Happenings in March - MINDEF Committee of Supply 2013 + The Host «天煞逆緣» Movie Review

Tuesday 12/3/14

Do you guys know what is Committee of Supply?

According to www.gov.sg, the Committee of Supply debate on the budget of individual Ministries will take place between 7 and 15 March 2013. During this period, the Parliament will discuss the estimated budgets of the individual Ministries and their plans for Financial Year 2013.

After which, the Committee considers each ministry’s request for funds and votes on it. 

You must be thinking why am I so interested in Committee of Supply (COS) suddenly?

Well, that is because my name is being mentioned in Ministry of Defence's COS.

MINDEF's speeches was delivered on 11 March 2013 by Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen, Senior Minister of State Chan Chun Sing, and Senior Parliamentary Secretary Dr Mohamad Maliki Osman. 

In the world today where many things remain unpredictable, MINDEF has taken measures to ensure that our defence remains strong and solid in ensuring Singapore’s safety.

To read up more, please visit http://www.gov.sg/government/web/content/govsg/classic/subsite/cos2013#10

***

During the speech by Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Defence and National Development, he had made an announcement on Total Defence and Commitment to Defence. During which, there is a paragraph on Singaporeans support for NS which help to strengthen commitment to defence and I was being mentioned in the speech. I felt elated upon knowing it.

Below is the paragraph quoted from the speech:

"it is also encouraging to see Singaporeans driving initiatives which help to strengthen commitment to defence. Some of you may have watched Jack Neo's films Ah Boys to Men and Ah Boys to Men 2. The films struck a chord in many Singaporeans with their candid portrayal of Army life, becoming the highest-grossing Singapore films of all time. This sentiment was vividly captured by Ms Heng Shu Qing, who wrote after watching the first instalment that "Ah Boys to Men tells a story that will touch the heart of every Singaporean. It is not merely just a laugh but to remind us that our independence did not come by so easily. So love our land and never take it for granted." We look forward to more such initiatives, which bring richness to our NS story and underscore the public's support for NS."

Credits to MINDEF's Official Release.

Seriously, words can't describe how happy I am upon knowing that my phrase is being quoted in the speech at the Parliament. I did not expect writing a short view about the movie, Ah Boys to Men, would actually mean so much. I had a lot of thoughts in mind after the movie, perhaps it is because I shared some of the experience and training.

Read my movie review on Ah Boys to Men here: http://paradiseger.blogspot.sg/2012/11/ah-boys-to-men-movie-review-gathering.html

Yeah, I am still feeling awesome right now.

Monday 25/3/14

Thanks Golden Village for the invitation, I have the opportunity to attend the press screening of the upcoming sci-fi movie: The Host.

I am sure some of you are familiar with The Host as it is based on the novel written by Stephenie Meyer. "The Host" is the next epic love story from the creator of the "Twilight Saga," worldwide bestselling author, Stephenie Meyer.

Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Max Irons, Diane Kruger, Jake Abel, William Hurt, Chandler Canterbury, and Boyd Holbrook

Director: Andrew Niccol 

Genre: Sci-Fi/ Thriller 

Language: English 

Release Date: 28 March 2013 

Running Time: 125 minutes 

Distributor: GVP

Trailer of The Host.

THE HOST is a riveting story about the survival of love and the human spirit in a time of war. Our world has been invaded by an unseen enemy. Humans become hosts for these invaders, their minds taken over while their bodies remain intact. Most of humanity has succumbed.

When Melanie (Saoirse Ronan), one of the few remaining “wild” humans, is captured, she is certain it is her end. 

Wanderer, the invading “soul” who has been given Melanie’s body, was warned about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the glut of senses, the too-vivid memories. But there was one difficulty Wanderer didn’t expect: the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind. When outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off on a dangerous and uncertain search for the man they both love.

Movie Rating: 4/5 stars

Now the fever for vampire and human's romance is subsiding, the next trend up will be alien.

One thing similar between Twilight and The Host is the love triangle relationship.

Initially I came to the movie without knowing what to expect, except for alien intervention. But after the movie, I was amazed by the storyline of the film. Melanie's love for her family and loved ones is so strong that it conquered all the danger. It's a little touching towards the ending and I teared.

Another thing I like about the movie is the love interest between the 2 male leads.

Messy relationship. Both Wanderer and Melanie are in love with different guys.

I love watching movie with happy ending as it lightened up my day with a smile after a tiring day at work. The  movie is really nice, I am going to re-watch it again and read up on the novel.

You should go watch it too. The action-packed scenes and romance will definitely keep you in suspense.

Choose to love.

Choose to believe.

Choose to fight.

The Host will be showing in Singapore on 28 March 2013.

LE NOIR- The Intimate Side of Cirque

LE NOIR, a brand new circus spectacular is here in Singapore.

Are you ready for it?

For the first time in Singapore, and direct from a sellout season in Tokyo comes LE NOIR, an extraordinary evening of intimate cirque style entertainment starring some of the most incredible acrobatic acts on earth and will open to a star studded affair in Marina Bay Sands.

