Double Standard Practice In Skyscrapercity Forum

Well well well. This is really an interesting night for me. I won't be writing anything about my short retreat here in Thailand on this post, but just thought of writing something a little more interesting. Well, as you all know I am kinda a big fan of posting stuff of skyscrapers, aircrafts and many others regarding massive development projects. Well, skyscrapercity.com is the forum I usually get to see all these amazing stuff that I am really interested to know more about. This is like a gold mine to me. Especially when I spend most of my time in London and New York, I get all the new information to read especially development for Malaysia. 

Also with the celebration of our national day, I guess I should be writing about this. Hahaha.. Well, this is where everyone usually talks about. - Double Standard. I know that this is a forum where everyone can express what they feel about on any kinda thread. But sometimes, it felt really stupid reading all this crap. I don't know why, I just think that unless you express something that is in line with the moderator, you will be fine. If you don't, you will be prime target. 

Honestly, I kinda don't care much any more. Sooner or later, my ID will be banned too if anyone read this? Well, I know the job of being a moderator. But, doesn't it mean you shouldn't be taking sides? Of course, he will always have the reasons to do so. I don't really spend much time on the Malaysia forum as much as I use to. Cause it really makes me sick with all the "drama". 

I know somehow, no one will do anything, nor say anything to change it. Well, if anyone would love to talk about politics, go to the politic thread. But not to every single thread and just blast every single thing here and there. Honestly, there are many of them who totally abide and understand this point. I really admire Diujai if I spelled his ID properly. Even when he is against certain projects, he will just stay out of whatever topic that is not related on "skyscraper". Oh well.. Whatever it is, it's just really no point continue talking. 

No matter who, where, or when, as of now, double standard is still something widely practice through out. Even as  moderator, who was suppose to stand on neutral grounds. But what can we do? Hahaha.. Just read for fun I suppose. 

But there is one quote he put out. I wonder what will happen if he says the same thing in the US or UK forum? Well, maybe this whole forum is created that way. I don't know. He is after-all the moderator and also one of the creator.( From what he says) so.. well, this is how we have to live with it. 

"We are not a democracy nor a beacon of free-speech. You have to live with that." - Szehoong (Moderator of SSC Malaysia Forum)

I know this is only a part of the conversation, but yea, sounds good?  

To criticize and complain is not an offense. Hmm.. So when he was being criticize, what will happen? Check out the thread if you wanna know more. It's just hilarious. 

Even "like" post which are anti-moderator needs a public warning? I know he is running this, but is it really necessary? 

So now talking on other topic and the thread will be shut down. So it makes me wonder, if political views and skyscraper are actually the same thing? Hmm... I should ask my 6 year old cousin? Sorry about the sarcasm, it just makes me laugh all the time when he has nothing to say. 

Best part of this I wanna highlight is this. "We are not a democracy nor a beacon of free-speech. You have to live with that."

Malindo Air Flying To Jakarta & Bali

Malindo Air from late-September 2013 is introducing service to Indonesia, with 1 daily service each on Kuala Lumpur – Jakarta and Kuala Lumpur – Denpasar route. The airline opened reservation for both routes on Thursday 29AUG13.

Kuala Lumpur – Jakarta eff 23SEP13
OD316 KUL1125 – 1230CGK 739 D
OD315 CGK1315 – 1615KUL 739 D

Kuala Lumpur – Denpasar eff 26SEP13
OD306 KUL0920 – 1225DPS 739 D
OD305 DPS1305 – 1605KUL 739 D

On separate note, in Sabre timetable listing, it continues to display Malindo to start service to Kochi and Tiruchirapally from 30 AUG 13, however both destinations remain unavailable for reservation and the airline did not officially announce the launch.

Malaysia Airlines RM56 Merdeka Offer Nationwide

56 years of independence, RM56 all-inclusive one-way fares to all domestic destinations, only for 56 hours! That’s Malaysia Airlines’ way of celebrating Malaysia’s upcoming 56th Hari Merdeka.

This fun and fantastic offer begins at 12.01am on 30 August 2013 and will run for 56 hours, ending at 8.00am on 1 September 2013. Tickets booked during this promotion are valid for travel till 31 December 2013.

The all-inclusive one way fare ‘Merdeka Offer’ to all domestic includes travels to East Malaysia.

According to Malaysia Airlines Regional Senior Vice President Malaysia, Muzammil Mohamad, “We’re celebrating our Nation’s Hari Merdeka big time! For those who did not get to travel and be with their families during the recent Hari Raya Aidil Fitri holidays can now get this fantastic RM56 one-way offer to take a break this weekend or plan for a holiday later in the year.

We are blessed to live in a country with many beautiful places and so much to discover. Malaysia Airlines ‘Merdeka Offer’ is a great opportunity to travel within Malaysia!”

Enrich, the frequent flyer programme of Malaysia Airlines, is also running a contest for members to accumulate up to 56,000 Enrich miles quickly.

To qualify, just fly with Malaysia Airlines to any domestic destination within Malaysia from now till 30 September 2013. To win, send a photo plus caption of something that they love about Malaysia to Instagram with the hashtag #MH56 @malaysiaairlines with their respective Enrich numbers. Simple steps for Enrich members to win 56,000 Enrich miles.

