Irene's Kota Kinabalu in the Land Below the Wind

Travel Fair

2010-09-08T16:29:00.004+08:00

Friday, 20 August 2010

It is a good place and time to collect travel information of different places, and read/use them when you are travelling to that place.

I forgot which ethnic group these respective traditional costumes are from! Anyway, they are beautiful.

Orang Utan (direction translation - people of the forest) - Apes that you can see at Sepilok, Sandakan. Sepilok is a wildlife tourist centre, a rehabiliation centre to the apes there.

Giant Mug and Avocado Milk Shake

2010-09-08T01:09:00.004+08:00

Thursday, 19 August 2010

My friend ordered the Avocado milk shake and was served with a big mug that ended up shared by the 3 of us. I like it.

Tamu Donggongon

2010-09-08T00:55:00.015+08:00

Thursday, 19 August 2010

I enjoyed visiting this market, which is only on Thursdays and Fridays. Lots of fresh vegetables and all other kinds of food and items.

Kota Kinabalu Waterfront

2010-09-08T00:50:00.003+08:00

Wednesday, 18 August 2010

Thought it was a pretty sight from the Merdeka Square carpark.

Kota Kinabalu - Food Paradise

2010-09-07T23:56:00.012+08:00

Tuesday, 17 August 2010

This was what I ordered for breakfast: nasi lemak - truly Malaysian dish!

Mike ordered for country style western breakfast. And of course being in the East it is different from what the West served, based on what is available locally. For people who have not tasted the west, they would think this is how western food is like and they might probably love this dish!

Someone took us to a seafood restaurant that night and I enjoyed the freshness of the seafood. It was also cheaper compared to other seafood restaurants in town.

You would think I would register the name of the restaurant in my head since I enjoyed their food so much. I can't remember the name of the restaurant but I know where it is located.

Sabah Museum

2010-09-07T23:03:00.013+08:00

Tuesday, 17 August 2010

Made a mistake. Should have gone there earlier instead of getting there with only less than 2 hours to closing time, but nevertheless enjoyed the visit.

That was not a light basket to carry, Mike!

Yes, I would love to visit again, thanks.

Tun Fuad Stephens Park (Bukit Padang)

2010-09-07T22:56:00.006+08:00

Tuesday, 17 August 2010

I love this park! You can eat. You can buy fresh food. You can walk, jog and you can dance there as well!

Beautiful Bouganvillea Trees

2010-09-07T22:50:00.004+08:00

Tuesday, 17 August 2010

I think they are beautiful.

Friends Are Precious

2010-09-07T22:24:00.018+08:00

Monday, 16 August 2010

Everyone is busy nowadays and meeting up with friends is a way to get away and relax. Meeting friends is enjoyable and it warms up the relationship.

Tao Chung, Tai Jung, Doreen, Sandy, Cecilia and Maria

Agnes and Christian

Chin, Su Fah & Hannah

Last but not least, my good friends Lee Hong and Chong.

Don't know when I will come and visit again. I will miss my KK friends.

Beverly Hills Apartments

2010-09-07T21:56:00.011+08:00

Monday, 16 August 2010

Once upon a time, this was home. Thanks to Cecilia for taking us to visit.

Meeting the Saints

2010-09-07T21:09:00.013+08:00

Sunday, 15 August 2010

Glad I was able to attend church today and met with some of the members that I know:

Kath, Christine, Helen, Rose and Dorkas

It was a pleasant surprise meeting Sister Zafar here in the KK church.

Christy, David and Dorkas

I am also happy that I got to meet Dinopol, Elizabeth and Marylou during the course the week.

Getting Rid of Toxicated Blood

2009-07-06T10:44:00.010+08:00

Tuesday, 30 June 2009

They said this procedure originated in China and it helps to get rid of toxicated blood from the body. In this case, the 'patient' was complaining that her leg ache.

Prince Philip Park (Tanjung Aru Beach) and the South China Sea

2009-07-06T09:37:00.012+08:00

Tuesday, 30 June 2009

I love the sight of a beach! I am happy we came here even though the weather was not supportive of our visit this morning. It was sunny when we were in the car. It looked like it was going to rain when we were out only a few minutes walking in the park. And it was very very windy as well.

Chinese Restaurant - Hyatt Regency Kinabalu

2009-07-06T08:21:00.008+08:00

Sunday, 28 June 2009

Interesting that this restaurant showed their patrons how their Peking Duck dish is being presented. It is interesting to watch how the chef cut the crispy skin from the duck. The waitress helped wrap them in the freshly prepared pancakes.

The patrons

Interesting Sights Here and There

2009-07-06T07:12:00.012+08:00

Thursday 25 June to Tuesday 30 June, 2009

Fresh Tilapia, reared at a private home. These pool of fish have been taken from their big tank, waiting to be scooped up and given to friends, who have been called to come and collect.

A native musical instrument - Sompoton (please correct me if it is wrong) - in Donggongon.

Took these pictures as we drove past the 2 round-abouts, leading to the Donggongon town. The pineapple is small and the Sigah (traditional native men headgear) is sooooooo big.

Interesting set of horses scruptures in 1Borneo - the largest shopping mall in Sabah, opened in June 2008. It was big and I wondered if business is good because it seemed too quiet. You don't see many people outside or inside the shops. It was a Friday (26 June) when we were visiting.