Let's immerse ourselves in the jaw-dropping spectacle of LE NOIR. 

LE NOIR will be showcasing at MasterCard Theatres at Marina Bay Sands from now till 7 April 2013.

Grace and I were here at Sands Theatre. We took a photo with the large poster of LE NOIR before we check in.

A gentle reminder: no flash photography is allowed, which was why our photo is dark.

May the show begins.

The Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands is fully transformed to seat audiences around a custom-built circular stage which offer a spectacular 360 degree view of the performance. It creates a unique and intimate experience between the performers and audience. That explained why it is called "The Intimate Side of Cirque", because the performers get real close with the audience through the walkway. Besides that, the circus comedian also engage audience in the act.

20 of the very best cirque performers from all four corners of the globe positioned themselves perfectly immediately after the curtain was drawn down.

The scene was majestic.

They were a group of talented acrobats, musicians, comedians and specialty acts. Many of them were formerly from Cirque du Soleil. They had come together to enthrall the crowds in the spell-binding theatrical journey spanning the three key colour themes. LE NOIR accentuates the darker side of these colours using not only the acts on stage but of every audience member as well. The content is surreal, beautiful, seductive and at time hilariously risqué. 

A hoop suspended from a strap launched the Australian performer, Thomas Worrell,  up to 2 meters above the audience. The act features a blend of flexibility, speed and poetic movement. The opening act in Le Noir epitomized the innocence of the white theme in this section of the show and it got me fascinated.

The beautiful show also combined a visual spectacle via its unique set and lighting design, and performance dynamics. It was just mind blowing.

I must say their performance are really impressive and entertaining. I was awed by their flexibility and acrobatic skill. It was such a breathtaking moments, especially the perform revolved the stage with the meter tall canes. 

Wow! The identical twin sisters performing the duo trapeze.

It was spectacular, adrenaline was rushing while watching their performance. I was awed by their fearless catch and amazing stunts that required trust in each other. They have a great chemistry that is built only between sisters.

Be treated to a visual extravagance through a combination of creative lighting and speed of movement.

The lighting never failed to make the performer the centre of attention.

Holding my breath in disbelief when he balanced himself precariously on the pile of cylinders. 

LE NOIR is indeed a great showcase with world-class performers. They were so natural on stage. I enjoyed every bits of their acts from the comedian host to the incredible and jaw-dropping acrobatic acts. 

There is this saying in Chinese: "台上一分钟，台下十年功"

This simply means one minute of fame on the stage requires ten years of practice.

The performers had put in lots of effort to make this show a success. Let's show them our support by supporting LE NOIR, okay?

I had a good 2 hours watching the seductive, entertaining and impressive performances. It's gonna be the best circus performance I ever watched.

With incredible displays of balance, contortion, stamina and aerial artistry, the skills exhibited by the cast of Le Noir is a show that you don’t want to miss. 

Tickets are priced from SGD$35 and are now on sale.

Event Date: 12 Mar - 7 Apr 2013 

Time: Tuesday - Thursday: 8pm 

Friday (22 March): 8pm 

Friday (15 & 29 March): 7pm 

Saturday: 3pm & 8pm 

Sunday: 1pm & 5pm

Ticket Pprice (Exclude booking fee):

 VIP - S$370 Sold in a set of 2 seats. (Each VIP ticket holder is entitled to ONE glass of champagne and a box of macaroons.) 

A Reserve - S$135 

B Reserve - S$95 

C Reserve - S$55 

D Reserve - S$35

For more information, please visit https://entertainment.marinabaysands.com/

Seafood Fiesta at Plaza Brasserie @ PARKROYAL on Beach Road

Attention to all seafood lovers!

PARKROYAL on Beach Road has a good deal of promotion for all of you:

From March 8 to May 31, Plaza Brasserie @ PARKROYAL on Beach Road will be offering the Seafood Fiesta under its popular Best of Asia themed from Mondays to Sundays.

This season, Best of Asia buffet features a host of new seafood delights with fresh oysters and chef specialities such as drunken prawns, baked giant sea bass, deep-fried golden prawns with garlic and XO sauce and stir-fried vegetables with scallops. Take your pick of Black Mussels, Tiger Prawns, Australian Queen Scallops, Fresh Oysters and Flower Crabs at the Seafood on Ice section.

Are you already drooling?

Best of Asia Buffet Dinner is happening from now to 26 May 2013 (except 29 March to 31 March and 11 and 12 May).

Dinner (Mondays to Thursdays): Adult $53 Child $32 

Dinner (Fridays to Sundays): Adult $58 Child $35

I am ready to indulge in the Seafood Fiesta.

I had an enjoyable dining experience at Plaza Brasserie, the atmosphere was cosy and relaxing. The decor and ambience made me feel at home.

Take your pick in their daily selection of fine seafood featuring White Clams  prepared in your choice of Black Bean Sauce, ‘XO’ Sauce, Black Pepper and Thai Chili Sauce.

I had the one in Thai Chili Sauce, the Thai Chili Sauce enhanced the taste of the White Clams. The meat was tender, it's one of the best I ever had.

Clams in Black Bean Sauce.

