CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club

Letter from a senator-to-be

2007-02-15T13:34:00.000+08:00

CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club

Dear fellow members,

Many of you may not know what happened on 3rd FEB 2007 at USJ. Want to know more, read on.....................

Dateline - 3rd FEB 2007, Saturday, The Summit, USJ.

It was a hot afternoon and I was drawing along the KESAS Highway after dropping my wife and son off at Bukit Rimau, Shah Alam. The drive was a breeze, I'll say. Traffic was indeed good.....I spoke too soon! Massive long queue at the Subang Jaya interchange turnoff. I can't do anything but sit pretty tight, hands at the wheel, in the blaring hot sun , thinking...........thinking..........thinking. WHAT HAVE I PUT MYSELF INTO!!!!!!!!!

Flashback - 7 days earlier . Received a sms from Ms S; coaxing me to take up the challenge. I hesitated as it was an unfamiliar , uncomfortable and untried avenue. About to return a negative response but my professional ethics got better of me: "Dear Ms S. Let me check my schedule first" , I typed .

2 days later, as fate played its role, I was taking my very, very late lunch or rather early "dinelun" nearby my office. In walked Mr R, the chief of the situation. Mr R was in the vicinity getting ready for an evening event nearby. What do you know, the topics discussed moved to the centre of the situation and with no other way to go, I quietly gave a firm YES! to Ms S.

What a shock I had later in the evening, back at my office, when the details of the situation were revealed piece meal.............Oh my GOD!! I've to do research !!!. How on earth am I able to juggle with the heavy workload , leisure , work , sleep and research!. As a man of his own words, I stuck to my confirmation.

A fellow comrade-to-be responded by e-mail similiar to my thoughts and withdrawn from the situation. In teh next 2 days, a replacement was found. That makes 4 of us in the same boat. Hmmm....I thought about it and the Wonderful World of Web provided the data. Easier said than done, let me try to mirror the way senators behave in the Parliament.

HONK!!!!! that impatience driver behind jolted me.

Into The Summit and I dragged myself out of my car.....reluctantly. There's no turning back and I do not wish to let down my fellow comrades. Even though my throat was dry from a bout of cough which came a few days ago.

Calming my nerves browsing through the mall, telling myself to enjoy the moments. Not those PYT !!

At the Auditorium on level 4, a distant sobbing turning into loud cries as the pacifier tried her best nearly makes me turn my heels and run off!! How the situation can break one down!

Fortunately, I have more time to calm my nerves as the doors to the auditorium was locked. The entire situation was delayed much to my relief...alas!!.... it came eventually.

The situation , that is......THE GREAT DEBATE!!.

Yes, yours truly, a first timer at debates, will be a senator-wannabe.

Team of 4's will pit against each other 2 on 2 for a knock out first round. Thereafter the victors from each round will face each other in the finals.

My team comprising of Valli, Chong Beng and Ranjit Singh were all cool and composed. Reminding ourselves to enjoy ourselves we cleared out throats for the first round.

The topic for the first round was "Genetic engineering is the hope for the future" was given vide e-mail. However whether our team to propose or against, will only be made known moments before the debate. Challenging eh!!

As we took to the stage, our team was told to propose. Quickly our thinking caps were switched on and away we went. Ranjit spoke first followed by Chong Beng. I fired my volleys and Valli wrapped it up. Guess what. We beat the other team and we moved into the finals!!

Taking a breather, we hear the other 2 teams battle out on first round with a topic "Should capital punishment be practised in a civilised world" . The victorious team will meet us in the finals.

Just before the tea break, the topic was given. Whew!! No more excuse this time on needed time to research. We have to draw from our common senses and knowledge. The title " Adopted children should know their biological parents" .

The other team, sat and deliberated , dispensing off tea break. Our cool team, enjoyed the tea break and networking. Only took about 5 minutes to discuss in brief.

At the finals, our team was to oppose. The same order of presentation and in no time, the torture was over.

For me, it was truly an experience. Am enriched over it . Tested my limits and know that there is nothing impossible that we cannot do. Do it to the best of our ability and most of all enjoy ourselves.

Well.......the better prepared team won . You guessed it right.

A round of applause please ...................................................................

Thank you for appreciating my courage.....lets stop at that.

Congratulations to the winning team.....you know that you have been given a tough fight for the position.

Wish that you were present to witness the GREAT DEBATE. Maybe next year.

Booster for public speaking??

2006-08-17T18:46:00.000+08:00

Ponder this..........alcoholic session prior to public speaking?? Can we equate this?.....I've heard about how alcohol "assist" in lightening oneself in order to belt out some numbers at the Karaoke set. But singing and talking is different , right?

Some would swear by this though. I guess in singing, being slightly tipsy could render a swing song effect with pitching, variety, tone......... heh!! that's the same about public speaking right!! We were told about vocal variety and all that jazz.

Similiarly in grabbing the mic, one would never stand still unless its the national anthem. Well, you have guessed it right; move around when you speak; actualise your words, they say, and boozers say, Aye!!.

My tolerance on the spirit is low; may even get high over H2O. Those who have seen me in action will testify to this. Opps!! my secret is out! Maybe my sky juice was laced............. wonder where was the source eh?

Either you advocate this or not, lets hear it from the boys and girls out there.

cheers!!
Victor

Battle of the Best

2006-08-03T11:08:00.000+08:00

Dateline - 2nd AUG 2006 Time - 1930hours
The Battle began.
5 contestants pitted against each other to wrestle the title of "Simon Cowell" in evaluating and tearing apart the test speaker. Poor Clavin, the test speaker, everyone cornered him later to ask for the photograph of Emily Rose!!
The contestants, Dickson, Kenny, Andrew, Andy and Shereen all strive their very best. Sharp tongues wagged ; constructive critique lashed out; icing meted and the audience were in awe.

So who impressed the judges? Andrew with his composed and cheek-in-tongue evaluation. Staying close at his heels was Dickson followed by Andy. Congratulations ADA!

The battle wages on!

7 brave warriors came into the field trying their very best to make us laugh. Some were very successful and even draw blood! opps sorry, draw tears. Warriors Dickson, Kenny, Darren, Patrick, Ai Leng, Regan and Jitesh shot their missiles of endophine but the msot arrows that hit the mark, the judges hearts, came from the only rose amongst the torns, Ai Leng. Contenders Dickson followed by Jitesh were close marksman. Hurrah!!

Aftermath - the crew rolled up to clear the gore and blood stains. But thank God, no corpse .

Guys, I urge you to post your comments, especially for the champion and successors; any suggestions or areas for improvement. The champions have been presented with the tiny blades to sharpen their skills and would definately need long spears to battle at Area B2.

commentator
Victor

CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club

2006-04-05T12:39:00.000+08:00

I was wondering whether this matter was announced earlier or my memory failed.

