But for some reason, probably I age mentally faster than my body, I grew 'sianz' of attending such things. I've had my share of fun and more but now, all I want on the eve of a new year is a peaceful night. And before I sleep, I'd send well-wishes to my friends. And hope that when I wake up on the 1st day of the new year, somehow, there'd be Fantasia on Earth. But of course, I've been disappointed many times.
So I want to share the highlights of 2008 for me (i.e. in my opinion hor...):-
(Not in order of rank)
1. Barack Obama becoming President-elect of USA - The 1st African-American in the country's history to do so, demonstrating that the American dream is still very much alive. When Arnold Schwarzenegger became Governor of California, I thought it was a system error.
2. The global collapse of financial giants causing every country to expect recession, restructuring, etc. When I recalled the mergers of banks in Singapore that many years ago, I almost wanted to give up my POSB ATM card, fearing it'd no longer be usable. Boy, was I wrong!
3. Anwar Ibrahim bursting back onto the political scene in Malaysia, with BN losing it's more than 2/3 majority. I had always thought that Anwar was a dead duck. With so many developments, it was surprising that he managed to ride on the coat-tails of the opposition victory to become a parliamentarian again! Mahathir must have never thought this day would arrive.
4. My own engagement. Though it seemed that I was the one pushing for this traditional event, I was glad everything went through smoothly albeit some hiccups. Though it's not a life-changing, end of the world event, it was an experience I wanted to have. Thanks to the many people who worked hard to make it a memorable day for me.
5. Travelling. I still recall the times when I used to dream of going overseas. No, not Malaysia lah. Okay fine, flying overseas. I feel glad that I do get such opportunities. For 2008, I went to Bangkok, Thailand the week before my engagement. I also travelled to Tokyo, Japan for the company conference and did a bit of sight-seeing. Hopefully, next year (2009), I will reach Australia, Philippines and maybe even Hong Kong (2nd time).
There were many highlights but I wanna move on to my expectations for 2009.
I think that 2009 will be a year with a lot of 're'. Retrenchments, recession, restructuring, recalls of products (maybe) and what nots. While I have heard from some friends how the current economic climate is starting to affect them, I hope everything smoothen out and everyone gets through 2009 with good memories.
I am neither a psychic nor futurist but if all of us do our part well, we can make 2009 a good year. Persevere hard, be determined and do not despair.
Personal Life
I expect that many people will keep asking me about my marriage day, some may even ask when we are having our first baby. (I'll re-direct all that to my fiancee.. Hee..) I also expect people to ask when we are getting our flat, whether we are staying far away.
Work Life
2009 will be an exciting year for me. I am taking on a different role and I hope that I will not disappoint my colleagues and superiors. It'll be a challenge for me but I don't usually give up easily. It'll be tough definitely but I will do my best. It's for the best - for me, for my future family.
So enjoy the holidays while it last. Meet you all in the new year, peeps! Happy New Year 2009!!
