinese Middle Name for Erik's Baby Hehe - @wonton - "the king of controversy"... :p |
| 85 |
Yifan Starts to Sleep Alone Hi Jian Shuo - as promised, here are some of the latest pics of our little baby boy.... http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=11699&l=99908&id=626433457 http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=12212&l=eecf0&id=626433457 Kind regards, |
| 84 |
Yifan Starts to Sleep Alone Hi Jian Shuo - I think this will be more difficult for his parents than for Yifan... :D FYI - Jaime is turning 3-months old tomorrow. He is now sleeping through the night. He falls asleep at about 11pm each night, and wakes again at about 7:30am... he has now developed his 'social' smile, and it makes my heart just melt eveytime he looks at me and smiles with obvious complete unconditional love... Jaime has been sleeping in hiw own cot now for about 3 weeks, but his cot is in our room right next to our bed. Isn't fatherhood the best !!! I'm scared about how quickly the time is passing by... |
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Chinese Middle Name for Erik's Baby @wonton - I am very impressed with your explanation... I clearly understand your position now - I hope that you are blessed with your first child very soon. Kindest regards, |
| 82 |
Chinese Middle Name for Erik's Baby @wonton - mate, you've done it again... I don't crtiticise your right to your opinion, but I do feel disappointed that it's one based on an ignorant and very small view of the world. The subject of adoption is one thing, and it's not really up to anyone to second guess why a couple would want to adopt locally or internationally (especially if you and your wife personally have no problems conceiving - you cannot even begin to imagine what it's like psychologically for couples who don't have this luxury)... I believe it is a reflection of the global 'sensationlized' media that people pick up on the (very rare) incidences of celebrities adopting overseas children - maybe their intentions are not appropriate (or even understood), but regardless these high-profile cases are a very small percentage of the adoption discussion at hand. However, much, much more disturbing to me are the inferences and statement that you have made around identity issues... as you are well aware, our son is mixed chinese and australian. Out of respect of both cultures, and to make it easier for him in both countries, we have given him a 'hybrid' name (chop-suey is a little insulting)... Jaime 郑家洋 (and our surname)... I have no doubt that my son will grow with a much broader understanding of his heritage/s, with a greater degree of tolerance, and more knowledgable than most people in relation to global issues - multiculturalism, trade, etc... I have no doubt that he will be well-spoken, with fluency in a minimum of four languages, most learned before he even attends school. My son will have the material requirements to succeed in the global world of tomorrow, as well as the psychological balance to rival anyone from a single-heritage background. Identity will not be a problem, as we as parents, will ensure that his environment is robust and well-balanced... I might add that I know many other 'mixed' children who are much more balanced and aware of their identities than most others... Anyway, this is not to 'slam' you, but to ask you to please show tolerance and recognize other's differences for what they are. We do not live in the "world according to wonton"... everyone has a right to air the opinions, but it should be done with a degree of integrity and respect for those who may disagree :p |
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City Life v.s. Village Life @Adi Chew... I am very impressed with your insights. I also live in Singapore, and spent much time living in Shanghai, where my wife is from. Welcome to Jian Shuo's blog, however I would like to disagree on your last comment. I am yet to see (in any part of history) a dictatorship successfully support the rights of the people in any country. Democracy enables freedom of speech and freedom from persecution. There is an old saying - "Power breeds Corruption" - in short, power should belong to the people, not to any indvidual. Take care mate... :D |
| 80 |
Top 3 Issues of Shanghai Tourism @jollyrogers - get yourself an education, fool... |
| 79 |
Yifan has His Hair Cut Hi Jian Shuo - as promised, please find a link to the latest pics of Jaime Zheng Jiayang, taken on Saturday - two months old already... wow - we took him for his first haircut (to get it shaved)... :p http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=10649&l=55484&id=626433457 |
| 78 |
Seat-Belt? Oh. No. Thanks! @DC - I was on a flight a couple of years ago, and the plane hit turbulence... People not wearing belts were thrown from their seats... I watched one air hostess hit the roof and break her nose. Seatbelts should always be worn on a plane (even when the seatbelt signs are off), and only take it off to use the bathroom... the incident converted me - now I always stay buckled up - and I travel on at least 4 to 6 flights every week... :p |
| 77 |
Happy Birthday to Me With all of our blessings and best wishes, Jian Shuo... :D |
| 76 |
Going Back to China? @Ni De Lao Wai - wow... maybe you should just go home? ...and you should call yourself by your nationality rather than 'laowai'. :p |
| 75 |
Yifan's Recent Photos Hehe - so very cute - no wonder you are proud!!... we've just hit 7-weeks, and Jaime looks so different now!! Every day is a blessing. :p - |
| 74 |
In Beijing - Love Beijing Hi Jian Shuo - the Shangri-La at Kerry Center?... always where I stay when in Beijing - very nice indeed!! |
| 73 |
Burma and my Ignorance @Ling... hehe - yeh - I didn't know that you were the spelling police!! I was half asleep when I was writing... :p |
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Burma and my Ignorance Hi @fujianren - thanks kindly... I've actually seen this article. I think I've made it clear in my posts that the Singapore government (along with other countries), have some real tough decisions to make. In this post, I am not defending the SGP govt's position, nor am I criticising them. I would however like to point out some major deficiencies in this article. Firstly, it is well know that Eric Ellis from the Sydney Morning Herald has been a very vocal 'Singapore critic' in the past on many issues... I don't want to say he's a 'Singapore-hater' as this may be a little harsh. Secondly, the links between Temasek Holdings and the Lee family in Singapore is real, however for Mr Ellis to interpret this as 'control' by the Lee family is a huge jump... there has been much press (good and bad) on the involvement over recent months, and to make such a short and poignant statement is rather short-sighted (without bringing to the fore all the facts that go into the Lee-Temasek relationship)... there are too many issues to try and explain the real position in this post (maybe Jian Shuo needs a new topic just for this). It is important to note that as a direct result of investment of Temaskek Holdings, Singapore people have a much better lifestyle today, with a very strong economy, and SGP is no longer considered a '3rd-world' country. My 'opinion' is that Singapore's position on Myanmar is not all about Temasek getting richer - actually, such a statement is just downright misinformed. Thirdly, per my previous post, Singapore is a very large investor in Myanmar (2nd largest), and as I suggested history has shown that outright sanctions would cause more hurt on the poorer people in the country, and would not necessarily assist in dissuading the miltary junta from oppressing the people or the violence against the innocent. Finally, the doctors in Singapore who have been treating Than Shwe, have made it clear that under the hypocratic oath, they could not and would not deny treatment to any human being no matter who or where they come from... I question what Eric Ellis is writing, as I cannot see anywhere in the article what his recommendations or suggestions are to the Singapore government... does he wish them to impose sanctions?? (like I said in previous posts, it would need to be done against certain investments and individuals); Is it to incite military action??; Does he wish for Singapore to invade Myanmar? Does he wish for the hospitals and doctors to deny treatment to a 74-yo man suffering from intestinal cancer?? I cannot see how this would help the people in Myanmar - is it not just creating more inhumanity??? Maybe I missed something in the article - can you see any positive from it that will help the people of Myanmar? Look forward to any incites that you can give me surrounding Mr Ellis' article... Furthermore, per my question to @Jie - why call 'Singapore' sneaky and greedy? To do so makes inferences about the people of the country and not just the government... a country is not just the people in power, rather the people who live and work (and extended families) and are proud of their country... to make a remark such as this about their country is insulting to the Singaporean people... Take care... oh - and as @wonton always rightly says - don't always believe everything you read - especially from people with personal bias such as Eric Ellis from the Sydney Morning Herald... |