Our Area C1 Governor, none other than CL Sharmini, has attained the Distinguished Area status as at today. Let's put our hands together to congratulate her.....

For your information, The acheive Distinguished Area, must achieve 4 out of goals 1 to 5. To attain Select Distinguished Area, must achieve all 8 out of goals 1 to 8. To attain President's Distinguished Area, must achieve all 9 of the goals 1 to 9. Go for it Sharmini!!

For your further information too, as at today, AREA C1 is the only area that attained Distinguished Area under Division C. WOW!!!

As a club, we must strive towards the same goal. Achieving our DCP, another goal achieved for our Area C1 Governor.

regards
Victor

CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club - towards President Distinguished Club Award

2006-03-02T12:56:00.000+08:00

Hi members,

Last night, we heralded a member who attained Competent Leader (CL) . He is none other that CTM Andy Ching !!! An additional title to your name, Andy and another point for the club. Great job CL Andy Ching.

What a night we had! Fantastic speakers who spoke with aplomb . Then we had a volley of internationally flavoured tickler from our new CL Andy .
Another round of exciting speakers after the happy hour . So much so that BRA membership was discovered!

Man of the match ...or rather Man/Woman of the night were...........Parasakti - getting into the shoes.........Crissy - with multi hats...........Jason Tay - logistics will not be the same without him..........Andy - double dosage........

Do not get this mambo-jumbo??? Come by next meeting...15th MAR , and am sure you will experience it first hand.

And oh ! almost forgotten..........our lady boss, President and Area C1 Governor , Sharmini could not bear to tear herself from us that she left early from another meeting to be with us for Teh Tarik!

See you guys on 15th???

CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club - the contest

2006-02-16T09:52:00.000+08:00

Last night, 15th FEB 2006, the weather nearly wash out our event; our club International and Table Topic Speech contest. Everyone was caught in the standstill at most parts. I was fortunate to be within the vicinity for another appointment. Good planning helps. Thoroughout the late evening, have been receiving numerous calls from people not able to make it.

Anyway, that did not dampen our spirit. The earliest to arrive was the chief judge follwed by another judge. I was the third to arrive. Crossed my heart , I did not bribed the judges....guess the countless invitations to offer the wonderful spread would not count as I'm playing my role as host, right??

Looking at the venue, with the tables and chairs in dis-array and nothing done yet, I single-handedly arrange the entire room and set up . I'm sure the contest chair person would certainly appreciate that.

One by one, the guests, contestants, judges, role players trickled in; nearly everyone armed with a brolly.
We were about an hour late but better late than never.

The contest began with the Internationl Speech Contest. Chair person, Sharmini went through with the rules and introduced the contestants. 3 brave souls participate. There were Parasakti, Victor and Crissy. First to start was Parasakti. Incidently she was the last contestant to arrive. With poius , she delivered her speech flawlessly and personalised her topic.

Then came Crissy who facsinated the audience the mentaly challenged encounter with her 5 year old niece. Another personalised version with praises to Toastmastery.

Final contestant, yours truly with my account on the great Napoleon Bonaparte. Going down history and killing 2 birds with one stone actually.

A refreshing break thereafter for the next group of contestants to charge up.

There were 5 contestants for the Table Topic contest. Chairperson, Andrew came in and did his part and introduced the 5 lambs to the slaughter.....Parasakti, Crissy, Victor, Andy and Jitesh. For your information, Jitesh was so passionate about the contest that he has to run up and down two floors to juggle between the contest and anothe committee meeting.

The topic was I think goes something like this " Do you think that Malaysian drivers have improved?"
Each speaker gave their version to sway the points in their favour.

When it was finally over, the constestants breathed a sigh of relief.

Here's the results :

For International Speech Contest, as there were only 3 participants, only the champion was announced. This person was ...................CRISSY LEE!!! Congratulations!!

For Table Topic Speech Contest, the 2nd runner up was Jitesh. All your enthusiasm paid off.
1st runner up was Andy! The champion......VICTOR!!!
Congratulations to all the winners.

Hence Crissy and Victor will represent the club in the next level, Area C1 contest on 25th MAR 2006 for the respective contests.

A heartfelt thanks to all who have assisted. The time keepers; sergeant-at-arms; ballot counters; judges; contest chair perons and the organising chair, Sharmini.

Come and support the champions this coming 25th MAR 2006.

by
Victor

CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club

2006-01-26T09:39:00.000+08:00

CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club

Excerpt from The Star , 26th JAN 2006 :

Sex calms nerves before public speaking - study

By Dan Williams
LONDON (Reuters) - Forget pretending you are talking to one person or concentrating on a single point in the audience -- having sex is good way to calm nerves before giving a speech or presentation.
But Stuart Brody, a psychologist at the University of Paisley in Scotland, said it has to be full sexual intercourse to get the best results.
He studied nearly 50 men and women who recorded their sexual activities for two weeks and analysed its impact on their blood pressure levels when under acute stress, such as when giving a speech.
Brody discovered that the volunteers who had sexual intercourse were the least stressed and had blood pressure levels that returned to normal more quickly than people who engaged in other types of sex.
But people who had abstained from sex had the highest blood pressure response to stress.
Even after taking into account stress due to work or other factors, the range of responses to stress were best explained by sexual behaviour.
"The effects are not attributable simply to the short-term relief afforded by orgasm but rather, endure for at least a week," Brody told New Scientist magazine said on Wednesday.

Ladies and gentlemen; is this the secret of some of the very eloquent speakers; how slefish of them not to share with us.

What do you think? Please submit your comments.

regards
Victor Cheong

The Dreadful Day

2005-10-07T18:42:00.000+08:00

Excerpts from The Diary :

Dateline - 24th SEP 2005.
Place - Prime College, Summit Square, USJ

It was 1325hours. Just parked my car at the basement. My wife and I were searching high and low for the lobby to the right elevators which should bring us directly up to the 4th floor.

Alas! The first lobby , a cargo goods lift brought us to the back of an extreme vertical wall climbing enclosure.
"Surely they are not forcing you to climb,my dear" exclaimed by wife, my personal cheerleader.

The next lobby brought us to an office block where a security guard redirected us . Poor communication skills and made my wife walked an extra mile! It was so near yet so far...........sort of using your right hand to touch your left ear from the rear. Well, my fault...........forgotten about the correct location was there before; barely a few months ago. Must be getting old.

Finally at last, level 4. Barely reached the reception counter and someone told me that the reserve is preping up . Hey! its only 1340hours, man.

At the auditorium, only 6 of us (out of 8 ) has arrived....... and do you know when the other 2 came? One sneaked in at 1415hours while another only after the tea break!!

It's the D-Day.........Division C Evaluation Speech Contest! To say, I was not nervous, was calling it a bluff......putting into practise all that I've learnt to void the butterflies in my stomach....

