Haze is traditionally an atmospheric phenomenon where dust, smoke and other dry particles obscure the clarity of the sky.Haze often occurs when dust and smoke particles accumulate in relatively dry air. When weather conditions block the dispersal of smoke and other pollutants they concentrate and form a usually low-hanging shroud that impairs visibility and may become a respiratoryhealth threat. Industrial pollution can result in dense haze, which is known as smog.

Haze: A Danger to Health

The haze is a constant phenomenon faced by Malaysia and her neighbouring countries. The haze is basically pollution of atmosphere, which is clogged with pollutants and other substances from forest fires. The haze is a direct effect of forest fire in Kalimantan and other parts of Indonesia due to slash and burn method of farming. The Indonesian authorities appear to have no power to control farmers from practising such methods. The haze is further worsened by open burning practised by most Malaysians. Open-field burning of rice straw by the rice planters and open burning of dried leaves and garbage done by the public are a few examples that done by Malaysian. Many are ignorant of the health effects of open burning. During the haze, hospitals and clinic often report a dramatic increase in respiratory problems, lung infections and asthma attack. The Air Pollution Index (API) usually indicates the hazardous and dangerous levels of pollution during this period. The haze has long-term side effects. Prolonged inhalation of polluted air will result in serious lung infection which particularly affects the elderly. The government must play its role to reduce the haze treat. It has to cooperate with the Indonesian authorities to stamp out forest fires. The culprits must be brought to justice, either through healthy fine or prison sentence. Constant vigilance would ensure the perpetrators do not repeat their offence. The government should also raise the public awareness of the dangers of forest fire. Continuous campaign of the cause, solutions and steps-need-to-be-taken to reduce the haze need to be promoted through all types of social media like television, radio, newspaper and even via internet. The authorities should also provide assistance to farmers and introduce more sophisticated forest clearing methods. In Malaysia, strict laws must be imposed to penalise those who practise open burning. On-going campaigns on the dangers of open burning should be intensified. Individuals too have a role to play. They must participate in every campaign and stop burning. Students can advise their parents not to practice open burning. Every individual has to remember that we do not own the world, but instead we lent it from our future generations. We must protect our world so that our grandchildren woulh have a healthy earth to live.

A Prominent Malaysian Leader As the fourth and most dynamic Prime Minister of Malaysia, TunDr. Mahathir bin Mohamad will indelible impression on the sands of Malaysia for many years to come. He held the post for 22 years from 1981 to 2003, making him Malaysia's longest-serving Prime Minister, and one of the longest-serving leaders in Asia. Born on 20th December, 1925 in AlorSetar, Dr. Mahathir is the son of a teacher. He is the youngest of nine children of a school teacher and a housewife. His father, MohamadIskandar, was of Indian descent, being the son of a Muslim and a Malay mother, while Mahathir's own mother, Datin Wan Tempawan Wan Hanafi, was Malay.He is married to TunDr.SitiHasmahbinti Haji MohamadAli, they have seven children, four sons and three daughters. From an early age, Tun Mahathir had the importance of education drummed into him by his father, who was also a strict disciplinarian. After his early education at the Maktab Sultan Abdul Hamid in AlorSetar, he enrolled at the King Edward VII College of Medicine in the University of Singapore. Armed with a MBBS degree in medicine, he set up his own clinic, the Maha Clinic in AlorSetar. As a doctor, Tun Mahathir came into close contact with people from variety of social strata and enjoyed a close rapport with them. He understood their problems. Thus, when he was thrust into the politic limelight, he strove to fulfil the needs of the people.He was first catapulted into the world of politics when he became the Member of Parliement for AlorSetar in 1964. After holding a number of portfolios, including Minister of Education, Minister of Trade and Industry and Deputy Prime Minister, he finally became the Prime Minister on 16th July, 1981. The country flourished with Dr. Mahathir at the helm of the government. His contributions to the nation are so immense and par excellence. He has left his mark in every aspect in politics, economy or education.Realizing that government-owned enterprises are neither efficient nor profitable, he initiated the privation policy in 1983. This had immediate effect of cutting down bureaucratic ineptitude and operational cost while at the same time generating more revenue.With collapse of the prices of agricultural commodities in the eighties, Tun Mahathir decided that it was time to shift the nations focus to more profitable areas. Thus, he started the industrialization programme. Reputed as the countrys top salesman, he showcased Malaysia to investors abroad in a bid to woo them. As a result of the heavy industrialization drive, major projects like national car project or PROTON and the steel company, PERWAJA, together with other mega project were launched one after another. Next, realizing that industrialization would require a good infrastructure, he set about improving it. The Mahathir era saw a successful completion of the North-South Highway, the East-West Highway, the Multimedia Super Corridor, the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang and many more.An astute politician, he charted the growth of the countrys progress from the day he took office. He envisages that Malaysia can only attain the status of a fully developed country if it becomes an industrialization one and this ambition has been his main agenda during his tenure. With this in mind, he announced Vision 2020, his most ambitious vision.Frank and outspoken by nature, Tun Mahathir speak without fear nor favour. This has been the hallmark of thus much respected statesman. The inefficiency of local and international organizations has always come under his scrutiny and critism.It has been almost two decades since Tun Mahathir took over reins of the government. It has undoubtedly been the golden era for Malaysia with many notable achievements.

The Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is one of Asia's major aviation hubs and is a destination in itself. It is located at the top of the southern corridor of Peninsular Malaysia, bordering the states of Selangor and Negeri Sembilan. It is situated in the Sepang district, approximately 50 km from the capital city, Kuala Lumpur. This RM 9 billion airport was opened by his majesty, the Yang Di-PertuanAgongTuankuJaafar on June 27, 1998. The airport which covers 10 000 hectares of land took less than 5 years to build. It has a capacity to handle 25 million passengers and 1.2 million tonnes of cargo annually. Despite its mammoth size, it is user-friendly and as our former Prime Minister, TunDr. Mahathir Mohamad pointed out, it is not just an airport but a piece of art delicates to beauty as well as the environment. It is often described as the airport in the forest, forest in the airport because it is a futuristic structure set in rainforest landscaping. Lush tropical forests, with its diverse and exotic flora, skirt the entire airport structure. The control tower, standing at 130 metres, is one the tallest in the world. The colourful flora and the cascading waterfalls are part of spectacular and breathtaking sight which can be viewed from the Super View Corridor. Moving through the airport complex provides the visitor with glimpses of different forest highlands, swamp, bamboo and multicoloured flora. The five-level Main Terminal building which is 241 000 squares metres, is located right at the heart of the airport complex. The building with its futuristic design of glass and steel is both the entry and exit point of passengers. On the top of the building is the departure concourse, and other facilities such as foreign exchange counters and international telephone facilities. The Satellite Building where passengers make connections to other international flights is linked to the Main International Building by an automated train shuttle. The Satellite Building houses lounges, prayers rooms, duty free shops and a 80-room hotel for transit passengers. The KLIA will be the countrys nucleus that will spearhead business and trade. It is expected to provide 30 000 jobs and reap economic benefits for the country. The successful completion of the airport well ahead of schedule reflects the ability of Malaysians to build a world-class airport that has become the pride of the country.

Social Networking Website

A large number of internet users have joined social networking websites. A social network service is an online service, platform, or site that focuses on building and reflecting of social networks or social relations among people. For example is for those who wants to share interests and, or activities. A social network service essentially consists of a representation of each user which known often as a profile, his or her social links, and a variety of additional services. Most social network services are web based and provide means for users to interact over the internet, such as e-mail and instant messaging. Online community services are sometimes considered as a social network service. In a broader sense, social network service usually means an individual-centered service whereas online community services are group-centered. Social networking sites allow users to share ideas, activities, events, and interests within their individual networks.In the last five years, they have been growing up more and more popular. This increase in their popularity has led to a large number of members.One of the many reasons why Yahoo!, MySpace and Facebook social networking websites have increased in popularity is due to the fact that they cover a wide variety of different topics, issues and interest. They do not just focus on one particular group of individuals or one particular issue. Their policy is to invite as many types of internet users to join as possible. By this, it gives members a wide selection of online friends to choose from.If you are looking to join a social networking website that is more focused on creating friendships or partnerships between internet users preferable with the same interests, then you will want to focus on social networking websites. They have a particular focus. The prevalent websites focus on important issues, topics and hobbies, such as pet owners, religion travel and others. So before you join, think of an issue you are interested in and sign up for the website that focuses on that issue.What really sets them apart from other websites? What is so special about them? These are questions which have been asked by many who show interest in joining. Primarily, it is the community. As mentioned, such social networking sites tend to focus on a particular topic, issue or hobby. This means that if you are a keen traveller and you would like to speak to other keen travellers, you will want to join a travellers networking sites.The difference between these social networking sites and traditional ones is that you will automatically be paired with hundreds, if not thousands, of other internet users who share the same interests, views or beliefs as you. This is a big bonus to the members.Another benefit to joining the social networking website is that you are, in a way, safer than those who are members of other networks. Most of them require activation before joining the site. Before activation can occur, many users are required to state their reasons for wanting to join the network or they may be required to fill out a small questionnaire pertaining to determine whether or not they have a genuine interest in the topic focused on by the network in question. By pairing you with a group of individuals who share the same beliefs, views and interests as you do is advantageous to members. It means that you do not have to spend hours researching a person or speaking to them just to learn what they are or are not interested in. Therefore, this enables you to jump right in and start making friends, almost as soon as you are granted access to the site that you have chosen. This service gives the social networking websites a great edge over other websites.