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Burma and my Ignorance @Jie - why do make inflammatory comments by calling Singapore 'sneaky and greedy'? Did we do something to you personally? |
| 70 |
Burma and my Ignorance @wonton - you did it again - you always make me laugh with your so apt analogies... :p |
| 69 |
Burma and my Ignorance Hi Jian Shuo - after following the events in very close detail, I am of the opinion that the issue in China (regarding their position on Myanmar) is similar to that here in Singapore, albeit much broader. It's all about trade and investment. Singapore is the second largest investor in Myanmar (with S$1.57B, mainly in the services sector). No need to state which country is the largest investor. I really want to be careful what I say, so I don't get your blog site in trouble... but I think a few facts should be ok? Feel free to delete this post if you are concerned, Jian Shuo... China is now a major supplier of consumer and capital goods to Myanmar (mostly through border trade). China also provides a large amount of economic cooperation in the areas of infrastructure, energy and state-owned economic enterprises. Governments (Singapore and China - and also India) are averse to sanctions, as history has shown that the poor would suffer mostly, while engagement without strings merely enriches the wrong-doers. What people can do, is petition the governments for 'smart' sanctions to be imposed against the junta, targeting certain assets and individuals. I am of the opinion, that the last thing China wants, is for their own people to go out to the streets in protest or lobbying efforts against the Chinese government to take action (economically) against the Myanmar military government. Now for something else very controversial regarding Myanmar and China, which you may not want to keep posted here... I quote from "The Irrawaddy" by author Khun Sam: "Welcome to the Macao of northern Burma: Maija Yang, once a backward Kachin State border village but now a bustling boom town with more than a dozen casinos catering to Chinese gamblers sidelined by restrictions in their own country. The frontier-style administration of Maija Yang, 160km north of the Kachin capital Myitkyina, is effectively in the hands of the Kachin Independence Organization, which is said to earn around 8.5 million yuan (more than US $1 million) annually from the Chinese-run casinos. Prostitution, drugs and alcohol probably net the town even more money. The first of the casinos was built four years ago under a KIO development program originally intended to provide local people, traditionally reliant on the opium trade, with an alternative source of income. The high-minded plan went awry, however—the casinos employ mostly Chinese staff, and the drugs problem is only getting worse..." Sorry if this post creates problems - like I said, delete if necessary - I believe strongly in freedom of information, and restrictions of the media do nothing to help the suffering of the people of Burma... at least we can all join in prayer for them... |
| 68 |
Some Thoughts about War and History @wonton - hehe... I love that analogy... |
| 67 |
Some Thoughts about War and History Hehe - who posted this last one?.... @Ling? I think must be wonton... hope you're well mate. On this one, I think @Ling is right on the mark... it's not a case of 'bad press'... I've been travelling everywhere, and the international media has the same reports and footage of the atrocious acts in all countries I've been recently... I hope the leaders of the junta go through the same sort of torture that they are putting there own countrymen through... it's unbelievable the things they are doing - and getting away with it while the whole world watches on!! Having said that - I do however, completely understand your position and comments... :) |
| 66 |
Some Thoughts about War and History Just my thoughts on this - I don't think any comparisons can be drawn between Tibet/China and the current situation in Myanmar (nee Burma)... this is not about pro-independance, it is about what's right or wrong, just or unjust in relation to basic human rights. The current government have retained power unjustly. As far as ASEAN is concerned (of which Singapore is currently the leader), their hands are tied on this matter as far as 'real' action is concerned. This is well documented day-by-day in the newspapers here... the Myanmar protest groups and peoples' voice in support of the victims in Myanmar is growing stronger every day in Singapore. This is the hottest topic in the media right now here, and there is much information available around the actual events, ASEAN's involvement and ability to act, global action, etc etc. @wonton - hi - as far as the police in Myanmar military and police using 'restraint' - this is just incorrect. Many innocent people are getting seriously injured and killed in the most horrible ways. Shootings, stabbings, bashings, just to name a few methods... and not a few people - hundreds... and, I might add that innocent people are getting caught in the crossfire - people not even involved in the protests. The videos and pictures available across all forms of media (inc. the internet) are gut-wrenching. Now that the UN has stepped in, let's hope that some resolution to the issues is forthcoming, and in the meantime let's pray for the victims and their famlies of this horrible tragedy that the govt will cease the violence and offer basic human rights to the people of Myanmar. No one deserves this kind of treatment. Finally - it is a good thing that Myanmar has joined ASEAN - although ASEAN are powerless to do much now, overtime the group of nations will finalize the human rights agreements put forward and currently agreed upon by all but two countries, which means that next time this sort of infingement of human rights can and will be acted upon by ASEAN. Anway, they are my thoughts on this - let's pray for the victims. |
| 65 |
Mandarin or Shanghaiese? As a westerner trying to get a handle on both mandarin and Shanghai dialect at the same time - and often getting frustratingly confused (and my wife even more frustrated at me)... although I find some components of Shanghai dialect a little easier, overall it is much, much more difficult for me (being Australian, and I presume for most people who have grown up using just english)... our mouths are not physically able to cope without a huge amount of practice - that is, positioning of the tongue, teeth and lips - sounds that are never even considered in our home tongues... mainly due to consonants following one another that are just unheard of in english. I really do get 'tongue tied'... Furthermore (and this goes for mandarin as well), our ears are not naturally trained to cope with the subtle differences, especially tones... once again takes much practice... my wife says a word, I repeat it and she says 'no' and makes me repeat over and over again and it's still wrong - but to my ear it sound exactly like what she has said.... *sigh* - she gets so impatient with me... hehe... At least I'm having a little more luck learning to read and write simplified characters - even if my oral pronunciation may be way off... so if I get stuck one day speaking chinese, I can just write it down to communicate... :D To answer the topic - I believe mandarin would be much more useful, given it can be used in so many other places outside Shanghai... even outside of China (eg. Singapore)... |