A little fast forward to the best time of all..........the break! Chow time and hoping that there would not be any space for butterflies to roam. Mingled about and all the well wishes intimidated me further! Countless time to the washroom.

Sit back and relax, they say. And when the contest chair forgotten to introduce the test speaker properly........forgotten to state the speech title.... I got nervous!! Sitting near the stage, I voiced out for the title and the cool test speaker calmly read out his speech title. Oh boy! What a long title and I could barely finish writing when my pen decided to die on me!! Of all days and me constantly reminding my son to always bring extras to important events like examination hall. Fortunately for me, our Area C1 Governor was sitting nearby who gladly sacrificed her lucky pen.

In a jiffy, all my intense listening and observation was over. Marching into the confinement room was a long tension-filled moment. Equally tensed was the 5 minutes of thinking and writing and thinking and writing. Nostalgic recollections of sitting for exams.

Then it was the waiting and one by one, like lambs to the slaughtering chamber, we took our turn.

"Victor!", bellowed the Sergeant-At-Arms, jolting me from a close and enjoyable conversation with a lady fellow contestant.

Its my turn to walk the plank!! Tried to calm myself and comically peeped at the stage. Nay! That did not work. Taking a deep breath.....here goes......................................................

Can't remember what I've said, but sigh! what a relief .

Pretty close competition I heard. By now you should have known about the winners. Congrats to them . Though I did not make it....sob! sob! it was indeed a fantastic and exhilarating experience. I strongly recommend you to try it. Once you have been there before, it would be second nature.

Giving it another shot soon. Care to join me??

Cheers!

Another feather in our cap

2005-10-06T20:05:00.000+08:00

Last night, our club heralded another CL; none other than CTM Tan Cee
Wan!!! our club secretary. Congratulations and thank you for assisting
the club to garner Wan point, opps!! correction, one point towards the
Distinguised Club Programme.

Let's see another CL in the making; hey!! you know who you are.....

The passing of a friend...

2005-09-30T15:52:00.000+08:00

Last Wednesday, 28 September 2005, we received a sad news about a passing of a friend, who was also a CIMA Malaysia's SDC committee member, Dr. Unvar Rahman Abdul Muthalib. He had succumbed to the dengue fever which had plagued our city these last few weeks. He was the Assistant Professor in UIA. His contributions to CIMA Malaysia, especially through SDC, was invaluable.

It is sad that he had to go this way. We are all saddened by his demise.

No farewell words were spoken
No time to say goodbye
You were gone before we knew it
And only God knows why

Since you'll never be forgotten
We pledge to you today
A hallowed place within our hearts
Is where you always stay

(excerpt from a poem called "If tears could build a stairway" [anon.])

To his wife and children he left behind, we offer them our deepest condolences. May God grant them strength to face the days ahead.

To Dr. Unvar Rahman, we bid you our last farewell, and thank you for giving us the chance to know you and be your friends.

Al-Fatihah.

Division C contest announcement

2005-09-20T16:27:00.000+08:00

Dear All,

The Division Contest is coming up this weekend. Details:

Date : 24 September 2005 (Saturday)

Time : 2.00 p.m. (Contestants please be there by 1.30 p.m.)

Venue : Auditorium, Prime College,
4th Floor, The Summit,
Persiaran Kewajipan USJ 1,
Subang Jaya.

Our Area C1 contestants and their back-ups are:

Humorous
Champion:- Jack Leong
1st runner-up:- Jitesh Kan Tilal

Evaluation
Champion:- Victor Cheong
1st runner-up:- G. Sivalingam

Tickets are RM 15/- each.
Let's go and give them a great show of support.

The Division has also asked that all clubs give a show of support by persuading at least 5 members to buy tickets. Should be easy right, 5 per club? So far DU has promised the participation of a few people.

Hope you and your members make it a point to witness the Division's greatest speakers in action. Please confirm the numbers attending by Thurs, 22nd September 2005 so that I can liaise with Div C for logistics purposes.

Thanks and have a great week.

Best regards,

Sharmini
Area C1
Enriching Lives

Change in EXCO line-up - new Treasurer

2005-09-20T12:06:00.000+08:00

Dear Fellow Toastmasters,

There has been a change in the Exco line-up. We have a new Treasurer in the comely form of TM Christine Tan. She has been a devoted Committee Member for the past months and enthusiastically took up the post of Treasurer. Christine we welcome you on board and thank you for your help. I know everyone will give Christine the utmost support to make her role an enjoyable one.

Why is there a new Treasurer? Because the old one went away! No, no he did not. He's still around. Our former Treasurer, TM Wan Rashid decided to resign and the Exco has accepted with much reluctance due to his mounting workload. However, he will still support us and the club whenever needed.

Warm regards,
Sharmini

AREA C1 Contest Results

2005-09-05T18:24:00.000+08:00

The Area C1 Contest was held last Saturday, 3rd
September 2005. It was graced by our Division
Governor DTM Patricia Tan. We had a pleasant surprise
in that many "VIPs" attended and a large crowd of
about 40 people turned up to cheer the contestants on.

All the contestants gave it their best and it must
have been tough for the judges to choose the best.
There were three for each of the contests and so only
the champions and 1st runners-up were announced. The
results.................................................

Humorous Speech Contest:

1) Champion - Jack Leong from D'Utama
2) 1st Runner Up - Jitesh Kantilal from CIMA

Evaluation Contest:

1) Champion - Victor Cheong from CIMA
2) 1st Runner Up - G. Sivalingam from D'Utama

Congratulations to all the winners! They truly
enthralled the crowd. The crowd was fantastic and the
whole atmosphere was electrifying and merry.

Thanks to our Div C Governor Pat for being there and
giving all of us encouragement. Thanks too, to all
who helped out as role players. Special thanks to our
Organising Chair and Contest Chairs - Parasakti and
Nancy who got everyone into the fun competitive mood.

Don't forget the Division C Contest is on the 24th
September 2005 at Prime College, Summit, Subang Jaya
at 2.00 p.m. I have the tickets with me. Let me know
the numbers you need. Tickets are priced at RM15/-
only each inclusive of refreshments. Remember our
champions will be competing as well. So let us be
there and root for them!

Once again thanks to everyone for the part you played
in a most enjoyable contest.

Best Regards,
Sharmini
Area C1 Governor

Evaluation and Humourous Speech Contest

2005-08-04T09:34:00.000+08:00

How much fun we had last night! What a pity if you have sat out!

Anyway permit me to announce the results but I will spare the details.

Evaluation Contest

There were 5 contestants :
CTM Jitesh Kan Tilal
TM Sopiah Suid
CTM Tan Chee Wan
TM Crissy Lee
CTM Victor Cheong

And the winners were................All of them were winners......being brave enough to participate and enriched with the great experience.