Pollution

Pollution is an issue of concern in the modern world that we live in today. There are many types of pollution, namely air, water and noise. Pollution in our environment will undoubtedly affect our quality of life. Our naturally beautiful world becoming ugly because it is suffering from the effects of environmental pollution. Pollution can also cause various health problems and other negative effects.Air pollution is caused by the emission of toxic gases from vehicles, factories and open burning. Nowadays, there are more and more vehicles on the road as society gets more affluent. More and more people strive to have a better quality of life by having the convenience of driving to their destinations instead of taking public transportation. Automobiles provides transport to millions people around the world to enable them to travel to their workplace, school and other places, therefore, the air around us is getting more polluted by the carbon dioxide that is emitted. Carbon monoxide is another type of gas which harmful to the environment as it can cause the reduction of oxygen in the bloodstream.Another example of contributor to the air pollution is the manufacturing factories. The manufacturing of products in factories to meet the growing demand of society is also causing air pollution. Factories release toxic gases to the environment. Some factories also use coal to generate heat and energy. As a result from the burning of coal, carbon dioxide is released into the environment. Besides factories, many people are still practising open burning as a way of disposing their household wastes. Although burning our household wastes is a convenient way of getting rid of our rubbish, it is harmful to the environment as it contributes to the worsening of the air quality. As a result, air pollution causes people to suffer from health problems such as chest pain and asthma. In extreme cases, people can contract lung cancer. Water pollution is also a problem that we are currently facing. The marine life is the first to suffer from water pollution as they depend on the nutrients in the water to survive. As a result, we are robbed of beautiful sea corals and unique species of fishes. Besides ruining our marine heritage, the disappearance of marine life will affect the livelihood of fishermen, not to mention our source of food. Water pollution is caused by harmful waster from industries, farms and sewerage systems which are dumped into our sources of water such as rivers and lakes. This irresponsible act contaminates our drinking water and can cause serious health problems and can even culminate in death. Noise pollution is another form of pollution. Noise from heavy machinery and vehicles can cause hearing problems and in extreme cases, deafness. As there is growing number of vehicles on the road, we are exposed to noise pollution every day. The government in advanced countries encourage their citizens to take the public buses and trains by providing an affordable and efficient transportation system. This effort discourages people from driving their private vehicles and consequently reduces the number of vehicles on the road. We must work together to reduce pollution so that the future generations can live in a healthy, unpolluted environment. As the saying goes, precaution is better than cure. Lets hands on hands together by recycle and conserve the world for the better future.

Haze: A Danger to Health

Haze according to Wikipedia is traditionally an atmospheric phenomenon where dust, smoke and other dry particles obscure the clarity of the sky. Haze often occurs when dust and smoke particles accumulate in relatively dry air. When weather conditions block the dispersal of smoke and other pollutants they concentrate and form a usually low-hanging shroud that impairs visibility and may become a respiratoryhealth threat. Industrial pollution can result in dense haze, which is known as smog.