These offers are available to customers at all distribution channels - www.malaysiaairlines.com, Malaysia Airlines 24 hours number 1 300 88 3000, MHmobile, Malaysia Airlines ticket offices and appointed agents throughout Malaysia.

Qantas Reveals New A330 & B717 Seats & Features

Airbus A330

Qantas has unveiled its answer to the Virgin Australia business class seats in the Airbus A330s each carrier uses for key transcontinental Perth routes, and it would be fair to say, the battle of the beds is on.

Although not until late next year! Fitting of the fully flat and parallel to the floor Qantas A330 sleeper seats will not begin until toward the end of 2014, and will also be accompanied by completely new or refurbished economy seating depending on the routes flown.

Qantas has not as yet posted seat maps for the A330s, however the photo at the top of the page strongly suggests that it will use a staggered one by two by one layout in which the large table area beside each seat also houses the extension of the seat behind into the full length sleeping position.

This is what Qantas said about the changes.

Qantas today previewed the new interiors that will feature on its Airbus A330 fleet from late 2014, including Marc Newson-designed Business Suites for international and domestic customers. 

All 30 of Qantas’ A330s will be upgraded with Business Suites in a 1-2-1 layout with fully flat beds and direct aisle access from every seat. Ten A330-300s for Qantas International will feature new Economy seats and 20 A330-200s for Qantas Domestic will see their Economy seats refurbished. 

Uniquely, the new Business Class seats can be left in a recline position for take-off and landing, maximising the opportunity for rest – a key point of difference between Qantas and other carriers flying to Asia. 

In addition to Panasonic inflight entertainment systems, all A330s will be fitted with Qantas’ Q-Streaming technology, which gives customers access to an extensive entertainment library streamed to devices like iPads.

Qantas Group CEO Alan Joyce said the upgrade would set the airline’s product apart from competitors where its A330s do the bulk of their flying – on key Asian routes and on the domestic east-west market. 

“Customers in all parts of the aircraft will notice a significant improvement in comfort when our refreshed A330s start to roll out from the end of 2014,” said Mr Joyce.

“Qantas invented business class and these new Business Suites reflect what we know our customers want, whether they are flying for work or leisure. We’ve created a product that has enough space to dine while working, or if you want to rest, to leave the seat in a recline position from take-off to landing.”

Boeing 717

It also showed off the new product for its five two class Boeing 717s that will from early next year be flown mostly on Canberra routes as a response to the Virgin Australia Embraer E-190 jets.

This is the 717 business class cabin below, comprising three rows of two by two seats.

Qantas summarised the changes as follows. The statement shows that the introduction of the new 717 product will not be at the end of this year, as originally intended.

QantasLink today unveiled new interiors for five of its 110- seat Boeing 717 aircraft, to operate on the Sydney-Canberra, Brisbane-Canberra and Melbourne-Canberra routes, with a Business class cabin and iPad entertainment in every seat. 

“These dedicated B717 aircraft will offer excellent levels of comfort, entertainment, food and wine, delivering on our commitment to continually improve our service,” said Mr Joyce. 

The five new QantasLink B717s, announced in January this year, will be introduced to the domestic fleet during FY14. Qantas Domestic’s 13 other B717s are also being upgraded with new interiors in an all-economy configuration.

Korean Air A380 To Fly From Atlanta To Asia In September

The first commercial A380 flight out of Atlanta Hartsfield International Airport will take off Sunday, 1 September, at 1:10 P.M. Korean Air’s 407-seat A380 will operate Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays 10 time each week before daily service to Asia begins in late October.

“Our A380 flight is a game-changer for the region,” Korean Air Americas Marketing Vice President John Jackson said. “We now offer service to Asia from Atlanta that no one else can meet. Our aircraft is roomier, quieter and more comfortable than any other serving the Southeast. Our traffic between Atlanta and Seoul has been growing at 10 percent per year and it makes good sense to invest in markets that are showing long-term growth.

“Our A380 is configured with fewer seats than any other airline to date and has passenger amenities not offered by any other carrier. Our exclusive upstairs Prestige class, duty-free showcase, Celestial Bar and other lounges, combined with the inherent roominess of the A380 aircraft, provide our passenger with an unparalleled traveling experience.”

The A380 has 12 Kosmo first class suites and 301 Economy Class seats on the first level and 94 lie-flat sleepers six feet apart in the upstairs cabin.

At the base of the spiral staircase leading to the Prestige Class is Korean Air’s Duty Free Showcase, featuring cosmetics, perfumes, liquor, and other accessories, manned by a crew member. Passengers can view and handle the goods before returning to their seats to privately make a purchase.

“Our Celestial Bar offers our premium flyers the ultimate in in-flight style and relaxation,” Jackson said. “The new lounge, at the rear of the upstairs, is a unique mix of Asian aesthetics and functionality and is equipped with a hosted bar serving a range of signature cocktails exclusively created for Korean Air.”

The hosted Celestial Bar is one of three bars total on the A380, with the self-serve bars in First Class and at the front of Prestige Class.

“We’ve established some valuable strategic partnerships with our new A380 service,” Jackson said. “The Celestial Bar is in partnership with Absolut, and our new First and Business Class amenity kits feature DAVI products, the skincare branch of the world renowned Mondavi wine family. The upscale cosmetics are made of grape and wine extracts from California’s Napa Valley, plus a variety of natural extracts.”

