After spending some time reading and commenting on Peter Tan's blog, I am thinking about the issue of 'Dirty Toilets and Dirty Malaysians' and also, 'The Abuse of Disabled Toilets'. It is not the nicest topic in the world, but when we start to think about it and the comments that have been put forward by people who read Peter Tan's blog, I am starting to form some understanding about this issue and the underlying problem.
People inevitably would comment in the lines of 'lack of civic consciousness', 'developing or developed nation but third world mentality', and 'poor upbringing and lack of awareness and education', referring to the abuse of public facilities.
When we analyse this bad attitude in detail, we find that, when one person starts to 'lead' the abuse, like abusing accessible toilets for disabled people, or not cleaning properly a toilet after he or she had used it, and then the next person who uses the toilet, would also follow suit with the bad attitude. (ie Follow the Leader style)...
So what I am saying is tha,t if this happens all over the country, where people take the lead in introducing the bad attitude, then there are many 'bad leaders'. We don't even have to go and do a research, but find out often enough, as we often go out ourselves, that this bad attitude habitually, repeats itself in many places and very often. So what's the deal?
Do we blame it on the lack of design of the toilet, or lack the number of toilet facilities or lack of good management in cleaning toilet facilities or what? The blame could be pointed to the tidak apa (laissez faire) attitude, selfish and me-first stance and also, for some people the blame could be directed to the government on top of that.
Generally, I would argue, in hotels, I do not find the toilets to be as dirty as in the shopping complex. So, could it be that, we tend to behave at places where we will be seen easily after we had done the 'job' (for example the hotel reception staff will notice who came out of the toilets) as oppose to when a person comes out of the toilets in a shopping complex. There are instances where some people do not really care if the toilets that they had just used are clean for the next person to use.
I find that it is odd that some people do not have respect for other people, when they do that sort of thing. Why is that? Does someone owe these disrespectful people something? Maybe, the government owe these disrespectful people something... go on, blame it on the government again!
Of course, we can discuss further in great detail, but I do not want to put off your meal. It is not the best topic in the world. But then I am starting to think, surely everyone was brought up by their parents to respect people and property. What happens as they grew older, though?
I am beginning to worry that Malaysians are getting to be a vengeful lot, deliberately disrespecting people and property, as they go on with their busy lives, with not enough time to make worthwhile activities and just want to get the best for themselves. And not caring what other people think of them, and displaying bad manners and attitude, as abusing toilets, and other things, like fighting for carparks, driving and overtaking wantonly.
You see, these things happen in the UK as well, but only in the minority, whereby in Malaysia, it is the majority. Is education and awareness training missing?
We are too busy chasing some desire, some dream, and we do not care what happens around us. We do not love and care what we have, in terms of civic pride.
Yes, the debate goes on and on...
Thursday, June 30, 2005
Sunday, June 26, 2005
Creating a culture of complaint
Complaint is defined as an "...act or statement to express dissatisfaction at something..."
I became adapt at being a 'serial complainer', if there is such a thing, after joining in the Disability Movement in 1998.
Well, I did not know that I was joining the Disability Movement then, but there is one going on. A conscious effort in trying to improve things for the disabled people, in the world, and my country.
So, I picked up some 'learning' and some 'skills' when I was trained a few times with the UNESCAP since 1998, and even used what I learned to improve my teaching programmes in UM.
Whenever I went to shopping complexes or any buildings in Malaysia, I start 'auditing' the place in my mind and if I come across a problem, ie the lack of disabled toilets, disabled toilets cannot work, or has been used as a storage area, or the lack of parking for the disabled person, I would either go to the reception counter and tell them (which is the least effective), or write a note of complaint and give to the reception (works some time), or write an extensive letter to the Managing Director or Property Manager (usually works, cause I sound like as if I am going to write to STAR or NST or even worse, Malay Mail, if they did not do something, ESPECIALLY when I take a photo of the problem and show to them). That usually nails it!
At the beginning, it was usually a bad feeling of anger and disgust accompanying my complaints, but after being used to doing it, it is just a job. Because we have to do it. We have to press for change and don't give up.
Well, I would like to share my latest entry to Peter Tan's blog, below.
>>>
Peter,
I make it a point (almost every time)to complain to the service provider whenever there is none or lack of services given to the disabled person. Generally, they would comply because they are running a business and bad press is not good for them.
In our complaint, it would be good to give specific suggestions to them, which could include sizes and specifications.
I think if many disabled persons and able-bodied people would show concern for the abuse of using accessible toilets by complaining to the owners of shopping complex EVERY TIME there is cause to complain, they would instruct their staff to be strict with who could use the accessible toilets. And in some places, will start using the 'key system'.
Parents with babies can also start complaining about lack of facilities to have nappy change. So we could expect facilties to be upgraded.
People in general should start complaining about dirty toilets and give suggestions on how to improve.
At first, when we start to complain we would get upset and angry, but after awhile, we keep doing it consciously and we won't feel so bad, and in the long run, we help to contribute to a better environment. It will take time.
(Thanks for sharing your experiences via the blog.)
I became adapt at being a 'serial complainer', if there is such a thing, after joining in the Disability Movement in 1998.
Well, I did not know that I was joining the Disability Movement then, but there is one going on. A conscious effort in trying to improve things for the disabled people, in the world, and my country.
So, I picked up some 'learning' and some 'skills' when I was trained a few times with the UNESCAP since 1998, and even used what I learned to improve my teaching programmes in UM.
Whenever I went to shopping complexes or any buildings in Malaysia, I start 'auditing' the place in my mind and if I come across a problem, ie the lack of disabled toilets, disabled toilets cannot work, or has been used as a storage area, or the lack of parking for the disabled person, I would either go to the reception counter and tell them (which is the least effective), or write a note of complaint and give to the reception (works some time), or write an extensive letter to the Managing Director or Property Manager (usually works, cause I sound like as if I am going to write to STAR or NST or even worse, Malay Mail, if they did not do something, ESPECIALLY when I take a photo of the problem and show to them). That usually nails it!
At the beginning, it was usually a bad feeling of anger and disgust accompanying my complaints, but after being used to doing it, it is just a job. Because we have to do it. We have to press for change and don't give up.
Well, I would like to share my latest entry to Peter Tan's blog, below.
>>>
Peter,
I make it a point (almost every time)to complain to the service provider whenever there is none or lack of services given to the disabled person. Generally, they would comply because they are running a business and bad press is not good for them.
In our complaint, it would be good to give specific suggestions to them, which could include sizes and specifications.
I think if many disabled persons and able-bodied people would show concern for the abuse of using accessible toilets by complaining to the owners of shopping complex EVERY TIME there is cause to complain, they would instruct their staff to be strict with who could use the accessible toilets. And in some places, will start using the 'key system'.
