The Rise of Goliath - A.K. Bhattacharya

One of the luckiest things in my life was that I decided to do a solo backpack to northern India in December 2019. We all know what had happened afterwards. The skies closed.

Check out my adventure in India at: https://weesertan.blogspot.com/search/label/Travel%3A%20India 

To start with, I had always wanted to visit New Delhi, and am a huge fan of Indian cuisine. Tell me which Malaysian doesn't like roti canai or nasi briyani. Secondly, I am totally mesmerized by the Indian civilization, history and culture. Lastly, I have several friends from my time in Glasgow based in India. I took the chance to visit them. 

I stumbled upon this book, and it has been a terrific read.

Credits to NLB Singapore, Clementi branch

The Rise of Goliath - Twelve disruptions that changed India (after independence) is like a modern day history of India. Fantastically written by AK Bhattacharya (AKB). It covers the days of Nehru up until Modi. 

You can't talk about India without the Partition, which is the first disruption. AKB presented many facts unknown to me, such as Jinnah was initially a Congress member, and was a nationalistic moderate that promote a Hindu-Muslim unity and a united India. By 1930, he lost his influence, left the Congress, and went to London to practice law, before coming back to lead the Muslim League. He never trusted the Congress again.  

There were pros and cons for both India and Pakistan after independence. India saw 24% of its total land area being hived off to Pakistan (including East Bengal which became Bangladesh from 1971). This meant that there were less land per person in India and more land per person in Pakistan. Of the total population in an undivided India was estimated at 390 million, of which about 60 million went to Pakistan. While Pakistan got the land, India got 90% of industrial establishment. Textiles, chemicals, cotton mills, silk, cement, sugar mills, heavy engineering factories mostly remained in India after Partition. 

Kashmir remains a contentious issue between India and Pakistan today, more than seven decades after Partition. This is a story by itself though.

Post independence, Nehru went for a stream of nationalization projects, and pushed for a welfare state and socialistic economy. This was a time when industrialist like GD Birla, JRD Tata, Purshottamdas Thakurdas and Walchand Hirachand played important roles.

Nehru's daughter Indira Gandhi was Prime Minister in 1966-77 and 1980-84 when she was assassinated by her body guards. Operation Blue Star is itself a story for the ages. Based on this book, Gandhi is a both and shrewd politician. The Green Revolution helped solve the issue of rice crops, while more nationalization projects kicked in, creating waves of disruption in the banking, oil and coal mining sector. She was toppled in court in Feb 1975 due to her involvement in employing a government servant Yashpal Kapoor to campaign for her during 1971's election. Her election to parliament was declared void!

Indira Gandhi declared a state of emergency in June 1975, one of the most dangerous disruption in post-independence India. It was Gandhi's political response to a political challenge. She and her son Sanjay Gandhi, the heir apparent who had no constitutional authority ran the government with a small group of ministers. 

After lifting the emergency in 1977, she loss the election in 1977 and led to the formation of the first non-Congress government. Emergency rule galvanized the opposition parties. Gandhi actually won the next election in 1980 and was elected Prime Minister the second time. The bounce back was because she readily acknowledge her defeat and committed herself to democracy. Sent to jail after the defeat, she gained huge voter's sympathy.

The 1990's saw the heroics of Finance Minister Manmohan Singh who later became Prime Minister.

Modi came to power and is still in power today. The biggest disruption that happened was the demonetization program in November 2016. AKB was able to explain how Modi and his most trusted advisors pulled this off. The main objective was to rid off black market and counterfeit money. 

What a story!

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I have been fortunate to work with colleagues from India. One of the true qualities that I learned is the ability to remain calm and composed even during supposedly critical situations. In life, it's good to not take things too seriously too often. 

Take care my friends, as Malaysia is opening up for cross-state travels. 

The Room Where It Happenend - John Bolton

Nothing beats having a good cup of tea and a good book after dinner after a long workday. It would be an icing on the cake if I have a quiet garden with some crickets sing. I like history books and biographies; written by heroes and villains, as long as they are genuine. This form of relaxation is even more enjoyable, especially during pandemic days, where travelling seems like something of the past. The pace of life has dramatically dropped. 

There will hardly be another instance where I arrive at KLIA at 6am in the morning from the UK, and catch the 3pm flight to China. 

Reading has become the new way to travel and to meet new people. 

It is so much beneficial than scrolling social media, watching dramas or playing computer games (which I stopped when I entered university). Life has a lot more to offer, while we improve ourselves by learning from others. The opportunities will come, but it is up to us to recognize and grab it.

