From the desktop of Nizman Lee.

My latest venture ....

2010-01-20T23:08:00.005+08:00

Recently I have been "Camera down" ..... and have ventured into High Dynamic Range (HDR) photography. I've been digging my photo collection for years and started doing editing, believe me... I had thousands of photos on my external drive. Because of that I have halted clicking for new photos not until I have edited my current photographs ...

I present to you some of my editing works on HDR ...

As we enter the new decade

2010-01-03T16:29:00.003+08:00

As we usher in the new decade, many of us are excited to fill up our New calendar year or year planner on exciting things to do in the new year. Have you ever thought back and analyze what achievements have we made during the past year ??

In the Corporate world, many multi national companies does annual post mortem and reviews on their performances before they progress into the new chapter. The question to that matter is as many of us are involved in decision making process in an organisation;
What kind of review are we involved in ? Are we busy in making review for our Bosses ? The Company ? The Government ? ......

Have you ever did a review for yourself ? Financially ? Spiritually ? Health wise ? Career wise ? Family values ? .... and the list goes on ....

How have we progressed so far in these areas of life ? Or we are just "going with the flow" and be ignorant with the pass results either positive or negative. Every beginning of the year resolutions are being written and commitment are pledged by default. Many of us will be writing essays and thesis at the stroke of midnight on the things to do for the New Year but many fail to do a self report card on what happened on the past year ..... Remember; to have a clearer view is to take a few steps backward ....

This year is the beginning of a new decade, what does the future lies upon us is up to us ....
To all my friends or to whom is reading this journal, do take time to analyse your achievements, progress and take time to "Stop and Think" before we execute our tasks for the New Year ....

As for Laila and I, our best wishes goes to you and family.. May they be Healthy, Wealthy in hope and prosperity in abundance ....

Happy New Year 2010 ....

A Short visit to Land of Hornbills

2009-12-21T21:09:00.005+08:00

Recently I took a short trip to The Land of the Hornbills. Upon arriving at the airport, I suddenly thought of the old grandma tales that one ought to kiss the land upon being in a place for the first time ..... After much thought and considering many people are around me ... I decided not to ... Yes .... It was my first visit to Kuching, being a East Malaysian, I was embarrassed as it is a beautiful city to be in and it was just an hour by air from Kota Kinabalu.

Anyway, I'd like to show some street shots I manage to photograph while walking around the City of Cats ...
Formerly known as Holiday Inn Hotel, now it's re-branded as Grand Magherita Hotel Waterfront.
When in Sarawak, one must try "Ikan Terubuk". Its a salted fish which has enormous bones but when fried tastes awesome .... Photo was shot at Pasar Satok ..
Your's Truly at Waterfront with the new State Legistative Assembly Building as my background.
Mr James Brooke's cafe ....
According to a Kuching folk, this temple which is located behind Hilton Hotel is the oldest temple in Kuching ...
The Hilton, as seen from Waterfront Kuching.
When walking at Waterfront, this plaque is visible in every 100 meter or so ... It is a good was to educate visitors about its history ... Walking and learning ...
Across the river is the ASTANA, which was the palace of the popular White Rajahs ...
When in Kuching, this is a monument that one cannot miss ....
The view from the top of the Four Points Sheraton Hotel in Kuching ... It was built by the King of Construction in Sarawak, Tan Sri Ting Pek King ...
A view of the architecture of the hotel.
The Hotel's towel counter ...
Swimming pool .....

Mansau Ansau to Semporna

2009-12-07T18:30:00.004+08:00

A visit to East Coast town of Semporna recently by the Mansau Ansau Club brought a new perspective to us. First; it was the longest and furthest ever outing that we had after being together since 2008 and Second; we took with us new friends whom were strangers once upon a time and friends now all because of photography.

Below are some photos I manage to capture as I see it:

This is a photo of the popular Semporna Floating restaurant. Honestly the place was not to my expectation as how it was when I last visit it 10 years ago. Nevertheless, it is "the restaurant of choice" when you're in Semporna.
Bohedulang at the background, is believed to be an ancient Volcano thousand of years ago.
A view of the boat with Hassan the boatman captaining it.
Seafest Hotel, rated as a 3 star hotel in Semporna. As seen from the sea.
This shot was taken at Maiga Island some 30 minutes from Semporna. The Pelauh's live in the hut and boat with less infrastructure as compared to us living in town.
Houses on stilts with seaweeds for commercial purposes beneath it.
A "Boat house" ..
The photographer and his shadow
Maiga Island from a far .... Looks like Fantasy Island, if you could recall the TV series during the 70's.