Korean Air continues its excellence in dining options by following up its offering of organic salads and breads with low calorie and healthier eating options. The wine list also features wines from California, French and Australian vintages.

Korean Air’s A380 flight from Atlanta joins the airline’s services from Los Angeles and New York to Hong Kong, China, and Frankfurt, Germany.

MTV VMAs 2013: Full Winners List

Incredible!!!

Next to making out with Madonna on stage, Video of the Year is the VMAs most coveted honor!!!

And Justin Timberlake won for Mirrors!!!

AH-Mazing!!

It was no easy feat, either! JT bested Robin Thicke, Taylor Swift, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, and Bruno Mars to do it!

Wow!! What a HUGE night for Justin! Time to celebrate responsibly!

Lady Gaga performs during the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards

VMA viewers yearning for a taste of Lady Gaga's upcoming album "ARTPOP" didn't have to wait long. Gaga opened the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards with a performance of her new single "Applause" that actually started with some boos and jeers from the audience..

Relax, Little Monsters, the unfriendly chorus was all part of the performance, since everyone knew the "Applause" was coming. Gaga sang the opening verse in extreme closeup, revealing a white mask surrounding her face as the only part of her costume. The camera finally panned out to reveal one of Gaga's most bizarre looks yet -- an arty, all-white suit with an oversized, rectangular head. For the rest of "Applause," which she performed alongside a troupe of predominantly male backing dancers, she reprised various looks from throughout her career, like her striking "Fame Monster"-era costume.

It all ended with Gaga stripping down into a "Little Mermaid"-style seashell bikini for the closing moments.

And here are the winners for the VMAs 2013.

Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan and Harry Styles of One Direction speak onstage during the 2013 MTV Video Music Awards at the Barclays Center.

The 2013 MTV Video Music Awards are taking over the streets of Brooklyn at a packed Barclays Center.

 

VIDEO OF THE YEAR"Mirrors"

BEST MALE VIDEOBruno Mars, "Locked Out of Heaven"

ARTIST TO WATCHAustin Mahone

SONG OF THE SUMMEROne Direction, "Best Song Ever"

BEST VIDEO WITH A SOCIAL MESSAGE
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, "Same Love"

BEST FEMALE VIDEO"I Knew You Were Trouble"

BEST HIP-HOP VIDEOMacklemore & Ryan Lewis, "Can't Hold Us"

BEST COLLABORATION
P!nk featuring Nate Ruess, "Just Give Me A Reason"

BEST ROCK VIDEO
30 Seconds to Mars, "Up in the Air"

BEST POP VIDEOSelena Gomez, "Come and Get It"

BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
Macklemore & Ryan Lewis feat. Ray Dalton, "Can’t Hold Us"

BEST ART DIRECTION
Janelle Monae feat. Erykah Badu, "Q.U.E.E.N"

BEST DIRECTION
Justin Timberlake, "Suit and Tie"

BEST CHOREOGRAPHY
Bruno Mars, "Treasure"

BEST VISUAL EFFECTS
Capital Cities, "Safe and Sound"

BEST EDITING
Justin Timberlake, "Mirrors"

Miley Cyrus Unveils 'Bangerz' Album Cover

Miley Cyrus invokes classic '80s album cover elements for the just revealed cover of her upcoming release "Bangerz." The "We Can't Stop" singer tweeted the "Bangerz" album cover Saturday night (August 24), with the note "you know the vintage YSL don't stay on for long."

Cyrus also instagramed a picture of the "Bangerz" cover sitting in what appears to be her seat at Brooklyn's Barclays Center where the MTV Video Music Awards are set to take place tomorrow night (August 25). She is scheduled to perform.

The "Bangerz" cover features Miley in red lipstick and a black ensemble set atop a peach-to-purple background reminiscent of '80s TV staple "Miami Vice" over which snapshots of palm trees are lit up by a neon sign reading "Bangerz." The album is set to arrive on October 8.

The word 'Bangerz' became a worldwide trending topic on Twitter after she tweeted the image.

"Bangerz" single "We Can't Stop" is currently No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Glee Season 5 : From Adam To Demi

Lovato is reportedly signed on for at least six episodes, beginning with part two of the show’s Beatles’ tribute episode on Oct. 3. The X-Factor judge and pop artist has been cast as Dani, a fellow struggling artist who befriends Rachel (Lea Michele) and Santana (Naya Rivera). Though Lovato’s level of interactions with other cast members is unknown, Lovato will definitely be singing a duet with Rivera for a rendition of “Here Comes The Sun,” and will also be performing with Lambert’s character.

Upon hearing the news of Lovato’s casting, Lambert tweeted his excitement, saying, “Excited to sing w you girl!”

Lovato has not yet released a comment on her return to television – this is the first time Lovato will appear in scripted television since she left her Disney show Sonny with a Chance after going to rehab in 2011. However, Michele confirmed the news on Twitter Thursday by publicly thanking showrunner Ryan Murphy for casting “two of my very best friends” – Lovato and Spring Awakening vet Strole.

Glee costar Kevin McHale also hinted at Lovato’s casting in his birthday tweet to the now 21-year-old pop star, writing, “See u soon ;)”

Jane Lynch also commented on the addition of Lovato to the Glee cast, and though she admitted to having little to no knowledge of what the scope of Lovato’s role would be, she was quick to express her joy.

