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How's 2010 treating you so far?

Rekabentuk Malaysia 2010

2010 February 9

It’s been a while since I’ve really updated this blog and I do apologize to my readers. As described in my last post, it’s been a mad few weeks, far from my usual routine. A blend of personal and work events gives me little time to write.

But fester not for I wish to share with you about my recent experience judging Rekabentuk Malaysia 2010. It’s my second year running and I feel it’s a rewarding experience. More than just an experience actually. I feel great being able to play a bigger role in the Malaysian design scene and giving back to society.

Anyhoo, back to Rekabentuk Malaysia 2010. There are 3 categories every year; primary school, secondary school and professionals. One thing that amazes me is that ideas from the primary school kids are always the most eccentric and to some extend, the most creative!  They can come out with the most outrageous ideas… But the sad thing is that as you move up the categories somehow ideas get filtered so much till it loses its ‘intensity’. Could it be because of our education system?

I’ve made it known before that I’m not too agreeable at our current school syllabus and approach to holistic education. I think there’s much to be done to inculcate creativity. And this is evident if you take part in this sort of events where you actually see the results of what’s being taught in schools.

What I gather from Rekabentuk Malaysia is that the general standard of design (from whatever field of study) is declining. This is evident in the quality of entries as well as the ideas generated. And not to mention the presentation quality. And this worries me till no end. How is Malaysia to be a modern, industrialised nation when the creative impulse is waning? How are we to thrive in an ever changing economy when we are not compelled to think out of the box? Shouldn’t creativity drive passion?

Honestly I do not have a sure-fire solution on how to solve such a complex problem. All I can recommend is that the education system needs to be revamped AND industries to be more involved in cultivating the grass roots. Both parties need to work hand in hand to ensure the government takes heed of this need so that in time we can see a marked improvement. 3 parties for one vision. The vision to be a renowned centre of excellence in design  for this region is probably not too modest a target, don’t you think?

The Problem Solving Flowchart

2010 February 4
by azlano

Seen this one? Hilarious!


Gloomy Days In Japan

2010 February 3
by azlano
It’s still winter here in Japan and the surrounding environment is grey and dull. From Kansai to Nagoya the temperature is moderately cold; about 6 degrees all round. It actually snowed in Tokyo! I don’t know about others but the cold doesn’t really bother me much. It’s the drab exterior which brings me down, keeps me confined and doesn’t do much to my enthusiasm. Ever heard of ‘winter depression’?
So, without sounding depressing I offer you some images from my surroundings yesterday…
Today is a much, much better day! It’s clear & bright, albeit still chilly. Boarding the train again soon…

Steve Job’s Jab At Google & Adobe

2010 January 31

Google’s ‘Don’t Be Evil’ Mantra is ‘Bullshit,’ Adobe Is Lazy: Apple’s Steve Jobs

Posted using ShareThis

So do be careful what you say during public meetings, interviews and especially townhall gatherings! But you gotto admit, the guys is a straight talker and as direct as can be.

Apple iPad

2010 January 28

And so it begins. The rush for the aptly named iPad has begun and I think it’ll be a hit in no time. But having gone through the specifications I think early adopters will lose out in 6-12 months from buying  this initial version.

This first edition of the multifunction iPad is really quite basic and from my point of view there’s so much more it can do. I believe Apple is holding back on a lot of features and functions whilst it captures the eager first buyers.

The design of this device is as expected; strong similarities with most of Apple’s range of products denotes a consistent styling cue to create a strong identifiable corporate image. The iPad’s functions are so very similar to the iPod Touch and iPhone that existing users will feel at home right form the start. Interestingly Apple has developed a custom designed chip to power the device; dubbed the A4 chip it seems Apple is ever more intent to control its products and intellectual property. I guess it’s only natural since with the huge cash reserves and market capitalization they have their management will certainly want to monopolize their market. This market control measure will ensure their uniqueness and stability in an extremely competitive low cost computing market. Netbook createurs take note!

I’m very interested with this product but in my opinion it’s not the time yet to own one. I see huge potential not only at a personal computing level but also in a corporate environment.

Read more of the tech specs at www.apple.com and view the launch video below.

Avatar Surpasses Titanic!

2010 January 27
by azlano

Avatar passes Titanic on worldwide chart.

WOW! The highest grossing movie  of all time!

Be Back Soon!

2010 January 22
tags:
by azlano

It’s been a crazee 2 weeks with lotsa things happening. Safe to say life isn’t as it was a month ago…

I’ll be back soon.

JobStreet English Language Assessment

2010 January 13

Sony launches 360 degree Bloggie @ CES

2010 January 10
by azlano

I’m ever so glad I didn’t rush off to get the Flip. Now that Sony has just released their competitor to the Flip I’m gonna assess the unit first before making my decision. Was at The Curve’s Sony Centre today and as expected there’s no news of it yet.

Nexus One vs Droid vs iPhone [Comparison Chart]

2010 January 6
by azlano