| 64 |
Many Events in Shanghai @Jian Shuo - are you watching the opening ceremony of the special Olympics from Shanghai stadium? It's on live now here in Singapore, and I'm very impressed so far... must say, they picked two of my favourite celebrities as spokespeople - Karen Mok and Colin Farrell...!!! Very nice production!!! Congratulations Shanghai -congratulations China!!! |
| 63 |
Car Towing at Owner's Expense? @Jian Shuo... this practice of towing at the owner's expense is very, very common in Australia. Not only does it apply to private property, but also to public roads where cars might be parked illegally and obstructing traffic flow. What happens, is the car is towed to an 'impound' lot, and not released back to the owner until such time the towing fee is paid in full (and in the case of being towed in public places, the owner would also be liable for a fine). The fees are astronomical. Another deviation of this process is called 'wheel clamping'. If a car parks illegal on private property or car park where they do not have authority, the security have the ability to 'wheel clamp' the car - that is, put a device on one of the wheels (also known as a 'wheel brace') that makes it impossible to move the car. Then the owner needs to pay a very, very high fee before the wheel clamp will be removed and they can take their car. At least it's not taken to an impound lot, but it's still a very expensive exercise for the owner (driver) of the vehicle. |
| 62 |
National Holiday 2007 in Shanghai I might have mentioned this before...we were married at Jin Mao Tower... Grand Hyatt Hotel... |
| 61 |
Some Thoughts about War and History @ILH... hehe - sigh, now we're getting into a theological debate. You only got it half right... yes, as christians we have to admit to our Lord God that we have sinned and ask for forgiveness - this is very true... the other half is that we must forgive those that have sinned against us unconditionally - we ask God for forgiveness only. In light of this discussion, the Japanese people are not a Christian god, and therefore do not need to ask for our forgiveness in order for us to do so... let me explain this further so you can understand. The basis of all christian religions, is "The Lord's Prayer" and what I've stated above is clear in the words (praying to God) "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who tresspass against us" (in laymen's terms - forgive us for our sins, as we forgive those that sin against us)... this is fundamental christianity, and no matter what light you might put on it, you cannot change such a fundamental belief - to do so, would be considered blasphemous. Therefore, before my Grandfather passed, he asked for God to forgive him, and he forgave all and any people that wronged him throughout his life - as a result I hope that he has now entered the kingdom of heaven. :) I hope now you understand why I have no 'bad blood' or even wanted to get into dicsussion on this topic (per my original entry above) - I hope you can respect my position, as I respect yours - it's not up to me to tell you that you are wrong, or for you to tell me I am wrong - as I also previously mentioned - we have different cultures and beliefs, let's just leave it at that, hey?? Take care... |
| 60 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Hey wonton... on this we totally agree... have a good weekend!! I'm gonna spend it watching football gradfinals from Australia... (we have a wedding to attend tomorrow morning, so I'm wondering the best way to escape early for the football without my wife getting angry at me).... :D |
| 59 |
Some Thoughts about War and History Hi all... I actually know a little about this (believe it or not - on many other subjects I'm quite ignorant - hehe) - the 'build-up' of China's military is exaggerated in many countries - especially the US who claim that China is spending much more than they really are. The increase in spending this year is just 17.8% over last year. This was reported on March 15th at the Fifth Session of the 10th National People's Congress. It was announced that the country's military budget for 2007 is 350.92 billion yuan, or roughly US$44.94 billion. This marks an increase over the previous year of US$6.8 billion. The US DoD claim that the figure in China in 2007 is really US$90 billion (which most conservative people believe is exaggerated). It should be noted that the US expenditure this year is budgeted at US$419.3 billion!!!!!!... In terms of % of GDP (on official budgets), China is still somewhere in the vicinity of 2%, the US around 4%. So which military power should we be more concerned about?? |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners @wonton - hehe - I won't be suckered in on this again - peace has already been made. One point to make about the topic - "I was asked (more than once) about my point of view of Shanghainese girls marrying foreigners"... You take this to be "all about unfaithful horny men" - I take it to be about true love discovered and everlasting hapiness. You and I have differed on the way we think before, so no point belabouring the point... I am a very positive thinker, and by your own admission in other posts you loften look to the negatives. We're different - no problems. I would like to offer you though (in all sincerity, and with absoutely no antognism) the following. I give lectures all over the globe to directors and CEOs of many various MNCs and Fortune 500 companies on the power of positive thinking. Positive thinking has been proven to not just help create personal & professional wealth and success (for which it is very powerful), but it can also lead to greater personal happiness and enlightenment, improve the health and increase longevity - I would be more than happy to share some of my materials with you (for free!!) - I think you would be amazed at how your life, wealth, status and happiness could be changed dramatically, just by utilizing some of the basic tools used by the majority of the world's most successful businessmen and leaders. Let me know - seriously mate - you could use it to help drive the improvements and changes that cannot be made with words penned in a blog entry... |
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Some Thoughts about War and History @wonton - hi - cultures and religions differ - in Christianity, heaven awaits those who have the ability to forgive. :) History and tradition is held closer to the hearts in some cultures compared others. I have many Japanese friends who I care for very much - and so did my Grandpa before he passed away. |
| 56 |
I Love Shanghai! @路人甲 - u obviously have nothing wise to say, so please - just keep it to yourself!! |
| 55 |
Some Thoughts about War and History @ILH - I don't wish to bring up this issue with my Japanese friends or colleagues. My grandfather was a POW and worked on the railroad and survived, so I have heard his account first hand before he passed away. Granted, atrocities occurred, but I owe my people nothing... my grandfather forgave before he died - forgiveness is an integral part of christian faith, and grandpa was a devout christian, so why should I pursue 'bad blood'? |
| 54 |
Yifan is 3 Months Old Jaime Zheng Jiayang Breitkreutz (郑家洋) is 1-month old today... :D - time travels so quickly... |
| 53 |
Some Thoughts about War and History Hi all... I'm going to keep nice and quiet on this topic - but very interested in everyone's posts - great topic, Jian Shuo... I'll just quote an old saying - "Make love, not War!!" |
| 52 |
Foreign Language Only Signs? I hadn't really thought about this much before... interesting topic though. For everyone's information, there are parts of Melbourne in Australia with very large Chinese communities, and many of the shops and restaurants in these locales only have Chinese signs and no English. This goes for many other Eurpoean nationalities and locales in Melbourne as well. I've never had a problem with it. Like I said, I'd never really thought about it before, because it's been this way for so many years.... |
| 50 |
Fight Between Foreigners and Local @wonton - hi - one more point... you are quite correct in that many 'western' countries did and still do percieve Saddam Hussein as a 'monster'. However it was the Iraqi people who tried, convicted and executed Saddam for crimes against humanity, so I'm not sure if singling out westerners' perceptions is necessary in this case. |