Of course the podium finishers :
2nd runner up - TM Crissy Lee!!!!

1st runner up - TM Sopiah Suid !!!!!!

Champion - CTM Victor Cheong !!!!!

Humourous Speech Contest

There were only 3 contestants namely :
CTM Tan Chee Wan
CTM Jitesh Kan Tilal
CTM Victor Cheong

As only 3 contestants, only the Champion was announced ........
.......................he is .....................................none other than..........
..................................CTM......................................................
..............................Jitesh !!!!!!!!

Congratulations to all the winners. The Champions will championed the club at the Area C1 Contest on 3rd SEP 2005, Saturday. In event of none availability , the 1st runners up will represent the club.

The greatest champion last night was........................VPE TM Parasakti in the chair ....she braved through a rough patch in her throat and pulled through with flying colours!! Give yourself a pat on the abck, Parasakti!

regards
Victor Cheong

Club Contest - Humourous Speech and Evaluation Contest

2005-07-21T18:57:00.000+08:00

In case, you have not heard, our club will be holding our own contest
on 3rd AUGUST 2005, Wednesday.

2 different contests, one, the Humourous Speech contest where
contestants will deliver a speech with humourous content. Here, the
contestants will strive to be Jerry Lewis (who??only the seniors will
know) or Whoppi Goldberg.......As audience, be tickled or if failure
to happen, you may tickle the contestants in return....literally. A
contestant can kill 2 birds with one stone by treating the contest
speech as part of the assigned speeches in relevant manuals but prior
arrangement to be made with another member to do the written
evaluation. (Verbal evaluation, of course over a cuppa!).

The second contest is the Evaluation contest. Hmmm....a Simon Cowel
in the making?? (BTW, I heard from the grapevine that there will be 2
vacant positions for the coming American Idol Season). Contestants
will hear a guest speaker and evaluate his/her presentation.

Interested??? Can I??? Where?? How?? Oh, okay here's the information :

Time : 7.00pm sharp (Malaysian time please)

Date : As above, oh okay, I repeat , Wednesday, 3rd AUGUST 2005

Place : CIMA Malaysia Division office, 1st floor, 123, Jalan SS6/12,
Kelana Jaya Urban Centre.

Eligiblity : Any members of CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club of good
standing

Good standing defined : Tall....., dark.....leggy.....OPPS!!!
Sorry; actually any members of this club who
has dues to Toastmasters International current (ie paid and not in
arrears)

Registration : Just simply submit your name to our Contest Chair, TM
Parasakti vide e-mail (may use this to reply) or give her a call at
016-3916381. May also SMS but no snail mail please.

Audience?? : Yes, you may be part of the cheerleaders troop. Please
bring the pomp pomp.

Role Player?? : Yes, cheap labour welcomed. Please contact Parasakti,
the Contest Chair for wages.

Fees : What!!! I'm being forced at gun-point..... FOC!!!!!

See you there! or rather you definately will see me there!!

regards
Victor

Sweet Shereen in the news

2005-07-14T09:44:00.000+08:00

Are you a subsriber of NSTP? Or have you been keeping yourself upto date with the printed news?

Our very own Shereen Chong was featured in an article in yesterday, 13th JULY 2005 NSTP "Excellence in Education" pull out . To be precise, on page 15 with a huge blow up picture of sweet Serene (hei!! that is how she coined her e-mail address.......though I would not deny that ).

I will not quote the entire text here but if anybody manage to download from e-NSTP, please assist. Anyway here are the extracts :

" Doors of opportunity are opening..........easier for her to adapt to the nature of her work........financial management and strategy to succeed...............CIMA equips pepole with knowledge and competencies.........at ease in dealing with management and business issues...............higher level skills........"big picture"..............an edge over others in the job market........"

Well done, Shereen!!

CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club

2005-07-12T18:02:00.000+08:00

CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club

My pleasure to announce the smooth arrival of Jitesh Kan Tilal junior today...........CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Now we await the cigar.................

New term, new enthusiasm

2005-07-03T19:14:00.000+08:00

Happy New Term!

We bade farewell to the term 2004/2005, and we expressed our gratitude to all who made our dreams came true. We are now in the new chapter with a new vision.

Now the new term is here. The captaincy is now in the hand of the new president, as well as being the most decorated club member. However, all the successes the club had achieved bring a new challenge for the new term. The heat is on to move the club forward and strive for more achievement.

Lately we have seen an increase in the meeting attendance and we thank our students members for the support. At the same time, we hope that our existing members will participate more by regularly come to the meeting - as the saying goes: the more, the merrier! The success of our club really lies in your hand, fellow members.

Again, we in e-newsletter would like to welcome everyone to the new term of 2005/2006. We wish all the executive committees the very best in their tasks of meeting the new challenges. We would like to express our gratitude to CTM Victor Cheong (now IPP) for his vast contributions to the club in the previous term and with the same breath, wishing the new president, ATM-B Sharmini, the very best of luck in facing the challenges ahead.

And to all members, happy toastmastery.

End of the 04/05 chapter

2005-06-30T17:50:00.000+08:00

The term of 2004/2005 will officially end today at 12:00 a.m. It had been a very interesting year for our club. We attained the highest club's achievement - the President Distinguished Club Award. There were 11 other clubs which attained this award.

The award summarised our successes that we achieved. We have sponsored "baby" clubs like KLIA Consult, our members achieved CTM status as well as ATM-B and many other smaller but significant victories along the way.

We believe we can maintain this success in the new term. With the new President in the driving seat, we will see refreshing improvements in the coming months.

Before we say goodbye to the 2004/2005 term, we would like to give our heartiest appreciations to all the club members and those who came to support us and turned these dreams into a reality. We hope that you will continue to give the support to the club.

And with that, adieu to the 04/05 term, and thank you.

Storm over a cup of tea

2005-06-29T09:01:00.000+08:00

CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club

Good morning fellow members,

Now is 0900hours Wednesday, 29th JUNE 2005;.....another 39 hours to
the close of this contest.

Hmmm...not many entries ......unable to brain-storm??......storm not
brewing up??.....what! dry season???..............the weatherman
predicted storm for the next 24-hours........so let the sparks jump!
and connect your brain tissue for more ideas..........

regards
Victor

Where in the world am I....

2005-06-23T17:54:00.000+08:00

Guess where this is... and what are those yellow 'thingy' floating near the island...
Posted by Hello

Update: 30 June 2005 (12:53 am)

The pic was taken during my recent trip to Langkawi. The island in question is... yep, none other than the famous Pulau Dayang Bunting, as you would notice in the outline of the island (which resembles a pregnant lady lying on her back).

The yellow thingy floating near the island are floats for the nettings where they breed a very special breed of fish: Haruan Laut (which can reach more than 3 kg per fish). I bet not many of you would know this unless you go for the island hopping trip in Langkawi.