Sunday Meetings

2009-07-05T15:23:00.002+08:00

Sunday, 28 June 2009

As usual it is good to see the friends at the church. For more pictures go to the Facebook.

Maylin, Helen, Dorkas, Irene and Juneffer

Elder Wright, Elder Compton and Irene. It was exciting to learn that Elder Compton is from the same school as Elder Spencer who was serving in the Miri in 2006/7.

David, Irene, Christine and Mary

Karoake - Old Folks' Club

2009-07-05T14:15:00.000+08:00

Thursday, 25 June 2009

It was a Thursday morning karaoke session at Persatuan Koat (Kelab Orang Tua - direct transation is Old Folks' Club) in Luyang. I understood that the minimum age to join the club is 50 years and the fee is MR300 for life membership. Member pay MRinggit 2 to join the karaoke session while non-member pay MRinggit 5. You can sing as many songs as the time and no. of participants allow.

2 of the Mandarin songs that Ivy sang was "Wrong Love" and "Why did you desert me?"

Definitely, Ivy's love is not wrong nor was she deserted. Ivy is happily married for 35 years to the same man!

It was a pleasant surprise to see Lim Hong there.

Old friends

Dancing Queen

2009-03-29T22:33:00.004+08:00

Sunday, 29 March 2009

This song "Dancing Queen" by the Abba, embedded in this blog, is dedicated to all my dancing friends in Kota Kinabalu. Keep on dancing as long your feet can move and be happy.

You can dance, you can jive, having the time of your life
See that girl, watch that scene, dig in the dancing queen

Friday night and the lights are low
Looking out for the place to go
Where they play the right music, getting in the swing
You come in to look for a king
Anybody could be that guy
Night is young and the music's high
With a bit of rock music, everything is fine
You're in the mood for a dance
And when you get the chance....

You are the dancing queen, young and sweet, only seventeen
Dancing queen, feel the beat from the tambourine
You can dance, you can jive, having the time of your life
See that girl, watch that scene, dig in the dancing queen

You're a teaser, you turn 'em on
Leave them burning and then you're gone
Looking out for another, anyone will do
You're in the mood for a dance
And when you get the chance...

You are the dancing queen, young and sweet, only seventeen
Dancing queen, feel the beat from the tambourine
You can dance, you can jive,having the time of your life
See that girl, watch that scene, dig in the dancing queen

Kota Kinabalu Chapel - Groundbreaking

2007-10-13T06:00:00.000+08:00

Friday, 12 October 2007

This was a historical event that I have been thinking of blogging but didn't get around doing it until today.

Thanks to Elder Boushley. If you haven't visited my blog recently and wrote to me about being at the groundbreaking of the Kota Kinabalu Chapel and zipping me pictures of the event that you have scanned, which in turn spur me to write to President Jacobs for more pictures, I don't know when I would have this memory blogged.

Thanks President Jacobs for allowing me to upload the pictures that you sent to me.

Wednesday, 16 April 2003

This was an exciting day. This was a special day, a historical day. This was the day of groundbreaking of the first LDS chapel in the whole of Malaysia. We are going to have our own building that we can proudly tell people that it is our church.

I am grateful that I was there to witness this ceremony.

KK Branch President Chong, KK District Counselor President Yong, Singapore Mission President Boone and KK District President Jacobs - shovelling into the ground

and out with the soil!

Me, Elder Boushley, Brother Dinopol and Sister Boone

Me and my children. I am glad at this time, Lian was back on semester break with us in Kota Kinabalu, and was able to share this experience together with Yean and me. Yean looked so thin here!

I like this picture:

Back row (from left): Alan, Margaret, Joyce, Findley, Edre, "who is that behind Edre" - is it the other twin brother Nelson or Wilson?, Eder and "I can't recognised who is this?
Front row (from left): Serena, Lian, Yean, the other twin brother Nelson or Wilson?, Ruth.

The Kota Kinabalu church was the first chapel built but wasn't dedicated first. It was dedicated exactly 3 years later - Sunday, 16 April 2006. Isn't that something - same day and month!

Bukit Padang

2007-03-15T21:57:00.000+08:00

Tuesday, 13 March 2007

I like this place. I had a couple of pictures posted in April 2006, under the title "Taman Tun Fuad Stephen". The following pictures, taken on this late afternoon, are not as bright and clear as the ones I took last year. Anyway............

The Waterworld

Views from the bridge

Kampung Nelayan Floating Seafood Market Restaurant

Gaya Street

2007-03-15T21:21:00.000+08:00

Monday, 12 March 2007

Have not taken a picture of this famous street in Kota Kinabalu yet. This afternoon, as a front passenger in my friend's car, I took the opportunity to do. The street is usually busy with cars. I would think myself blessed if I can find available parking lots during office hours. Somehow it was not so bad this afternoon, even though it was a working day. I guessed that because this week is school semester break, families have gone away on holidays!

Here I come again, Helen!

2007-03-15T21:10:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 11 March 2007

It was good to visit with Helen again this afternoon. Unlike the visit in January, this time I got to visit with other members of the family.

Lotus

2007-01-28T22:46:00.000+08:00

Tuesday, 23 January 2007

For the first time this flower caught my attention. It was then already fully bloomed. That was noon only 4 days ago - Saturday, 20 January.

I was told that Lotus only lasted for a day and the petals would close toward night fall and drop the next day.