“I’m really happy she’s joining us,” said Jane Lynch.

The creative minds behind Glee have been struggling to rebuild the show's fifth season after the death of star Cory Monteith in July. Monteith, who played Finn on the hit show, died of an accidental overdose at the age of 31. The third episode of the fifth season will act as a tribute episode to him and his beloved character.

Glee returns Thursday Sept. 26 at 9 P.M. on Fox.

Final Chapter : Life, Death & Cancer

After months missing in this series, I guess it's just time for me to finish up this final chapter. To all the survivor out there, you will never be alone. Reach out, Celebrate, Fight and Remember. The last chapter will be about Life, Death and Cancer. Sounds something dark and gloomy? But I can pretty much say it isn't.

"I’m once told my family that I don’t want anyone pounding on my chest or putting tubes down my throat if I stop breathing. I just want to go naturally.”

It’s usually not the act of dying, but the quality of dying that’s the biggest concern at the end of life. Most people who come to accept dying as a natural and normal part of life do not want to prolong the process when it won’t really change the outcome. But thinking about a good death is not something most people do. Some people want to stay at home and have hospice care there. Others choose to go to an assisted living center, a nursing home, or an inpatient hospice program. Some are in the hospital and want any treatment available to keep them alive as long as possible, no matter what their condition might be. Again, you should make the choices that you feel are best for you, your family, and your situation.

The goal of any cancer care is to give you the best possible quality of life. This is a very personal issue. There are ways you can be sure that your family and your cancer care team know what’s important to you and what you want to be able to continue to do.

At this point think not only about how you are going to live the next few months or years, but also try to think about and prepare for how you’re going to die.

If you are someone who has experienced or is experiencing a disease for which there is no definite cure yet, like colon cancer, sometimes you have to make some of the toughest life choices that there are. You really have to rethink a lot of things and examine just how much your life has been changed by the blow that was just dealt to your by fate.

You may curse at whomever you want and blame all sorts of entities for your sickness and wish that someone else got the damned condition that you are now suffering, but the reality is you have to face up to what has now become your life and you may need to revalue a whole lot of things. Things like how you go about your daily activities and how it is necessary for you to make sure that you would have a longer life than the complication would initially give you.

You may also have to let your vanity go, especially if you have qualms about losing your hair to chemotherapy or getting scars that may not really look well when you go to the beach if you undergo a surgical procedure to have the tumor ailing you removed. If you look good but you're going to die in the process then that is your choice and no one will begrudge you for it. It is, after all, your bed and you will have to lie in it yourself. However, if you want a shot at living and if it means that you have given up aesthetic beauty to do it, would you rather live without hair then die with your gorgeous hair. Meds that make you bloat. Up to 70% of your initial weight. But it could drastically drop within days. You will always be in that position where you always see yourself and hating what you are going through. But could we really let go of vanity? Truly letting it all go?

You see, it all comes down to what you want most in life. A thing like this radically changes a person's life. It turns all of their plans inside out and throws a really big monkey wrench in the whole thing. In the event that you do get it all out of your system, you might suddenly find yourself in the midst of a relapse of the disease.

Well, I am not saying this is the worst thing that can ever happen to someone. But base line is I have seen far more worst than mine. Why am I writing all these? Cause somehow I am forcing myself to face facts that I am running away from. Somewhat glad you flew in to be with me again. But practically, I am starting to feel that the wave of emotion tsunami is coming somehow. I am just trying to get myself ready. But how long have it been now? Years and years, and still, accepting this is always something I am running away from. But the least I know for now, I don't have to do it alone.

There is one strong thing I believe that I have to say here. To all the surviving ones and those who are still fighting with cancer. There is one thing I've learn in years is that death isn't a thing we human can make that decision for. Yes no doubt there will come to a time when your doctor will tell you how much time you may left. But one thing I learn from it is they are human. They are predicting what will happen and prepare you for what is going to come. But do remember this

Live your life they way you wanted and don't give in a second to what those words are. They are not the one who will tell you when you will die. As a survivor all these years, one thing I learned is life is something worth living and worth fighting for. When your time is up, there is only one person who can make that call. And we all know who. 

There will always be your up cheery day, and there will be the gloomy once. But everything will rise, and it will eventually past. Don't let anything define what life is about for you. Define your own path, and walk your life the way you want it to be.

The End.

Before I end this Live Today With My All Series, I really wanna say this, without the cancer team and family at ACS, my family member, my love ones, I would never take this step to finish up this. No doubt it is hard, but it is something worth fighting for. Don't give in to cancer. Stand tall and tell the world you are a survivor. You guys were my inspiration and strength all these while. I really hope you will not give up fighting too. And to all the ones that kept me company through out my journey, thank you. (You know who you are) With all these support and love, I know I wouldn't need my mask anymore.

Is "Singer-Songwriter" A Genre?

My dad told me once that jazz was the pop music of the 30s and 40s. “Pop” meaning “popular”. (I can hear the sigh of dawning comprehension!) Eventually many of these songs became “standards”, a term which jazz cats and baby boomers know. (Note: not all jazz was popular and not all popular music was jazz.)