Watch out for the next photos....

Theme competition

2005-06-21T16:28:00.000+08:00

Dear fellow members,

In the twilight of my tenure, permit me to handle this final challenge.

For your information, the club never has a theme of its own; we merely adopt that of either District 51 or Division C. This current term, we have adopted the theme of District 51 i.e. "Turning Dreams Into Reality".

For the coming term, we would like to have our own theme for the club. The theme should reflect the character as well as the aspiration of the club (in context of Toastmastery, of course!). All members are eligible to submit their choice of theme and may submit more than one themes. They may also provide with explanations for the proposed theme (though not compulsory) .

Please e-mail your entry/ies to me at victorcck@yahoo.com with your name. Please do not send to the club's mailing list (yahoogroups) as there will be a surprise for the winning entry.

Tips? Well, anything goes - but we prefer a catchy phrase better (e.g. Just Talk, Speak Up!!, Let's encourage one another, Strenght in numbers, Perfect 10 !

Dateline is midnight 30th JUNE 2005, Malaysian time please

I will compile ALL your suggestions and post it up on the Yahoo group for your votes with a closing date to be announced. Will also be posted on this e-newsletter for comments to "sway " members in your favour.

Remember - there will be a surprise for the winning theme composer.

What are you waiting for......get your brains working and be creative NOW!!

Regards
Victor Cheong

Storytelling

2005-06-15T17:11:00.000+08:00

Our lives are filled with stories - it is how we express ourselves and a means of communication. I recently found this website that tells a lot about the art of storytelling. I have always admire people who can tell good stories. It is really an art in itself, but the best part is, anybody can learn this art of storytelling. Talk about storytelling, one movie struck my mind. It's called: The Big Fish. Its a movie about how a man uses stories to tell his son about the lessons in life and how the son realised (rather too late, though..) how great his father was when all the characters in his father's stories came for his father's funeral.

Excerpt from the website:

Storytelling is really an ancient form of expression and communication. Stories filled our imagination and in our modern media world, filled with preprogrammed imagery, storytelling offers the listener an opportunity to be creative; to design costumes, sets and scenery in the theatre of the mind. Sharing stories brings people intimately together.

Why are stories so powerful? This question has been addressed in a famous story told by Jacob Kranz, the Maggid of Dubno, an 18th century rabbi in Eastern Europe. Here is a poem based on his thought.

Naked Truth and Parable

Naked Truth walked down the street one day.
People turned their eyes away.

Parable arrived, draped in decoration.
People greeted Parable with celebration.

Naked Truth sat alone, sad and unattired,
"Why are you so miserable?" Parable inquired.

Naked Truth replied, "I'm not welcome anymore.
No one wants to see me. They chase me from their door."

"It is hard to look at Naked Truth," Parable explained.
"Let me dress you up a bit. Your welcome will be gained."

Parable dressed Naked Truth in story's fine attire,
with metaphor, poignant prose, and plots to inspire.

With laughter and tears and adventure to unveil,
together they went forth to spin a tale.

People opened their doors and served them their best. Naked Truth dressed in story was a welcome guest.

-- A Jewish tale retold as a poem by Heather Forest

On a lighter note....

2005-06-05T10:49:00.000+08:00

What is Marketing?

You see a gorgeous girl at a party. You go up to her and say, "I am very rich. Marry me!"
That's Direct Marketing

You're at a party with a bunch of friends and see a gorgeous girl. One of your friends goes up to her and pointing at you says, "He's very rich. Marry him."
That's Advertising.

You see a gorgeous girl at a party. You go up to her and get her telephone number. The next day you call and say, "Hi, I'm very rich. Marry me."
That's Telemarketing.

You're at a party and see a gorgeous girl. You get up and straighten your tie; you walk up to her and pour her a drink. You open the door for her, pick up her bag after she drops it, offer her a ride, and then say, "By the way, I'm very rich "Will you marry me?"
That's Public Relations.

You're at a party and see a gorgeous girl.She walks up to you and says, "You are very rich, I want to marry you."
That's Brand Recognition.

You see a gorgeous girl at a party. You go up to her and say, "I'm rich. Marry me" She gives you a nice hard slap on your face.
That's Customer Feedback

CMTC is 2 years old now!

2005-06-03T22:56:00.000+08:00

(Pics will be posted once they are made available)

We had a 'birthday' celebration during our regular Wednesday meet this week (2/6/05). Yes, our club is now 2 years old! And the turnout for the meeting was very encouraging, too. A total of 31 members and guests turn up for the meeting - the largest for this term.

It's also encouraging to see many new faces taking up roles for the night. A new Humor Master was discovered that night (TM Madhan) and really did a good job - especially the one about "made in China".

Parasakti also delighted us with her speech assignment. She also disclosed that that day was her 20th wedding anniversary - Happy Anniversary, Parasakti! Wow, 20 years already, huh... Attending the club's meet must really be a fun thing as she decided to be with us on her anniversary day!! Maybe her mirror on the wall (her speech title... for those who missed her speech) told her to come.... hmm.

Jitesh persuaded us to be a vegetarian as he delivered his assignment speech that night. He got a point when he mentioned that one can save money by being a vegetarian. He mentioned that there are many types of vegetarian from those who will not even take onion to those who take eggs and dairy products. He also enlightened us with the many advantageous of being a vegatarian (one of which where one can get a VIP treatment by being vegetarian!).

Point of View...with CTM Victor Cheong (part 2)

2005-05-27T13:03:00.000+08:00

In part 1, Victor summarised his views on the development of the club in the 2 years since it was created. He also elaborated on the DCP award where the club has achieved the highest award; the President's Distinguished Club Award. Here is the second part of the interview.

---------------------------------

Q:Apart from the DCP, what are other significant goals that the club has achieved? What do you think contribute to this/these?

A: Right at the onset of my term, I’ve shared my dreams…… to build the “interior design” and infra-structure. The ID works were completed……..achievement of the mission to grow and to attain the President’s Distinguished Club. Include the creation of this e-newsletter website done professionally by our IT man, TM Wan Rashid.

As for the infrastructure, links were created with the impeding chartering of our affiliated CIMA Johr Bahru Branch Toastmasters Club and the successful chartering of KLIA Toastmasters Club. In the blue prints are other “infra-structure” under negotiation stages and definitely a super highway will be built.

Again, all these were made possible by the club members, the TEAM.

Q: Do you agree that in order for the club to achieve more success, we need to build on the membership base. What is your comment on this?

A: I totally agree with this. A club is an organization of people coming together with a common goal ie in our case, the majority objective of becoming better speakers. It is a club where we help one another grow. Each individual showcase individual skills/talents. Naturally by having more members, we have a wider spectrum of people and hence colorful members will bring life to the club to sustain its lifespan.