There were 2 more flower buds yet to bloom. I am glad they had bloomed while I as there. I wanted to picture them blooming before I fly back to Miri that afternoon.

The bud

Wednesday - 24 January 2007 - Lotus blooming

I didn't get to see the full bloom of this particular Lotus because I have to go to the airport but I am glad I took a picture of the full bloom last Saturday.

Saturday, 20 January 2007 - Beautiful Lotus

Saturday, 20 January 2007 - The Seeds

I don't know what is the noun for this. They are what was left over on the stalk after the petals have dropped off.

I was told you could eat the seeds from the 'green' ones. They are available at the Chinese herbal shops. It is believed to have health value. I tried the seeds and they tasted good! What about the seeds from the dried 'brownish-black' ones? I didn't ask whether they are of any use????

My New Friend - Snoopy

2007-01-28T22:27:00.000+08:00

Monday, 22 January 2007

He is only a few months' old.

He didn't bark at me when we first met. I am glad he didn't because I was told that he does bark at strangers he doesn't like. He stood up on his hind legs and place his fore paws onto me. I know he only wanted to play.

We got along fine - Snoopy and me.

Helen's Good Works

2007-01-28T21:54:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 21 January 2007

There was a fireside at the church this night and since some of the members lived far away, we decided to stay back. We decided to accompany Sister Helen back to her home, which was only a few minutes' walk from the chapel. Since I have not been to her new place, this was indeed the opportunity. We didn't expect anything from Sister Helen but she went on to prepare food for us (we were all hungry). And sitting on the floor to eat is fun. I may be wrong but I don't think the Chinese do that. I don't.

We are happy that Sister Margaret could join us here. We missed her in church.

We all had a good time together at Sister Helen's place this afternoon. We enjoyed her cooking and most of all we enjoyed each other's company. Thank you, Sister Helen, for having us and feeding us. We love you!

Visiting church - January 2007

2007-01-28T20:33:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 21 January 2007

It felt so good to be back in church again! I missed church last Sunday (14 January) because I accompanied my friend to Keningau, to send traditional wedding gifts to her son's future parents-in-law.

I got in the sacrament hall in the nick of time - the sacrament meeting was just about to start. Looking across the hall, I saw an Elder and I thought he looked familiar. It took me a while before I realised that he had served in the Miri branch. Throughout the sacrament meeting, I kept wondering what his name was. I know for sure that his surname started with a "R" but I could not remember what the name was.

Before I could get to him, after the sacrament meeting, a young lady came up to me and hug me hard. Sister Gloria (member of the Miri branch) happened to be visiting this Sunday. She is currently studying in Labuan.

The tall Elder Randall, his companion Elder Baker King (I was fooled by his missionary name tag that read "Elder Raja Roti" - I told him that he looked definitely a caucasion but how come his name is in Malay!) and Sister Gloria. Imagine meeting both Elder Randall and Sister Gloria in the Kota Kinabalu church. What a nice surprise! It is indeed a small world! Elder Randall is serving in Singapore currently.

Old friends - Sister Christine and Sister Martina and a new friend - Sister Mathilda.

More old friends - Sister Elizabeth, Sister Kolinting and Sister Maylin

And last but not least, Sister Patrocinia, whom I have not seen for the last 2 years

Some of the Sisters from the Relief Society, Young Women and Primary

Wedding Dinner

2007-01-28T19:44:00.000+08:00

Friday, 19 January 2007

The reason why I came to Kota Kinabalu was because of today - to attend the wedding dinner on the occasion of the marriage of the eldest child-son of my good friend, Lee Hong.

I was told about the wedding months earlier and I said I would come. At the time of the confirmation of the wedding dinner day, I was in Kuala Lumpur. I decided to fly straight from Kuala Lumpur to Kota Kinabalu, and then return to Miri from KK. I do not care about the official invitation card but dear Lee Hong ensured that I get the wedding invitation card wherever I was. She was happy when I told her I received it. It was one day before my flight to KK!

The Invitation Card

Since I came with the hosts, I was one of the early guests at the Grand Port View Seafood Restaurant. There were more than 400 guests.

The bride looked so beautiful tonight, in that yellow gown.

And so is the bridegroom's mother, in her pink cheongsam, with some of her guests

Api Api Apartments

2007-01-28T15:37:00.000+08:00

Monday, 15 January 2007

The famous Promenade Hotel Apartments in Api Api Center. This was where the missionary couples were staying before they moved to Grace Ville, Simbulan, in 2001. The young missionaries Elders continue to stay there todate.

I noticed that the walls of the building have been given a new look with a different coloured paint - light and dark green. I think they look good. (My pictures do not look that good! These are the back of the apartments, facing the Promenade Hotel.)

The old look, taken from the front, facing the highway, copied from http://www.pinganchorage.com.my

Keningau

2007-01-28T13:33:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 14 January 2007

Beautiful Sunday! It was sunny and the morning market was bustling with people selling and buying products, ranging from wild meat to cosmetic jewelleries, laid out either on tables or the ground.
-
Keningau is purportedly the oldest and the largest district in the interior part of the state of Sabah, Malaysia, known for its kayu manis (direct translation into English - sweet wood - I wonder why it is called sweet wood - does it taste sweet?). If I am not wrong, kayu manis is teakwood.