The “popular” style shifted, and now pop has a very specific sound: upbeat and fun, usually about a fluffy topic, geared toward a young audience. It remains the stuff of Top 40s, but it’s definitely its own genre.

Something similar happened with “indie” music. It started out innocently enough; independent bands were doing it themselves, didn’t have the polished studio sound--and even rebelled against it a little. They started shouting “Hey!” a lot. Now, whether or not they have a label, bands can sound “indie”.

I started noticing more and more that music websites were adding “singer-songwriter” as a category. At first, I thought, “How convenient! A category just for me! Now I don’t have to say quirky alternative piano pop!” But then everyone I knew who wrote songs and accompanied themselves started using this term to describe their music.

I began to wonder, “Does this term actually describe my music?”

No!

Like “musician”, “Singer-songwriter” describes what I do (I sing and write songs). But other people have their own associations with that term. They think James Taylor and Joni Mitchell, or Jewel, coffee houses, and living in a van. Not the associations I want to make.

There is no stopping it. Whether or not you agree, “singer-songwriter” is becoming a genre. Side note: you can also use “Adult Alternative” but, again, it describes your audience more than your style [thank you, Alan Monasch for this insight].

“Singer-songwriter” can imply a lot of things:

• You play an instrument
• You write voice/lyric driven music
• Your lyrics are often more poetic/abstract, genuine, and personal
• You perform solo or with interchangeable band members

Are all these things true? Is that what your music boils down to?

Just because you sing and write your own songs doesn’t mean you will necessarily fit into this genre. So if you don’t want to leave it up to someone’s interpretation, you need to come up with a clear, brief, and realistic way to describe yourself. Ask your friends and peers who/what they think of when they hear your music. And use that knowledge to capture the fans who are interested in your niche.

How Singapore's Changi Is Beating Other SE Asian Airports

Singapore’s ambitious project to double its air passenger handling capacity by the mid-2020s is set to extend its lead over neighbours like Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok and Jakarta, whose airports are struggling with congestion and construction delays.

Changi, Southeast Asia’s biggest and most popular international airport, is keen to seize a greater share of a boom in regional traffic, mindful of competitors’ plans to grow into international hubs.

The increased capacity also plays into the hands of budget carriers such as Malaysia’s AirAsia Bhd, Singapore Airlines Ltd affiliate Tiger Airways Holdings Ltd , Qantas Airways Ltd affiliate Jetstar Asia, which is based in Singapore, and Indonesia’s Lion Air.

Low-cost carriers such as these account for a third of Changi’s traffic, up from virtually zero just eight years ago, and are hungry to expand routes and flight frequencies.

The expansion plans, which include a third runway and a fifth terminal by the mid-2020s on top of a fourth already under construction, will double current capacity to around 130 million passengers annually and cement Singapore’s leading role as a hub of Southeast Asian business.

Regional traffic predictions point to the need for bold construction plans as airports will have to double their passenger capacity every 12 years just to keep up, said Andrew Herdman, director-general of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines.

“It’s no good thinking in terms of incremental capacity enhancements of terminals or airports or runways,” he said.

Driven by growing economies and rising middle-class incomes, passenger traffic in Southeast Asia is expected to rise 7.6 per cent a year in the 20 years to 2031, outpacing a global average of 5 per cent, according to research firm Strategic Airport Planning Ltd.

Travel between Southeast Asia and South Asia, for example, is expected to grow even faster, at 9.5 per cent a year.

“Changi has big growth markets such as Vietnam and Indonesia in its region that it can serve. That can drive demand,” said Shukor Yusof, aviation analyst at Standard & Poor’s.

Narrow bodies, many flights

The rapid rise of Asian low cost carriers caught much of the airport industry unprepared and led to Changi’s decision last year to shut a budget terminal and build a larger one, the T4.

“To continue its lead position in the fast-growing Southeast Asian market, Changi needs the space to handle more flights, particularly narrowbody flights as it is the short-haul market that is growing the fastest,” CAPA, an aviation consultancy, said in a report.

The use of narrow bodied aircraft, such as Airbus A320s and Boeing Co 737s, means the number of individual aircraft movements grows more quickly than the actual traffic growth rate, sometimes leading to congestion problems for the region’s airports.

That has not stopped the airlines from going ahead with their expansion plans. Lion Air has existing orders for more than 500 Airbus and Boeing jets, while AirAsia has around 350 A320s still left in its order book.

“As the airport grows, we will have more capacity and opportunities to grow as well so we definitely welcome the good news,” said Logan Velaitham, CEO of AirAsia’s Singapore unit, which has long wanted to set up a joint venture in the city.

For now, Changi does not appear to have a serious challenger to its place as Southeast Asia’s leading international hub.

It has over 630,000 weekly international seats, more than Kuala Lumpur International Airport’s 438,400 and Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi with 274,700 according to CAPA.

For Changi’s rivals, setbacks have come in spades.

Kuala Lumpur International Airport has been working on a 45 million passengers a year terminal to replace a low-cost one but has been plagued by delays, with its opening pushed back three years in a row. It is now slated to open in April 2014.

The postponements have prompted scathing comments for operator Malaysia Airports from AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes who has warned that Kuala Lumpur could be left behind by its neighbours.