Parents with babies can also start complaining about lack of facilities to have nappy change. So we could expect facilties to be upgraded.
People in general should start complaining about dirty toilets and give suggestions on how to improve.
At first, when we start to complain we would get upset and angry, but after awhile, we keep doing it consciously and we won't feel so bad, and in the long run, we help to contribute to a better environment. It will take time.
(Thanks for sharing your experiences via the blog.)
"Blatant Abuse of Disabled Toilets..."
I could not help it.
I had to add my comments in Peter Tan's blog and be as pedantic as possible...
Here are my comments:
There are facilities that are enjoyed by all people, such as lifts, accessible ramps, low counters, automatic sliding doors, audio announcements in lifts, and others.
There are facilities that should only be used by disabled people, such as accessible toilets* and accessible carpark.
If non-disabled people use them, it is an act of abuse, because the act is 'improper and insulting to disabled people'.
The accessible toilets and accessible carpark was designed with the correct sizes and provisions in order for disabled person to participate and function in civic life, in a meaningful and dignified way. There is an extra 1.2 meters banding at the side of the carpark lot so that a wheelchair can be manouvered. There is a 1.5 meters radius minimum in a disabled toilet, for the same reason, for example.
A wheelchair user IS NOT ABLE TO USE a toilet without the correct size. The accessible toilet was DESIGNED FOR the disabled user.
Remember that, a person with kidney problems will have his/her condition worsened if he/she delay in using the toilet. A person with chronic arthritis have to endure prolonged pain when he/she does not get to sit immediately.
It is a basic right to have these facilities, not a luxury.
Don't correct the disabled person, correct the disabling environment and attitude!
* (Some accessible toilets could be equipped with nappy changing facilities, if there is lack of space.)
I had to add my comments in Peter Tan's blog and be as pedantic as possible...
Here are my comments:
There are facilities that are enjoyed by all people, such as lifts, accessible ramps, low counters, automatic sliding doors, audio announcements in lifts, and others.
There are facilities that should only be used by disabled people, such as accessible toilets* and accessible carpark.
If non-disabled people use them, it is an act of abuse, because the act is 'improper and insulting to disabled people'.
The accessible toilets and accessible carpark was designed with the correct sizes and provisions in order for disabled person to participate and function in civic life, in a meaningful and dignified way. There is an extra 1.2 meters banding at the side of the carpark lot so that a wheelchair can be manouvered. There is a 1.5 meters radius minimum in a disabled toilet, for the same reason, for example.
A wheelchair user IS NOT ABLE TO USE a toilet without the correct size. The accessible toilet was DESIGNED FOR the disabled user.
Remember that, a person with kidney problems will have his/her condition worsened if he/she delay in using the toilet. A person with chronic arthritis have to endure prolonged pain when he/she does not get to sit immediately.
It is a basic right to have these facilities, not a luxury.
Don't correct the disabled person, correct the disabling environment and attitude!
* (Some accessible toilets could be equipped with nappy changing facilities, if there is lack of space.)
Disability Issues (1)
I posted a comment on Peter Tan's blog. It is shown below.
I was quite pissed off when in another of Tan's post, someone commented in a demeaning manner saying that, she had the right to use the accessible toilet if she is in an emergency like (believe it or not) bleeding in her undies. Well, my argument is in my comment.
The point of the matter is, okay, please 'shut-up' and just keep quiet about it if you had use the accessible toilet, but don't go about demeaning people, and putting them down. (By equating menstruation problems with chronic arthritis or serious kidney problem.)
It is 'no joke'.
She did not directly put down disabled people, but you can see from the comments how demeaning it is and also other patronising comments there besides hers. (Comments were under the post - Blatant Abuse of Disabled Toilets).
Here was my comment:
If I may add, in the UK, they have to lock up toilets for disabled people as well, especially in high human traffic volume area, like railway stations and shopping complexes. So, they have to find the janitor and get the keys off them.
We need to remind ourselves that the facilities for disabled people are not luxuries, but basic needs. Be it lifts, accessible ramps, refuge areas at fire staircase lobbies, accessible carpark, audio announcements, loop induction aid for hearing, and all sorts of services are designed with the correct sizes and features, so that disabled people can manage like everyone else in an environment that was created to make it difficult for disabled people to conduct their lives meaningfully and with dignity.
I know of wheelchair users who could easily get kidney infections if they delay in using the toilets, or elderly people whose arthritis will act up so badly and painfully if they could not get a seat on the bus immediately.
Everyone should fight for the rights of the disabled people to access all services and goods in this country equally like everyone else.
Remember, it is not the person, but the environment that is disabling, be it physical or social.
"...Over the past 20 years, a competing view known as the social model of disability has come to the fore. In this model, disability is seen more as a social construction than a medical reality. An individual may be impaired by a condition that requires daily living adaptations, but the bulk of his problem - his disability - can be found in the attitudinal and physical barriers erected by society..." http://encyclopedia.laborlawtalk.com/Disability
I was quite pissed off when in another of Tan's post, someone commented in a demeaning manner saying that, she had the right to use the accessible toilet if she is in an emergency like (believe it or not) bleeding in her undies. Well, my argument is in my comment.
The point of the matter is, okay, please 'shut-up' and just keep quiet about it if you had use the accessible toilet, but don't go about demeaning people, and putting them down. (By equating menstruation problems with chronic arthritis or serious kidney problem.)
It is 'no joke'.
She did not directly put down disabled people, but you can see from the comments how demeaning it is and also other patronising comments there besides hers. (Comments were under the post - Blatant Abuse of Disabled Toilets).
Here was my comment:
If I may add, in the UK, they have to lock up toilets for disabled people as well, especially in high human traffic volume area, like railway stations and shopping complexes. So, they have to find the janitor and get the keys off them.
We need to remind ourselves that the facilities for disabled people are not luxuries, but basic needs. Be it lifts, accessible ramps, refuge areas at fire staircase lobbies, accessible carpark, audio announcements, loop induction aid for hearing, and all sorts of services are designed with the correct sizes and features, so that disabled people can manage like everyone else in an environment that was created to make it difficult for disabled people to conduct their lives meaningfully and with dignity.
I know of wheelchair users who could easily get kidney infections if they delay in using the toilets, or elderly people whose arthritis will act up so badly and painfully if they could not get a seat on the bus immediately.
Everyone should fight for the rights of the disabled people to access all services and goods in this country equally like everyone else.
Remember, it is not the person, but the environment that is disabling, be it physical or social.
"...Over the past 20 years, a competing view known as the social model of disability has come to the fore. In this model, disability is seen more as a social construction than a medical reality. An individual may be impaired by a condition that requires daily living adaptations, but the bulk of his problem - his disability - can be found in the attitudinal and physical barriers erected by society..." http://encyclopedia.laborlawtalk.com/Disability
Thursday, June 23, 2005
Preparing for my Trip again...