I thought a friend told me that it is illegal to hunt deer. Maybe I heard the wrong thing. Anyway, deer meat was openly sold here.

Next to the deer stall was the wild pig meat.

Plenty of choices and a good exercise of walking, under the big shady trees.

Anyone interested to buy small pitcher plants that you could watch grow at your own garden? This vendor sell pumpkin and bamboo shoots also.

Your hair needed to be bundled up, go to the opposite vendor, maybe you could something there.

You know this purple fruit (vegetable)! I don't cook this anymore because mum said it is not good for my eyes! But I eat some at the restaurants! Technical name for it is Aubergine - this is native in India. A common food in China as long ago as 600 BC, it was called the Malayan purple. The English called it eggplant. My cooking class in secondary school called it brinjal.

And tomatoes.

Believe It or Not?

2006-04-27T14:58:00.000+08:00

Friday, 7 April 2006
Look at these slippers. They are all for the right foot. Where are their other halves? Can you believe if I tell you that my friend's dog hide them? And she could not find them! How come the dog only go for the left sides? When I visited her, she does not have the dog anymore. But she has these slippers to remind her of it. If you need a pair of slippers to wear in her backyard, just simply slip both your feet into any of them. There is no need to check whether it is for the left foot or the right. This is not an April Fool's Day. I was there!

View from Taman Shangrila Hill

2006-04-27T14:15:00.000+08:00

Monday, 3 April 2006
While travelling down the Taman Shangrila hill, I could see the Kota Kinabalu Airport (Terminal 2) where the economy Air Asia flights operates.

Taman Tun Fuad Stephen

2006-04-27T13:52:00.000+08:00

Friday, 7 April 2006
When people say Bukit Padang, I know that is Taman Tun Fuad Stephen. This is where you can walk (whether it briskly or casually), tai-chi, dance, eat (hawker or gourmet). It is a place to wind down, sit and relax admist the shady trees. There is a lake in the middle of the park. A lovely park and is a must for the tourists.
A view of the seafood restaurant from ordinary food stalls building. No! that is not the lake that I was referring earlier on. The water looks brown here because of the reflection of the buildings! There are plenty of fishes inside this water! Big ones too! They are not for the table!

Hello Kota Kinabalu Home!

2006-04-27T13:21:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 2 April 2006 and Wednesday, 5 April 2006
Home sweet home! I had to visit the place of my former residence - Beverly Hills Apartments. I don't have pictures taken of the surroundings before. I like this place and I like my apartment.

Do you need a Cobbler?

2006-04-27T13:05:00.000+08:00

Friday, 14 April 2006
Sister Ebony saw it first, while we were looking at the clothes! My sandals are coming off! I remembered there was a cobbler nearby. I hd brought all my shoes to him, for repair, during my years in Kota Kinabalu.. He is still there and he remembers me as well! Encik Osman is from the Philippines. He said I could take his picture!

The Malay word "Tukang" means skilled workman, "Kasut" means shoes. "Tukang Kasut" means shoe-mender.

Donggongon Open Market

2006-04-27T12:25:00.001+08:00

Friday, 14 April 2006
Sapri, Catherine and Azrin (the vendor) with the heaps of dried anchovies and dried prawns.

Seafood are cheaper in Kota K more so at the tamu (open market) that is only opened on Thursday and Friday ever week. inabalu than in Miri,Last year I was introduced by a good friend to a nice vendor that I could get a good price for dried anchovies and dried prawns. She is still there! And she still remembers me and gave me further discount! Fantastic!

Would you buy a 1 Ringgit skirt?

2006-04-27T11:21:00.000+08:00

Thursday, 14 April 2006
I couldn't believe my ears! 1 (one Ringgit) skirt? That is less than 40 US cents! Only if you know the vendor, of course.

A Ringgit skirt, it must factory rejected or something! It must be out of shape!

I had to folow Sister Dorkas and see for myself! And so we went! There were so many clothes, either hanged or in a heap on the floor. The vendors told me the clothes are imported from other countries like Taiwan, China, Hongkong, etc. They bought them by weight/bag. And they are not second-hand either. They have not been used!

Jackets were sold at 15 Ringgit! I am very pleased with the red jacket I bought. I am pleased with the 2 skirts I bought as well and it only cost me a total of 2 Ringgit. Can you believe it? 1 Ringgit for 1 skirt! Who says you need to buy expensive clothes to look pretty? Who would know you are using a 1 Ringgit skirt if you don't tell!

Go with Sister Dorkas. She knows the vendor. The skirk was actually 2 Ringgit but the vendor sold to us for 1 Ringgit. Sister Dorkas is a regular customer. Go to Donggongon during their tamu (open market) time, Thursday and Friday! So many clothes - you wouldn't be disappointed!

Visit to a Farmland

2006-04-26T16:15:00.000+08:00

Tuesday, 11 April 2006
It was public holiday. It was the birthday of Prophet Muhammad. Sister Dorkas decided we go to her farmland, situated on a hill, in Menggatal. I enjoyed the natural beauty surrounding it, the greens, the hills, the sky, the air, the peacefulness, etc. A good get away from the city.

Happy Ebony on the Hilex. And happy me - I love the

We collected (1) Lime (2) Mangoes (3) Jackfruit (4) Sugarcane (5) Tapioca roots (6) Tapioca leaves (which is cooked as vegetables) (7) Chilli Padi (small chilli - very spicy - used widely by the Sabahans) (8) Pineapple

A basketfull of tapioca roots!