The haze is a constant phenomenon faced by Malaysia and her neighbouring countries. The haze is basically pollution of atmosphere, which is clogged with pollutants and other substances from forest fires. The haze is a direct effect of forest fire in Kalimantan and other parts of Indonesia due to slash and burn method of farming. The Indonesian authorities appear to have no power to control farmers from practising such methods. The haze is further worsened by open burning practised by most Malaysians. Open-field burning of rice straw by the rice planters and open burning of dried leaves and garbage done by the public are a few examples that done by Malaysian. Many are ignorant of the health effects of open burning. During the haze, hospitals and clinic often report a dramatic increase in respiratory problems, lung infections and asthma attack. The Air Pollution Index (API) usually indicates the hazardous and dangerous levels of pollution during this period. The haze has long-term side effects. Prolonged inhalation of polluted air will result in serious lung infection which particularly affects the elderly. The government must play its role to reduce the haze treat. It has to cooperate with the Indonesian authorities to stamp out forest fires. The culprits must be brought to justice, either through healthy fine or prison sentence. Constant vigilance would ensure the perpetrators do not repeat their offence. The government should also raise the public awareness of the dangers of forest fire. Continuous campaign of the cause, solutions and steps-need-to-be-taken to reduce the haze need to be promoted through all types of social media like television, radio, newspaper and even via internet. The authorities should also provide assistance to farmers and introduce more sophisticated forest clearing methods. In Malaysia, strict laws must be imposed to penalise those who practise open burning. On-going campaigns on the dangers of open burning should be intensified. Individuals too have a role to play. They must participate in every campaign and stop burning. Students can advise their parents not to practice open burning. Every individual has to remember that we do not own the world, but instead we lent it from our future generations. We must protect our world so that our grandchildren woulh have a healthy earth to live. Title: HazeOpen burning on a large scale causes the haze. The burning can be because of natural forest fires or irresponsible men burning a vast area for cultivation. When either one of these takes place, the smoke from the fires rises and spreads to the surrounding areas. It can even travel as far as the neighbouring countries. For example, when there was extensive open burning in Indonesia, the haze spread to Malaysia and Singapore. In these countries, the situation is further aggravated by the pollution from vehicles and factories. The haze is an unwelcome visitor. Its effects, which are manifold, affect human beings, animals as well as plants.The haze can cause health problems. People who suffer from asthma would experience breathing problems or their asthma may recur or become worse. The haze can also cause dry throats and result in flu or runny nose. Moreover, some people may come down with sore eyes (conjunctivitis). During this period of time, infants, young children and the elderly have to take precaution because their immune system is not strong enough to withstand the detrimental effects of the haze.Besides causing ill health, the haze can cause serious injuries or lives to be lost. This is because the haze obscures vision on the road or in the air. So if a motorist is not extra cautious, he may run into other motorists. This may result in serious injuries and even death. In the air, the haze can cause a collision if pilots lose their bearing because the haze has hampered their vision. If such an incident occurs, it may result in a large number of deaths. It is not only in the air where the pilots can experience visual difficulties. Even when landing or taking off, they may not be able to get a clear view of the runaway. If they are not careful, an accident may occur.The haze also affects the social life of people. Many people would rather stay at home and not venture outdoors when the haze is around. This is because they wish to avoid being sick or meeting with an accident. When they do this, businessmen who own restaurants and entertainment spots suffer. They do not have many customers patronizing their place because the latter do not want to go outdoors. Consequently, for that period of time, their revenue would decrease. Not only may the businessmen, the country, too be affected by the haze. Realizing the dangers of the haze, tourists may not want to visits the country or cancel their pre-booked trip. Furthermore, diplomats may also cancel visits because of the haze.As the haze causes so much inconvenience to everyone, measures must be taken to overcome it and prevent it from happening in the future. One would be to aid the country where forest fires are common. Sending essential equipment to help fight the fire can do this. Another way to prevent it from recurring would be to have a stringent international law that prohibits a country from polluting the environment with the haze. In this way, the authorities within the country itself would take extra measures to make sure that their citizens do not continue to indulge in open burning.