Baby Lulu's First Birthday

2009-11-01T23:13:00.004+08:00

I was happy to see when my sister's daughter, Lulu turned 1 year old today... I could still vividly recall the day when she came to the world, exactly a year ago. She was tiny, and a year later (today) ... Time really runs fast yeah ....

Happy Birthday Lulu.

Lulu and "Ah Kung" after singing "Happy Birthday"
Friends of my brother in law who were among the attendees for the party.

Nizman Lee Jr.

2009-08-11T21:29:00.005+08:00

This is how he looks like as of December 2, 2009.

This is how the little on looks like as on Sept 8th, 2009. According to the Gyne, the baby is very active in the womb and we're looking forward for the next appointment.

When we visited my wife's gynecologist, Dr Sarva for her monthly check up this time the little one is 16 weeks old. As for now we don't know what is the gender at the moment, but eagerly waiting for the big day to come. I could vividly remember the sound of the heartbeat of the little one as the Gyne placed the scanner on Laila's abdomen.

Below is a glimpse of the little one.

"Have you ever seen the rain" ....... The Strollers2.

2009-08-07T18:32:00.002+08:00

If you're a child of the late 1960's & 1970's you would probably remember the above photo albums of Malaysian band The Strollers who were popular with the song "Just as I am". Back then they consists of members; Michael Magness, Nand Kumar, Billy Chang, Hussein Idris and Ramli.

40 years on, Hussein Idris (an original member of “Strollers”), Desi and Casper (two ex members of the “Memories” Band) decided to make a comeback to the music scene solely out of their love of music together with Nan formerly of "Grim Preachers" and Lord of "The Boys".

Today, they are known as "The Strollers2".

I recently had the opportunity to photograph an event where The Strollers2 was the entertainment band. Honestly after decades of rocking & rolling, they show no sign of fading or retiring from the music scene. According to their Manager, Mr Sunny Tan, the band are currently being engaged in an entertainment outlet in Kuala Lumpur but also available for private functions and have a huge followers enjoying the music of the past era. From CCR to Rolling Stones and Procol Harum to Hank Marvin & The shadows, you will not be disappointed as they have a huge bank of songs in their finger tips.

Hussein - Drums/Vocals - The Strollers 1969

Desi - Lead Vocals/Percussions - Memories 1983

Nan - Lead Guitar/Vocals - Grim Preachers 1970

Casper - Bass/Vocals - Memories 1978

Lord - Keyboard/Guitar/Vocals - The Boys 1985

For more information on The Strollers2, please contact

Mr Sunny Tan at: (60)162212797, E-mail: rajasunnytan@yahoo.com.

Visit their website: http://www.thestrollers2.com/

NASAM Charity Dinner at The Pacific Sutera Hotel, August 4, 2009

2009-08-06T13:08:00.000+08:00

The National Stroke Association of Malaysia (NASAM) Sabah Branch recently organised a charity dinner at Pacific Sutera Hotel in Kota Kinabalu aiming to raise funds for the organisation. The guest of honour for the event was the Governor of Sabah, TYT Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah and his wife. The Deputy Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Peter Pang was also present in the event representing the Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Musa Aman.

The event was coloured beautifully with attendees attiring colours of the 1970's as the event theme was. Present to serenade songs down memory lane was The Strollers2 from Kuala Lumpur.

For more information or to contribute to NASAM, please visit: http://www.nasam.org/

Below are snapshots of the event:

Toh Puan Rahimah Stephens of NASAM greeting the arrival of TYT Tun Ahmadshah Abdullah

Toh Puan Dayang Masuyah sharing a light moment with Toh Puan Rahimah

Ms Jesminah Ali delivering her key note address.

A view from the video cam.

Dr Marvin (2nd from left) of Ministry of Health and other attendees of the event.

The management team of Sutera Harbour Resort who are among the donors were present during the event.

A dance performance during the event, aim to raise funds for the organisation.

The Corporate donors, taking photo with the VIP in attendance.

The evergreen Masters of Ceremony, Mr Gan Po Tiau...

Menmbers of The Strollers2, rocking the night with music of 1970's.

From left: Nan, Casper & Desi.

Cha cha .... There we go !!!

Bobby Willie of Kinabalu Yacht Club (left) and his associates enjoying the night.

Also not forgetting: The Organising commitee.

From 1988 to 2009 .... Wow! that was 21 years ago .....

2009-07-26T20:47:00.000+08:00

What a feeling ....

What would you feel to be meeting up friends that grew up with you ?

I bet that excitement flows into you with non stop chatter, gossiping, laughter and many more ... That was the feeling that we had during our school and classmate gathering at 1 Borneo on Saturday, July 25 2009. We were the class of 1988 (form five) .... Imagine that was 21 years ago.