Clams

2006-04-26T15:55:00.000+08:00

Saturday, 8 April 2006
I wanted to attend the video show on the church conference this morning but decided to accompany Sister Dorkas to send her brother/family back to Sipitang, which is more than 2 hours drive from Kota Kinabalu, near the border of Sabah/Sarawak. I felt I need to keep her company on her way back. I will attend the afternoon session and tomorrow's sessions.

Raymond, Judy and their son Javan.

On our way from Sipitang to Beaufort, we decided to drop at the roadside stalls and buy clams. It wass interesting to note how the girls opened the clams. It looked so easy and quick for them, using only a knife to open the shells.

Tommy

2006-04-21T19:02:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 9 April 2006
I thought this was cute. Tommy (the cat) followed what his beloved mistress did. He layed down on the floor as well and in the same curve posture, opposite her!

When Will I See you Again?

2006-04-21T18:08:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 16 April 2006
I have been in Kota Kinabalu since the 31 March. Time to go back to Miri. I had a wonderful time visiting my friends of the various dance groups and also the church members of the KK branch. And most importantly to be present in the dedication of the new Chapel building this morning.

There was a fireside in the evening at the chapel but I could not attend due to time constrain, but I was glad I went there before I headed for the airport. I got to bid farewell to President Jacobs (who is returning to US in a few days' time), President/Sister Telford (who is also returning to US next week), and Sister Dorkas (bless her for taking me into her house to stay for the past week). Thank you very much, Sister Dorkas (Ebony and Angelie) and Brother Melphin.

I met another Sister this evening - Sister Theresa!

Dedication of the Kota Kinabalu Chapel

2006-04-18T12:09:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 16 April 2006
The dedication of the new Kota Kinabalu Chapel is here at last. Exactly 3 years after the groundbreaking ceremony (Wednesday, 16 April 2003). And 11 years after the gospel was brought to Kota Kinabalu - 15 June 1995.

Early this year, I told myself that I might not be able to attend due to personal/family commitments. I didn't have the strong will that I would attend. It was not a priority in my plans. But after experiencing the dedication of the Miri chapel that I currently attend, I decided I want to. I will fly to Kota Kinabalu, even if I am in Kuala Lumpur. I would fly in just for that. This is a special and important occasion and a chapel is only dedicated once.

I was baptised on the 9 May 1998 in the Miri branch, moved to Kota Kinabalu on the 22 December 1999 and stayed there until I moved back to Miri on the 1 February 2005. I have attended meetings in the first meetinghouse in Likas. I have attended meetings in the second meetinghouse in Luyang. I have been the 1st Counselor and the President in the Relief Society. I have taught the gospel doctrine class. I have known, visited and love the Sisters in the Kota Kinabalu branch. They have been my family, pillar of strength. They were available when I needed them. Kota Kinabalu branch will always be a special part of me.

I was supposed to return to Miri on the 7 April (came here to see the friends that I have taught dancing) but when I heard that the dedication will definitely be on the 16 April, I decided to change my ticket, even though it means I have to stay a week longer, to pay for the change of the ticket, whatsoever. But it was worth it, over and over again. I will not trade anything for it.

Brother David presented a piano musical "Because I Have Been Given Much" (by David Glen Hatch) - I always enjoy hearing him play. I love it.

The Kota Kinabalu Branch Choir presented a special musical "As Sisters in Zion & We'll Bring the World His Truth" (by Janice Kapp Perry & Michael Hicks). I had the opportunity to hear and learnt of this hymn, taught by Sister Telford, while I was still in Kota Kinabalu. I love this hymn. I had the opportunity to join the Kuala Lumpur Branch Choir in presenting it in one of their Sacrament meeting in 2005. Now in Kota Kinabalu, back to when I first learnt. Heavenly Father knows that I love this song very much. And I am so happy that I had the blessing of joining the Kota Kinabalu Branch Choir as well in presenting this number today. I am pleased with myself that I don't cry when I sing in front of the congregation as I cried whenever I sang "Sisters in Zion" at Relief Society classes. Gosh! I am always crying!

I am thankful to Heavenly Father for all the blessings that He have given me, and this opportunity to be able to be here on this occasion, to witness the dedication, to hear the dedicatory prayer that Singapore Mission President Larkins offered, to feel the love that Heavenly Father has for all of us, regardless whether we are members of the Kota Kinabalu branch, Miri branch, Kuala Lumpur branch, etc, regardless of our creed, nationality, race, etc. We are all one in Him. The Spirit reconfirms to me that this is the Lord's true church.

The Kota Kinabalu Saints with Singapore Mission President/Sister Larkins. They are leaving for home, in July, and we are going to miss them too.

The Saints at the dedication! (Picture by P/Jacobs) This is a better picture than the one I posted before! I am not in the picture.

Former KK District Mission President Jacobs (centre) who has flown all the way from Salt Lake City to be with us on this occasion, Present Outgoing KK District Mission President/Sister Telford (right) and Present Incoming KK President/Sister Recht (left)

President/Sister Telford and President/Sister Recht

President/Sister Telford, Sister Mary Anne and Sister Heather.

President Jacobs and me. I wish Sister Jacobs have been here also. So glad to see President Jacobs and have been here with us.

