My Best Friend

Aminah is my best friend in school. She is a fair, pretty girl with dimpled cheeks. She andI
first met at kindergarten and we became great friends. She is kind, jolly and helpful. We are
classmates again this year and we go to school together every morning.

Aminah likes to joke and play games. She lives near my house. In the evenings, we usually
meet at my house. We sit in the garden and read story books. She is good at Mathematics. So,
whenever I find difficulties in my Mathematics homework, I would ask her to help me.
Sometimes, when my parents go out in the evening, she comes over to keep me company and
we watch television together. That way I do not feel lonely.

I hope Aminah and I will be in the same class again next year. I like her very much andshe is
my best friend.

My Pets
I have two pretty birds as pets. They are green-and-blue budgies. Their home is a shady tree
in the garden where they are free to fly from branch to branch. Yet they are safe from the cat
as the whole tree is inside a wire enclosure. I have nailed a wooden box on thetree. This is
their 'nest' where they sleep at night and where they find shelter whenever it rains.

My pets are called 'Polly' and 'Sally'. They enjoy flying about among the branches and they
chirp happily all day long. Every morning, I feed them with bird seed and give them a bowl
of water to drink. I also clean their 'nest'.

They are pretty birds and I like to watch their movements. I find them cheery

and lively,so I never feel dull spending my time with them. I love my pets very much.

Our School Exhibition

Our school held a very interesting exhibition of students' art and craft work last year. It was
surprising to see the various pieces of handwork of such high standards. These exhibits were
attractive and colourful for they had been prepared and designed well by the students with
guidance from the Art teachers. The students were obviously enthusiastic about their work;
for each item was rendered carefully and lovingly without the slightest trace of sloppiness.

There were many sections to interest parents and friends who came to see the work of their
children. The painting of nature, Malaysian scenes, flowers and fruits was of an exceptionally
high standard. Other items such as puppets, dolls and articles of embroidery were admired,
too. In the geography section, there were clay models of physical features like hills,
mountains and plateaus set in a natural environment of green landscape with rivers
meandering through the land.

Some articles like flowers made from silk were for sale and ladies readily bought these items.
Our school exhibition was appreciated by all.
Recess Time in Our School

R-r-ring! These goes the daily bell at 10.30 a.m. for recess. An audible sigh of relief can be
heard in each classroom as the students immediately rush to the school tuck-shop. Hungry
and thirsty students make straight for the mee-man, the iced-drinks seller or the curry and rice
stall, for many have come to school early in the morning without any breakfast as there is
hardly any time to eat.

I find the stall-holders busy serving food to the students, who are impatient and sometimes
downright rude if the stall-holder is slow in serving them. The chatter of students, the noise of
frying noodles, the chopping up of ingredients and the delicious smell of food floating in the
air contribute to the typical tuck-shop environment which makes one hungry and eager to eat
the daily snack.

R-r-ring! The unwelcome bell goes at 10.50 a.m. for the students to get back to class. It is
another rush, this time for lessons which begin promptly and late-comers will be punished.
Recess time is a welcome break, for hungry stomachs are filled and dry throats are refreshed
with iced drinks.

Now the tuck-shop is quiet except for the clatter of plates, glasses and cups being washed by
the stall-holders, who then rest till the next session.

Teachers' Day
Every year, all schools throughout Malaysia celebrate Teachers' Day - a day to honour and
remember our teachers who are our leaders and who guide us in our education during our
youthful days.

Teachers are very much a part of a student's life as they influence a child, right from
Kindergarten days to Upper Secondary days; and perhaps beyond. It is they who prepare the
child for his or her life in society.

Teachers' Day is held to show our appreciation to our teachers who work hard and
bear patiently with us. In most schools, pupils bring gifts of flowers, presents and other
tokens, which are sometimes hand-made, to show that they care for their teachers. A party is
held where tasty refreshments and drinks are served in the classroom for both the teachers
and the students. Everyone has a good time and the day ends earlier than usual.