The past few days, besides getting ill, I had been writing to prospective interviewees to make my trip to London on the 7-12th July 2005 worthwhile. So far I had confirmed a meeting with Tony Crosby at the Heritage Lottery Fund for the 11th July, and will meet Valerie Wenham at Morden Hall Park on the 10th July. Ms Wenham had worked for the National Trust for 20 years as an Access Advisor and now she is with the Historic Houses Association.
I shall discuss about the trip to Morden Hall Park after meeting Ms Valerie and her husband.
As I know more about the development of heritage properties in England and Wales, I noted that the Heritage Lottery Fund, by making disabled access a major requirement on applicants getting funding to their project, it has set an important precedent of how to incorporate access features and benefiting from it.
"... The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) was set up by Parliament in 1994 to give grants to a wide range of projects involving the local, regional and national heritage of the United Kingdom. We distribute a share of the money raised by the National Lottery for Good Causes..." (from the website)
I wish that we have a similar funding body in Malaysia. I know that MAGNUM, SPORTS TOTO and a few other gambling companies do give money to charity, but this is totally different approach. When I was in the UK in the mid and late 80s, there was no such thing as the National Lottery. But the government intentionally created it to get the funds to regenerate art and culture (among other things) in their country.
We could not imagine a similar thing to happen in Malaysia, as gambling is not permitted for Muslims. In the 70s, I remember that we had a similar situation with what the UK is doing now. Every week, they show on television, numbers on balls being taken out from a cage and the winning numbers being announced. People would buy these lottery tickets from supermarkets and corner shops. I remember my mother dabbling in that for awhile before she got interested in the stocks exchange when we were in Penang.
Now, people are more conscious of being a better Muslim and although people do dabble in it, it is not prominent.
I think providing funding for art and culture projects via a lottery is not totally gambling. I think there is a way round this, as I see the effort in the UK really paving the way to a real love of heritage properties and when HLF manages to insist on access for the disabled people, it proves to be a catalyst for much success.
I shall discuss about the trip to Morden Hall Park after meeting Ms Valerie and her husband.
As I know more about the development of heritage properties in England and Wales, I noted that the Heritage Lottery Fund, by making disabled access a major requirement on applicants getting funding to their project, it has set an important precedent of how to incorporate access features and benefiting from it.
"... The Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) was set up by Parliament in 1994 to give grants to a wide range of projects involving the local, regional and national heritage of the United Kingdom. We distribute a share of the money raised by the National Lottery for Good Causes..." (from the website)
I wish that we have a similar funding body in Malaysia. I know that MAGNUM, SPORTS TOTO and a few other gambling companies do give money to charity, but this is totally different approach. When I was in the UK in the mid and late 80s, there was no such thing as the National Lottery. But the government intentionally created it to get the funds to regenerate art and culture (among other things) in their country.
We could not imagine a similar thing to happen in Malaysia, as gambling is not permitted for Muslims. In the 70s, I remember that we had a similar situation with what the UK is doing now. Every week, they show on television, numbers on balls being taken out from a cage and the winning numbers being announced. People would buy these lottery tickets from supermarkets and corner shops. I remember my mother dabbling in that for awhile before she got interested in the stocks exchange when we were in Penang.
Now, people are more conscious of being a better Muslim and although people do dabble in it, it is not prominent.
I think providing funding for art and culture projects via a lottery is not totally gambling. I think there is a way round this, as I see the effort in the UK really paving the way to a real love of heritage properties and when HLF manages to insist on access for the disabled people, it proves to be a catalyst for much success.
Wednesday, June 22, 2005
Accessibility (1)
Do you know the meaning of Accessibility?
In Malaysia, we know how difficult it is to get access to do the shopping, go to the bank, go to the cinema, the dentist, doctor's clinic etcetera. Assuming we can drive a car. When we arrive at the destination, we cannot find a carpark close enough, and then when we did find one, we cannot get out. And we have to walk around the block to find the place. And then we cannot climb the steps, and open the door. And that's just for the physically disabled.
Anyway, I read this article in News Straits Times online and would like to share it with you. It was dated June 20, 2005.
>>>
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Syed Razak Syed Zain today acknowledged that facilities for the disabled in many State Government buildings here are severely lacking.
He recently directed the State Public Works Department to equip those premises with ramps and disabled-friendly toilets.
"No, I am not doing this because I am now slightly handicapped," he jested, referring to the mild paralysis of his left hand and leg.
"I am doing this because there are many disabled people in Kedah who have been forced to stay at home although they have healthy minds.
"The department must identify the buildings and take the necessary action fast."
Syed Razak was speaking to reporters after receiving the State’s highest award, the Darjah Utama Seri Mahawangsa Yang Amat DiHormati (DMK), from the Sultan of Kedah on his 77th birthday, at Istana Anak Bukit.
The newly-introduced award carries the title "Datuk Seri Utama".
Relating a case, Syed Razak said a physically handicapped relative of his was forced to stay indoors until he died of old age because his parents were ashamed of him and public facilities for the disabled were non-existent then.
He said most recently-built government buildings, including the seat of the State Government at Wisma Darul Aman, had disabled-friendly facilities.
Citing an example of the opposite, he noted that Stadium Darul Aman, where most major sporting activities in the State were held, was ill-equipped in terms of ramps, seats and special toilets for the disabled.
"All buildings, offices and recreational parks run by the State must now be equipped with facilities for the disabled," he said.
"Once this is done, Alor Star can some day organise a national-level special sports meet for the disabled."
He added that the owners of private buildings, especially banks and utility companies, should take the cue on this from the State Government.
<<<
I wonder if we have anybody in Kedah that could champion Access for Disabled People?
In Malaysia, we know how difficult it is to get access to do the shopping, go to the bank, go to the cinema, the dentist, doctor's clinic etcetera. Assuming we can drive a car. When we arrive at the destination, we cannot find a carpark close enough, and then when we did find one, we cannot get out. And we have to walk around the block to find the place. And then we cannot climb the steps, and open the door. And that's just for the physically disabled.
Anyway, I read this article in News Straits Times online and would like to share it with you. It was dated June 20, 2005.
>>>
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Syed Razak Syed Zain today acknowledged that facilities for the disabled in many State Government buildings here are severely lacking.
He recently directed the State Public Works Department to equip those premises with ramps and disabled-friendly toilets.
"No, I am not doing this because I am now slightly handicapped," he jested, referring to the mild paralysis of his left hand and leg.
"I am doing this because there are many disabled people in Kedah who have been forced to stay at home although they have healthy minds.
"The department must identify the buildings and take the necessary action fast."