Now we got to know who is where and got all our numbers and e mail address intact. We are in talks to organise a bigger gathering sometime soon with the attendance of classmates from out of town....

Cheers and enjoy ... "What we do, we carry through" ... All Saints Motto .

From left: Janet Lui, Candida Gomes, Sairah Suhaili, Nizman Lee

I remember Candida was the tallest girl in class, Janet was my classmate since Primary school and Sairah was one of those cheeky girls in the class ..

From left: Hani Bikat, Kertinah Aspar, Norailah Osman (party hidden), Aliza Kubah, Nurul Azni, Sairah and Rosmadi Zamzul ...

Friends will be friends

From left: Victor Marcus (Boy), Candida Gomes and Janet Lui.

Boy used to be our football player in school. I used to call him when someone is looking for trouble to me, he was the bouncer then.

From left: Mashoud, Arbain, Rozmadi, Ho Chee Heng, Stanley Lee and Eddie Iskandar.

Mashoud was the boy who sat next to me during kelas agama. We used to talk about Mercedes Benz during class. Eddie Iskandar was the guitarist then, he used to emulate Man Kidal of the Lefthanded band..

Wah .... one for the album ... the two of them were "Gang Keras" then ..

A picture tells a thousand words, all happy faces .

Smile ladies ..... 21 years ago (Smile girls) ..

Kota Kinabalu in 2009

2009-07-25T11:09:00.000+08:00

Many would wonder how Kota Kinabalu look like many years from now. I started this project to photograph shops and views of Kota Kinabalu to be kept as memories for the future.

This is a panoramic view of Tanjung Aru, on left (white building) used to be Victory Bar and Coffee Shop. It was in operation for more than 30 years until now it is Datuk Lim Guan Seng's legal office. I remember Victory as a place to "lepak" (hang around) for the older generations.

This view of Gaya Street, the shop on right is Syarikat Eng Leong. They have been in operations for around 40 years. It is a shop that sells clothing material. It was one of the shops that was visited by patrons those days ...

A tribute to the king of Rock & Roll - Elvis Presley

2009-07-23T16:27:00.000+08:00

This is a rare video clip of Elvis dancing the Agogo. Video clip is also featured in the movie Viva Las Vegas 1968. Gosh ... I was not even born yet ..

Photography workshop by Amri Ginang

2009-07-12T21:54:00.000+08:00

Amri Ginang, well known Malaysian commercial photographer was in Kota Kinabalu recently to conduct a photography workshop sponsored by CIMB Foundation.

Five members of The Mansau Ansau Photography Club were present at the workshop as well as members of our affiliate club, MSJ Photography. It was an informative session, it is not everyday that a Professional Photographer comes down to Kota Kinabalu to conduct a seminar.

For more information on Professional photographer Amri Ginang, do visit his website: www.amriginang.com

The beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder,

Portraiture shot of Miss Gzell, she was our model for the day..

Here as seen, the Members of Mansau Ansau Photography photographing with members of MSJ Photography Club. From left: Mohd Mazran, Akom Lumadan, Jackson Lim, Gerry Kong, Clement Makulin, Wan Iskandar and Nizman Lee.

Anak Ayam

2009-07-06T22:24:00.000+08:00

Coloured chicks as seen during the Buy Malaysian Product exhibition at the Padang Merdeka here in downtown Kota Kinabalu on Juy 5th 2009.
According to the seller the coloured chicks are sold at RM 2.50 each. Asked on how and why are they coloured, he mention "Kena cat bah Boss" (It is being coloured) ...

Lens Testing

2009-07-06T22:12:00.000+08:00

Nikkor 10mm Fish-eye DX lens. Image is a bit distorted due to the wideness of its angle.

You may need to correct the image by using the Capture NX 2. It is priced at around RM 2600.

Lens is available for view and test at Yong's Digital Colour Sdn Bhd, 1st Floor Centre Point Shopping Complex, Kota Kinabalu.

Mandy Nikko

2009-07-04T08:22:00.000+08:00

I manage to photograph Miss Mandy Nikko sometime ago at a friend's studio sometime ago. She was outgoing, full of excitement and enthusiasm. Well as they say a picture tell a thousand words, as seen here ...

An afternoon at the garden

2009-06-18T23:43:00.001+08:00

One sunday afternoon, Laila and I plus Clement Makulim took to the garden of Tanjung Aru to snap a few shots of her. Initially we kinda shock the picnic crowd with our "activities" but then again after half an hour of shooting, they left us all alone. The three of us had an enjoyable time and ended the evening with a bowl of ABC at the restaurant by the sea shore.