| 49 |
Fight Between Foreigners and Local To put the FACTS in perspective - Saddam didn't just kill Kurds... he is responsible for atrocities to civilians (including many, many innocent women and children - must have really scrared the Turkish people) and 'mass' graves are still being discovered... Death Statistics attributed to Saddam in Iraq: Iraq, Saddam Hussein (1979-2003): 300,000 Human Rights Watch: "twenty-five years of Ba`th Party rule ... murdered or 'disappeared' some quarter of a million Iraqis" [http://www.hrw.org/wr2k4/3.htm] 8/9 Dec. 2003 AP: Total murders New survey estimates 61,000 residents of Baghdad executed by Saddam. US Government estimates a total of 300,000 murders 180,000 Kurds k. in Anfal 60,000 Shiites in 1991 50,000 misc. others executed "Human rights officials" est.: 500,000 Iraqi politicians: over a million ...and just for the record, the book we've been dicussing was written by Jung Chang and Jon Halliday - Jung Chang spent ten years researching the material and speaking with first-hand witnesses, including (but not limited to) family members, party members and army leaders - also referenced many writings, letters and even poetry written by the chairman... |
| 48 |
Fight Between Foreigners and Local Hi Jian Shuo - I thought you might be familiar with this book - what would be the penalty for someone bringing this into China? Or would it just be confiscated? |
| 47 |
Fight Between Foreigners and Local I read a very interesting book just lately - it was titled "Mao Tse Tung - The Untold Story" and was written after much research and many interviews with Chinese people and Mao's peers and party members throughout his reign and build-up to his leadership and actions (spanning his life from his birth to his death), and visiting the many sites around China (and other countries). I will not go into all the details of the text here, but I'm sure it would not be allowed in China today. |
| 46 |
Different Views of the Same Thing @Herbert - hi, just to finish this discussion off, and since you also use the internet for verification of facts, please find this very interesting report, which unless I can see evidence refuting the many sources, I just cannot disbelieve that there were no links between Saddam and Al Qaeda... I am a very open-minded person, and am always inetersted in world events - I do not hold any bias one way or the other on this. @Jian Shuo & @Rishi - I hope the GFW let's you get to this article, because it certiainly offers much strong (and perhaps even conclusive) evidence from other sources than just the USA in regards to the this topic raised by @Herbert... like I said - I am opened minded on this issue and would be interested in evidence refuting the claims... http://www.weeklystandard.com/Content/Public/Articles/000/000/003/378fmxyz.asp Kind regards, |
| 45 |
Different Views of the Same Thing @Rishi - I commented on the link between Saddam and Al Queda posted by Herbert. I didn't say anything about weapons of mass destruction - this is a different issue. I'm not sure why you have asked me this question?? Maybe ask someone from the USA your question if you're that interested. |
| 44 |
Happy Moon Cake Festival Happy mid-Autumn festival!!! I am officially full to the brim with my mum and dad-in law's home made shanghainese food, moon cake and tiger beer... OMG - I can't move!!! |
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One Year to Beijing Olympics @Wonton - I totally agree with your comments, and it is 'free thinking' that has made Australia the place it is today. I think the issue with PH was not so much her concerns for the welfare of Australia as a country (I am sure her 'heart' was in the right place), but the way in which she went (and still goes) about it. I believe that her ignorance and lack of education/understanding of the current immigration laws were the biggest reason behind this. At the time of her maiden speech in parliament, she did attract the support of quite a large number of people in Qld, because they understood what she was trying to achieve, but did not really understand what her policies were, and the implications of them. This is why the support dropped dramatically over the next couple of years. Her viewpoints were unanimously (except for one person) abhorred by the Australian govt - state and federal. The main issue with her policies (and this is what was not shown on international TV), was the activities in the street... racial name-calling, telling people who look different to 'go home' - even when they were born in Australia, physical violence based on people's race/beliefs, and many other negative activities. Australia has come a long way to becoming 'One Nation' through multiculturalism, and PH's policies were a direct reversal of the then, and current mainstream Australian views. Racism is frowned upon and not tolerated in Australia, and the hatred (on the streets) inspired by PH's policies at the time, were quickly seen to be hurtful to the people - regardless of race. One of her latest policies for the upcoming election is to deny immigration to all muslims and all 'black' Africans, so as to (try and) remove the threat of terrorism and aids in Australia... once again, we all want to remove these terrible problems from our society (and I'm sure her heart is in the right place), but by singling out a race of people or a religion, she is inviting more hatred and divide, and potentially more violence and hurtful activities. I hope this helps clarifies my thoughts on this... :) @Jain Shou, I will write another entry when I have time around the legalities of starting a party in Australia - I might add that PH's legal conviction was overturned and the courts decided after many years that the party was in fact legally formed, rather the activities to form it were not within legal boundaries - it has to do with number of members required and funding offered as a result of the party membership... from memory, it was regarded as fraudulent activity involving about A$500K... I will research and refresh my memory and offer another post on this subject... DISCLAIMER - I'm sure there are some members of Australian society - PH supporters - who may disagree in one way or another with some or all of my comments above... Take care all.... :) |
| 42 |
Is 10,000RMB/Month a Ridiculous Offer? @Ling, I like to think that although I am in Singapore, I have earned my current position through dedication and hardwork. The background is, that I was approached by a head-hunting company while I was working for another multi-national company based out of Melbourne (spending my time split between Australia and Shanghai). I had been working with them for 17-years. The position I was approached for was a global one, and was to also be based out of Melbourne. Part way through the negotiations, the decision was made to base the role out of Singapore, due to the large amount of travel required throughout the region. I was then asked if I was still interested and advised them that I would really need to be 'incentivised' to pick up my whole life and move overseas. I did not hear anything back for many months, and have later discovered this was due to the company trying to source the role locally with Singapore talent. Due to my experience and knowledge (I would hope), they reapproached me and made me an offer that was too good to refuse. So in short, I don't see my current role and location as displacing Singaporeans, rather I see at as reaping the benefits from years of dedication and hard-work and a skillset that my company would have trouble matching anywhere else on the globe. Hope this clarifies things Ling - and I really enjoy living and working here. On the subject of local displacement and foreign talent (and forgive me if I've got this wrong, as I am certainly no expert on this subject), I have very good friends who are very active in Grassroots here in Singapore. I am led to believe that two major issues facing Singapore over the next decade will be the 'ageing' of the population here, as well as negative population growth - I also understand that both of these issues are of major concern in the long-term success of the nation and it's economy. I have been told that this is why the govt is encouraging young people to marry and have children, as well as a concerted drive to attract foreign talent to 'fill the gap' and become PRs and/or citizens. They have even pegged a target to make sure they hit the numbers. Have I understood this govt initiative correctly? Thanks Ling... take care :) |