I am going to miss both of you, President/Sister Telford. I only been with you from August 2004 to January 2005 and since then communicating with both of you via the email and the telephone, but you guys are just great, like all other missionary couples that I have met. Thank you for all you have done for us.

President/Sister Recht, who just arrived on Friday, from US. Welcome to the Land under the Wind. You will love the people here.

Sister Annie (the Relief Society President) with 3 of her 4 stripling warriors: Brother Eddy, Edre and Edny. Her eldest son, Eder, is currently serving a mission in Sibu, Sarawak.

Sister Agnes and her daughter (Christine) and son (Christian).

Sister Helen and her family: Brother Liew, Richard & David and Sister Elizabeth

Sister Margaret (Gospel Doctrine Teacher) and her youngest son, Brother Ian.

Sister Karen (Relief Society Teacher) and her daughter, Sister Nicole, who was baptised on the 1st April 2006. That is Elder Blackburn at the back!

Sister Kate (Primary President), Irene and Marylou.

Visiting the Sisters

2006-04-18T11:55:00.000+08:00

Wednesday, 12 April 2006
We are grateful for the opportunity to visit with Sister Heather at her home this evening. She is a great woman and I respect her very much.

Sister Rusiah was there too with her baby Goldon, obliviously to what was going on, sleeping peacefully against his mother's bosom. Baby Goldon is such a blessing to her. He is always sleeping!

Friday, 15 April 2006
Visited the Dinopols at their residence. Sister Elizabeth and Sister Dorkas.

Vanessa's Baptism

2006-04-18T11:44:00.000+08:00

Saturday, 15 April 2006
I missed the first baptisms administered in this meetinghouse on the 1st April! There were 4 baptisms on that afternoon. This evening I had the opportunity to witness the baptism of Sister Vanessa. She was baptised by Brother Johnny.

Some of the witnesses present: President Jacobs, Sister Elizabeth, Sister Christine and Sister Irene

Birthday Party for Harven

2006-04-18T11:28:00.000+08:00

Saturday, 15 April 2006
Birthday celebration for little Harven, son of Sister Liza. He was celebrating his 2nd birthday and the church members were invited to her house, at Kingfisher's Park.

Kota Kinabalu Mission President Jacobs was here for the dedication of the meetinghouse tomorrow. He arrived from Salt Lake City, Utah, on Friday night. We are so happy to have him with us. With him is Brother Anthony, who was the KK branch president when President was here in 2002-2004.

We would have stayed longer but there was a baptism that evening.

President/Sister Telford's Farewell

2006-04-18T11:11:00.000+08:00

Friday, 14 April 2006
KK District Mission President/Sister Telford will be leaving on the 24 April and the branch are preparing a party for them. This afternoon (being a public holiday - Good Friday) saw them practising a sumajau (a local Kadazan) dance.

Sister Annie (Relief Society President) and her son, Brother Edre.

Sister Rusiah, Mary Anne and Dorkas.

General Conference

2006-04-18T10:10:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 9 April 2006
Yesterday and today, we watched church conference on the big screen. This was so much better compared to watching on the ordinary television, with respect to visibility and sound.

Brother Wong and his family: Sister Mei Yin and little 3 year old Susan.

Brother Dominador (Church Secretary, Sunday Schools President & Gospel Principal Teacher) and his family: Sister Elizabeth (Gospel Principal Teacher) and Brother Johnny.

Sister Dorkas (Relief Society 2nd Counselor) and her family, Sister Ebony, Eboy, Maria, Brother Melphin and friend Ng.

Brother Manggung and his family: Sister Jane, Sister Sarah, Brother Findley, JD, Emphraim and 'Boy'.

KK Branch President Jopius and his family: Sister Rusiah (Relief Society 1st Counselor), Sister EV Jane and Brother Moses.

Brother Jared and his sisters: Sister Ruth (Primary) and Sister Lydia (Gospel Doctrine Teacher)

Brother Anthony (Branch Mission President & Librarian)

Brother Francis (Branch 1st Counselor) and visiting member Sister Irene.

Brother Joseph and his wife Sister Lucy.

Brother David and his son, Brother Luther.

Sister Jane and son Brother David.

Sister Christina (Nursery Teacher) and visiting member Sister Irene.

Brother Chuah (Branch 2nd Counselor) with his wife, Sister Maylin (Primary 1st Counselor).

Sister Mary Anne (Young Women President, Seminary Teacher & Gospel Doctrine Teacher) and her children: Sister Chevon and Brother Darren.

Elder Blackburn translated the talk to the Malaysian language, isn't he clever?

Branch Family Home Evening

2006-04-18T05:59:00.000+08:00

Friday, 7 April 2006
I have been looking forward to this evening since I learnt of it last week - Branch Family Home Evening.

Last Saturday, the Relief Society started the ball rolling with the first social to be held in the new building by celebrating the Relief Society Birthday and now with their families.

I was thinking what I could bring for food, something that most people would enjoy and significant for this occasion. I have been ordering cakes for my dancing friends for the past weeks and why not this. I phoned President Telford and he confirmed that was okay. And so I got a friend to bake one! Delicious fresh creamed chocolate cake with the words "Families can be together forever" on it. The members enjoyed it. The cake was gone before the party was over!

Tonight's Branch Family Home Evening was hosted by the Young Men and it was held in the Relief Society Room, 1st Floor.