Syed Razak was speaking to reporters after receiving the State’s highest award, the Darjah Utama Seri Mahawangsa Yang Amat DiHormati (DMK), from the Sultan of Kedah on his 77th birthday, at Istana Anak Bukit.
The newly-introduced award carries the title "Datuk Seri Utama".
Relating a case, Syed Razak said a physically handicapped relative of his was forced to stay indoors until he died of old age because his parents were ashamed of him and public facilities for the disabled were non-existent then.
He said most recently-built government buildings, including the seat of the State Government at Wisma Darul Aman, had disabled-friendly facilities.
Citing an example of the opposite, he noted that Stadium Darul Aman, where most major sporting activities in the State were held, was ill-equipped in terms of ramps, seats and special toilets for the disabled.
"All buildings, offices and recreational parks run by the State must now be equipped with facilities for the disabled," he said.
"Once this is done, Alor Star can some day organise a national-level special sports meet for the disabled."
He added that the owners of private buildings, especially banks and utility companies, should take the cue on this from the State Government.
<<<
I wonder if we have anybody in Kedah that could champion Access for Disabled People?
Monday, June 20, 2005
Sense of Place and Scale
There is a case for conservation, adaptive re-use and rehabilitation of old buildings, as oppose to trying to create new buildings that tries to capture the traits of the old.
Two examples are given here. Angel Square Office and Shad Thames. The selection is random, but I believe I could make my point just as well with these two examples.
Angel Square Offices (late 80s) 
The above is the Angel Square Office, which is basically a speculative five storey office building divided into four blocks, with an inner courtyard area that people can pass through. The photo above illustrates the change of levels made by the higher street level from one end of the entrance, where at the bottom of the steps, you would notice, a curious Aldo Rossi -like folly in the corner of the courtyard that denotes the entrance to one of the blocks of offices. (We were into Neo-Rationalism and Rossi was often the favourite in the 80s).
I was involved in the design of this building as a year out student at Rock Townsend in 1987-88. I knew the intention of why we designed it as such, and much of the style of the building was imposed upon us by the Islington City Council, who insisted on breaking up the massive office block look and make it sympathise with the character of Islington High Street, that is more humane and smaller in scale.
Here is a prime example of trying to make an office block feel 'older' and humane, but of course, the commercial interest and cost-cutting objectives are of paramount importance to the developer. We tried to recreate the feel of Victorian Gothic revivalism by using bands of stone and bricks of different colours and texture, complete with recesses, corbelling, extended embellishments and the like.
We also need to consider that Angel Square Offices face a busy thoroughfare compared to the back streets of Shad Thames and the idea of a grand building was at the back of the designer's mind.
Shad Thames Redevelopment (late 90s to early 00s)
Comparing Angel Square to the redevelopment projects of Shad Thames near the Design Museum, where old buildings were rehabilitated and adapted to a new different use, often shops and offices, and completed with touches of the contemporary style. The spiral staircase (possibly new) depicted in the photo above created some focus by enhancing the existing features, and the Sense of Scale is arguably achieved at a fraction of the price of what we had to do earlier at Angel Square.
I have not done enough research on Shad Thames but I am using these photos to illustrate and compare the Sense of Place and Scale that is evident in these two examples.
Facing River Thames, Shad Thames warehouse buildings were adapted and re-used, while the boardwalk enhanced, and fancy restaurants face the river. Certainly, Shad Thames of the old where the ships docked and prepared on the arduous journeys to the East, and where mariners and sailors cavorted with prostitutes, now is gentrified as chic London.
Has the Sense of Place cease to be? Even so, the Sense of Scale is still very much there, I believe.
Two examples are given here. Angel Square Office and Shad Thames. The selection is random, but I believe I could make my point just as well with these two examples.
Angel Square Offices (late 80s) The above is the Angel Square Office, which is basically a speculative five storey office building divided into four blocks, with an inner courtyard area that people can pass through. The photo above illustrates the change of levels made by the higher street level from one end of the entrance, where at the bottom of the steps, you would notice, a curious Aldo Rossi -like folly in the corner of the courtyard that denotes the entrance to one of the blocks of offices. (We were into Neo-Rationalism and Rossi was often the favourite in the 80s).
I was involved in the design of this building as a year out student at Rock Townsend in 1987-88. I knew the intention of why we designed it as such, and much of the style of the building was imposed upon us by the Islington City Council, who insisted on breaking up the massive office block look and make it sympathise with the character of Islington High Street, that is more humane and smaller in scale.
Here is a prime example of trying to make an office block feel 'older' and humane, but of course, the commercial interest and cost-cutting objectives are of paramount importance to the developer. We tried to recreate the feel of Victorian Gothic revivalism by using bands of stone and bricks of different colours and texture, complete with recesses, corbelling, extended embellishments and the like.
We also need to consider that Angel Square Offices face a busy thoroughfare compared to the back streets of Shad Thames and the idea of a grand building was at the back of the designer's mind.
Shad Thames Redevelopment (late 90s to early 00s)
Comparing Angel Square to the redevelopment projects of Shad Thames near the Design Museum, where old buildings were rehabilitated and adapted to a new different use, often shops and offices, and completed with touches of the contemporary style. The spiral staircase (possibly new) depicted in the photo above created some focus by enhancing the existing features, and the Sense of Scale is arguably achieved at a fraction of the price of what we had to do earlier at Angel Square.
I have not done enough research on Shad Thames but I am using these photos to illustrate and compare the Sense of Place and Scale that is evident in these two examples.
Facing River Thames, Shad Thames warehouse buildings were adapted and re-used, while the boardwalk enhanced, and fancy restaurants face the river. Certainly, Shad Thames of the old where the ships docked and prepared on the arduous journeys to the East, and where mariners and sailors cavorted with prostitutes, now is gentrified as chic London.
Has the Sense of Place cease to be? Even so, the Sense of Scale is still very much there, I believe.
Sunday, June 19, 2005
Being an Architect in Malaysia (1)
Yesterday I had a conversation with two 30 something young architects. They were students of mind when I was teaching at UTM from 1991-94. Both of them obtained their RIBA Part 3 a few years ago and are practicing in Manchester. They are married to each other, with no kids, and had just recently been back home in Malaysia for a 4 weeks holiday.
I end up having philosophical conversations with them every time I meet them, which is not often. The topics are often rehash of the old ones, and centered around issues, such as, 'of being a Malaysian', 'going back to Malaysia' and 'the prospect of returning home from abroad'. If I was their age, I would delay coming back to Malaysia as much as I can. In fact, in 1991, I did not want to return home but was forced to due to the recession in the U.K.