Teachers play a very important role in the development of a child. However, their effortsare
seldom appreciated. That is why Teachers' Day is so significant to teachers; it is only on this
day that they are appreciated and honoured for their deeds.
A Squatter Fire
I had never seen a house on fire before, only filmed reports of it on the television. So, one
evening when I heard the siren screams of a few fire-engines rushing past my house, I dashed
into the street and joined a growing crowd of curious people. We could see the fire only from
a safe distance as the police had cordoned off the place for security reasons. even at a
distance, I could recognize that the affected houses were in a squatter area where my part-
time maid, Mani, lived.

What a terrible scene greeted my eyes ! The fire was raging through the shabbily built
houses. Flames leaped up hungrily to devour the wooden sheds. every now and then tongues
of fire would shoot up almost skyhigh, sprinkling bright red sparks of fire about. Fiery
wooden beams crashed and glowed brightly. Thick black smoke spread all around.

Dozens of firemen from the four fire-engines were busily engaged in putting out the fire.The
rushing water from several hoses soaked the houses but it did not seem to have any effect on
the flames. Soon, a few firemen with hoses in their hands were seen climbing up tall red
ladders of the fire-engines. The continuous flooding from the top finally brought the fire
under control. Where it had been red there was only black -- the charred remains of ruined
houses.

While all eyes were transfixed on the inferno, the plight of the victims did not escape the eyes
of the spectators. Firemen were seen dragging wailing women away from the burning houses
to a safe area. Frightened children clutched to their mothers. Some of the men simply stared
speechlessly as they witnessed their homes reduced to ashes.

It took only 30 minutes before the whole squatter area, comprising mainly wooden houses,
was razed to the ground. No one could salvage anything. According to a reporter,the
estimated loss was around 1 million dollars. Although the amount may seem insignificant to
some, for the victims it was all they had. Their only consolation was the fact that no lives
were sacrificed.

Though I watched with great sympathy for the other victims of the fire, my real fear the
concern were for Mani. All this while, I was straining my eyes to catch a glimpse of her.
What a relief when I finally saw her standing with downcast eyes in the midst of other fire
victims. My heart went out to her.
Memories of My Childhood Days
My first recollection of my childhood is the day I toppled down the stairs when I was three
years old. I was so upset that I cried and cried for nearly an hour in spite of my parents'
attempts at comforting me. Finally, I quietened down when I was given ice-cream and
chocolates. Luckily, I was not hurt.

My days were happy ones before I started going to school, as I had good neighbours to play
with from morning till evening. We played games outdoors, dressed as cowboys and Red
Indians and rode about on our tricycles happily. There were also other games to occupy our
time.

At the age of five years, I had to attend kindergarten and this turned out to be quite an ordeal
for me. To begin with, I felt very sad having to leave my mother and go off each morning to
be amongst strangers. I cried and wanted my mother around, much to my teacher's
displeasure. As the days went by, however, I made friends easily in class and found company.
I became happy again and actually looked forward to leaving the house each morning.

I still remember those days when I was learning to ride a bicycle. I fell and bruised myself
several times but I never gave up. Finally, I was able to join my friends going around the
neighbourhood on my bike.

Another fond memory is the end-of-year concert held at the kindergarten. I was chosen
to play the role of Jack in the play, 'Jack and the Beanstalk', and I became a celebrity
overnight receiving lots of compliments for my performance.

I now realise what a wonderful childhood I have had and at times wish I could relive those
days.

A Wedding I Attended

My cousin sister got married during the December school holidays and my whole family
attended the function. Dressed in my best, I went along with my family to the bride'shome
where the 'Bersanding' ceremony was held. There were beautiful coloured lights and the
garden was lit, too. I found flowers everywhere and guests were milling around.

On a dais in front of the hall were two chairs beautifully adorned in satin and silk, with two
velvet cushions for the bridal couple. At about 7.00 p.m., a 'kompang' group started beating
their 'kompangs' and entered the garden. The bridegroom, dressed in blue 'kainsongket' and
looking like a Malay prince, arrived next, his retinue of young men, and took his place on the
dais. Later, the bride, dressed also in blue 'songket kebaya' and 'sarung', arrived looking
beautiful. Her jewellery sparkled in the light. In her hair were sweet-scented flowers and
'bunga goyang' which glistened visibly. She looked like a princess and sat next to
the bridegroom.