Factors and Problems of Teaching English as a Second Language in Rural Areas inWith the long and varied experience of teaching English to young students in rural areas of Nepal, the columnist would like to share some of the difficulties and their probable remedies in teaching and learning English as second language. The main aim of the essay is to dispel the illusion of English language learning. This essay clearly announces the fact that English can be learnt comfortably even by the people who were born and bred up in adverse conditions.Most of the students accomplish their schooling in their mother tongue i.e.Nepali. Though they have attained heaps of marks in core subjects, they remain very poor at English still. The students have an unknown fear and fever over English all these years. Now, let us examine some of the various factors which leave English as a souring grape for rural students even today.To begin with, the first and the fore most factor is the socio-cultural and financial background of the family. As most of the parents are illiterate, they cannot directly take part in the daily routine of their children though they aspire for their childrens bright future. Hence, the students performance lacks parental supervision and guidance which is very necessary at this juncture of their education. The illiterate parents cannot realize what their children pursuing neither they do afford time to consult the teacher about the progression in studies of their children. Every minute during the day time is valuable for them as they have to struggle in earning their livelihood. The boy or girl is also sent for work on wages at the specified time of the year which affects their education very dearly.An interesting observation identifies that the performance in English of the students whose parents are employees and belong to higher middle class is better than that of the students whose parents are illiterate and belong to lower middle class. The probable reason perhaps is that the parents in the first case can spare time to consult the teacher about the on going of their children once a while and can guide them if necessary. Thus there has emerged an undesirable difference between the two classes.Consequently, it is established in rural areas as a proven fact to say that English is tough to study and understand despite the fact that English is the easiest language in the world to learn.But it was also proved every now and then that the students from the second group also showed greater interest and expertise in English. The credit goes to the student and their teacher who was successful in inculcating curiosity among the students in spite of their financial irregularities and improper brought up. So, mere poverty cannot create a gulf between students and their English language efficiency.The second major problem is the inefficiency of the teachers. These students generally pursue their studies in Government public schools in which the medium of instruction is Nepali, their mother tongue. The methodology of ELT in these schools is bilingual or translation method. The teachers simply translate every thing into their mother tongue and explain them on the name of bilingual or translation method. Though this method offers them sound knowledge in the content, it prevents them in acquiring communication abilities in English. The teacher here plays more as a translator than a genuine English teacher. Hence, virtually, there is no much difference between a Nepali teacher and an English teacher.The English teachers at these schools are untrained and moreover they are unaware of the current trends and techniques of ELT. Most of them are ignorant of useful organizations and websites on the Internet which offer them really good down-to-earth discussions of ideas and techniques.The reason for these unskilled English teachers may be as a result of the Governments poor planning on ELT and empowering the teachers.The case with many of the private English medium schools in rural areas is no better than this. The situation is even worse with them. The teachers who teach English are those who persuaded their schooling in Nepali medium and failed in Intermediate and so. The columnist doesnt consider this is the case with every organization, but with most of them. Definitely, these poor teachers make English as a nightmare to students and they instigate students to habituate by-heart method which deprives students the communication abilities in English. Thus English appeared or is rather made as a dreadful demon for long years in Nepal.Another probable reason is the model of the English examination papers. It has not been designed in a manner that it helps students to have an authority over English language; rather it makes the students take it for granted. The examinations are content based onmemorizationwhere the students are supposed to reproduce what they have recited. Thus students are forced to adopt by-heart method. Their memory works help them more than their creativity and intelligence.The other factor which affects English language learning is the educational system itself. There are primarily four skills involved in English language learning i.e. Listening, Speaking, Reading and Writing (LSRW). The students of Nepal have been tutored and trained well enough in reading and writing for long ages. But Listening and Speaking skills which play a greater role in communication have been neglected and ignored. Thus our educational system lacks an important dimension. It enables the students to concentrate on reading and writing only. The final examination does also test them mainly on how good their memory is. The examinations are not language-oriented. Even parents are craving for hollow marks than real knowledge.Consequently, examination- oriented teaching has been adopted in schools. Students are guided and specially trained to concentrate only on the areas where they can score better. Hence, they neglect the other two basic skills.Listening is the one basic skill which makes speaking possible.Nobody can speak a language without listening to it. Even an infant starts speaking in a particular language after listening to it for many months. It is why an infant who is deaf by birth remains dumb too. Since s/he is not able to listen to, s/he cannot speak in it.Thus, our young students are deprived of speaking abilities because they have not been properly guided in listening skills. This may be the proper reason why they have not been able to speak English in a proper manner. They have become adept only at writing and reading of English. There should be a comprehensive course for listening and speaking skills. The classrooms should be equipped with audio-video materials. Student Talking Time (STT) should be maximized.This is high time that the concerned authorities and teachers adopted an innovative culture of teaching English. Let us hope that our kids English will be cashed in the days to come.

The importance of information and communication technology (ICT) in Malaysia is undeniable, as it is seen as a key enabler in building a digital economy under the countrys Economic Transformation Programme (ETP). This was clearly addressed by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, the Honourable Datuk Seri NajibTunRazak for as said, the next wave of economic growth will come from the knowledge-based economy, with digital technologies as a key driver of progress, and the new world is a digital one. He further added that in order to stay competitive and reap its benefits, it is imperative that Malaysia has all the right elements and strategies put in place [footnoteRef:2]. [2: http://www.thesundaily.my/news/183445]