Q:In your tenure as the club’s President, what is your most memorable moment?

A:Of course the pinnacle, the achievement of President’s Distinguished Club . Others include our various “themed” meetings eg the Bahasa Malaysia Day which was very comical….come to think of it, should do it again… the attired events….traditional costumes……and not forgetting those “tea-tarik” sessions after the meetings.

Q:Before we end this session, do you have anything to say to our readers out there?

A:The journey was not easy…..but Together Everyone Achieves More….. A big thank you to the entire club and especially to the EXCO who made it happen. For me , though 30^th JUNE 2005 will mark the end of my term as Club President, nevertheless, I do enjoy Toasmastery very much and the great fun-filled fellowship we had.

Learning is a life-long process; some levied exorbitant rates. Toastmasters Club, a very affordable means to learn. If you have not experienced it before, why not make it point. For 2 hours of fun learning experience, twice a month. Join us.

On behalf of CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club (CMTC), I would like to thank you for your time to be with us in Point of View.

Point of View...with CTM Victor Cheong (part 1)

2005-05-26T13:10:00.000+08:00

CTM Victor Cheong is one of the chartered members and served as the Committee member when the first EXCO members for the club were elected for the term 2003/2004. He was then elected as the club’s President for the 2004/2005 term. He has relentlessly contributed to the club and saw the club achieving the President’s Distinguished Club Award, a great achievement for a club which is only 2 years in existence.

Question (Q): First of all, congratulation on the club’s amazing achievement. How would you describe the club now as compared when it was first started 2 years ago?

Answer (A): Well…..I’ll say that the club went through a “mini hill ride”; it started off with a bang where within a three hours of demo presentation, more than 20 charter members joined. “Up hill” task all the way but with great assistance and guidance from sponsors and mentors, we managed to climb the “hill”. Reached the “peak” at the end of the first year term, 30^th JUNE 2004 and I took the front seat on the easy way of coasting “down hill” by Mother Nature gravity . The journey down the slope was fast and within a short time, I realized that we will have to go against gravity. This time literally on our own two feet. With the force of momentum, (May the Force be with you too!) we managed to rise to the peak again.

Membership grew with in influx of CIMA 1^st Club members; demo meetings conducted for 2 organisations, a 100% achievement, with KLIA Toastmasters Club (778458) chartered on 4^th APRIL 2005 and CIMA Johor Bahru Branch Toastmasters Club in the midst of submitting the charter papers. And at our own club level, the achievement of the President’s Distinguished Club Award. ALL these were made possible by the great efforts of the whole TEAM.

Q:Can you briefly describe what is the DCP award, and what is the significance of achieving this award?

A: Let me quote The Mission of Toastmasters Club in verbatim : “The mission of a Toastmasters Club is to provide a mutually supportive and positive learning environment in which every member has the opportunity to develop communication and leadership skills, which in turn foster self-confidence and personal growth.”

Any member who joined the club will tell you that the main reason they joined the club is to become better speakers. The club is then charged to provide the environment for members to practice their speaking skills; listen to useful evaluation or feedback; learning from other members.

Hence the DCP, or in full, Distinguished Club Program helps the club accomplish its purpose by focusing on 2 areas : membership and educational awards.

Membership – In order to have a meaningful educational and meeting program, a club should have the minimum membership of 20. This is the prerequisite to qualify for the running in the DCP award. They may be instance that a club may have lesser members than the minimum but if the net growth ( from beginning of term till end of term) is at least 5 new members, this pre requisite is met too. Continuing new blood creates the flow of fresh ideas and personalities.

Educational awards – This is measured by the number of members who progressed by completing their respective speech assignments and leadership skills as well. Awards are Competent Toastmaster (CTM); Advanced Toastmaster Bronze (ATM-B) ; Advanced Toastmaster Silver (ATM-S); Advanced Toastmaster Gold (ATM-G) ; Competent Leader (CL); Advanced Leader (AL) and Distinguished Toastmaster (DTM).

To guide the club along, goals were set. Under the DCP, a maximum of 10 goal points will be earned; 1 point each for the following goals attained :

1) One semiannual membership report and one club officers list submitted on time

2) Minimum of 4 club officers trained during each of the 2 training periods

3) 4 new members

4) 4 more new members

5) 2 CTMs

6) 2 more CTMs

7) 1 ATM-B or ATM-S or ATM-G

8) 1 more ATM-B or ATM-S or ATM-G

9) 1 CL or AL or DTM

10) 1 more CL, AL or DTM

By earning at least 5 goal points; the club will achieve Distinguished Club.
At least 7 goal points; the club will achieve Select Distinguished Club.
At least 9 goal points; the club will achieve President’s Distinguished Club.

End of Part 1

(In part 2, Victor will talk about other significant achievement (apart from the DCP award), his view on membership base and on Toastmastery as a whole. Watch out for the part 2 of "Point of View")

Area Governor for Area C1

2005-05-25T16:31:00.000+08:00

We are proud to announce that for the term 2005/2006, our incoming club President will also be our Area Governor!

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Below is the results of the Area Governor elections for Division C for the term 2005-2006 and the Club Alignment approved at the District Council in Jakarta.

Our Heartiest Congratulations to the Incoming Area Governors

Area	Area Governor
C1	Sharmini Ariaratnam ATM-B
C2	Pearly Yap CTM
C3	Bernard Louis ATMS
C4	Parames ATM-B
C5	Viviana ATM-B
C6	Richard Chong ATM-B
C7	Danny Lim ATM-B
C8	Sue Ding ATM-S

---------------------------------------------------------------------

We at CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club would like to extend our heartiest congratulations to all the elected Area Governors.

May the force be with you...

Brief history of Toastmaster International....(part 2)

2005-05-23T21:56:00.000+08:00

International Growth

By 1941, Smedley realized that Toastmasters needed his full-time attention. He resigned from the YMCA and opened a 12-by-16-foot office in a downtown Santa Ana bank, with a desk, typewriter, telephone and second-hand address machine. He hired a secretary to handle the correspondence while he wrote materials for the club's use.

The organization began with two manuals -- Basic Training and Beyond Basic Training -- written by Smedley in the office after business hours. He also found time to write several tomes on public speaking and parliamentary procedure. The Voice of the Speaker, Speech Evaluation and The Amateur Chairman found a ready audience in Toastmaster members. (Smedley also wrote The Great Peacemaker, a biography of Henry M. Robert, author of the famed Robert's Rules of Order.)

Toastmasters continued to grow. The single-room office expanded to four, and past international president Ted Blanding took over the position of executive secretary, while Smedley became educational director and concentrated on learning processes and materials.

Smedley was involved in the educational program of Toastmasters International until shortly before his death in 1965 at the age of 87.