As we were about to end the day, I took this shot of a pickup truck which was stuck in the sand when the driver attempted to tug the boat as seen in the picture. It was understood that the truck had been buried there since noon and this picture was captured at around 6.00pm.. Imagine the amount of sand and salt water that penetrated the nuts and bolts... I guess the driver would get a tongue lashing from the boss ...

An afternoon at the studio

2009-06-17T16:54:00.000+08:00

What an afternoon at the studio my friend just opened, we had an exciting session with friends old and new. Laila was our model with Mandy.

Wedding of Ayu & Thaufiq

2009-06-09T23:50:00.000+08:00

Recently Mansau Ansau Photography Club consisting of Clement Makulim, Anna Lynn and myself had the honour to be part of the photography crew to witness the wedding reception of Ayu & Thaufiq. I was a great event as we witnessed the bride and groom were perfectly dressed for the occasion. Thaufiq was awesome having only to lafaz the akad nikah before the Imam only once followed by applause from the invitees.

Congratulations !! To Ayu and Thaufiq, may your marriage be blessed for better for worse till death do you apart.

Ayu getting ready for the big occasion

Thaufiq about to lafaz the nikah

The first hand shake as husband and wife

The newly married couple sitting in front of the Hantaran ...

The couple posing for the album with Mansau Ansau Photography Club members.

Man on mission - Roger Federer

2009-06-08T11:55:00.000+08:00

Many years ago sometime is the 19th century, An American Author by the name of Napoleon Hill quoted "Whatever a man conceives and believe, he can achieve". That quote inspired many man, women and children to reach greater heights that the wondering generality said it can't be done. Yesterday, June 7th 2009, 2230hrs (Malaysian time) millions of viewers across the globe witnessed the triumph and achievement of probably the greatest Tennis player of all time, Roger Federer taking the French Open title at Roland Garros for the first time after defeating Robin Soderling of Sweden in three straight sets.

To date Roger has won a total of 14 Grand Slam titles equalling American Pete Sampras feat. Coming up this month is the Wimbledon Grand Slam tournament, will he be able to dethrone defending champion Spaniard Rafael Nadal and be the first man in history to win 15 titles ? Or will he walk and ponder "What went wrong?" ... Stay tuned ....

In Loving Memory

2009-05-15T14:28:00.001+08:00

It is in my deepest sadness to be in a funeral, what more someone you are very close at heart. Laila my wife and I plus the rest of the family members are in deep sorrow in the passing of my Mother in-law. The lost the battle of kidney failure and diabetes on Monday, May 11th, 2009 (8.00am). She was 62 years old and was laid to rest at the Kampung Likas Muslim Cemetary the same day.

At this moment, no words and money could bring her back to life, what could one do is just to give a word in prayer to her, may her soul rest in peace. She a was a very dedicated loving mother to my in-laws. During times of hardship, she would take pride to ensure that the children have sufficient food, clothing and education by selling and operating a canteen in Tawau many years ago. When my wife and I visited her at the house, she would insist that we ate before leaving the house.

We will be having prayers on the first three days of her passing, seventh day (May 17) and 14th day (May 24) at No 147, Taman Bersatu, Putatan.

New Learning Experience

2009-05-05T22:30:00.000+08:00

After reading and researching magazines on flash photography, I decided to test on my latest skill. My subject: Laila my Wife

My Camera: Nikon

My Equipment: Torchlight, Tripod & Patience.

Result: A photo with torch lighting effects.

Still need to polish on the skill and technique.

Priceless Moments in Photograph

2009-05-05T13:20:00.001+08:00

That is a photo of me with my cousin Anna sometime in late 1970's.

This is a real classic !!! Me and my dad somewhere around KK, look at the background... that's Pulau Gaya.

Haha... Look at that baby, that is Azlina being taken care by the maid.

That is my sister Ati (left) and cousin Nana who's a teacher now in Labuan. Picture was taken in at my auntie Rose in Luyang.

Picture taken sometime in 1988 during my birthday where all the cousins are together celebrating. From Left: My sister Ati, Azlina, Jonizah, Nana (they are my cousins) and on Naderah.

That is me carrying my youngest sister Naderah when she was around 2 years old.

During Hari Raya, all the family members and relatives will gather at my late grand mother's house in Tanjung Aru enjoying the delicious prepared dishes. In this photo, my uncles and aunties plus my Kiew Poh (Standing 4th from right) pose for a shot.

Photo of Naderah, my sister 20 years ago.