As I am 10 years older than them, and have to honour my contract to return soon enough, this is not an issue for me personally. But I was curious as how they see it. I reflected with them on the issue of the prospects of being an architect in Malaysia. I asked them this question as one of them has a brother-in-law who had decided to quit at 30 something and sell Amway products, via direct-selling and practices architecture in a part-time basis. Perhaps he has made a decision to take it easy and control his time on his own terms rather than be dictated by the whims of working for someone in an architectural practice, where it is known that one works overtime almost everyday, and even on weekends. Or perhaps there is the bigger picture of working prospects, quality of working life and deep seated dissatisfaction at the state of affairs of working as an architect in Malaysia.
I asked my two protagonists hypothetically, which of the two architects, one in the U.K. and one in Malaysia, at 30 something would have a better prospect of continuing being an architect in the industry or profession and be happy developing as an architect until he or she retires. Both of them answered, " The architect in the U.K. would have a better prospect, irregardless of where he or she comes from."
If you have been trained as an architect, partly or with a full registration, a Malaysian, working local or abroad, you probably know of many, many architects being disillusioned at the prospect of continually being an architect until you retire in Malaysia.
We reflected on the fact that in Malaysia, there may be a problem of 'politics' working in a practice in Malaysia or/and the 'lack of support' from PAM (Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia), an equivalent of RIBA, to help and nurture young architects working in the industry, as for example the rate of passing the Part 3 examinations (in order to be a registered architect) in Malaysia is 17 - 30 % compared to approximately 60% in the U.K. I know this for a fact because I have many friends, in Malaysia, who tried valiantly to pass this exam, for the third of fourth time, and are still unsuccessful. At the age of 40 something, I could imagine the frustration that they have to go through. One of them told me a few years ago, " I don't know what else I could have done. I thought I have prepared the best way (after two earlier attempts)..."
We know for a fact that there are architects who heads very successful practices, who do not possess a Part 3 registration from PAM. They had just decided that it is no use waiting and fighting and got on with the job they do best, and let their partners who has the qualification sign the documents of contract for the practice. It is not such a big deal at the end of the day.
But is getting a Part 3 registration the biggest issue on the prospect of being an architect in Malaysia?
I do not think so, as I had quite a few of those qualified with Part 3 thinking of having a career in teaching architecture so quickly in their prime. When I pose them 3 basic questions about why they want to teach, they had to ponder why they are making that move towards teaching. For example, one individual still have not answered those 3 questions and made any attempts to pursue teaching until now.
But the basic question still remain. I have also known people who decided to sell carpets or venture on a totally different business from being a practicing architect or related professions (being a contractor, supplier and other construction related jobs) in their mid and late 30s. Whereby, you could imagine these very same people continue being an architect in the U.K. until their late 50s.
The discussion will continue...
I end up having philosophical conversations with them every time I meet them, which is not often. The topics are often rehash of the old ones, and centered around issues, such as, 'of being a Malaysian', 'going back to Malaysia' and 'the prospect of returning home from abroad'. If I was their age, I would delay coming back to Malaysia as much as I can. In fact, in 1991, I did not want to return home but was forced to due to the recession in the U.K.
As I am 10 years older than them, and have to honour my contract to return soon enough, this is not an issue for me personally. But I was curious as how they see it. I reflected with them on the issue of the prospects of being an architect in Malaysia. I asked them this question as one of them has a brother-in-law who had decided to quit at 30 something and sell Amway products, via direct-selling and practices architecture in a part-time basis. Perhaps he has made a decision to take it easy and control his time on his own terms rather than be dictated by the whims of working for someone in an architectural practice, where it is known that one works overtime almost everyday, and even on weekends. Or perhaps there is the bigger picture of working prospects, quality of working life and deep seated dissatisfaction at the state of affairs of working as an architect in Malaysia.
I asked my two protagonists hypothetically, which of the two architects, one in the U.K. and one in Malaysia, at 30 something would have a better prospect of continuing being an architect in the industry or profession and be happy developing as an architect until he or she retires. Both of them answered, " The architect in the U.K. would have a better prospect, irregardless of where he or she comes from."
If you have been trained as an architect, partly or with a full registration, a Malaysian, working local or abroad, you probably know of many, many architects being disillusioned at the prospect of continually being an architect until you retire in Malaysia.
We reflected on the fact that in Malaysia, there may be a problem of 'politics' working in a practice in Malaysia or/and the 'lack of support' from PAM (Pertubuhan Arkitek Malaysia), an equivalent of RIBA, to help and nurture young architects working in the industry, as for example the rate of passing the Part 3 examinations (in order to be a registered architect) in Malaysia is 17 - 30 % compared to approximately 60% in the U.K. I know this for a fact because I have many friends, in Malaysia, who tried valiantly to pass this exam, for the third of fourth time, and are still unsuccessful. At the age of 40 something, I could imagine the frustration that they have to go through. One of them told me a few years ago, " I don't know what else I could have done. I thought I have prepared the best way (after two earlier attempts)..."
We know for a fact that there are architects who heads very successful practices, who do not possess a Part 3 registration from PAM. They had just decided that it is no use waiting and fighting and got on with the job they do best, and let their partners who has the qualification sign the documents of contract for the practice. It is not such a big deal at the end of the day.
But is getting a Part 3 registration the biggest issue on the prospect of being an architect in Malaysia?
I do not think so, as I had quite a few of those qualified with Part 3 thinking of having a career in teaching architecture so quickly in their prime. When I pose them 3 basic questions about why they want to teach, they had to ponder why they are making that move towards teaching. For example, one individual still have not answered those 3 questions and made any attempts to pursue teaching until now.
But the basic question still remain. I have also known people who decided to sell carpets or venture on a totally different business from being a practicing architect or related professions (being a contractor, supplier and other construction related jobs) in their mid and late 30s. Whereby, you could imagine these very same people continue being an architect in the U.K. until their late 50s.
The discussion will continue...
Saturday, June 18, 2005
Giant Red Sequoia
Are giant red sequoias only found in California?
Giant Red Sequoia from California
This tree was found in Cambridge. In the Botanical Garden grounds to be exact. The Homo sapiens in the photo is me, to illustrate the scale difference undoubtedly, as you cannot really tell who it is...and the red pair of crutches is barely recognisable!
I don't mind being used as a scale. I do that with people in my photography as well, especially when taking shots of buildings. When it happens to you, you have got to take it.
The Botanical Garden in Cambridge is absolutely a wonderful place to walk around. Went there last last week, and some plants were blooming and flowering, and the bees were buzzing like mad. I went there in early Spring and it is really nice to see the difference in patterns of growth. It is an adventure to me.
It was nice kicking the pine cones about and rustling the plastic bags and fooling the ducks. They all came waddling to us, when we rustled the bags, because people come to feed them food from plastic bags. But there were some smart ones who knew what we were up to, so they preened themselves rather. They have such lovely glistening aquamarine colour heads with different shades. You cannot find those shades from a paint tube...