During classroom observations, teachers made reference to the digitised textbook and certain programmes installed in the e-Book such as the graphic drawing and Quranic recitation. The teacher explained the main points and asked students to refer to their e-Books for text references, and students obediently followed the teachers instruction. The teacher used the activities from the textbook and the other assessment programmes (T-score) in the e-Book. Some teachers also set their own questions for the students to do assignments and homework using the e-Book to type the exercises and answers. In the virtual school, teachers used the interactive board and e-Book to get students to write their answers and checked immediately by the whole class under the guidance of the teacher. Teachers who used their own lap-tops in the class were able to monitor the students work and set exercises on students e-Books. In the case of a teacher that did not use a laptop in the classroom, he gave hand-outs and verbal instructions to the students to do their work on their e-Books. For students who did not bring their e-Books or if their e-Books were under repair, they would look at their friends e-Book. Students individually either completed the work in class or would continue as homework, using their e-Book at home. This appeared to be a typical teaching and learning situation in the four observed lessons conducted in this study. The students showed familiarity with their e-Book. An ICT coordinator commented that the students knew the basic applications of e-Book. They knew how to open, shut down, save as, and they were also very good at playing computer games. It was observed that students in the virtual school participated more actively in classroom by going to the interactive board to write the answers. All students in this study expressed preference of their teachers to use e-Book in the class lessons. They said that they could see pictures and listen to English pronunciation and recitation of religious lyrics. The students enjoyed using the interactive board. Almost all students used e-Book at home doing home work as well as accessing internet to find information for their assignments. They also acknowledged that they had played games, did graphic drawing, listened to music, watched videos and accessed the Internet in their e-Book outside the classroom, home and other public places with WIFI. The teachers voiced several concerns on the implementation of using ICT in the classrooms. They pointed out that they faced problem in using ICT in class due to frequent breakdowns of internet connection. Subsequently, it had interrupted the lessons and hindered their web access to use the materials which they had planned in the lessons. Nonetheless, they expected their networking problem to be resolved with the upgrading of internet (1Bestarinet) by MoE. The teachers further added that the digitized textbooks in PDF format restricted the conduct of interactive activities in their lessons. What could be considered to be an important concern by the school principals and teachers in the implementation of the eBook is the distribution of computers to the teachers. They commented that whilst students in Year 5 and 6 had access to e-Book, they were not given any e-Book or computers when the programme started in 2009. Teachers teaching Year 6 were only given laptop in 2011 and those teaching Year 5 in 2012. As they did not have e-Book or laptop, they had to refer to the students e-Book for planning classroom instructions. Hence, they faced difficulties to control students activities in the classrooms and needed to move around from desk to desk, checking students work in their e-Books. The teachers remarks could have resulted in their lukewarm acceptance on the use of e-Book, particularly in schools with no virtual classrooms.Whilst the state government and state education department wanted teachers to use e-Book more creatively and interactively, the school and teachers were well aware of the need of their schools to produce excellent results in public examinations. Some teachers were of the opinion that achieving good grades in UPSR could be done without e-Book, and even by using traditional teaching approach (chalk and talk) in the classrooms. Most teachers in the observed classrooms utilized e-Book as they would use the printed text. They were observed to strictly follow the activities and exercises provided in the textbook. They showed a lack of pedagogical skills to optimize the usage of e-Book to enhance students learning as they mainly used the traditional teaching method of chalk and talk. The teachers were well aware that they needed more exposure to learn how to optimize the use e-Book in teaching and learning more creatively and interactively. They showed keen interest in using ICT in teaching and learning. Some had used ICT before, for example power point in preparing their lessons, searching for materials in the Internet, and conducting their lessons in the computer lab. It was reported that some teachers lacked confidence in using computers.. Majority of teachers interviewed generally expressed that they were not exposed to any related trainings related to the knowledge and skills on the usage of e-Book in classrooms. In response to this gap, SEDT had taken reactive measures by selecting and training teachers to be facilitators and produce teaching and learning materials for use with e-Book in numerous subjects. The preparedness of the teachers to use e-Books is well acknowledged by SEDT for re-visioning on the project.Whilst the students expressed enthusiasm and pride in owning the e-Book, the teachers, particularly in schools without virtual classrooms seemed to be less receptive over this project. The teachers commented that they did not receive computers along with the students. The state government only started giving laptops to teachers in 2011,that is during the third year of the implementation of the e-Book project. In addition, they encountered problems in using IT in the classroom: no interactive board and overhead projector as well as lack of sufficient outlets to charge computers in conventional classrooms; eBooks low battery life (approximately two hours); virus infection; and slow and unreliable internet connections. They also expressed concern that students used the e-Book for non-learning purposes in schools and hence did not use the e-Book on regular basis.

The Malaysian leader whom I admire most is TunDr. Mahathir .He was a leader who dares to speak up his mind and was not intimidated by the world .He ran the country with wisdom and vision.

When he first took over as Prime Minister of the country ,he proposed the "Look East" policy to motivate all Malaysians to look beyond the boundaries of the country .He encouraged the people to learn from the Japanese and the Koreans. He wanted the people to learn the right attitude from the Japanese and Koreans and see how they had progressed and risen to be great economic powers in the world despite the ruins of wars. He ensured greater productivity and efficiency by the government sector to serve the public better.

His proposal of Vision 2020 was to motivate the peple to work towards becoming a developed nation. Many projects and plans have been or are presently being carried out to steer the country towards achieving the status by 2020.

TunDr. Mahathir also proposed the Multimedia Super Corridor with the vision of making Malaysia a great Information Technology (IT) centre of the world. His great vision and efforts to push Malaysia to be a developed nation and an IT country in the 21st century is undeniable. The people have since progressed and benefited greatly from his vision.