Then the 'kadi' said prayers and everyone was ready for the 'kenduri'. The dinner had all the
traditional dishes of 'beriyani', 'kurma', 'dalcha' with salad and' 'rendang'. After a sweet
dessert, a 'Bunga Telur' was presented to each guest. It consisted of an egg placed in a small,
decorated basket with flowers on top. Malay music was played throughout the function and
guests were entertained to some cultural shows.

Then it was time to go home. We had enjoyed a hearty meal, blessed the blissful couple and
were ready to leave the place.

A Frightful Experience

One day, as I was returning home late from school at about 7.30 p.m., I was
Dismayed to discover a group of rough-looking boys following me.

As I quickened my steps, one of them, apparently the leader, obstructed my path and ordered
me to surrender to him my watch and my wallet. At first I resisted, but, when he threatened to
cause me harm, I quickly handed over the items. I felt frightened and, at the same time, mad,
having to part with my possessions as they were of sentimental value tome. Once they had
taken possession of my properties, they laughed and made their way to a coffee shop nearby
while I was left fuming by the road.

At first I wanted to report the incident to the police but, later, I decided against it and went
straight home. I told my parents about it and they concluded that it was unsafe for me to walk
alone. They then arranged for me to go in my neighbour's car and that solved the problem.

Things I Like To Do

I like to play games out in the garden. When it rains, I stay indoors and play card games
and scrabble with my family. Alternatively, I indulge in doing jigsaw puzzles. I have
completed several scenes and pictures.

I also like to play with my puppy. It chases me round the garden and barks at me. It has learnt
how to pick up a stick and bring it back to me each time I throw it far off.

Besides this, I like watching my fish and feeding them with worms. They have beautiful
colours and I enjoy following their movements in the water.

Drawing pictures and painting them is another activity I enjoy doing. Reading story books is
my favourite pastime too as there are exciting adventure and mystery stories to keep me
engrossed.

Lastly, I like watching good television programmes.

Hari Raya Celebrations

Every year, after one month of fasting, Muslims celebrate Hari Raya Puasa which falls in the
month of Syawal. All Muslims celebrate the day with great joy. In the morning, they go to the
mosque to pray. Then, on returning home, they receive guests and relatives who come to pay
them a call.
Days before, the women folk make many varieties of cakes, cookies and sweet meats.They
also cook 'rendang' curries and prepare 'satay' to go with the 'ketupat'. Homes are decorated
with many coloured lights all over the garden. Small lamps are lit and placed along
the driveway.

On Hari Raya Day, many Malaysians visit their Muslim friends to share their joy. They
receive warm hospitality and are entertained to a feast of specially prepared food. Boys and
girls wear new clothes and shoes. Girls wear jewellery and boys new 'songkoks'.

The town is usually crowded with Muslims dressed gaily and going about. They visit their
friends and relatives while some go to the cinemas or to the Lake Gardens. Many,however,
go back to their 'kampungs' to celebrate the festival with their parents. It is also a time for
family reunions. Everyone rejoices during this festive season.

The Night Market

One of the most interesting places in Malaysia is the night market. You may visit and
experience the night market yourselves. Both locals and foreigners agree that the night
market is the most common feature in the local society.

The night market begins when the vendors arrive in the late afternoon. More and more goods
laden vans arrive to begin a brisk day of business. Most of the vendors busily set out to set up
their stalls respectively in order to get ready for a brisk day of business.

The sun gradually sets and the night market picks up momentum. More cars and vans are
arriving. By now, the stalls are neatly and strategically arranged to entice their customers.
There is an assortment of goods sold ranging from food, toys and clothes, to name a few. A
variety of goods is sold at low prices.

Large rainbow-coloured parasols are used to shade the people from rain and shine. A
concoction of blaring music can be heard in the night market background amidst the constant
shouting. It is an amazing kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, smells and colours.