Today marks the 5th month into the (surprise) new job in Singapore, and it has been terrific. Not smooth sailing all the time, workload has increased but I find it truly interesting and valuable. Structured training has been fun and I met new people. The 7 of us (global new hires) are 100% aware of our responsibilities and timelines. I am truly fortunate and will be forever indebted to my boss, mentors and seniors. Not the quickest learner, I am determined to add value to the team. It is amazing how your previous work experience and past learnings propel you to do greater things. 

So never give up and always make the best out of the worst situations. 

~~~

John Bolton's The Room Where It Happened was a book a picked up at Clementi Library. It feels like a  guide for what was going on in Trump's White House. I was fortunate to visit Washington DC and do all the touristy stuff back in March 2019, such as admire the heavily secured White House and the magnificent Capitol. So it was interesting to read about the rooms inside. 

Check out my post on my visit to Washington DC at: 

https://weesertan.blogspot.com/2020/07/traveling-america-washington-dc-part-1.html

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For a start, any reader would need to take a very very very neutral approach. Trump's tenure as the 45th POTUS was since as a complete disaster on the international scene. He basically bulldozed and removed most of Obama's contribution on the international stage, e.g. quitting the TPPA, exiting Paris Agreement on Climate Change, souring relationships with the EU and etc. He ran on an American First policy, built a wall with Mexico and waged trade wars on China.

Nevertheless, this would have garnered quite some support domestically. I suppose this is what democracy is. 

John Bolton's book on his stint as National Security Advisor under Donald Trump was insightful. It records down how politicians think, calculate and react. Being a long time Republican and served with at least 2 other Republican Presidents, Bolton is a seasoned politician and administrator. 

To start with, I never liked the regime, or Bolton for that matter. It was a relief when a second term did not material. 

Bolton was a Trump supporter but later resigned and turned into his fiercest critics. He was at the center of power, and was privy to almost all decision making process in the White House. Needless to say, he had a lot to share, and Trump had wanted to ban this block-buster book, especially right before the Presidential Election in November 2020. As a lawyer, he definitely knew the implications of dropping such bombshells on the president during his term. Trump tried his best to ban the book, but was unsuccessful. 

From his writings, Bolton described himself as hawkish, someone who advocates aggressive public policy, especially in foreign affairs. He was in a hurry to get things done. In fact, on some issues, he was even more aggressive than Trump, especially on North Korea. While Trump wanted photo opportunities and media attention with Kim Jong-Un, Bolton was sweating in his pants. Trump of course, was his own man. He met Kim twice; in Singapore (2018) and Hanoi (2019). Bolton didn't want to have anything to do with it. According to Bolton, US was being played by North Korea. US was giving out too many goodies. 

Some parts of the book was difficult to read and stomach. I often found myself irked and puzzled. It looked like a book for the domestic reader in the US. Bolton's theories and sentiments were extreme. He was anti-China, anti-Iran, anti-Venezuela and anti-EU. He was convinced that foreign countries are taking advantage of US being too kind and diplomatic. I always believe that globalization is symbiotic. For example, US companies setting up factories in China and thus achieving lower production cost and a global market. They definitely earn big bucks, but as a consequence, jobs are shifted overseas too. How are you going to blame China from snatching jobs away from the US? It was the US companies who made the move abroad to tap cheaper labour and resources. 

The book also gave interesting insights on Trump's personal life, management skills (or rather none of it) and his Twitter career. An interesting part of the book revolves around the challenges of Trump's aids and supporting crew. Having quite an unpredictable leader was a nightmare, as the scripts get changed without much warning. It was interesting to see how the White House team managed Trump's temperament. I think we could learn a thing or two in terms of reacting to unforeseen circumstance. 