That is a photo of me and my late Grandma under the mango tree in Tanjung Aru. Sadly, the tree is no longer there today. What is left is the sweet memories as sweet as the mangoes we ate many years ago.

When we were young, we use to visit Tanjung Aru beach for picnic with the other family members. In this photo, we are in our family's Volvo with my mother and cousin Anna preparing for the outing.

Yesterday's kids used to play in the sand, under the hot sand. unlike today's kids who are very much into video games and rarely spend time outdoor.

Opening of Pesta Kamaatan 2009

2009-05-02T18:30:00.000+08:00

In the month of May, Sabah celebrates the Pesta Kamaatan festival, also known as the Harvest Festival. It is a festival that is celebrated by the Kadazan Dusun ethnic race of Sabah that marks the end of the rice harvesting season. This year's hosting town to kick off the festival is Papar, a town 30 minutes drive from Kota Kinabalu, the capital state of Sabah.

The event started as early as 7.00am till 4.30pm. Among the activities held there were singing competition, arm wrestling and the highlight was the Unduk Ngadau (Beauty Contest) competition.

The Mansau Ansau Photography Club's members had the privilege to be invited by the Sabah State Protocol Department. They consist of Nizman Lee, Clement Makulim, Mohd Mazran and Charles Mawan. The club's other member Wan Iskandar could not make the trip as he was on another assignment.

Girl beating the gong.
The Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Musa Aman delivering his key note address.
Among the attendees in the hall.
Chief Minister with the Huguon Siau (Paramount Leader) Datuk Joseph Pairin Kitingan and other invited VIP's harvesting the padi to mark open the Kamaatan Festival 2009.
The Unduk Ngadau beauties. From left: Joanna Rampas (2007 State Champion), Leonie Lawrence (2008 Champion and the 2008 Papar Unduk Ngadau Champion
Members of the RELA ensuring that the place is safe and secure.
The National service trainees from West Malaysia, experiencing what is like to wear the Kadazan Dusun hat...
The Mansau Ansau Photography Club, having a cup of coffee with members of the Press. From left: Edmund Samunting (New Straits Times), Clement Makulim, Zamain Sangkui (BERNAMA), Charles Mawan and Mohd Mazran.
Among the stall operators taking the opportunity to make some extra income during the carnival.
Met an old friend, Nelson Rudolph Labangka. He was one the judging commitee involved in the unduk ngadau competition.
The Unduk Ngadau contestant parading on the stage.
Miss Appey Rowenna Januin, posing behind stage ...
Miss Appey, crowned as the 2009 Papar Unduk Ngadau Champion. First runner up was Miss Fiona John William and Second runner up was Jennifer Priscilla Junis. Congratulations to all of the girls....

ADS Graduation @ AIA Berhad, Kota Kinabalu.

2009-04-27T22:40:00.000+08:00

Agency development Seminar (ADS) is a course organised by American International Assurance Berhad (AIA), aimed at developing the life insurance agents skill, knowledge and instilling good working habits among them. Recently AIA held a graduation dinner for 30 of its agents at its branch here in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. The course is a 9 weeks programme facilitated by agency leaders of the Kota Kinabalu agency force. Among the course topics covered were Prospecting, Presentation and Best Practices among the agents.

Maria Primus, the very helpful Agency Executive preparing the gadgets before the start of the function.Attendees having a chat just outside the training room.

Look at the joy and excitement of the participants upon graduating of the course... Mr Tee (centre) is full of energy ...

An overview of the class.

From Left: Chin Ka Yen, Jenny Chin, Vitus Kualah, Victor Tan ... singing a song during the graduation.

Our group cheering the War Cry ...

From left: Melissa Chin, Lina, Joanne, Regina and Major Baharuddin shouting out their cheer ..

Your truly, accepting the Certificate from Director of Agency Sabah, Alister Chia and witnessed by Maria Primus.

That's Emil with a great pose ...

Part of the dinner menu is a Whole BBQ lamb from the Hut Restaurant..

Bon Appetit !! Ting Hua Seng (left) is seen giving orders on which dish to start off. Looks like everyone is hungry ...

Ting Hua Seng, kuat juga kau makan ...

One for the album, Chin Ka Yen with her group of agents.

In AIA Kota Kinabalu, everyone is a family member ... just look at the faces

Another group photo with Mr Maidin and his associates.

Two of our invited guests Laila AY (left) and Siti Norzwani Baharuddin.

From left: Jenny Chin, Maria, Major Baharuddin, Priscilla, Rashida Chin and Dora Vun enjoying the night.

KKIPC Photography Workshop

2009-04-26T23:55:00.000+08:00

Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park Communications (KKIPC) and Sabah Journalist association (SJA)recently organised a photography workshop for aspiring photographers and journalist here in Kota Kinabalu from April 24 till 26.