Young Women - Sister Chevon and EV Jane - trying their hands on the piano in the Relief Society Room.

Let us play a game - let us go and find the eggs (boiled) that the Elders have hidden around the compound of the church. There were more than 50 eggs hidden. What an appropriate game to play since it was Easter time! And so the 3 groups went, looking in grass, bushes, drains, etc. These were the most eggs that the winner group collected. I found only 1 egg and it was underneath the bench at the entrance. I was taking my sweet time to get out and I was the last one to get out of the entrance and my eyes caught sight of that egg! The last egg was revealed by the Elder - it was in the pocket of the security guard.

Best of all parties - the food! The Relief Society had prepared the food.

And we will leave the cleaning up to the men! The YM President Harun and his 1st counselor, Brother Eddy.

Some of the members that were at this social gathering: Iain, Juneffer, Chuah, Elder Sobrio, Edre, Eddy, Anthony and Elder Capone.

The Chuah's children: Viviana, Stenley, Alfeus and Zi Ching

Sister Rusiah (wife the KK branch president) with 4 month old baby Goldon.

And beloved KK District mission President Telford and beautiful wife, Sister Telford.

Easter Program

2006-04-18T05:38:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 2 April 2006
It was practice time for the Easter Program, that was put together by Sister Telford. She and Sister Lydia started with the duet presentation of "He Knows Me"

Sister Karen and Sister Margaret were the Narrator I and Narrator II, respectively. Next Sunday, we will see Elder Macfarland, Elder Sobrio, Elder Blackburn and Elder Capone presenting "Come Follow Me". We will also see Sister Rina sing "Jesus Was No Ordinary Man" They were not available to practise at this time. Sister Telford leads the choir.

The KK Choir will stand in front of the congregation to sing "Behold, The Great Redeemer Die"

The Young Women with their presentation "He Died that We might Live Again"

The Primary will sing "Hosanna" while the Chimes will be played by Sister Ruth and Lydia.

The congregation will sing "He is Risen" And lastly, Sister Dorkas will sing "I Stand All Amazed"

16 April 2006
The Easter Program was just marvelous. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The spirit touched my heart when Sister Telford and Sister Lydia sang. I tried not to cry but I could not stop my tears from dropping.

First Sunday Meetings

2006-04-17T22:23:00.000+08:00

Sunday, 2 April 2006
Another history of the new KK chapel. Today saw the first Sunday meetings to be held. I love to hear young Brother David play the piano because I could 'feel' the beauty of the hymns. He is only 15 years old (16 in August 2006). Under the guidance and tuition of a wonderful and capable, Sister Telford (since she came to Kota Kinabalu in August 2004), Brother David has become a competent pianist. .

Relief Society 164th Birthday - 2006

2006-04-17T20:10:00.000+08:00

Saturday, 1st April 2006
My handphone beeped - a message alert tone. That was on Tuesday, 28 March 2006. I have a message from the Kota Kinabalu Branch Relief Society President. It said "Hi Relief Society b d diner on 1st April ths Sat at new chapel pls b there at 5 pm and no pants/jeans pls we wud lik to hv ladies nite diner thk you i lov u all"

They had planned to celebrate earlier. This change was just perfect for me.

I was thrilled that I can again join their birthday celebration this year. I had the blessing of joining them last year (2005) as it had concided with my visit to Kota Kinabalu. And now again this year! I will be in Kota Kinabalu on the 31 March and the birthday party is on the 1 April.

Just the perfect timing!! I would definitely join them! I want to see the Sisters!

Sister Rusiah taking in the salad dish.

Sister Alice, Rina, Josie, Irene, Dorkas, Rusiah and Elizabeth

The Kota Kinabalu branch Relief Society

Very sorry - this picture is quite blur. My hands must have shaken while taking this picture of the Relief Society Presidency: Sister Annie (President), Sister Rusiah (1st Counselor) and Sister Dorkas (2nd Counselor). Sorry, Sister Telford, the photo that I took of you cutting the cut was too "good" to be posted here - it is very very blur!

Our visitor from Kuala Lumpur, Sister Merritt. With her is Sister Telford (KK District Mission)

Sister Telford giving her talk on Visiting Teaching and the 'Visiting Teaching cans' to take home.

A skit by Sister Mary Anne, Maylin, Annie and Telford.

Sister Christina, Margaret and Marylou.

Sister Margaret, Irene and Christina.

We are happy people! Just visiting each other in the sitting room (ground floor) before going home.

First Chapel Building in Sabah

2006-04-17T16:20:00.000+08:00

Saturday, 1 April 2006
What a blessing it is for the Kota Kinabalu saints. Their first chapel building, the first in the state of Sabah and the second in the whole of Malaysia. Today, the saints moved in the double-storey building. I was so grateful for the opportunity to see the completed building, set on a hill corner of Jalan Kolam and Jalan Kebajikan, Luyang.

Driveway to the gate and the entrance of the chapel.

Driveway to the parking lots.

Chapel, seen from the east side of the compound.

Chapel, seen from the back side of the compound.

Chapel, seen from the west side of the compound.

Chapel, seen from the front.

Elder Blackburn & Elder Capone!

2 Good friends of President Telford: Sister Irene and her friend Ivy - at the church sign board.

Picture on the wall in the Reception/Sitting Room - Ground Floor

Babies' Room - Ground Floor! These are big babies: Edny and Darren. And the picture on the wall above them!