New Directions

Toastmasters has continued to flourish. In 1962, Toastmasters -- by then an organization of 80,000 members and 3,500 clubs -- built its own 27,000-square-foot office building in Santa Ana. Smedley took part in the dedication ceremonies. A second growth spurt came following the decision to accept women as members in 1973.

By 1985, the Santa Ana building was serving 120,000 members and 5,300 clubs worldwide. Expansion and remodeling were necessary to provide 5,000 additional square feet of warehouse space. But within four years, the organization had outgrown the headquarters. In June 1990, Toastmasters International moved into a new world headquarters in Rancho Santa Margarita.

Today, more than 195,000 members take part in 9,300 clubs in the United States, Canada and 78 other countries. Thousands of corporations and government agencies, including Rockwell International in Downey and Irvine's Fluor Daniel, sponsor in house Toastmasters clubs as communication training for their employees. Specialized clubs meet at military bases, colleges and universities, churches and prisons. There are Toastmasters clubs for senior citizens, professional groups, bilingual groups, singles and visually impaired.

Dr. Ralph C. Smedley

Ralph Smedley's contributions to society have not gone unnoticed. In 1950, Wesleyan University granted him the honorary degree of doctor of humane letters, and Santa Ana named a junior high school after him in 1955. In 1956, Toastmasters itself honored him with the title of honorary president and lifetime board member. The Santa Ana Toastmasters Club even renamed itself the Smedley Number One Club in honor of its founder.

But perhaps the best tribute is one that takes place at every meeting of the Smedley Number One Club: A photograph of Smedley and the original club charter are placed in an empty chair near the lectern to represent his continuing inspiration.

excerpt from an article in TI

Point of View

2005-05-23T21:41:00.000+08:00

In the next segment of "Point of View", we turn to the Club's President, CTM Victor Cheong, to get his exclusive views on the club's development and achievement.

Watch out for the next issue of "Point of View" with CTM Victor Cheong.

On a lighter note....

2005-05-21T13:44:00.000+08:00

Toastmastery is not all serious matter. We do have session for a bit of a laugh by Humor Master. See whether these tickles your funny bones....

Good Living...

1. If you are choking on an ice cube, don't panic. Simply pour a cup of boiling water down your throat and presto! The blockage will be almost instantly removed.

2. Clumsy? Avoid cutting yourself while slicing vegetables by getting someone else to hold them while you chop away.

3. Avoid arguments with the Mrs. about lifting the toilet seat by simply using the sink.

4. High blood pressure sufferers: simply cut yourself and bleed for awhile, thus reducing the pressure in your veins.

5. A mouse trap, placed on top of your alarm clock, will prevent you from rolling over and going back to sleep when you hit the snooze button.

6. If you have a bad cough, take a large dose of laxatives, then you will be afraid to cough.

7. Have a bad tooth ache? Hit your thumb with a hammer, then you will forget about the tooth ache..

AND..... Sometimes we just need to remember what The Rules of Life really are:
You need only two tools: WD-40 and duct tape.
If it doesn't move and it should, use WD-40.
If it moves and shouldn't, use the duct tape.

Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.

If you woke up breathing, congratulations! ---You have another chance!

And finally... Be really good to your family and friends. You never know when you are going to need them to empty your bedpan

(...note of caution, we do not take responsibility for the injury you sustain by following the above tips. We, by the way, are all responsible and smart folks, or else we won't be in this club...heh..heh..)

Brief history of Toastmasters International.....(part 1)

2005-05-21T09:06:00.000+08:00

Off to a Rocky Start

Toastmasters was the brainchild of a Midwesterner named Ralph C. Smedley. In 1903, Smedley took a job as director of education for the local YMCA. Realizing that the older boys who visited the YMCA needed training in communication, he began a public speaking club.

Smedley called his group, "The Toastmasters Club" because the activities resembled a banquet with toasts and after-dinner speakers. The boys enjoyed taking turns making speeches and evaluating them, as well as presiding at the weekly meetings. Smedley's club blossomed, but soon he was promoted to general secretary of the YMCA and transferred to Freeport, Illinois. After his departure, the Bloomington club died.

In the following years, Smedley organized other Toastmasters clubs wherever he was transferred. In Freeport, businessmen and other professionals who recognized the benefits of communications skills became members. Yet these older members did not save the organization either. The club operated successfully while Smedley was there but disappeared when its founder moved on to Rock Island, Illinois. Subsequent clubs in Rock Island and San Jose, California, suffered the same fate.

Smedley must have despaired of ever seeing his creation blossom into a self-sustaining organization. "I observed a tendency among my fellow secretaries at the YMCA to regard The Toastmasters Club as a sort of peculiarity -- an idiosyncrasy of mine," he later said. "Perhaps it was not altogether orthodox as a 'Y' activity."

A New Beginning in Santa Ana

Finally, the YMCA director arrived in Santa Ana. Once more he organized a Toastmasters club, holding the first meeting in the Santa Ana YMCA basement on October 22, 1924. In Southern California's optimistic climate, the concept caught on. Men from neighboring communities sought out the group and liked what they saw. Smedley was quick to help them organize their own Toastmasters clubs. The new clubs were united in a federation designed to coordinate their activities and ensure uniform methods.

In 1932, the federation was incorporated as Toastmasters International, following the establishment of a club in British Columbia, Canada. Districts were created later, as the number of clubs increased.

For many years, Smedley held the position of general secretary of the Santa Ana YMCA, handling finances, fund raising, program planning, membership matters and the supervision of a number of YMCA employees. In addition,he served as liaison for the local and national YMCA organizations.

Somehow Smedley managed to find time to spread the gospel about Toastmasters, serving as its executive secretary and editor of The Toastmaster magazine, while also maintaining his busy YMCA schedule. He corresponded regularly with members and club officers, encouraging and guiding them in club matters.

(....to be continued)

excerpt from article in TI.org

From the President's Desk...

2005-05-20T11:48:00.000+08:00

Dear fellow Toastmasters members,

Last night our club has its goals for 2004/2005 attained . Yes, we have achieved the President's Distinguished Club Award :) .Its time to bring out the champagne bottle!!!

Join in the celebration dear members.

regards

Victor Cheong

Meeting 18/5/05

2005-05-19T15:05:00.000+08:00

We had another good turnout in yesterday's meeting. We also saw a couple of new faces taking up the roles, Hui Pei and Madhan - good job, lads. Keep it up.

Last night's table topic arrangement was 'different' - we had all the role players to come out to do their 2-minutes off the cuff speech. Among those who who rose to the occasion - Sharmini talked about coffee beans and TCB&TLS (guess what it means..) and professed being a coffee lover, Crissy with Star Wars and thanking everyone for choosing to come to the TM meeting instead of going to see the midnight screening (premier screening) of the 3rd prequel to the Star Wars, Madhan on KFC and he also professed that he dislike chicken, Hui Pei on pirated VCD and its implication to the IT industry and Cheah on NS (National Service - not Negri Sembilan...) and that she wished it started one year earlier as she really wanted to join. Did I miss anybody...