TunDr. Mahathir was a great leader. He had shown his love for his country by the way he ran the country and unite the people.Outspoken by nature, Dr. Mahathir speaks without fear or favors. This had been his special characteristics as a statesman. The inefficiency of local and international organization has always come under his criticism. Dr. Mahathir stepped down as the countrys fourth Prime Minister on 31 October 2003 and was succeeded by Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. It has been more than two decades since Dr. Mahathir ruling Malaysia. It had undoubtedly been the golden era for Malaysia.

UN DR. MAHATHIR BIN MOHAMAD MALAYSIAN TRUE HEROIntroductionLeadership is the process by which a person exerts influence over other people and inspires, motivates and directs their activities to help achieve group or organizational goals. The person who exerts such influence is a leader. When leaders are effective, the influence they exert over others helps a group or organization achieve its performance goal. When leaders are ineffective, their influence does not contribute to and often detracts from goal attainment.In Malaysia, one of my first and foremost choice in leadership is our fourth Prime Minister, Tun Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad. I admire him most not only because he was an effective leader, exerts strong influence and the way he motivates and inspires the Malaysian people with his beyond vision and plans.Under his leading period, Malaysia economy has shifted from traditional agriculture to modern technology. He was making Malaysia economy grew strongly and the name of country outshine internationally. Under his leadership, the aim, mission, vision and country development ideas were successfully carried out continuously.The purpose of writing this composition is to describe about the person whom I admire. The person whom I admire most is our former Prime Minister, TunDr. Mahathir Mohammad. He has inspired me a lot in many ways. I believe that I am not the only person who admires him, there might also be others who admire him. In my opinion, Tun or familiarly known as Dr. M is a very special and unique man. He seems to be so perfect and as a leader, I considered him a leader with a complete package. He is smart, intellectual, and accountable, determined, dedicated, and possesses many other positives attitudes. Dr. Mahathir did not study law or any course related to politics before. In fact, he studied medicine in Singapore. He had sacrificed his ambition as a doctor once he decided to join United Malay National Organization (UMNO). He joined UMNO through an invitation by Tun Abdul Razak. Even though, he had no experience in politics and was being involved into UMNO at the very young age, he never tended to give up. This has shown his spirit towards the party. He is said to be determined as he always try to improve the Malaysian economics, for example by developing industrial sector. He had contributed a lot of things to Malaysia and I considered the most valuable contribution made by him could be at the time when Malaysia faced an economic crisis due to inflation time in 1997. He managed to control the situation and did not borrow loan from International Monetary Fund as many other countries did. He has been as a Prime Ministers position for 22 years.Inconclusion, all efforts and contributions made by him have impressed and inspired me a lot. Even though, I cannot transform all his positive attitudes, at least I can absorb a few of them and practices it my life.

Terengganu is a state situated at the EAST COAST OF THE Peninsular Malaysia is Regarded as Malaysias Malay Cultural Heartland with its Malay population reaching as high as 96% . Indeed, laid back towns, colourful villages, cattle roaming the road and resort islands with comfortable chalets, are located along and off the east coast. For many, life stands still and traditional customs are central to their lifestyle.

Travel to the east coast to forget Kuala Lumpurs fast pace, hectic traffic and people on the move. The relaxed pace makes it an ideal place to visit and there are resorts where its possible to relax and even get a drink.Travel here with an open mind and youll be pleasantly surprised as to just how content people are with their way of life.

Just to confuse those who drive through Terengganu, the state-of-the-art petroleum and petrochemical industries around Kerteh, Kemasik and Kijal are what drive the Malaysian economy. Terengganu is possibly the state with the most contrasting landscapes and lifestyles.

All along the Terengganu coast, long stretches of yellow beaches have been home to fishing communities for eons. Some of the regions earliest traders visited coastal ports and by the 18th century, Kuala Terengganu was well established, exporting pepper, gold, tin, camphor and sugar. Ships brought in Chinese and Indochinese silks that were re-exported by local merchants. The trade continues today from these ports but with petroleum the principal export. The petroleum industry contrasts markedly to traditional ones like batik, songket and Duyong Islands boat building yards.

Kuala Terengganu, the state capital has an old world feel. Many merchants trade Malay textiles, metalwork and woodcraft from the waterfront district of KampungCina. Located at the mouth of the Terengganu River its best explored on foot or trishaw dont miss the large market. Apart from the citys attractions like the museum, palaces and mosques, craft industriessuch as silverwork, textiles, kite making and brass work are located in and around the town.

Those looking for a beach holiday are best to head to islands like Perhentian, Redang and Kapas. While known to many divers, they are still blimps on the radar screens of international jetsetters. Dive centres are located on all and accommodation is in mostly small, locally run but comfortable chalets. Redang is a little differentas it has a large resort and now direct flights from Kuala Lumpur make access easier.