Overall, the book is filled with a lot of negativity, and provided harsh realities and calamities of the Trump administration. We need to thank Bolton for tabling them out. This book could be studied by crisis management personnel.  

 Ps: Credits to Singapore's National Library Board for having this book. 

GiffGaff UK Simcard - The best deal for any UK resident

Received an email today telling me that my UK simcard from GiffGaff is going to expire in one month's time. 

Felt a little bit nostalgic. 

This was among the first items I had when I went to Glasgow for my Masters in September 2016. This simcard was part of the welcome giftpack in the hostel at Winton Drive. It is most probably the cheapest (prepaid) simcard in town. Since then, I have been using this simcard every time I travel to the UK and Europe (it can roam in Europe for free). GiffGaff has referral programs, where you get 10 pounds when you get invite your friends to port into GiffGaff. You can also request new simcards and get your friends to use them. I requested no less than 6 new simcards and and received quite a lot of phone credits.  

My last trip to the UK was in February 2020 to attend IET's Annual Dinner, and since then, the world had indeed changed. I still have some credit left in the simcard, so I will just send some best wishes through sms to my UK friends. 

Hopefully, this simcard could head back to where it is from and make calls again. 

Hang in there everyone. The pandemic will end, and let us make the best out of every situation. 

Dr APJ Adbul Kalam

Known as the people's President, Dr APJ Abdul Kalam is an inspiration.

 

Road trip in Scotland Part 2: Isle of Skye

In Part 1, we drove all the way from Glasgow to Glenshiel, passing-by the Scottish Highlands and discovered the truth behind Loch Ness. Check it out at:

https://weesertan.blogspot.com/2021/04/road-trip-in-scotland-part-1-drive-from.html

The main focus of driving north is Isle of Skye, nowadays a major tourist attraction. However, in the past, these island was ruled by the much feared Pictish and Celtics, and the Macleod and Donald clan. Think about the guys in the Mel Gibson's movie Braveheart.  

From Glenshiel, you will first spot Eilean Donan castle (13th Century)

The castle is located in a strategic location - in between 3 lakes. Our target was to reach the town of Portree (King's Port) for lunch. 

Similar to New Zealand, there are more sheeps than humans

Highland cows too

There was no hurry - We stopped where we wanted

Final Day for EPL Season 2020-21

The Premier League came to an end last night. Was fortunate to catch the game between Liverpool and Palace. After some nervy moments, and with both our rookie center backs (Nat Philips and Rhys Williams) required stitches in sequence, we squeezed out a win. 

Quite remarkably, Liverpool finished 3rd place, after some screw-ups from Leicester and Chelsea. This season saw us losing 6 games in a row at Anfield (without fans) in Feb-March, some record feat which we want to forget. So it was refreshing to see fans inside the stadium again last night, the first time since COVID struck. Credits to Jurgen and the team for not giving up the chase for Top 4. Last week, goalkeeper Alisson scored the 94th minute winner at Burnley.

One thing football has taught me, is to never ever give up, but continue to work hard. Somethings are beyond our control, and those we can, we ought to work on it. 

Thankfully, we get Champions League football next year

Congratulations to worthy winner Manchester City. They have been terrific this year. 

Another inspiring lesson happened in Spain. Former Liverpool striker Luis Suarez scored the winner and helped Atletico Madrid to their 1st Spanish title in 7 years. I am glad they broke the dual-poly of Barcelona and Real Madrid. The biggest inspiration though, is Suarez. At 33, he was forced out of Barcelona end of last season, being deemed surplus to Messi and co. Atletico took a chance on him, and he has duly repaid everything, by winning the title for them.

Fun fact, his birthday is 25th January 1987

This is definitely something common in real life. You may be overlooked, not-appreciated or deemed mediocre. Fret not and just continue to learn and work hard. Your chance will come, and when it comes, you need to grab it. 

Again, congratulations. 