But even after the extension, which will double its capacity, the airport will still lack an extensive airline network like Changi, with much of its business reliant on AirAsia.

In terms of overall traffic, Changi was outstripped last year by Jakarta’s Soekarno-Hatta airport which handled 57.8 million passengers in 2012, nearly six million more.

But its flights are largely domestic. Soekarno-Hatta was only built for 22 million passengers, resulting in frequent delays and much congestion. Work has started on an expansion, with an eventual goal of 62 million passenger capacity, but the timeframe for that is unclear.

Political infighting since 2011 has also delayed Airports of Thailand’s expansion of Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi airport. The plans call for capacity to grow by 15 million to 60 million passengers a year by 2017. It also intends to expand the secondary Don Muang airport, which is used by low-cost carriers.

In the wider Asia-Pacific region, other airports are also upping the ante.

Hong Kong International Airport, which handled 56.5 million people in 2012 and is projected to handle 102 million in 2030, is proceeding with a study for a third runway and expanded terminal. Studies are also underway for the expansion of Seoul’s Incheon Airport and for a second airport in Beijing, while debate about a second Sydney airport has also been reignited.

Breathe Again

This one song that I have been looping for days now. A little nostalgic but yet, it's a part of me that made me grew up. The first few lyrics remind me of looking back at the one I loved and was left behind. It was one love that push me over the edge, to love and to hate, and finally, accepting the truth that what I did was wrong. It's a beautiful past. Just wanted to share this bit with the world. 

"Car is parked, bags are packed but what kind of heart doesn't look back? To the comfortable glow of the porch the one I will still call yours" 

It reminds me of no matter how much I convinced myself that person wasn't meant to be a part of my life, I had to look back and I thought of him as having a very soothing presence. This song to me speaks of one who loved another so much that he defined breathing as being with him. He is leaving him but not because he doesn't love him, it's because in his heart he knows he'll never truly love him back. And that they aren't right for each other. 

It still doesn't stop him from thinking of the other as the air he once peacefully breathed in. 

"The love he holds in his hands" 

Is actually the love he has for him, he's given the other person his heart. 

"My burden is a love I can't carry anymore" 

Tell us how badly he wants to hold onto that piece of the other he still has, those memories but loving him is so painful, remembering him hurts so much that he must steel himself to forget. Even trying to let go who is so precious to him is a burden, like loving the other was also a burden. As he looks back all those words he told himself to move on come undone and his resolve is weak. 

He questions if the fire still burns. But he knows moving on is the only right thing to do so. He knows and understands the other so well that he is a reflection of all he is and all he had- Being with him so much has also made him who he is. And he thinks he would kill to go back to the time when he could be with him. 

Loving him until reality came along and made him realize his fate is to move on. He moves on with a heavy heart but always remembers and compares every joy in his life with the joy of knowing him and loving him. 

He tries to forget about him but in the back of his head he is the truest happiness she has ever known. He prays therefore, and his prayer is a form of giving up,- that even though he can't be with him, there must be a hope of them belonging together again someday. That someday he will love him back.

Someday he would be able to laugh in his company again. Someday he might find happiness again even of it means truly forgetting him. And that- that someday, he'll breathe again.

Don't You Get It!!!! ( Anger )

Yes I am pissed! The fact that no one really want this day to be like what I wanted! It really pisses me off! I know that it is something I couldn't control much! But this is something that really matters to me. I don't know what is wrong with me, but I just wanted it to go the way I wanted it to be.

I know the fact that nothing in life goes the way we want things to be. But to show a little more appreciative towards today is all I am asking for. One thing that really gets to my nerves is my Aunt! She is such a pain in the ass! Common! I clearly told you that it is a surprise! Don't you get it? It's a fucking surprise! Of course, you will never get it. It's not your mom to begin with! You could just tell her straight in the face that we are giving her a surprise! You spoiled it all!

And my lil brother! Sometimes, you just don't get what I am trying to say. Yea, you are your father's son! NEVER LISTEN! All you see is me being an angry person! So what I am! It's also my mother's birthday! She gave you everything that you wanted and all you care about is just let it be. Deal with it when it comes. How can I be calm about this! You don't get it that how much today means to me!

Yes, I am angry. And yes, there ain't anything I can do about it. It's just once a year, and no one could even show a little effort and make today a special day. All everyone cares is just about themselves. She worked so hard to give us all the best. And all I see is secondary treatment given to this amazing women who risk her life giving birth to us. Family is just too important to me I think, or I rephrase, my mom is too important to me. She never complains, she never vent her pain, she just keep giving everything she could for all of us.

Am I wanting too much from all this drama? I really need to calm down. I know if I don't, tonight will get even worst for her! Imma just gonna watch Pretty Little Liars till everything calms down. I love you so much mom, but there is just so much I can do for u. I wish I could just do more. Anyway, Happy birthday mom. Losta love and many more to come.

Fiction & Reality

Exploring this idea through a quiet conversation. If you could look through a window that softened the edge between reality and fiction, what would you want to see? What would you want to remember?

But do you remember? I actually don't. That is sad isn't it? Maybe some may say that no, it's not. depends on how you look at it. Of course it's no right and wrong to this. To me, it always sounded neutral, and safe. But that ain't me. 