There are two main islands in the Perhentian Group Big (Besar) and Small (Kecil). Malaysian and Singaporean divers travel here to appreciate the rich marine life and calm waters. Divers would be disappointed if they didnt sight turtles, reef sharks and many fish species. Access is via boat from Kuala Besut, 20km. away on the mainland.

Redang is further south and access is viaMerang (not to be confused with Marang). Redang is a marine park of nine islands with some excellent reef dives. There is a Fisheries Department turtle breeding programme on Pinang (not Penang) Island just off the main island. Kapas Island is reached via a 6km. boat journey from Marang, arguably the most picturesque fishing village along the coast. Just 20km. south of Kuala Terengganu, Marang is the quintessential fishing village and well worth visiting.Kapas can be visited as a day trip but several small resorts are recommended.

Tenggol is another great diving island off Dungun that has comfortable accommodation and good facilities. The dive season for the east coast is from May to October as the monsoon at other times makes access difficult. Back on the mainland, international resorts are located near Kijal (Awana) and Dungun (TanjungRhu). There is a very good coastal golf course at AwanaKijal.

Roads on the east coast are mostly straight and sparsely settled apart from small villages. There is a more direct inland route south from Kuala Terengganu to near Kuantan but its not as scenic as the coastal road. Motorists need to drive carefully as cattle, chickens and kids also use the road. The road journey from Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu can be done comfortably in five hours so the east coast is a good weekend escape. Alternatively fly to Kuala Terengganu and have your resort meet you.

Along the coastal roads there are several picturesque fishing villages lining beaches or river mouths. Some worth investigating include Marang, Dungun, Chukai and Kg. Sungai Ular where a popular delicacy keropok (prawn crackers) is produced in many look for roadside stalls and signs. While the locals are used to tourists, traditional values are important to many and visitors need to be respectful of these often conservative lifestyles. This really is not the place to polish up on that all over suntan and it maybe difficult to get a beer, but be resourceful take a six pack from home. However, for those who want to learnsomething of their Malaysian home (batik, spinning tops, kite flying, etc), the locals are delighted to share their culture by .

Teaching effectiveness is important because effective teaching helps student learning. It has become even more important as the emphasis on quality in higher education has increased. Effective teaching does not occur by chance. Effective teachers have become good at what they do because they evaluate their practice.Good teaching practice is a key influence on student learning - a desired outcome and primary goal of higher educational institutions. Teachers strive to meet the principles of good practice in an effort to provide the best learning experience for their students. Key considerations in shaping good teaching practice include: Encouraging good communication between teachers and learners Encouraging interaction among learners Providing opportunities for active participation Timely and appropriate response and feedback Emphasising time on task Motivating learning by communicating expectations Respecting diverse talents and ways of learningA teaching method comprises the principles and methods used for instruction. Commonly used teaching methods may include class participation, demonstration, recitation, memorization, or combinations of these. The choice of teaching method or methods to be used depends largely on the information or skill that is being taught, and it may also be influenced by the aptitude and enthusiasm of the students.DemonstratingMain article: Demonstration (teaching)Demonstrating is the process of teaching through examples or experiments. For example, a science teacher may teach an idea by performing an experiment for students. A demonstration may be used to prove a fact through a combination of visual evidence and associated reasoning.Demonstrations are similar to written storytelling and examples in that they allow students to personally relate to the presented information. Memorization of a list of facts is a detached and impersonal experience, whereas the same information, conveyed through demonstration, becomes personally relatable. Demonstrations help to raise student interest and reinforce memory retention because they provide connections between facts and real-world applications of those facts. Lectures, on the other hand, are often geared more towards factual presentation than connective learning.CollaboratingMain article: CollaborationCollaboration allows students to actively participate in the learning process by talking with each other and listening to other points of view. Collaboration establishes a personal connection between students and the topic of study and it helps students think in a less personally biased way. Group projects and discussions are examples of this teaching method. Teachers may employ collaboration to assess student's abilities to work as a team, leadership skills, or presentation abilities.[1]Collaborative discussions can take a variety of forms, such as fishbowl discussions. After some preparation and with clearly defined roles, a discussion may constitute most of a lesson, with the teacher only giving short feedback at the end or in the following lesson.Learning by teachingMain article: Learning by teachingIn this teaching method, students assume the role of teacher and teach their peers. Students who teach others as a group or as individuals must study and understand a topic well enough to teach it to their peers. By having students participate in the teaching process, they gain self-confidence and strengthen their speaking and communication skilWhen teaching in classroom situations, strive to view the student holistically. Students will enter your classroom from a variety of backgrounds and will bring with them different expectations, experiences and assumptions.