~~~

COVID-19 seems to head to out-of-control phase. We have reverted to WFH by default, and the twice a week badminton sessions are gone. I have settled well in Clementi after 3 weeks. It is great to have comfortable place where I could cook.  

Been jogging at Ulu Pandan PCN

Clocked 30 min 3 seconds for 5KM last Saturday.

Road trip in Scotland Part 1: The drive from Glasgow to Glenshiel

In the summer of 2017, while I was in Glasgow for the year, my family came to town to for a holiday. I suppose that is the perk of someone overseas. 

By default, I was the planner for the 12-day trip, which was pretty easy for someone who has been in Scotland for almost a year. If you look at the map of Scotland, there isn't much to consider what to do. Also, I would advise to visit in warmer months. My friends and I did a road trip up to the highlands during winter of 2016. That epic trip with snow blizzard (which pre-coincide with my 30th birthday) would justify another blog post (after I dig out the photos). 

Scotland is unique and rich in culture. Part of the reason I refrain myself from picking a university in England was to stay in somewhere new to me. 

The Scottish Highlands - Glencoe National Park

In case you are interested to learn more on how to secure a Chevening Scholarship to study your Masters in the UK, check this page out. 

In summary, our family Scotland trip itinerary looked something like:

• Day 0: Family arrive in Glasgow. 
• Day 1: Scottish Highlands road trip to Glenshiel. Staying at Ratagan for 2 nights, visit Loch Ness on the way. 
• Day 2: Day trip to Isle of Skye.
• Day 3: Visiting Glenfinnan and Fort William. Overnight in Kilmun
• Day 4: Drive to the ferry terminal at Dunoon. Take the ferry across the river to Greenock. Drive to Glasgow Airport to catch the 4.30pm flight to Belfast, Northen Ireland. 
• Day 5: Explore Belfast, Titanic Museum. 
• Day 6: Taking the ferry to Glasgow, transit train to Edinburgh.
• Day 7: Edinburgh
• Day 8: Edinburgh
• Day 9: Traveling from Edinburgh to Glasgow
• Day 10: Glasgow
• Day 11: Family leaves Glasgow.

As usual, I would plan trips which starts from the most tedious or furthers location. I placed the road trip at the start, so I was in the best condition to drive. 

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There were 5 of us (younger brother unfortunately couldn't join), so renting a car (for 4 days) was a no brainer. 

I conveniently set the drop off location to be Glasgow Airport. From there, we would fly to Belfast. 

Chose a 1.6L 

What I eventually got was a Nissan Qasqai 1.6 Auto - A perfect SUV for the highlands

The journey from Glasgow Central to Ratagan is around 4 hours non-stop, and 270km. 

Of course, we took our time, and stopped where we pleased

Always take a photo of the mileage of your rented car

Overall, the drive was truly amazing. The roads were in perfect, the sky though at times cloudy, was clear. 

Lisbon Part 5: Coastal town of Faro

Previously in Lisbon Part 4, I crossed the River Tagus and visited Cristo Rei. I rounded off my day visiting the Dinheiro Museum, Lisbon Cathedral and Aljube Museum. It was definitely a day of history learning. Review the post at:

https://weesertan.blogspot.com/2021/03/lisbon-part-4-crossing-river-tagus-into.html

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On Day 5, I had a free-and-easy morning, where more hiking took place.

Feeling at home going up and down slopes

I made a final push for a bird's eye view of Lisbon, before checking out at noon

Up next was a 5.5-hour bus ride from Lisbon to Faro, which departed at 1.30pm. 

Sete Rios Bus Station, Lisbon

I left Lisbon with a heavy heart - I felt 'acclimatized'

Maybe it meant that I will soon head back to the winter of Glasgow.

I crossed the 25th of April bridge, and a final glance of Cristo Rei

Lisbon Part 4: Crossing the River Tagus into Almada

Previously in Part 3, I visited Belem (the historical enclave) and Coba Da Roca, the Westernmost end of continental Europe. It was a fantastic day, and I was absolutely knackered. Check it out at:

https://weesertan.blogspot.com/2021/03/lisbon-part-3-belem.html

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On day 4, I crossed the magnificent River Tagus to the opposite bank, to visit Cristo Rei in Almada.

The 25th April Bridge and the suburb of Alcantara

 Towering monument of Jesus overlooking Lisbon since 1959.

It was the 4th full day in Lisbon, and I basically covered the sights that were essential. As usual, I left my hostel by 10am, and took the ferry across the River Tagus from Cais Ferry Station. 

Finally, I am on the River Tagus

Nothing beats taking a boat ride on a clear day with calm waters

For a moment, I felt like Vasco da Gama or Afonso Albuquerque

Across the river is the district of Almada. The main attraction being The Sanctuary of Christ the King, or Cristo Rei, reachable by taking bus #101 from the terminal. With a height of 110m, on top of a hill 133m above sea level, the monument towers above the Lisbon skyline. 

Quite an impressive work of engineering

Lisbon Part 3: Belem and Alfama

Previously in Part 2, I visited Sintra, and Cabo Da Roca, which is the westernmost end of continental Europe. Check it out at:

https://weesertan.blogspot.com/2021/02/lisbon-part-2-sintra-and-cabo-da-roca.html 

On Day 3, I visited the historical riverfront of Belem, by the River Tagus. 

Any Malaysian history text book would teach that in 1511, the Portuguese came on shore at Malacca, and they departed from here - The River Tagus

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As usual, I would leave my hostel by 10am after enjoying a nice breakfast. Taking the 15E tram, I headed westward to Belem, and the first port of call was for more breakfast.

In search of the original Portuguese egg tarts

In hindsight, I may have just skip the hostel's breakfast

Looks like Malaysian food has got some influence from Portugal (Popiah, famosa, cucuk udang)

An analogue cashier! Selling pastries must have been quite lucrative