Corridor of the offices, Primary. Walkway to the back entrance and the lift to the first floor.

Picture on the wall outside the baptismal hall.

Picture on the wall outside the Presidents' offices. Our local bred stripling warriors: Elder Dinopol, Jr. and Elder Wong

Going upstairs to the 1st Floor.

Babies' Room on the 1st floor and the picture on the wall.

Corridor to the Assembly (Sacrament) hall, and the picture on the wall.

The Assembly (Sacrament) Hall.

The big screen for watching church conference.

Let's pretend that Sister Maylin is giving a talk at the pulpit

And let's pretend that sweet little Angelie is playing the sacrament piano.

Back Entrance on the 1st Floor and the stairways down.

Walkway (corridor) from the Sacrament Hall to the Babies' room - 1st floor.

Pictures on the wall of the Relief Society and the Young Women Room, respectively, on the 1st floor.

Views of the outside from the 1st floor.

Going out of the church compound.

The Chapel at night!

The following pictures were sent to me early this year, before the chapel was completed:

Farewell Home

2005-12-02T18:04:00.000+08:00

Monday, 28 March 2005

After dinner with friends at a nearby open air restaurant, Lian and me decided to visit the new owner of our apartment, Hannah. This has been my home from December 1999 to January 2005.

This is the first apartment I ever stayed in, so different from a house with compound. Felt like I was in a prison initally but I slowly learnt to love it because I have less cleaning to do!! And don't have to worry about cutting the grass. The colour of the sofa in the sitting room is fading.

The dinning room is just nice for a small family.

Outside the apartment

My neighbours for the last 5 years!

A Farewell Dinner

2005-12-01T17:03:00.000+08:00

Monday, 28 March 2005

Let us have dinner together before you leave, okay?
Sister Maylin, Angelie, Dorkas, Ebony, Rusiah, myself and Annie

Sure! We (Lian, Yean and myself) love dinners, if it is with friends, especially friends whom we have grown to love during our time in Kota Kinabalu.

Thanks to Sister Dorkas, we had dinner at a nice restaurant, close to my KK home. No need air-conditioning. We sat outside the restaurant, in the open air.

Ladies like to sit together! Why? So that we could talk what we want!! There are certain topics that men don't understand. Sorry guys, you all one table okay?

Francis, Patrick, Edre, Yean, Edny, Chua and Eddy

Relief Society 163rd Birthday - 2005

2005-12-01T15:47:00.000+08:00

Saturday, 26 March 2005

This was no ordinary brithday party! We were celebrating the 163th birthday of the Relief Society which fell on the 17 March 2005.

Someone have to cut the cake. Who? The Relief Society Presidency, of course! President Annie, 1st Couselor Sister Yong, 2nd Counselor Sister Dorkas and Secretary Sister Margaret.

What a happy bunch of people - the Relief Society of the Kota Kinabalu branch! Can you see me?

What about some fun and exercise, besides etc. etc.? What about line dancing? And so be it - simple and fun for everyone - 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8....... See me in front, with red blouse!

Kota Kinabalu Church

2005-12-01T14:58:00.000+08:00

Tuesday, 29 March 2005

Last day in Kota Kinabalu before we move permanently to Miri and we have no photographs of any of the church meeting houses!

First stop - Likas. It is located near Yean's school. It was the 1st meeting house in Kota Kinabalu and I am happy to be a part of it.

Second stop - Luyang. So happy because it is nearer to home, only a few minutes drive. I think we moved there in year 2002?

As of today (1 December 2005) it is still being rented for the church meetings.

Last stop - Kota Kinabalu first chapel building under construction. I am looking forward to visiting it when it is ready. I am looking forward to be in it.

My Friends

2005-12-01T13:38:00.000+08:00

July 2000: Elder Kent and Sister Betty, the second couple that I met when I was in Kota Kinabalu. Like all the other couples, I am grateful to know them.

Saturday, 26 March 2005: This is taken at Sister Josie's place. Little Meagan was sick that evening.

Sunday, 27 March 2005: Sister Annie and 2 stripling warriors, Edre and Eddy.

Sunday, 27 March 2005: SisterJuneffer and mother, Dayang.

Sunday, 27 March 2005: Sister Dorkas, little Angelie, myself and young Ebony. Sister Dorkas was once a beauty queen!

Sunday, 27 March 2005: Brother Findley with younger sister (Sarah), mother (Jane) and youngest brother (Ephraim)

Sunday, 27 March 2005: Brother Jopius with wife (Rusiah), daughter (EVJane) and twin sons (Derett & Moses)

Sunday, 27 March 2005: Sister Helen, myself, granddaughter (Jessica) and youngest son (David). Handsome David plays the church piano.

Sunday, 27 March 2005: Vibrant Siste Mary Anne, Chevon and Darren

Sunday, 27 March 2005: Brother Chuah, Sister Maylin, daughters Zi Ching & Zi Siu, sons Zi Chinn & Zi Khang

Sunday, 27 March 2005: Smile and the world the world smiles with you. Don't worry be happy! Back row (from left): Elder Driggs, Elder Baer, Elder Walker, Elder Studdebaker, Singapore Mission President/Sister Larkins. Front row (from left): Irene, Francis, Lyanne, Nene, Elder/Sister Tucker