| 41 |
Is 10,000RMB/Month a Ridiculous Offer? Hi Tracy - well put... however I probably wouldn't have considered my overseas assignment if the salary wasn't better than my local salary back home... I do however get paid out of Singapore payroll (not expat) so am not afforded the luxuries associated with such (accommodation, etc).... BUT the big incentive is that not only has my salary increased dramatically, I pay almost half as much tax as I did back home by removing myself from being an australian tax resident (this is an absolutely huge advantage), and the cost of living here is much less... this means more opportunity for savings and investments... by Australian standards, I'm in the 'high' income group, by Singapore standards, my salary would probably be regarded almost as obsene... I guess it's all relative... also by not being expat I can get my Singapore PR and invest in property here... :) |
| 40 |
What's Wrong with China? Hehe - they won't let me smoke here in Singapore while waiting for a bus now... (but it's been like that in Australia for some time, so not complaining)... makes my wife happier!! |
| 39 |
One Year to Beijing Olympics Thanks Fujianren - oh - and for everyone's info, it seems that PH wants to make a comeback in the next Australian federal election... (unbelievable - even though I'm not physically there, I still legally need to vote)... below is a blog article from an Australian online newspaper that everyone might find interesting - it invites people to comment, and you will see that although 'mainstream' aussies are against her and her policies, there are some people (unbelievable) that still support her wierd racist ways... I think in light of the posts I've made here, one important quote from this article is: "I suspect she'll splutter into deeper irrelevance, although Hanson's uglier remarks often get wide airplay in Asia where, wrongly, she tends to be portrayed as something close to mainstream"... http://blogs.theaustralian.news.com.au/mattprice/index.php/theaustralian/comments/who_needs_pauline_hanson/ :) |
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Don't Leave, AussiePB Oh and Jian Shuo - just to clarify - I've been following your blogs and commenting since April this year :) |
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One Year to Beijing Olympics Hi there Fujianren, Yes she did make headlines all around the world. Although her very racist and elitest one-eyed views on immigration and aboriginal rights were supported by a minority in Australia (unfortunately, there are these sort of people everywhere in all countries), because she started up her own political party (illegally - later she spent some time in jail for this), it was portrayed across the global media as a very large issue, and the perception was that she was leading a 'very large' anti-immigration movement in Australia. This could not be farther from the truth - Australians generally are embarrassed by the global attention this got, and PH was regarded as somewhat of a joke here locally - local TV stations were vying to get an interview with her to further embarrass her publically - her education is nil, and her previous job before trying her hand at politics was cooking fried fish and chips at a local shop. The concern by mainstream Australia was that she would be afforded and enjoy global attention, and this did occur. I cannot say how many times people overseas have asked me about her - we have so many more important things that we can show to our overseas friends. We are proud of our immigration policy and multicultural society. PH was nothing and her One Nation party had next to no following, yet everyone around the world knows who she is and associates this with Australians as being racist... so embarrassiing!! Hope this answers your question - take care... :D |
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Don't Leave, AussiePB @wonton - thankyou very kindly for these recent posts. I accept your apology and look forward to continued and friendly open discussion with you. @Jian Shuo - I am touched by your post and agree completely with Carroll - perhaps you have a higher calling in diplomacy and tactfulness management. You have handled this with tue professionalism and consideration for everyone's feelings. My apologies for any frustrations I may have caused. I'm back :D |
| 35 |
One Year to Beijing Olympics Hi Jian Shuo - it is with great regret that after a very long time following your blogs and enjoying open and friendly discussion, I will no longer be visiting your site... unfortunately, it has attracted a person with very low intellect and even lesser moral fibre. Good luck to you and your family, I will keep in touch via email. Keep up the good work and positive attitude going - I hope that the racism desists here in the future!! Kindest regards, AussiePB... |
| 34 |
One Year to Beijing Olympics Little more for me to say here, as the more I try to be positive, the more insults and racial connotations spew forth from you. The latest around aborigines and alcohol just does it for me - being part aboriginal... now it is I who really am offended - and for you to even mention Pauline Hanson espouses your ignorance. Now there is nothing for me more to say, but I would really like to meet you in person and discuss your insults. |
| 33 |
Different Views of the Same Thing @Herbert - you have seen evidence of no links between Saddam and Al Qaeda? I'd be interested in your proof. There is still enough circumstantial evidence and paper trails to support the theory. |
| 32 |
One Year to Beijing Olympics I've not missed your point. You have listed so many things that are negative to your country - and you missed the point and intent of the Olympic Games. The Games are designed to bring about National Pride and unite all countries in the world. I am questioning your negativity - there are much better ways for you to bring about change and help those in need by being positive and not belittling your country. You then in your subsequesnt post, suggested that Australians are ashamed of the part they have played in Iraq... which is frankly, quite insulting and incorrect to make such a wild generalization - and yes, it is a question of my national pride. We live in a world of globalization, and I am proud my wife is Chinese and my son is a product of the two of us - why be so cynical as to also now question my citizenship just because I wish to support my wife and extended family's pride and their desire to make China a better place for all? China is great and will get greater with the right attitudes of the people - what does this have to do with my passport or nationality? To my original post on this topic - I asked a very legitimate question without any malice - with very good reason - your post was very negative to your country and misrepresents the intention of such a global unification event as the Olympic Games - it is not about 'showing off'... I'm sorry you seem to have taken offence and opted for 'low blows' in return, this was not my intent. |
| 31 |
One Year to Beijing Olympics The Chinese are already great! It depends on your reference point. When my wife and in-laws talk about the upcoming games in Beijing, I see and hear so much national pride... Being Australian (born), I'm not ashamed of the assistance given to the victims and families of the past violent and oppressive regime in Iraq. In fact, it is one of the (many) reasons that I'm proud of my home country. |
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One Year to Beijing Olympics @Wonton... you are really that ashamed of your beautiful country? |
| 29 |
What's Wrong with China? @Michael - absolutely no disrespect meant here.... Singapore has developed a lot, but as far as the govt attitudes to censorship, personal freedom and restrictive laws against the individual, there is still some ways to go for this country to be a truly global player... |
| 28 |
Shanghai Looks Like a Modern City Lining up?? Wow, things really have changed...!! Do people keep to one side of the escalators now? That was a 'hot topic' last when I was in Shanghai for Chinese New Year this year... I wish they could get the hang of it here in Singapore... this topic gets a lot of 'airplay' with the bloggers here in Singapore (esp. the facebook community)... :D |