Giant Red Sequoia from California
This tree was found in Cambridge. In the Botanical Garden grounds to be exact. The Homo sapiens in the photo is me, to illustrate the scale difference undoubtedly, as you cannot really tell who it is...and the red pair of crutches is barely recognisable!
I don't mind being used as a scale. I do that with people in my photography as well, especially when taking shots of buildings. When it happens to you, you have got to take it.
The Botanical Garden in Cambridge is absolutely a wonderful place to walk around. Went there last last week, and some plants were blooming and flowering, and the bees were buzzing like mad. I went there in early Spring and it is really nice to see the difference in patterns of growth. It is an adventure to me.
It was nice kicking the pine cones about and rustling the plastic bags and fooling the ducks. They all came waddling to us, when we rustled the bags, because people come to feed them food from plastic bags. But there were some smart ones who knew what we were up to, so they preened themselves rather. They have such lovely glistening aquamarine colour heads with different shades. You cannot find those shades from a paint tube...
Thursday, June 16, 2005
Yesterday's Seminar
Yesterday, I attended a seminar organised by the English Heritage, National Trust and Disability Rights Commission on Historic Environment at the Liverpool Anglican Cathedral.
There were really only two participants and three speakers, plus three others from the organisors. However it was lively as the two participants including myself were animated in discussion along with the speakers. It was a good networking prospect.
What is particularly interesting on the issues raised by the speakers were issues that I had increasingly being aware of in my research of late. These are; Disability Awareness (relating to managing the services for the public), the Idea of Significance in the Historic Environment and Consultation with the Users. In fact, I can safely say that these are the main issues to the whole issue of Acess to Historic Environment in England and Wales, now. I would even go far as to start my PhD thesis conclusions on these issues.
There were really only two participants and three speakers, plus three others from the organisors. However it was lively as the two participants including myself were animated in discussion along with the speakers. It was a good networking prospect.
What is particularly interesting on the issues raised by the speakers were issues that I had increasingly being aware of in my research of late. These are; Disability Awareness (relating to managing the services for the public), the Idea of Significance in the Historic Environment and Consultation with the Users. In fact, I can safely say that these are the main issues to the whole issue of Acess to Historic Environment in England and Wales, now. I would even go far as to start my PhD thesis conclusions on these issues.
Revisit
During April this year, I went to Islington to interview Alan Stanton, quite a famous architect. His office is in Diespeker Wharf near the Angel Tube Station.
Diespeker Wharf
There is history at this area for me. I take the number 73 bus for a couple of years in the lates 80s and early 90s to get to work and one of the projects that I did for Rock Townsend during my year out was the Angel Square Office Blocks. Part of it is shown below.
This was the scene at the canal which leads to Stanton's office and because I was too early for the appointment ( I showed up at the office at 11 am, when it was suppose to be 2 pm...) so I had to while my time away at this canal.
Diespeker Wharf
There is history at this area for me. I take the number 73 bus for a couple of years in the lates 80s and early 90s to get to work and one of the projects that I did for Rock Townsend during my year out was the Angel Square Office Blocks. Part of it is shown below.
This was the scene at the canal which leads to Stanton's office and because I was too early for the appointment ( I showed up at the office at 11 am, when it was suppose to be 2 pm...) so I had to while my time away at this canal.
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Blakeney, Morston Quay, Langham...
I mentioned about Langham Village in the post before this. It is really a village with one pub. We could not even find a grocery store, so provisions had to be bought at Blakeney a coastal tourist spot. The tide was not high enough, so the boats set sail from Morston Quay.
The boat from Morston Quay took us to where there is a reserved area for seals and birds. We took the earliest boat, so that was a good choice as the seals were sunning themselves exuberantly, belly up and a few went swimming as we passed them by. There were scores of them, grey ones, brown ones and white ones... big ones and small baby seals... The kids in the boat were so excited, and that also include those below the age of 5!
We stayed at a place called the Well Barn, which was a barn that had been refurbished and built extensively to be a self-catering cottage. See me with the Well Barn behind!
The boat from Morston Quay took us to where there is a reserved area for seals and birds. We took the earliest boat, so that was a good choice as the seals were sunning themselves exuberantly, belly up and a few went swimming as we passed them by. There were scores of them, grey ones, brown ones and white ones... big ones and small baby seals... The kids in the boat were so excited, and that also include those below the age of 5!
We stayed at a place called the Well Barn, which was a barn that had been refurbished and built extensively to be a self-catering cottage. See me with the Well Barn behind!
Around Cambridge
I stayed at Cambridge and went on a three day break to Langham Village sometime last March and April for about 2 weeks. We had evening drives around the Cambridge area and I found out that there is a designated Green Belt around Cambridge, so you won't get industrial sites and housing estates sprouting like mushrooms, and a very scenic drive indeed.
One of the places that we toured was the Devil's Dyke, which is a very long ditch that was built during the Roman Times sited across fields connecting different towns. Devil's Dyke Info
Looking far ahead yonder to find the end of the Devil's Dyke, but no where in sight!
Tired from relentless archaelogical pursuits the traveller takes a breather upon the Devil's Dyke.
One of the places that we toured was the Devil's Dyke, which is a very long ditch that was built during the Roman Times sited across fields connecting different towns. Devil's Dyke Info
Looking far ahead yonder to find the end of the Devil's Dyke, but no where in sight!
Tired from relentless archaelogical pursuits the traveller takes a breather upon the Devil's Dyke.
Thursday, June 09, 2005
Manchester City Football Stadium Tour
Marcus, my supervisor and I went on the Manchester City Football Stadium Tour last year, and I decided to sit on the manager's seat, at that time, it was Kevin Keegan. He was a Liverpool player in the 70s, so that was the thrill of posing on his chair.
Recently, I went to the same tour again with Judy Wee last Friday, and they had replaced Kevin Keegan with Stuart Pierce, who did well, to be fair. But there was no thrill as he was a Nottingham Forest player, as we know it, so... In fact everyone in the tour party was not that excited unlike the Liverpool Football Stadium Tour that I went with my family! What a difference in emotion and sentimental association...
The stadium which had won the First Prize in the RIBA Inclusive Design Award,had originally been conceived and built for the 2002 Commonwealth Games.They had refurbished and added more seatings, for a total of 48,500 seats.
Manchester City Football Stadium Info
The tour guide said that there were about 200 or more seats for the disabled spectator, and Judy and I gasped in appreciation. "Yes, that would have cliched the First Prize beating the likes of the Manchester Chinese Art Centre and the Manchester Museum..." I thought secretly.
Needless to say, Judy's digital camera had run out of battery power as she was busy clicking away during the tour.
A Blast from the Past
Judy's visit is what I call, a blast from the past. A very determined and persistent person, I had a chat about the past and future of Malaysia Disabled Access Activism with her on Friday and it continued on Saturday. Today I am in Cambridge, taking a break.