Humor master did a very good jokes and managed to tickle everyone's funny bones, and she thanked Readers Digest for her inspiring jokes.

New President's maiden speech

2005-05-13T17:19:00.000+08:00

Newly appointed President 2
Originally uploaded by Wan Ray.

...ATM-B Sharmini thanking CTM Victor for his contribution to the club.

We wish her the very best and with the support of all members, we hope we can chart many more progress in the next term.

Another point scored for DCP

2005-05-11T23:51:00.000+08:00

Dear fellow members,

I'm so excited........got to break this news to all of you
tonight....

Our club has attained another point in the DCP award. Out
VPE, ATMB Sharmini Ariaratnam has achieved her Competent
Leadership award. Hence I'm proud to announce, Sharmini
Ariaratnam, ATMB and CL. to her title. Yep! another point
for our club making a total achievement of 8 points.

A very hearty congratulations to Sharmini, ATMB, CL.

Come 18th MAY 2005, our regular meeting, another point
should be achieved with God willing. Do attend the meeting
and join in the cheer and shake the building down.

regards
Victor Cheong

The Presidents

2005-05-10T17:31:00.000+08:00

The Presidents
Originally uploaded by Wan Ray.

One for the record. Our first Lady President, ATM-B Sharmini being flanked by Charter President (left, CTM Andy Ching) and the Immediate Past President (right, CTM Victor Cheong).

Congratulation to the newly elected EXCO

2005-05-10T14:34:00.000+08:00

New EXCO
Originally uploaded by Wan Ray.

Our 2nd AGM was held last night successfully but with some eventful moments.

The turnout was lower than expected but enough to proceed with the AGM.

I am please to announce that the Executive Committee for the next term, 2005/2006 :

President : ATMB Sharmini Ariaratnam
VP Education : TM Parasakti Selvaduray
VPMembership : TM Crissy Lee
VP Public Relations : CTM Jitesh Kantilal
Secretary : CTM Tan Chee Wan
Treasurer : TM Wan Rashid
Sergeant-At-Arms : TM Hur Tze Huan
Comm. members : TM Karen Yeap
: TM Christine Tan
: TM Jerry Ku
: CTM Andy Ching,CP
(more will be co-opted later)

Congratulations to the above on your appointment!

regards
Victor Cheong

Club Meeting 4-May-05

2005-05-05T17:59:00.000+08:00

Meeting in action
Originally uploaded by Wan Ray.

It was another great meeting last night and bravo to the new members from CIMA 1st Club who came to support and participate in the meetings. We really appreciate your present and hope you'll bring more of your friends to join a night of fun.

We also witnessed the making of ATM-B; the first in our club. She has chartered many progress not just for herself but also for the club. Kudos to you, Sharmini and congratulations!

Our gratitude to ATM-S Sivalingam for being the VIP guest and star as the Speaker's Evaluator.

The session ends with a 'teh tarik' session (as normally it should be) at the nearby Syed's Bistro.

From The President's Desk

2005-05-05T17:30:00.000+08:00

ATM-B Sharmini
Originally uploaded by Wan Ray.

Dear fellow members,

Please join me to give a big hand to our Vice President Education, ATM-B Sharmini..... yep! no typo error here; she is an Advance Toastmasters - Bronze (ATM-B). Congrats Sharmini !!

ATM-B Sharmini has created another history for our club; she is the first member of our club to achieve an ATM-B status.With this, she has helped the club to achieve another point in the Distinguished Club Programme. Todate, our club has achieved 7 points! and we have been upgraded to "Select Distinguished Club" status!!! We are not going to stop here; by next Wednesday, our ATM-B Sharmini will gather another title to her name; Competent Leader (CL) upon completion of another presentation at KLIA Group Toastmasters Club.

Members are encouraged to join in celebrating her success. For your information, the KLIA Group Toastmasters Club will conduct their very first meeting in their brand new location somewhere around KLIA area. Call ATM-B Sharmini for details please.

Having let the cat out of the bag, ATM-B Sharmini, on attaining CL, will bring in the 8th point. FYI, yours truly will also assist to bring in the 9th point by 18th May (our next regular meeting). Do drop by and join us in the meeting.

Once again congratulations to ATM-B Sharmini, and give all yourself a pat on the shoulder.

Regards
CTM Victor Cheong

The Passing of Krishen Jit (1939 - 2005)

2005-05-01T10:42:00.000+08:00

Though actors we are not, but we believe we share many common grounds with them especially in communication with the public. Krishen Jit is regarded as a giant in the Malaysian theater scene and his contribution in the world of arts has been immeasurable to both the nation and the world.

Our deepest condolences to Marion De Cruz and his loved ones.

Do not stand by my grave and weep,
I am not there,
I do not sleep,
I am a thousand winds that blow,
I am a diamond glint on snow.

I am the sunlight on unripened grain,
I am the gentle autumn rain...
When you awake in the morning hush,
I am the swift, uplifting rush,
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night,

Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there,
I did not die...

(Author - unknown)

Breaking News: Another CTM for CMT

2005-04-30T15:34:00.000+08:00

Yes, its confirmed that Tan Chee Wan is now a Competent Toastmaster (CTM) - another achievement for out CMT (CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters) club.

Are we on our way to get the President Distinguished Club award? I think we are...

Congratulation CTM Tan Chee Wan!

3 cheers for Sharmini...hip..hip..hurrah!

2005-04-26T20:04:00.000+08:00

Some of you would have gotten wind of this by now; our VPE, CTM Sharmini has been elected as the coming term Area Governor (Area to be announced later). Congratulations to Sharmini on her appointment. Hopefully CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club will be under her area in order for her to "serve" us better.

Our VPE, CTM Sharmini has scored many firsts for CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club . Some of her achievements were :

1) First member of CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club to achieve CTM

2) First member of the club to participate in the International Speech Contest in 2004

3) Soon to be first member of the club to attain Competent Leader title
4) Soon to be first member of the club to achieve Advanced Toastmasters - Bronze

5) Responsible in chartering the new club, KLIA Group Toastmasters Club

Come out next Wednesday, 4th MAY 2005 to witness CTM Sharmini complete her Advanced Toastmasters - Bronze award and am sure there will be a double celebration at the end of the meeting over at Syed Bistro.

(Thanks Victor for the news)

Blog created!

2005-04-25T10:27:00.000+08:00

Hi and welcome to CIMA Malaysia Toastmasters Club e-newsletter. This is one of the projects that we in our club had long thought about it but never really have the time to do it... at least until today that is.

More news to come.... so, do drop in more often and pass the words around...

Cheers!