| 27 |
Fight Between Foreigners and Local Oh - and Jet So - why the racial connotations?? |
| 26 |
Fight Between Foreigners and Local Wow Jian Shou... interesting... last year I was in the 'wedding market' area of Shanghai with my father-in-law, when a person there started arguing and wanting to pick a fight with my father-in-law... absolutely no reason and unprovoked. My wife was pulling her dad away, but I moved in to step between the agressor and my father-in-law... quite a large crowd of people were gathered and this man was obviously out of control - perhaps somewhat not 'right in the head'... I was fully prepared to take this guy out if he physically struck my father-in-law, and he knew by my presence and 'chesting up' to him that I would have meant business... my shanghai dialect is not good enough to understand what was being said, but based on your story, maybe it was lucky that it didn't erupt into violence - perhaps I would have been on the receiving end from the locals... interesting that although I said or did nothing except move myself into a position to be able to defend my elderly father-in-law, the police and security started pushing me and manhandling me to move me from the scene - the agressor just kept yelling abuse and was left completely alone by the authorities - perhaps now I understand the reason for this behavious in this very strange situation... I must say this was a one-off incident and I have not experienced anything like it in Shanghai before or after. |
| 25 |
Five Years of Blogging Keep up the good work, Jian Shuo... give Yifan a big hug for us. Hope the pics of Jaime found it to your email address ok... |
| 24 |
Living Cost in Shanghai (2007 Edition) firstone - I guess that depends on where you're looking from... horrible compared to what or where? Shanghai is one of the best cities in the world. Everything is relative, and there are many other cities in the world where the cost of living vs income gap is much, much wider. |
| 23 |
Going to San Jose on Sept 6 Travel safely, Jian Shuo... FYI, just emailed you some pics of new baby boy - congrats to Yifan for 3-month birthday... |
| 22 |
Is Community Blog a Good Idea? Hi Jian Shou - just to let you know that at 3:57pm today Singapore time, we delivered a healthy baby boy - Jaime Zheng (and then my surname)... weighed in at 3.61kg... and he looks like a real mix between his Shanghainese mum and me (Australian dad)... so happy and excited!!!! |
| 21 |
Top Commenter of the Month (2007H1) Hoho - I feel like I've received a special award!!! Seriously though, I think the number of comments can be directly correllated to the quality of and interest generated by the blog subjects... keep up the good work!! |
| 20 |
MovableType 4 is Almost Out Hi Jian Shuo - I checked out their website - this looks really nice. Will you have the option to 'vet' user-generated pages? That is, if someone loads undesirable content, will you be able to catch it before it is published?? How long before the beta version goes live and final version released? |
| 19 |
Exchange (Lot of) Coins to Paper Money Hoho - you are much more than just a 'pretty face'!! What an absolutely excellent idea! I will definitely try this on eBay... ^__^ |
| 18 |
Kodak Digital Image Printing Kiosk Jian Shuo - FYI, before moving to the company I am with now based in Singapore, I was working for Eastman Kodak Company (for 17 years), spending my time between Melbourne, Shanghai and head office in Rochester, New York... part of my role was working in sourcing the manufacturing and software development for the photo kiosks - this includes the Kodak branded model and generic versions of the kiosk. If it assists you, depending on the information required, I could maybe assist in establishing contact for information on either the manufacturers or Kodak personnel that deal in the supply, installation and service of these machines. I certainly don't wish to publish mine or my network of colleagues email addresses, but perhaps if you and I could communicate 'offline', I could forward a list of contact emails of people interested in information to the appropriate people within the organization/s in China or Australia. It might be worth noting that Kodak don't pride their business on making profit on the sale of these kiosks, rather the deals are based on the usage of media (paper) on the throughput of business and up-time of the photo printers inside the kiosks. For Kodak to succeed in the lower-margin digital business, the emphasis is on "printing, printing, printing... at home and in store"... I obviously also have contacts within other parts of the printing business, including the traditional photo processing labs... |
| 17 |
The Great Well in Jinmao Tower Hi Jian Shou, I was just having a lttle 'surf' around this wonderful site of yours, and came across this page. I am very familiar with this building an it's architecture. this is where Sammi and I held our formal wedding celebrations last year (with all our family and friends), and we later stayed in the honeymoon suite in the Grand Hyatt... absolutely beautiful building!!! |
| 16 |
Exchange (Lot of) Coins to Paper Money This is really valuable information!! Hehe - I've got a couple of bags of coins (about 10kg at least), but I've resigned myself to giving it to charity because it's a mix of many different currencies - some is worth a little, other coins almost nothing... I'm guessing at least 15 different country currencies... I think any bank would look at me and laugh if I tried to exchange!! |
| 15 |
Yifan is Exactly 2 Month Old Today Time travels so fast - congratulations!! These days should always be cherished. Our baby is due on 10th September (about 5 weeks away now), and the doctors are telling us (based on measurements in the womb) that we should expect quite a very 'tall' son. It's such an exciting time right now, and I have advised work that I will not be able travel for at least 3-months after I arrive back to Singapore from India next week. It's going to be extremely interesting to see how our son looks (cannot tell on ultrasound), with the mix of Shanghainese and Australian genes... many people are waiting to see the pictures :D |
| 14 |
Strengthen the Control of Speech In the short time that I've been living here in Singapore, it never once occurred to me why I don't see satellite dishes. In Australia, you just become oblivious to them because there are so many privately installed. This discussion topic encouraged me to do a little googling to find out how the absence of satellite dishes here in Singapore relates to local censorship laws... I found the following article (in part): "The Media Development Authority (MDA) has refined its Satellite TV policy to allow hotels, tertiary and international educational institutions to install TV Receive-Only (TVRO) Satellite Systems. This is an extension of its existing policy which allows the installation of TVRO Satellite Systems by companies, embassies, and institutions that require time-sensitive business or market information. The restriction on satellite dishes in households will continue, to prevent the in-flow of undesirable contents that are at odds with Singapore's multi-racial and multi-religious society." I guess some things are just taken for granted - but I must say I get very frustrated when I watch a program or movie on cable TV in my home (that I have previously viewed on DVD or on TV or cinema back in Australia), and I am aware of just how much material has been 'cut' - sometimes I cannot understand why a certain scene has fallen under the axe, or why a particular scene would be deemed inappropriate (I've spent sleepless nights thinking about this). I completely respect the laws that govern Singapore, as I am the visitor here, and I strongly believe that censorship is an integral part and has it's place in every society and country, but I feel dreadfuly sorry that free-thinking people do not have the choice on what they do or don't want to watch. In some cases, the entire plot or meaning of oscar-winning movies has been completely lost. I was offended once by something I saw on Australian TV, and made comment that local censorship laws should not have allowed it to be aired. A very wise man then said to me - "well, that's what the 'off' button on the TV is for..." (choice) My apologies if I have gone a little 'off topic' - I just find this very interesting - good luck to you Jian Shuo... I hope you get to keep the dish!! Depending on how things go for you over the next few months, perhaps I can encourage my father-in-law in Shanghai to follow suit... I'd love to be able to watch satellite TV there next Chinese New Year. :) |