The Workshop was facilitated by well known journalist Jaswinder Kaur and Photographers Datu Ruslan Sulai of News Straits Times and Zamain Singkui, sports photographer of BERNAMA. They shared with the participants the importance of ethics on journalism and photography and also the do's and don't's.

Mr Zamain Sangkui presenting on Sports Photography...

Five of the Mansau Ansau Photography Club participated the workshop and indeed we were fortunate to meet up old and new friends whom share the same passion.

This is an overview of the workshop

Jaswinder Kaur of News Straits Times stressing a point.

Azlina Abdul Jalil, one of the invited guests. She is the operator of Coffee News Sabah, a sponsor of the Beautiful Sabah Photography workshop.

We had an opportunity to be a photographer in sports, we applied some of the techniques thought... Still needs some practice ..

Look at her expression during the game...

Myself shaking hand of Zamain Sangkui of BERNAMA during the certificate presentaion.

Raja Laut

2009-04-20T21:24:00.000+08:00

Borneo Tall Ships Sdn Bhd, a Kota Kinabalu based company had a familiarsation cocktail reception on its luxury boat; RajaLaut. It was attended by approximately 100 guests, mainly friends and business community. It was understood that RajaLaut will dock in Kota Kinabalu till the end of May. It sails around Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand. It was an evening of fun filled, having friends around, catching up with good old times.

An overview from the top deck.

When you're on RajaLaut, Sunset view is guaranteed everyday.

That's where the Captain steers the Ship.

Among friends on board RajaLaut;
From left: Suchens, Jeanette Tambakau, Shen and Jennifer.

That's yours truly and my cousin Azlina.

One of the Hi-tech gadgets on RajaLaut.

Me and Amir Yussof, Zaty and an English friend

She keeps the drinks flowing...

For further information, visit: http://www.rajalaut.com/ .

Lulu and Tudung Ekin

2009-04-20T20:53:00.000+08:00

Tudung Ekin, now available in Emadira Kota Kinabalu, Wisma Yakim (Opposide Hyatt Kinabalu). At Emadira you will be spoilt with a wide range of Textile material ranging from Silk to Chiffon and Sarongs from Indonesia to Carpets from Belgium.

Visit Emadira now, They are open seven (7) days a week or call for appointment at (60) 88 - 212786 .

Befrienders Kota Kinabalu - Parenting & Happiness Workshop

2009-04-19T10:22:00.001+08:00

Befrienders Kota Kinabalu chapter, a non profit organisation aiming in providing assistance in lending an ear of support for the depressed and suicidal organised a Parenting and Happiness Workshop at the Le-Meridien Hotel here downtown. The workshop was conducted by well known Psychologist from Sunway Medical Centre, Dr Paul Jambunathan.

According to a study done in 1990, an average Malaysian father speaks 2 minutes to his child per day, an average mother speaks 5 minutes to her child per day and an average working parent speaks 8 minutes per day to the child. 19 years later, that is today, it doesn't take a rocket scientist to tell you if the statistics has improve. No wonder Malaysian parents are having problems communicating to their child during later age stage, simply because they have never planted the seed of love and care at the beginning.

Jambunathan also stressed that families ought to have a "Management meeting" at home, the same principle as a Board of Directors meeting in major companies. By having these "meetings" at home, it is believed to bring the family ties closer thus preventing from having social problems such as drug addiction, alcohol influence etc to the child. Most children today are more comfortable sharing and consulting problems to their friends rather than their parents, simply because there is a huge gap of differences among them.

He also said the time when you could proudly said that you have a "Happy Family" is when the parent and child are friends. Let's hope by having workshops of such, it could bridge the gap between Parents and Child.

After all, what is the point of living without having a life ....

For more information of Befrienders Kota Kinabalu,

call the Helpline (60)-88-255788

Among the new friends we met during the workshop

From left: Priscilla, Andrew, Lilian, Naderah and Nizman Lee.

From left: Laila my wife, Dr Paul Jambunathan and Naderah my sister.

My first wedding anniversary @ Shangri-la's Rasa Ria Resort

2009-03-22T19:38:00.000+08:00

As the car door opens, Laila my wife walked in to the lobby and the doorman hit the Gong, the local kulintangan was played. Then came a lovely kadazan lady greeted her "Welcome to Shangri-la's Rasa Ria Resort and Happy Wedding Anniversary".... It came to me that after 10 years, I am back in RRR to stay.... Wow!!! The resort, ambience and service was Outstanding. Laila and I spent our first anniversary here, the best resort in Malaysia with 64 acres of resort area, 3 kilometres of beach, a staff force that never endingly delighting the customers ... what more can you ask for.