The night market is known as a haven by local gourmets who can enjoy various kinds of
mouth-watering local cuisine. Still more people arrive, they come from all walks of life,
mingling freely and harmoniously. Crowds are walking up and down in an endless stream.
Some of them are stopping by the stalls and haggling before making purchases. Little
children tag along, amused and excited. Sprinklings of tourists join in to experience the
lifestyle of typical Malaysian folks.

When night falls, lighted lamps brighten up the place, they add gaiety to this atmosphere, and
it is like a funfair. The night wears on and the traffic of people recedes. Vendors get a chance
to rest their weary legs besides bantering with each other.

By 10.00 pm, all the stalls call it a day. The vendors pack up and close the van doors. One by
one, they leave, leaving behind pieces of papers, plastic bags and discarded boxes. It us an
eyesore! Finally, the night market disappears. The place becomes quite and still once more.
A Road Accident

Road accidents are reported in newspaper and on television every day. There are more
frequently caused by reckless drivers rather than faulty vehicles. Last Saturday, while I was
travelling from Ipoh, I witnessed a serious accident. The scene of the accidents was vivid in
my mind.

A motorcyclist was following behind was taxi very closely. He was so impatient that
he was trying to overtake my taxi even near a sharp bend. At that critical moment, there was
an oncoming car. The taxi driver swerved to the roadside and I got a terrible jolt. It was too
late for the motorcyclist to avoid the car. His motorcycle ran against the bumper of the car
and smashed its windscreen. The motorcyclist somersaulted over the car and was found lying
in a pool of blood. It was a scene to chill the flesh! The car driver, who was cut by the flying
glass, was in a state of shock. All that happened in split second and fear overwhelmed us.

The taxi driver stopped his taxi and I quickly ran to the nearest to the nearest
telephone booth to inform the police and the hospital. From a distance I could see some
people trying to help the injured motorcyclist and the car driver. They carried them into one
of the onlookers car and sent them to the hospital for treatment. Meanwhile the taxi driver
tried to control and directs the traffic. Soon the police arrived and they promptly took some
measurements and evidence. After that they moved the damaged car and the motorcycle to
the roadside to ease the traffic congestion. They also took down the evidence provided by
witnesses and onlookers. Some sweepers were clearing the debris and the blood stains on the
road.

When the taxi finally continued the journey, I silently thanked God for my narrow
escape. I learned a good lesson that impatience and recklessness would bring harm and
danger. I was happy to see that Malaysians are public-spirited and they render help to others
readily. Since then I remember and follow the saying more haste less speed and prevention
is better than cure. I believe good road manners and roads safety campaigns can help to
reduce the number of road accidents which cause injuries, loss and lives and properties.

What Would You Do If You Had A Lot Of Money

When I was small, I often dreamt about being rich as my parents were quite poor. We had
difficulty making ends meet each month. So, if I had a lot of money, I would certainly fulfill
my dreams. First and foremost, I would buy a house for my parents, preferably a bungalow,
in a quiet town. I would equip the house with the latest technology so that it would be a smart
home. My mother would have a state-of-the-art kitchen as she loves cooking. I would also get
a maid to help her with the household chores. I will ensure that my family is comfortably
settled in this house.

The second thing I would do is to go on a world tour with my parents. I have never been
overseas but I long to see the places I have only read or dreamt about. First, I would like to
visit Europe, especially Italy, the city of romance. I would visit all the museums and
buildings I have heard so much about. My next stop would be Hong Kong or China. There is
something mystical about China and her people. This would be my dream come true.
Apart from that, I could finally go on a shopping spree, which is my favourite pastime. Thus
far, I could only go window shopping and if I had a lot of money, I would go into these stores
and buy whatever I fancy. Just imagine that for once in my life, I do not need to look at the
prices of the items that I like. I could just shop till I literally drop. The salesgirls would be
hovering near me with their latest outfits and my wish would be their command. Ah, I would
not be ignored anymore as I walk into their stores!

Besides shopping, I would also remember the poor and the less fortunate. First, I would
certainly build a better home for the orphans in my town. In fact, I would also sponsor their
education till they could stand on their own. They would receive an allowance monthly and I
would definitely take them shopping.