| 13 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners I see this topic is getting much air-play again... I feel dreadfully sorry for any families that break up due to infidelity - it happened to me also some years ago - and it took me many years to trust any women again. Broken heart caused by a western woman! Finally I met the love of my life and my soul-mate in Shanghai - my colleague. Once again, it doesn't matter where people are from, and generalizations are wrong under any circumstances. People that leave comments on this forum stating the negative about any race (especially chinese) should understand the magnitude of their generalization, and should look further than their own backyard. Even if there are 20 disgruntled people on this forum, against the population of China (1.4bln) - and given the ratio of men to women 106.3 to 100, then your generalizations are based on a percentage of 0.00000295% (this even takes out the male equation - like we're just assuming that chinese men don't marry western women, which clearly isn't the case). Does anyone know the odds of getting struck by lightning or winning the gold lotto? I'd rather put my money on these events!! Once again, I feel sorry for any people from broken families - I can empathize because I've been there. Please take the issues you face and the hurt you feel away from a racial debate... we now live in 2007, not the 1950's... :D everyone should learn to respect one another's differences - every week I travel to a different country (at least one, sometime two or three) as part of my job, and am exposed to quite a range of cultures and behaviours (and often experience racism against myself, being the 'alien')... it's not a nice feeling to say the least. However, the more I travel, the more I come to appreciate and embrace the differences... I encourage people on this forum to try and travel as much as possible, and interact with different cultures (even in your home country) for continued personal development and enlightenment... Take care everybody - life is very delivate and very short!! |
| 12 |
Controversy Car Plates Yes, this has been common practice in Australia for many years. There are some restrictions though - you must apply first, and curse words or swear words are not acceptable (eg. ass)... some people over the years have been very creative... in the early days of this intiative in Queensland, you could only get plates with three letters followed by two numbers. Here are a couple of examples of the creativity from Queenslanders: There was a farmer with a surname of 'McDonald'... his number plate was "EIE-10" (for those of you familiar with western children's nursery rhymes, you will know the song "Old McDonald Had A Farm", and the common line that keeps coming back in the song, is "Old McDonald had a farm, ee i ee i o"... so a farmer named McDonald with this plate is quite clever. Another one is "POT-80" (phonetically prounounced "pot-eight-o" (this was owned by a potato farmer). A more recent one I saw in Melbourne (many more formats available now), was on a Ferrari - it was 1H8-GST... the Goods and Services Tax in Australia is extremely large on luxury items like imported cars, so for this car owner to say he hates the GST, I can fully understand his sentiments. :D |
| 11 |
So Many Typos in Shanghai Metro One thing I noticed last year in Shanghai on some of the trains was the sign "Please take care of the gap"... sounds strange - it's like you own something and want to take care of it.... like "take care of your property" or "take care of your child"... it should say something like "please be careful of the gap"... or "take care when you step over the gap", etc... maybe I can adopt one of the gaps and take it home with me, then I can take care of it forever more... :D |
| 10 |
Chinese Characters Very good blog entry... I have been learning chinese (mandarin) orally, for many years now, and am now beginning (for the last 2-years) to master the art of chinese characters (reading and writing) - I'm really loving it, although it can be very challenging for me!! FYI - I can also speak Shanghai dialect and some Ningbo dialect, fue to family requirements... :D |
| 9 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners AussiePB: I also have no wish to keep going on about this topic and neither did I say that racism did not exist either in Singapore or Australia. Your very "correct" interpretation of my words have made me decided to "retaliate" to what you have said which is why we are talking about this issue now. In terms of your definition of racism which I deeply appreciate, I want to draw your attention to that fact that race is the crux of racism and on which people formed an idea or discriminatory beliefs on. Here, I mentioned nothing about any race being inferior or superior to another - I have no idea how you concluded that I feel Singaporeans are superior. The words "white"/ "yellow" and "non-whites" were in inverted commas because I obviously don't agree with the usage of these words as they were coined. I did not invented them and these were words I see in Australian textbooks. Anyway, before you started harping on I am now "attacking" Australia, I wish to state first of all I see no colour and again I have had chinese exs and my best friend was born in China. Personally I hate that word 'coloured" more than anyone because I am "coloured" from having Asian (South/ Southeast/ East) and European (West and South) blood. Next, you don't know my background and if you want to focus on the issue of race here then unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately) I am part Chinese and I don't hate myself. Now lets review what you have said in your first posting that made me reacted the way I did. In your post on the 23 of June at 5.37PM you said: "Well... I was worried about racism - never did I realize how racist the society I now live in is... every day as we move about Singapore, the assumption is made by many people that my wife is Singapore Chinese - this brings stares, sneers and even outright obvious hatred toward me. Why?? I live in this country because I was invited - there were no people with the skills, talent, education and experience to do the job I do. So I am here to help this country - how can people be so narrow-minded??" Do I have to further explain why I think you are more racist than I am now? Huh? You have made EXTREMMELY derogarative comments about the place I was born in. You called my society a "racist society", "I was invited to work here" (you made yourself sound like a VIP, superiority huh??) and how "they have no talent and skills" (damm right!) Last of all, I'm sure you remember calling us "narrow-minded" and "ought to be embarrassed" when I did not make any value judgement about you despite the fact that I was assumed I speak no English and therefore is a stupid asshole from Asia at Australia's oldest university. Actions speak louder than words and your words haven't been kind from start so I wonder how "thou shalt love thy neighbour" in such a situation! |