When we got into the room, we received a note of Congratulation plus a fruit basket and Chocolates from General Manager, Timothy Wright.

The room was decorated with petals of roses .....

I managed to do a mini photoshoot for my wife by the Coast Restaurant ....

Dinner by Tepi Laut was delicious, we tried almost from every stall.

Laila trying out on the French game of Petanque.. It is something like Lawn Bowl as we know it, but this games has some technique and rules of its own.

We also took a bicycle ride around the resort area. That's the new bicycle, it is a tandem bike and it has just been bought by the resort a few days ago.

A game of Pool ? Yes, with my wife... I had to give a handicap to her, and surprisingly ..... she won ...

That's the two of us at the Nature Centre Walk of Fame ... just imagine the Baby Elephant footprint ..

A special thank you my wife and I extend to the staffs of the resort; particurly to Alfons Olim (Director of Rooms), Zainal Shukur (Coffee House Manager), Areter (Pool side supervisor) to name a few ....

Simply The Best .....

AIG opens re-renovated office in Kota Kinabalu

2009-03-19T07:47:00.001+08:00

AIG General Insurance, located at No 33, Karamunsing Warehouse had a launching of its newly renovated office ysterday, March 18, 2009. It was witnesed by approximately 100 invited guests consisting of Agents, Adjusters, Panel Workshop owners and members of the press.

The Management team outside the office witnessing the lion dance

That's Judith Pudin with the Blackberry camera phone.

Overview of the lion dance from the office. Ribbon cutting to mark the opening of the officeRob Ryan delivering his key note address before the audience
The Staffs of the Kota Kinabalu branch posing for memories in years to come.

A special tribute for Mr David Kong, who devoted his passion and love to AIG for the past 40 years since 1969... wow .. I was not even born yet !!!

AIG CEO Rob Ryan during the press conference

From left: David Kong, Susana Chan, Laila AY, Norliah Ashkar, Agnes Lee, Adelyn Wong

Dorris Collard and Wendell of Sabah Times

Cheers... to one big happy AIG family

Not forgetting Sandra and Rozlind singing Sayang Kinabalu, a popular local karaoke number.

What is your choice in life ? My choice is ......

2009-03-17T18:08:00.000+08:00

Hello again friends,

How would you like to be known and remember as ?

A person with Intelligence ?
A person of wealth ?
A person with humility ?
... and many other reasons ....

As for me, I choose to be person with integrity. No doubt that the Intelligence and wealth is what most of us as living human aspires to be.

My mother once told me that you could have all the wealth in this world but if it is gain through evil deeds ie; Cheating, Gambling, Squandering to name a few, one cannot be a man of peaceful thoughts during his lifetime. I held that thought every moment.. Well, how would you feel when you have made some gain through the misfortune of others in Kota Kinabalu and someone invites you for dinner at one of the restaurant in town? I bet that he or she would not be enjoying the dinner despite it being very tasty as you might be afraid of being thrown a beer bottle onto your head..

Well no doubt that there are some people who might be able to run away with their "ability to con", but remember that as the Malay saying; "Sepandai - pandai tupai melompat, akhirnya jatuh juga ke tanah". They might gain in terms of wealth however having challenges in area of Health, family happiness and friendship..

Remember, life is a matter of choice... your destiny is in your hands... I choose to have integrity, for as long as I am not a liar, squanderer, absconderer nor a false promiser.. You and I are in goods hands...

Take care and have an outstanding day ahead ..

Nizman Lee.

This week in history ...

2009-03-16T22:26:00.000+08:00

This weekend marks a year of my better half and me entering the world of marriage. I could stil recall sometime a year ago, at this very moment, no doubt that the excitement of getting married there would be challenges that one has to go through, namely; the stress of organising the reception and the worry of not getting things done as you planned. As Napoleon Hill once said; Whatever the mind concieves and believe, it can be achieved. We (as in my wife and I) believed that we go through it, organise it and we did it !! On March 20th 2008, we got married. Though I was a bit nervous, I applied the NIKE tagline .... Just do it.

Today, close to a year after that very day, my wife Laila and I are very happy with our company. If I were to answer to a question "How's married life ?" ... I would answer "When you're single, you're not required to go home but when you're married, You must go home" ....

I conclude my note here to aspiring couples whom are planning to tie the knot :

In a marriage it is not how much can you gain from it, it is how much can you contribute on to it.

To Laila my wife:

A million thanks to you .... Your cooking is the best .... Especially the sambal kicap.