When being asked, what would you wanna remember? I wonder what does that actually mean. Like something I forgot? But if I really forgotten, how would I know about it, or even have any desire to remember it. But if you could have a memory, real or not, what would it be? 

A fake memory you may ask, it doesn't make any sense. But one thing I can be sure is, as a song writer, sometimes, we do tap into some emotions that were fantasies. It's a part of the creative process. Well, I'm not gonna talk about song writing tonight. Well, have you ever listen into a shell? They say, the sound of the ocean, captured in the shell. It's like a memory. Imagine it now with something different. Something more than just the sound, something just as real. What if we had a chance to remember the things that never actually happen? 

Well, no one would believe it, but then, you believe it. That is all it takes to remember. It's about the feeling, that's what matters. The problem is, some people like their story base on reality, and some like fiction. It's really a contradicting feeling. But no one can deny it's nice to be able to control what happens. 

There is some part of me, wanted the fictional part memory. Lemme just share this memory that I really wished it was real. This very memory that existed a long time that happened or happens. What would I wanna remember. 

I was happy. For one obituary moment, I gathered the courage to let go of myself. I whispers to myself in that beautiful day light by the dock that I usually love to be when I am in Boston. Living in that moment, I was holding a pair of hands. I couldn't see who was it. But I knew, it was the person I will spend the remaining life with. I was happy. 

Well, it's just a fiction. Some says that fiction could be reality. I never deny that and I do believe that. But the only thing I was skeptical with this memory was... I was healthy. I whisper to myself that how wonderful it is to live without this in my body. I could live a normal life. No more chemo, no more radiation therapy, no more 10-12 pills a day. No worries about how my tomorrow will be. But, I am still happy. Because, part of that memory is real. I am not alone. Breaking through pain is like losing life. But wasting life is just wasting away.

You will never have to do this alone. A friend I met when I was having my chemotherapy with had this conversation about fiction and reality. And I have to say, it helps. This simple little memory brings out the strength in you. Reach out, and don't be afraid of being weak. Because being weak actually makes you stronger. And dedicating this post to Marcus. He was the one bright light that helped me through all the difficult times. Even though he isn't here any more, but I will always remember what he told me.

Fiction can be reality. Believe it enough. Even I won't be here any more with you, don't you ever give up on living. 

Britney Spears Teases 'All Eyes On Me' Release with Countdown Clock

The literal countdown to new Britney Spears music has officially begun: on Tuesday morning (Aug. 20), the pop superstar's website featured a timer counting down to the release of something titled "All Eyes On Me."

If "All Eyes On Me" is indeed a new single, it is scheduled for release on Sept. 17 at 9:30 am ET. And if it is indeed a new single, the song will likely lead Spears' hotly anticipated eighth studio album.

On Aug. 14, Spears teased the follow-up to 2011's "Femme Fatale" by telling fans on Twitter, "Patient kiddies! It's coming MUCH sooner than you think ;)." The singer confirmed earlier this summer that Will.i.am will be heavily involved with her next full-length.

"I want to definitely take this album and have a new approach with it and make it a little different than anything I've ever done," she told Ryan Seacrest last month. "Will has a lot of really interesting different tracks that I've listened to that are really cool that I haven't actually written on yet, but there's a lot of guitar and I think people will be surprised with this album. It's gong to be really different."

Earlier this year, Spears scored another Top 5 hit with her Will.i.am collaboration "Scream & Shout." The pop star also released "Ooh La La," the lead single to "The Smurfs 2" soundtrack. Now, all eyes are on Sept. 17 as the (presumed) kickoff to the next phase of Spears' career.

AirAsia Japan Rebranded 'Vanilla Air'

Budget carrier AirAsia Japan is being rebranded as Vanilla Air, the airline announced on Tuesday, with its president saying that vanilla is "loved by everyone in the world".

Executives chose Vanilla Air from over 200 other names, taking a month and a half to decide.

"We chose vanilla as our brand name because it is popular and loved by everyone in the world," the airline's president Tomonori Ishii told a news conference in Tokyo. "I think it is a very cute name."

The name was chosen -- despite its connotations of "boring" or "bland" in the West -- following the break-up of a joint venture between the airline's parent companies, Malaysia-based AirAsia and Japan's All Nippon Airways (ANA), which now wholly owns the carrier.

The airlines announced in June that the joint venture would be terminated by the end of October, just over a year after the carrier began flying out of Tokyo's Narita airport, due to a slump.

Vanilla Air, which will begin flights in late December with two passenger planes to be leased from ANA, is to target travellers heading for resort destinations.

All of AirAsia Japan's 420 staff will now become employees of Vanilla Air.

Ishii said the carrier would remain based at Narita airport, and aims to serve travellers to resort destinations both at home and overseas, mainly in Asia.

"We will begin with short-distance services but want to expand the range to mid- and long-distances in line with ANA's branding strategy," Ishii said, adding that it would also increase the number of airplanes to 10 in 2015.

He said further details about the new operation, including destinations and ticket fees, would be announced in late September.

AirAsia Japan, which was equally controlled by AirAsia and ANA, booked an operating loss of about 3.5 billion yen ($36 million) for the year to March.

Ishii said the slump was partially due to the company's extra focus on online sales -- a key strategy for AirAsia, but many Japanese travellers still book flights through travel agents.