On Saturday, 4th of June, Judy and I went to the
Chinese Art Centre.
I reasoned out why this building got nominated for the RIBA Award for Inclusive Design 2004. The refurbished listed building's basement area was dedicated for private areas and the only public area are the toilets and an education centre. Upstairs were the main exhibition space, shop area, reception and seating area to sip tea. Although they maintained the old columns and much of the internal wall system,there was evidently a 'good flow' for visitors to move around without any effort to overcome change of levels. The graphics and signs were clear and the management were helpful. The building is located within the old Fish Market building complex, which had been refurbished into apartments as well.
We went to the Manchester Museum (which had been written about earlier), and I sat at the cafe while Judy went round taking photos, as I wanted to conserve my energy.
We bundled ourselves into the car to head south of Manchester to have a quick tour around the fringes of the Peak District. On the way we stopped at a pub called the 'Dog and Partridge' and had our lunch there. The place was very accessible and it was a delight to Judy to discover a restaurant which has most of the features required, but the service was lacking in accessibility.
The Peak District tour was interesting as the roads were undulating, as much as the landscape did. "Sheeeeep!", screamed Judy."Slow down, slow down," instructed Judy. "Quick-lah take the photo, got car behind," I urged hurriedly. " Cowwww..." she cried, and the scenario repeated again. The weather was kind and although it got cloudy sometime, Judy said she was pleased, or so she said diplomatically.
We managed to catch a film at the Cornerhouse called ' The Keys of the House' which featured a disabled teenager and his father who decided to reunite with him after 15 years of 'running away' from his responsibilities. Film Review
We took the opportunity to have an access audit done on the premises, and discovered that the small theatre, ie Cinema 3, had a ramp and Judy had to be assisted to get to the seating area.
I assisted Judy in obtaining the coach tickets to Bristol, the next day. She will go on a round trip to see her godmother after she finished at the end of the week, and I shan't be seeing her after that as I will only get back to Manchester on Friday.
We managed to discuss about my future in activism when I get back to Malaysia, and a possible project to be done once I get back next year. Judy is very persistent that way. That is why she and her group in Singapore had been successful in their efforts to include disabled people's concerns and needs, by working with the authorities.
On Saturday, 4th of June, Judy and I went to the
I reasoned out why this building got nominated for the RIBA Award for Inclusive Design 2004. The refurbished listed building's basement area was dedicated for private areas and the only public area are the toilets and an education centre. Upstairs were the main exhibition space, shop area, reception and seating area to sip tea. Although they maintained the old columns and much of the internal wall system,there was evidently a 'good flow' for visitors to move around without any effort to overcome change of levels. The graphics and signs were clear and the management were helpful. The building is located within the old Fish Market building complex, which had been refurbished into apartments as well.
We went to the Manchester Museum (which had been written about earlier), and I sat at the cafe while Judy went round taking photos, as I wanted to conserve my energy.
We bundled ourselves into the car to head south of Manchester to have a quick tour around the fringes of the Peak District. On the way we stopped at a pub called the 'Dog and Partridge' and had our lunch there. The place was very accessible and it was a delight to Judy to discover a restaurant which has most of the features required, but the service was lacking in accessibility.
The Peak District tour was interesting as the roads were undulating, as much as the landscape did. "Sheeeeep!", screamed Judy."Slow down, slow down," instructed Judy. "Quick-lah take the photo, got car behind," I urged hurriedly. " Cowwww..." she cried, and the scenario repeated again. The weather was kind and although it got cloudy sometime, Judy said she was pleased, or so she said diplomatically.
We managed to catch a film at the Cornerhouse called ' The Keys of the House' which featured a disabled teenager and his father who decided to reunite with him after 15 years of 'running away' from his responsibilities. Film Review
We took the opportunity to have an access audit done on the premises, and discovered that the small theatre, ie Cinema 3, had a ramp and Judy had to be assisted to get to the seating area.
I assisted Judy in obtaining the coach tickets to Bristol, the next day. She will go on a round trip to see her godmother after she finished at the end of the week, and I shan't be seeing her after that as I will only get back to Manchester on Friday.
We managed to discuss about my future in activism when I get back to Malaysia, and a possible project to be done once I get back next year. Judy is very persistent that way. That is why she and her group in Singapore had been successful in their efforts to include disabled people's concerns and needs, by working with the authorities.
Saturday, June 04, 2005
What I did today.
I took my colleague who had recently arrived from Singapore yesterday around Salford and Manchester. We went to the University of Salford, Manchester City Art Gallery, Manchester City Football Stadium and the Salford Quays. We also ate dinner at Jati, a Malay-Thai Cafe Restaurant.
My colleague is also an activist and she is a consultant with UNESCAP. She is doing a long distance course managed by my PhD supervisor and co-supervisor. With her own funds, she managed to come here for the Summer School for about 10 days.
I assisted her endeavour to take photos of Inclusive Design and Accessibility features by visiting various places today. It is also a good session for her to orientate herself in the two cities.
There are not many of us involved in Accessibility in the Asia and Pacific region. When one of us needs help, the others need to assist. Her resource will be used in turn for us in the region. We push around the resource. Whoever is willing to do for the disability cause, will have to do. If you are a doer, do. If you are a trainer, train. Sometimes the same faces appear again and again, in various capacities.
Tomorrow, we hope to visit a couple more buildings and also drive a bit further south around the English countryside, a peek at thePeak District.
Perhaps stop by a tea room and get some tea and cakes. Hopefully it will be sunnier than today.
My colleague is also an activist and she is a consultant with UNESCAP. She is doing a long distance course managed by my PhD supervisor and co-supervisor. With her own funds, she managed to come here for the Summer School for about 10 days.
I assisted her endeavour to take photos of Inclusive Design and Accessibility features by visiting various places today. It is also a good session for her to orientate herself in the two cities.
There are not many of us involved in Accessibility in the Asia and Pacific region. When one of us needs help, the others need to assist. Her resource will be used in turn for us in the region. We push around the resource. Whoever is willing to do for the disability cause, will have to do. If you are a doer, do. If you are a trainer, train. Sometimes the same faces appear again and again, in various capacities.
Tomorrow, we hope to visit a couple more buildings and also drive a bit further south around the English countryside, a peek at the
Perhaps stop by a tea room and get some tea and cakes. Hopefully it will be sunnier than today.
Thursday, June 02, 2005
Midnight Post
What really matter? I ask you that question.
I ask myself that question.
And when I do, I can find myself again. The centre point, the point of reflection, the focus of introspection, the way forward, the reality ...
Despair was reflected in the song 'Bohemian Rhapsody' when Freddy Mercury sang the last verse, " Nothing really matter, anyone can see, nothing really matter, nothing really matter to me...take me where the wind blows..."