Calvin & Natasha Wedding

2009-02-23T19:54:00.000+08:00

Last Sunday, February 22, 2009. I had the opportunity to visit a relative of mine who got maried to a friend of mine.. I was looking forward to the wedding reception. as a photographer my mission is to capture those magical moments and keep it in my vault as a memory for the next few years.

In this wedding Calvin whom is a friend of mine through the game of Snooker married my relative Natasha in Kota Belud.
The weding reception was held with a traditional bajau theme, the groom arrived riding a horse to the bride's house. The bride is hid behind the curtain, ready to receive the groom as her newly wedded husband.

Here is Calvin the groom arriving handsomely on the horse.

He's the uncle of the bride reading his interesting poem to the newly wed.

They're the king and Queen of the day, Congratulations Calvin and Natasha.. May happiness be upon you forever..

Finally, that's me on the extreme right, the couple and Clement on extreme left.

Jo-Anna Rampas

2009-02-21T10:07:00.000+08:00

Recently as I was resting at home, I received a telephone call from my friend Clement asking if I was interested to do a model shoot. Initially I was quite reluctant as I just recovered from mild fever. When Clement mentioned it was Joanna Rampas that was going to be the model, my mild fever instantly recovered as I was very excited about it. Probably the name Joanna suddenly triggered the fever to run away.

We had the shoot one Sunday afternoon, the weather was hot and sunny however the mood was terrific. The location that was chosen was a humble stream somewhere in Penampang.

Here we are: Joanna has arrived .....

My Lee Family

2009-02-18T19:23:00.001+08:00

It's a party !!! Going back to 1970's, group family photo of the Lee Family during Leong's half century (50th) Birthday... Find where I am ? ....

My family in law

2009-02-18T18:12:00.000+08:00

Sorry for not bein up to date on my blog, as for now, I would like to feature my family in law (My wife's family). They are in Javanese in race and muslim in religion. My dad and mother in law plus a few of my wife's siblings are born and raised in Indonesia while others are in Sabah. My father in law is a contractor specializing in garden landscape and carving while my mom in law is a home maker. With them they have 9 children (my wife's is the 8th child). All of them are living in Putatan presently. From left: Noy, Nina, Watie (All of them are my sister in law), my mother, sister and my wife.

That's the boy with the Rabbit ..

On extreme left is my father in-law during the house warming party.
Here's one big fappy family
From left: my wife Laila, Ayu, Nina (Both are my sister in law) and Nizam (Brother in law, coincidently he has the same name as my father).

Lastly, they say behind every successful man is a wife standing next to him.... All my credits have to go to my bini, Laila.... Thanks a million

Leonie Lawrence - Miss Unduk Ngadau 2008

2009-01-23T19:20:00.000+08:00

Recently I had the opportunity to be part of the Photographic team to click my DSLR on Miss Leonie Lawrence, the Unduk Ngadau winner of 2008. I was very thrilled and honoured and told myself that I must be at my best to capture the shot. After being introduced to Leonie, my first impression of her is: Friendly, Beautiful, Awesome and very humble.

Ok here goes: Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls .... Presenting Miss Leonie Lawrence :

This is the view of the photographers in action from Leonie's perspective

Chinese New Year Parade

2009-01-18T21:19:00.000+08:00

Recently on January 17, 2009 at the Kota Kinabalu Town Padang, Kota Kinabalu Chinese Chamber of commerce organised a Chinese New year Parade to mark the upcoming year of the Ox in the Chinese Calendar. Below are some pictures taken on the afternoon.

Lion Dance in Action

They are the "Red Bull Girls", we were sponsored 2 cans of the energy drink.

Young Chinese drummers from Sekolah Chung Hwa.

Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry Malaysia, Datuk Liew Vui Keong were among the VIP witnessing the event.

Kudat KKIPC Trip, December 6th - 7th 2008.

2008-12-13T22:24:00.000+08:00

Recently I had the opportunity to go to Kudat with a group of new friends who share the same passion as I do; Photography and sightseeing.

Initially we were quite individualistic, however as we got to know each other and share the same interest, we interacted as if we were friends for years.

It goes to show how common interest could bridge gap of strangers.

Photoshoot outing with Laila & Shirley

2008-12-12T09:57:00.000+08:00

Recently as I was experimenting my camera, my wife Laila and her friend Shirley asked if I could take a few pictures of them. We went out to by the beach to test a few shots. Here we go : .

presenting Shirley and Laila by the beach.

I experimented some photoshop editing here, still got a lot to learn.

That's Shirley by the window of my apartment.

Thats my lovely wife, Laila. She's the pillar of strength for me