A company spokeswoman said the new company would cooperate with travel agents, while introducing a new online ticketing system that "can be fit to local customers".

AirAsia Japan was one of three budget airlines to come online in Japan over the past couple of years, promising to shake up a sector long controlled by ANA and rival Japan Airlines.

The Japanese aviation industry has been notorious for sky-high landing fees and fuel taxes.

Who, What, When, Where & Why

I love you.

A simple question, "How many have you loved?" Is your answer, one and only? Or is it several, all of whom have shaped your life? I read this on someone I really cared of in life. And I guess it is really something interesting I wanna write about. 

There are 5 of these amazing people that I came across in life that shaped me for who I am today. It doesn't have to be only that kinda romantic love but all kinds of love that we can relate to. When the question how many that I have love before is being put out, I can say I love 5 people before "you". And they were Who, What, When, Where and Why. And this is the story of my love for them. 

Who I love, was a girl from college. (Yes you read it right. A girl) I wasn't really close to her at first. With some superficial facts, and a few actions over the semester, like most guys fantasizing over a girl they barely know. I fill in the blanks like a fairy tale author. And who she became in my head was probably more than the reality. Several time when we get to spend time outside of class, really allows me to see she has a good heart and a bright spirit. I didn't really tell her how I really felt until this very day. The only problem is, sorta just about every other guy. There were times where the cliche girl I knew, may have felt something for the typical crazy awkward music freak that who I was. 

What I love, was an old friend. But she was much more than just a friend. We met in music school when we were just 3, and in touch in the years after. We saw each other grow, and change, and through multiple relationships. (3 for me, and 2 for her.) I saw different boys and girlfriends come and go. She was also there for all of the girlfriend and boyfriend, and break up of mine. Personality, humor, taste, it was all there. Her and I were almost perfect. The only thing wasn't perfect was timing. We were never single at the same time, and when we were, we kinda accepted our orientation fully. What we love about each other, it was never enough to leave who we were with. This is actually something we have to face and accept. And we have to leave behind What we had.

When I love, was the first boyfriend I love when I first came back from the States. It's a bit unfair because he embodies the combination of both love and youth. Feeling of young love is unique and impossible to replicate. Because we can only be that age once. It was a time of innocents, discovery and adventure. We share these 3 elements together and things like our first kiss, late night sneaking out, and early movies where not many people were in the cinema. All of which now have become a nostalgic love. Preserve in a time that neither one of us can touch, but always know it's there. Even though we were young, there is not in a doubt in my mind that When we were there, we were in love. 

Where I love, was a man I was with in Singapore. I never intended to stay or go there that long. It was just a stint that I left KL to live with him there, cause I just somehow came back home from New Zealand. But it all change when I met him. Soon, 6 months had past, and somehow another 6 months after that. I couldn't leave the city. I couldn't leave him. Maybe it was my desire to want things more. Or prove to everyone at home that I could be something more. But he helped me accomplished it over there. With the relationship reflective of the city we were in. A new energy, new experiences that push me to mature more than anyone or anywhere else. When people ask me what city I love the most, I say.. Singapore. The city Where I love the most. 

Why I love is a close friend & family of mine that past away. He told me after he was diagnose that death wasn't what that sadden him the most. The fact that he, felt like he never really fallen in love. He wouldn't get to have those emotions. Good and bad. Of being hurt, and of being held. After he passed, there were words stuck with me the most. Teaching me to see that one of the greatest gifts of being alive is the ability to give and receive and even lose love. There are so many like him I met through the years after my own diagnosis. Whose lives before having any of those experiences. What a waste if you don't  strive to love in our lives. She made me understand why. Why waste this life not loving. 

"You" were the sixth. Which one of the above were you? You were non of them, because you are all of them. You are Who I love, the man on the pedestal, the fantasy, the made believe thing that are actually true. You are What I love, the depth, the inside jokes, the best friend. You are When I love, a new history being started with you. We are the young lovers of the older selves that someday reminisce about. You are Where I love,  because I will go anywhere just to be with you. You are Why I love. Because before you, I didn't truly understand I was looking for. Now that we found each other, you have given my past, & future meaning. You are the sixth and I do want you to be my last. 

‘The Vampire Diaries’ Season 5: New Promotional Cast Photos Released

Some of these images seem inspired by The Great Gatsby, while others show the actors artfully posing in a corner, framed by the shadow of a tree.

We’ve got Nina Dobrev, Paul Wesley, Ian Somerhalder, Candice Accola, Zach Roerig, Kat Graham, Steven R. McQueen and Michael Trevino, along with the Originals trio Claire Holt, Joseph Morgan and Daniel Gillies. And there’s also guest star Torrey DeVitto, who played Dr. Meredith Fell in The Vampire Diaries season 4.

The season 4 DVD and Blu-ray box sets will be released September 3, 2013.

The Vampire Diaries season 5 premieres exactly one month later, on October 3.

The first episode will jump ahead to the fall, to see Elena and Caroline start college. They’ll still be dealing with the death of Bonnie and the return of Jeremy, while Silas is still impersonating Stefan (who’s trapped at the bottom of the lake).

The Vampire Diaries season 5, episode 1 “I Know What You Did Last Summer” airs Thursday, October 3, at 8/7c on The CW. The premiere is directly followed by the series premiere of The Originals spinoff series.