Is it frightening? Is it sad? When nothing really matter. Like when there is no purpose...in life.
All my life I had pushed myself to strive for a purpose.
So when I stare at this thing called PhD, which I am suppose to purposefully complete, I stare at despair, emptiness and a big void.
It is that paper at the end of the day that says, 'You have a doctorate'. You have got the ticket to go places!
You want to see that piece of paper in your hand. You want your mother and family to be happy. You want your loved ones to be proud of you. You want your friends to feel good for you. You want your colleagues to know you have proved your point.
No, the paper is not in my hand.
I stare at my empty hands. I stare at space. What am I focusing at?
What really matter?
Is the PhD what really matter?
You see when all your energy is brought into action to chase after this paper. When all your attention is FORCED to focus on this endeavour, you feel spent. Emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually...
Somehow, I do NOT think that PhD is what really matter.
I think to be a better person is what really matter. To be able to make things happen for the benefit of good. To turn things round and make things clearer. To be able to create things.
And if PhD happens to make you want to do that, then perhaps, it is worth it.
It would be worthwhile doing your PhD.
Whether you get the paper or not is another story.
I ask myself that question.
And when I do, I can find myself again. The centre point, the point of reflection, the focus of introspection, the way forward, the reality ...
Despair was reflected in the song 'Bohemian Rhapsody' when Freddy Mercury sang the last verse, " Nothing really matter, anyone can see, nothing really matter, nothing really matter to me...take me where the wind blows..."
Is it frightening? Is it sad? When nothing really matter. Like when there is no purpose...in life.
All my life I had pushed myself to strive for a purpose.
So when I stare at this thing called PhD, which I am suppose to purposefully complete, I stare at despair, emptiness and a big void.
It is that paper at the end of the day that says, 'You have a doctorate'. You have got the ticket to go places!
You want to see that piece of paper in your hand. You want your mother and family to be happy. You want your loved ones to be proud of you. You want your friends to feel good for you. You want your colleagues to know you have proved your point.
No, the paper is not in my hand.
I stare at my empty hands. I stare at space. What am I focusing at?
What really matter?
Is the PhD what really matter?
You see when all your energy is brought into action to chase after this paper. When all your attention is FORCED to focus on this endeavour, you feel spent. Emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually...
Somehow, I do NOT think that PhD is what really matter.
I think to be a better person is what really matter. To be able to make things happen for the benefit of good. To turn things round and make things clearer. To be able to create things.
And if PhD happens to make you want to do that, then perhaps, it is worth it.
It would be worthwhile doing your PhD.
Whether you get the paper or not is another story.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
GerLFC
This is me taking myself seating on one of the seats at Anfield. I was very excited that day as it was the very first visit with my family. YNWA
OUCH!
I went to the dentist again this afternoon.
The dentist surgery is located in the middle of a row of terrace houses on Oxford Road, Manchester, next to the ...Manchester Museum.
The first time I went there, I had to park almost illegally at a side road not far from it. But I having used my brain a little, I found out that (of course), there is a row of parking spaces for disabled visitors to the Manchester Museum near the ...forecourt to the main entrance.
For the third time, I flashed my blue badge (which had saved me lots of money on parking charges and reduced my walking) to the security guard at the barrierred post, who by now is quicker to press the button, as I have become more familiar to him. As I passed him, I always felt that he will start scolding me, for he had that stern look of someone who had to deal with all this nonsense many times before. My Mancunian cum Malay accent was used along with a sickly grin (aren't they all), trying to make myself look not guilty.
But then, I asked myself, "Why should I feel guilty? I have the blue badge. I am qualified medically as disabled. And I am going to the Manchester Museum, like I told the guard. Although I may just be passing through while utilising their toilets."
Forget that. It is no use arguing with myself. What happens next at the dentist was to me quite amusing.
You know how I dread the PAINFUL tooth extraction, so I was thinking that I may need to tell the dentist that I need some local anaesthetic to reduce the pain. I went in. I was not afraid. I just sat there. Did not say a word apart from the description of my problem. And "shuck" the dentist pulled the bit of tooth out. As he pulled it quickly, I found myself yelping, "Ouch!" Yes, it's not "Oww" or "Argghhh" or "Arrrr". It's a noticable ouch! And loud at that. Perhaps a little to loud for those waiting outside. I suppose I actually wanted to shout out loud, as I did not do so the other day. Sort of a belated release action. I think it was painful... I mean, when he pulled...
Managed to put on a light banter at the end, saying to the dentist, "That was not so painful..." No need to pay, of course, as it was the dentist's mistake that the bit was left on earlier.
I left totally relieved of this torture and lightened by getting rid of the burden of a smelly rotting tooth.
I felt excited ... like the star of a mouthwash commercial. Not conscious of having a silly grin.
The dentist surgery is located in the middle of a row of terrace houses on Oxford Road, Manchester, next to the ...
The first time I went there, I had to park almost illegally at a side road not far from it. But I having used my brain a little, I found out that (of course), there is a row of parking spaces for disabled visitors to the Manchester Museum near the ...
For the third time, I flashed my blue badge (which had saved me lots of money on parking charges and reduced my walking) to the security guard at the barrierred post, who by now is quicker to press the button, as I have become more familiar to him. As I passed him, I always felt that he will start scolding me, for he had that stern look of someone who had to deal with all this nonsense many times before. My Mancunian cum Malay accent was used along with a sickly grin (aren't they all), trying to make myself look not guilty.
But then, I asked myself, "Why should I feel guilty? I have the blue badge. I am qualified medically as disabled. And I am going to the Manchester Museum, like I told the guard. Although I may just be passing through while utilising their toilets."
Forget that. It is no use arguing with myself. What happens next at the dentist was to me quite amusing.
You know how I dread the PAINFUL tooth extraction, so I was thinking that I may need to tell the dentist that I need some local anaesthetic to reduce the pain. I went in. I was not afraid. I just sat there. Did not say a word apart from the description of my problem. And "shuck" the dentist pulled the bit of tooth out. As he pulled it quickly, I found myself yelping, "Ouch!" Yes, it's not "Oww" or "Argghhh" or "Arrrr". It's a noticable ouch! And loud at that. Perhaps a little to loud for those waiting outside. I suppose I actually wanted to shout out loud, as I did not do so the other day. Sort of a belated release action. I think it was painful... I mean, when he pulled...
Managed to put on a light banter at the end, saying to the dentist, "That was not so painful..." No need to pay, of course, as it was the dentist's mistake that the bit was left on earlier.
I left totally relieved of this torture and lightened by getting rid of the burden of a smelly rotting tooth.
I felt excited ... like the star of a mouthwash commercial. Not conscious of having a silly grin.
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