I don't want to be a 'stone'...

The importance of education is quite clear in this age of globalization. Education is the knowledge of putting one's potentials to its maximum use. Education doesn't only belong in the rigid wall of universities or academic institutions but should be interpreted at a larger perspective as a continuous self-development activity. This is actually how I comfort myself when I feel a little regret to be part of the Japanese education system. Time is the only reason of this regret as the Masters Degree by research in Japan took two years minimum instead of just brief two semesters in other Western countries. Furthermore, you have to spend 6 months to 1 year as research student prior to be accepted as full time student. Complicated as it may sound, there is also an entrance examination and screening process. With a track to be an academician that lies ahead of me, the fact that research is a time consuming activity should be accepted as part and parcel of life.

Hereby, I also recommend to those who wish to further their studies in Japan to possess a high level stress management capability and creative minds to generate a happy day out of minimum resources (in plain words-know the right time and the right way to enjoy). Long hours in the lab without occasional outing won't make you a Nobellaureate so you have to balance it with sports, social outing, nature walk or shopping for gizmo. Reaching out to have a social encounter is a must as the lack of it also contributes to Malaysian students failure in Japan (affected mostly on extreme gamers who care to finish their game level more than their research report or attending lectures). If you are religious type, you may join the IPIJ activities. Otherwise, it is better to get married so that you will not feel lonely and deserted. Trust me, living a monotonic life could turn you either into a 'stone' or a 'lab freak'.

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Kyoto starts its cultural calendar this year with a Setsubun Matsuri (節分祭り）to celebrate the upcoming spring at Yoshida Shrine, just beside the Kyoto University. Ogres (Oni-I only managed to capture its white hair) representing bad spirit were thrown with beans (mame) and food stalls lined up the narrow road up to the temple site on the Yoshida hill (make me miss the Malaysian night market so much). Takoyaki, Choco Banana, Kaarage (Fried Chicken), Ikayaki made the most of the stalls. The place was packed with Ogre-fans that sometimes Asmadi is lost in the crowd with his mission to get a Japanese girlfriend instead of watching the Ogre. Hehehe. Also attached are pictures of me during the Experience Japanese culture Day organised by Kyoto City International Foundation. Thanks to Mahendra for the photos and Mr. Shimizu (worked in OMRON Sg. Way for 5 years) for being a kind volunteer. Weekend is over so what else, back to the lab!! ;p