Finally, I would take the opportunity to further my studies. When I was younger, my parents
could not afford to send me overseas. So, I would love to pursue a course in interior
decorating in London and once I graduate, I would like to set up my own business with the
rest of the money. They say that a fool and his money are soon parted. Thus, I would be very
careful with how I spend my money. I would invest my money with my parents advice and
keep some for rainy days.

Teenagers Don't Smoke

Smoking is one of the worst things teenagers can do to their bodies. Yet every day,almost
5000 teenagers under age of 18 try smoking for the first time.

No wonder, tobacco companies spend billions of dollar ever year on advertisements and other
ways to make sure that these young people start smoking and buying their product. The
companies count on them to become hooked for it keeps in them in business.

The nicotine in cigarettes is a poisonous drug. It even be used to kill insects. Nicotine and
dozens of other poisonous chemicals in tobacco can cause illness like heart problems and
certain kinds of cancer. Some of these illness take years to develop but others can show up
right away.

Generally, smoking makes a teenager's body less fit and more susceptible to infections. For
example, teenagers who smoke are much more likely to get a cold on pneumonia. Each time
they like up, it hurts their heart, lungs and brain. And the longer the smoke, the worse the
damage becomes.

Smoking has such a long list of bads points that wonders why teenagers smoke. Along with
bad breath and stinky hair and clothes, smoking makes it harder to run and to play sports. It
also cause a difficulty for blood to move around in the body.

Smokers often feel tired and cranky and cannot think quickly, not surprisingly, there are more
likely to get in trouble in school and get lower grades. There are also more likely to lie to
their friends or their parents about their activities; what they do and how they spend their
money.Smoking therefore not only brings about health problems but may also develop
undesirable traits. Teen smokers can become lazy, irresponsible and dishonest.

Tips On How To Improve Your Reading Habit

Tips On How To Improve Your Reading Habit
Reading is an activity that is both fun and enlightening. Reading also gain knowledge and get
it into ones head. Having said that, it is an activity that many people do not engage in
often. For you to advance and not to get left behind, it is important that you must improve a
good reading habit.

If you have not cultivated a reading habit yet, these are some useful tips to improve your
reading habit. First and foremost, we must have a book around. Therefore, try to carry a book
or any reading material wherever you go. As the saying goes, armed to the teeth.
Subsequently, set aside a regular time to read. If you are busy in the daytime, during the night
time or before going to bed, you can take a book and read.

In addition to this, visit the library or bookstore. Take time to browse and let your eyes find
things of interest. Last but not least, set a reading goal. Start with something attainable and
stick to it. As your reading habit gradually improves, you may start to set a higher goal.

In a nutshell, reading habit will develop your mental aptitude and it is a proven fact.
Similarly, it improves your ability to think and analyze things. Taking actions by following
the tips given to improve your reading habit.

Road Safety
Road accidents have been on the increase with more young people becoming victims.
Your school has decided to launch a Road Safety Week to raise awareness among
students of the need to be more responsible on the road chairperson of the schools
organising committee, you have been asked to give a talk to other students on road
safety.

A very good morning to the Principal of SM Sri Mayang, teachers and fellow friends. As the
chairperson of the schools organizing committee for the Road Safety Week, I would like to
give a talk on some safety tips for the students. As we know, there has been an increase in the
accidents reported involving students of this school. I hope this talk will raise your awareness
to be more responsible and careful when using the road.

I would like to identify some of the reasons why road accidents occur. First, speeding beyond
the prescribed limits is the main cause. Some drivers not only speed but also drive recklessly,
breaking road rules and beating the traffic lights. Moreover, drivers who are tired after long
distance driving or after a long day work, may not be able to concentrate on the road, thus
causing accidents. Youngsters using the road as their racing track is another cause too.
Drivers who do not check and maintain their vehicles often may be involved in accidents
because their vehicle is faulty. Many potholes and uneven roads which contribute to the poor
condition of the road too can cause accidents.