| 8 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Elaine: I only have a few more things to say on this topic, because you obviously have some very deep-seeded issues with different races and nationalities, and I certainly did not want to start an 'argument' on this blog. I was just stating my position and experiences before you 'attacked' me. I beg that you take the time to clearly and carefully read what I have to say before making any further assumptions. Firstly: racism (noun) 1. Hatred, rivalry or bad feeling between races. 2. Belief in the inherent superiority of a particular race or races over others, usually with the implication of a right to be dominant. 3. Discriminatory treatment based on such a belief. Derivative: racist (noun, adj) Under Australian racial vilification laws (where you reside) this also covers discrimination and/or generalizations or stereotyping based upon people's beliefs, appearances or racial background... specifically, although racism exists everywhere, these type of generalizations are considered 'criminal' in certain arenas. Now, I quote just a few of your many supposedly 'non-racist' comments... I would never once be ignorant enough to consider that racism and discrimination did not exist in nearly every country in the world (Australia included). In fact, I know some unfortunate people personally in my home country that do hold a similar sort of hatred... I feel sorry and pray for these individuals... Since you seem to know so much about the 'One Nation' party, you would obviously be aware that Pauline Hanson was supported by the smallest of minorities, and in no way represented the feelings nor actions of mainstream Australia (in fact they did not even have the support to 'legally' form a party). In fact, quite the contrary - but I'm sure you would not make statements around a 'white australia' without first knowing the full facts. Please feel free to study up on this a little. This also applies to your statements on Australian aboriginal history - feel free to read some more. I made the comment around the 2nd world war to highlight the type of generalizations you were making, and how ridiculous they seemed to me - this obviously went over your head - my sincere apologies for your misunderstanding. Finally, be assured I did not call you a racist for the comments you made in relation to the 'stolen generation' or against Shanghai (as you incorrectly interpreted), rather for all the generalizations you were making in regards to all races... the use of language such as 'white', 'non-white', 'yellow', 'they', 'them' etc, etc is not acceptable to me (nor is the suggestion that because my wife is chinese, she would have a 'reputation' in Singapore for prostitution - this is what offended me the most from your statements, and is perhaps the crux of my initial statement that prompted your response), however as I have continually pointed out I am aware that this type of racism exists everywhere, and in a world of 'free speech' I respect everyone's right to have their say. This includes the comments you have made. The colour of one's skin, the cultural background or the history of a country should be irrelevant when it comes to respect for the individual... For the record, my Chinese wife and I are extremely happy with the mix of our cultures, our lives together and are excited about the upcoming birth of our child. Generally, we have settled into Singapore quite well and are better adapting to life here every day... and my wife, like me, loves every person for who they are, and any of the differences you mention are 'invisible' to her - including all nationalities. Thankyou kindly for letting me know your thoughts, Elaine, and as previously suggested, I offer my best wishes that you will gather guidance and wisdom over coming years, so that you might finally let go of some of the baggage that you have obviously collected from a very young age. Warmest Regards.... remember "love thy neighbour"... |
| 7 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Elaine - I beg to differ - you are very racist... stereotyping any race is wrong - and you are doing a great job of it!! I have german ancestors - does this mean I had anything to do with the 2nd-world war?... your arguments are absolutely ridiculous!! I offer you to come and walk in my shoes for a day and see how many people stare and sneer - I am kind to everyone I meet, and have many Singaporean close friends... they agree with the fact that some people with narrow-minded views (like yourself) are very racist toward chinese people (and other races). I re-emphasise, I was invited here and I wish to contribute to your society - why do some people behave in these archaic ways? I just would like to be accepted. It's time to move forward - we live in an era of globalization. Finally, my wife is mistaken as Singaporean often - you must be very clever to be able to distinguish... oh, and 'stolen generation'?? - now you are really attempting to strike low with discrimitive overtones - my grandmother is an aborigine... so for you to even mention this topic not only insults me as a person but also my heritage, it further portrays your ignorance, and you should feel extremely embarrassed!! Good luck in your life - I sincerely hope that God directs you away from the racism and hatred that is so embedded in your psyche... :D |
| 6 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Well... I was worried about racism - never did I realize how racist the society I now live in is... every day as we move about Singapore, the assumption is made by many people that my wife is Singapore Chinese - this brings stares, sneers and even outright obvious hatred toward me. Why?? I live in this country because I was invited - there were no people with the skills, talent, education and experience to do the job I do. So I am here to help this country - how can people be so narrow-minded?? |
| 5 |
Name of the Baby - Part II Your baby is so, so cute... 王乐凡 seems like a very happy name... My wife (from Shanghai) and I are expecting our son on 10th September. We have had the same discussion around english names and chinese names - we have decided what both of the names will be now, but I agree with your comments around the legal requirement. For the record, he will have his english name on his passport and legal documents (which is a combination of an english first name and pinying of my wife's family name as his middle name), but we have already decided on his chinese name also out of respect for both of our cultures. With all our blessings to you and your 小宝... |
| 4 |
Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Hoho - well said, Jiang |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Dawson - 'English' culture?? I read this blog as 'westerners' - I'm from Australia (not England)... 'brainwashed by foreign cultures'?? I think that belittles ladies - all people can think for themselves... 'they want to change'?? Change what?? The comments here are still so very racist!! I repeat - it doesn't matter where you were born or raised - love is love and has nothing to do with cultures or borders... |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Discrimination exists everywhere... it is not a culture which discriminates, but individuals. I too have a child from a previous marriage. My Shanghainese wife's family (parents & extended family) have accepted me unconditionally as one of their own, regardless of my heritage, past history or any other reasons. I love them and they love me (and my son from my previous marriage)... the attitudes you describe Ron (of your lady's mother) are not the norm in westernized China today, in fact my vast experience would tell me these ideals are the minority. Furthermore, people who partake in these after-meeting 'going's on' (as you put it) do not deserve a loving wife's dedication and commitment... once again, it is not limited to a culture or race - my own sister can tell you of many similar experiences of her current husband's 'after-meeting goings-on'... she is Australian and so his her husband - this type of activity should be despised for what it is - and it is rife in many societies, not just China. In fact, even with the westernization of many parts of China, the divorce rate in Australia (between Australian-born couples) is still exponentially higher than that of any province of China. |
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Shanghainese Girl Marrying Foreigners Wow... I've never heard so much racist garbage... I am Australian-born and married my Shanghainese wife after a very long courtship. We met as colleagues in the same multi-national company for which we both worked. Both very successful professionals that developed a relationship over time. We love each other deeply and cherish every day that we are together. After spending time living and working in both China and Australia, we have now relocated to Singapore and are expecting our first child in September!!! Who cares where I grew up?? Who cares where my wife was raised?? Who cares anything about our cultural differences?? These are the exciting things that make our life challenging and well-worth living... In an age of globalization, it's time some people on this site grew up and started worrying about the important things in life!! |