However, these problems can be overcome with strict enforcement of traffic rules to those
who flaunt the law. The offenders should be caught and fines should be increased. Only road-
worthy vehicles, which have been maintained well, should be permitted on the roads.
Awareness campaigns on safe driving should be carried out everywhere. Since young drivers
are high on the accident list, their age limit should be increased. If the drivers are involved in
any accidents, their licence should be suspended.
I hope the short talk that I have delivered have given you some ideas of how to use the road
safely. Thank you for listening

The Importance of Studying English

The Importance of Studying English

It is a big concerned for teenagers nowadays as they are unaware of the importance of
English language as they tend to ignore to learn the language. Students attitude towards the
language is also crucial to make sure that these teenagers can face the future world better by
learning English language as it is an international language.

Although the government has repeatedly told us of the importance of English, many
students are still not bothered about studying it seriously. There is also a campaign that still
on to make all the Malaysian becomes a better English learner, which is Enhance
Proficiency in Bahasa Malaysia, Strengthen the English. English is the most important and
the most useful language in the world today. There are many reasons why you should study
the language properly.

First and foremost, English will definitely help you a lot when you want to further
studies. Almost all books at university are written in English in all subjects. Plus, it is a
compulsory for any candidate to pass English with credit before entering any universities. So,
if you are poor in English, you will blow you chance for better education or worse, you are
going to have a big problem studying at university.

The second reason why you have to study English well is that it will help you to get a
job. When you go for a job interview, the interviewer will surely talk to you in English. The
first impression you should give in order to success and have the job is, to respond in English
fluently. Your chances of getting the job are very slim if you stutter while interviewing.

A good command in of English will also help you greatly in your job. If the company
you work is actively involved in international trade, you have to speak to prospective
customers in English. Miscommunication might occur if your English is bad. And this will
put your company at risk and you will likely be dismissed if this happen.

Good English will also help you a lot when you travel. Every country in the world
studies English. Even the roadside stall-holders in China speak fairly good English! At least
some of the people you meet on your travels in other countries can understand English. The
language is certainly practical when you are lost in your trip. Communication problem will
not happen if you can converse well in English. Inevitably, English is one of the languages
used in any airport in the world in making announcement. Knowing English well, therefore,
make travelling overseas easier.

Besides all these, entertainment is one of the major advantages you will experience if
you good in English. You will enjoy televisions best programmes. We must admit that many
of the best programmes are produced by the Americans and British companies. High self
confidence influenced by the programmes will indirect inculcate in yourself when you are
fluent in the language. Quality time is worthily spent if you understand and enjoy the
programmes.
 Based from all the above elaboration, I hope that students will see the importance and
realise how importance the language is for their own future. Although it is a second language
in our country, it is now a main language all over the world.

A Camping Experience
A Camping Experience

I couldnt sleep the night before. I was just too excited. This was my first time on a camping
trip. I had packed my backpack 3 days ago. There was a list of things that were required from
everyone such as sleeping bags, torchlight, matches, Mars Energy Bars and not forgetting
mosquito repellants.

Around 8am the following day, we arrived in our school bus at the foothills of Gunung
Ledang which is famous for its many myths and also beautiful camping spots. There were 20
of us. We were all in our school scouts team accompanied by two teachers and our guide, an
Orang Asli man called Adun. First we went to register ourselves at the rangers office before
starting our hike.

It was a wonderful, cool morning. Adun pointed out to us various types of edible wild plants
and told us to 'respect the jungle' by not littering or thinking bad thoughts. 2 hours later we
reached a waterfall. It was a perfect spot to set up our tents. By the time we finished setting
up the tents, it was lunch time. Adun showed us how to gather firewood and lit up a fire. He
made a makeshift stand over the fire and hung a pot of icy water from the waterfall to boil.
While waiting to cook rice, our teachers said we could all go for a quick swim in the
waterfall. We had so much fun together! After a simple of rice and sardines, we rested for a
while. In the evening, our teachers took us exploring around the area and gather more
firewood before nightfall.

At night, after dinner, we lit a big fire and sat around it. Our teachers talked about jungle
survival tips and later we played games. Then Adun told us a few mystical stories about
Gunung Ledang. Some were scary and a few of us kept looking behind our backs at the dark
jungle. By 10pm our teachers asked us to go to sleep. Some of us couldnt sleep so ended up
chatting quietly in our tents till wee hours of the morning. We went home the next morning,
tired but happy.