I must say the clams are very well done.

At the Chef’s “live” cooking station, savour the Teppanyaki Selection of Prawns, Stingray, Sotong and Salmon from Fridays to Sundays.

How about trying Asia famous Sambal Prawn?

It will definitely spice up your appetite.

Chef Jackson Goh continued to steam for us the freshest catch of Sea Bass and offer the choice of either Hong Kong or Thai cooking style.

The freshness of the sea bass simply got me wanting for me. The sauce added flavour to the dish, making it taste delicious and splendid.

This is a must try for all crab lovers - Stir-fried Crab with Egg Yolk.

The salted egg yolk tempted my taste buds. 

The crab was coated with the salted egg yolk, the taste was rich in flavour and it lingered on my taste buds.

I find it hard to eat with fork so I used my hand. The best part of eating the crab with my hands was that I could lick the remaining salted egg yolk on my finger. 

Plaza Brasserie's signature Best of Asia buffet presents a delicious spread of local favourites and Asian cuisines from the gourmet capitals of Hong Kong, China, Japan, Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, India and more.

From freshly sliced sashimi to enticing seafood platters and favourful stir-fries, the sumptuous array of chef specialties and sweet treats beckon to whet your appetite at every corner.

My selection.

Sinking my teeth into all the goodies.

GF and I having mushroom soup for our second round.

The trio enjoying the dinner. Thanks Jas for the photo.

If you have a sweet-tooth, lavish in the range of delectable desserts ranging from Bubor Cha Cha, Red Bean Paste, Cheng Tng, Chendol, Chocolate Cakes, Cheese Cakes, Fruit Tartlets, Fresh Fruits and Assorted Mini French Pastries.

Eating dessert always make me happy.

Self-decor ice-cream to round up my buffet feast.

We had a sumptuous buffet dinner and had satisfied our craving for the fresh seafood. 

Best of Asia buffet was indeed one of its kind. Thanks Karen and Parkroyal for the kind invitation.

***

As you know, Easter Day and Mother's Day are coming soon, Plaza Brasserie will be having a buffet promotion during this period.

As part of Easter Celebrations, Plaza Brasserie will also be featuring a special Easter buffet spread. Chef Jackson and his team will be creating a special Easter kids buffet lunch menu on Sunday, 31 March 2013 featuring favourites such as mini pizza, mini burger, nuggets, spaghetti with tomato sauce, meat ball, chicken chipolata, hash brown, assorted sandwiches, waffle with peanut butter and kaya and much more. 

Kids can look forward to a host of activities ranging from balloon sculpting, egg painting and cartoon screening. 

Date: 29 March to 31 May 2013 

Lunch (Sunday): Adult $48 Child: $29 

Dinner (Friday to Sunday): Adult $58 Child: $35

***

Pamper mum to a seafood fiesta this Mother’s Day at the Plaza Brasserie and thank her for all the love and support that she has given you. 

From 11 to 12 May, mums can look forward to the savouring our Mother’s Day special, the Singapore fish head curry claypot. 

Give your mum some much deserved time off this Mother’s Day and treat her to a delicious meal together with memories of that special day. All mothers will receive a complimentary glass of cocktail or mocktail and a return buffet voucher for Father’s Day this June. 

Date: 11 May to 12 May 2013 

Lunch: (Sunday): Adult $62 Child $38 

Dinner (Saturday and Sunday): Adult $62 Child $38

Prices are subject to 10% service charge and 7% Goods and Services Tax.

For more information, please visit www.parkroyalhotels.com 

PARKROYAL on Beach Road 

7500 Beach Road, 

Singapore 199591

Epson’s “Unbottle the Magic” Launch

Do your schoolwork or office work requires you to print out lots of pages?

Do you have to often replace your cartridges?

In today's world, everything is expensive. An example would be printer ink cartridges.

We are paying more but getting lesser than what we paid.

So why pay more when Epson actually offer a lower printing cost?

***

Epson, the world’s first, and to date, only major printer maker offering ink tank system printers, has introduced seven L-series printers to offer customers even more choices in terms of speed and reliability. This new series helps customers reduce operating costs with the world’s lowest printing cost of any printer using genuine Epson ink bottles supplies.

On this special day, 1.3.13, Epson was going to unveil the magic.

I attended “Unbottle the Magic” Launch held at The Gig, St. James Power Station where we would be the first to experience Epson’s definitive era of printing technology.

Thanks Jas for the photo.

We were all in CMYK theme: Cyan Magenta Yellow Black

The subtractive color model used in printing.

Thanks GF for extending her invitation.

Look! Who is the host of this event?

It's our familiar Y.E.S 93.3 FM DJ, Lim Pei Fen.

So happy to see her again. She is as prettier as always.

The launch of the L-series ink tank system printers also ties in with Epson celebrating the 20th Anniversary of their proprietary Micro Piezo Technology, a high performance inkjet printing technology that delivers high print quality and precision, and has given the company unique competing advantages since its inception. 

Today, Epson is the only major printer company in the world that uses piezoelectric print heads in its entire inkjet printer range – from the smallest personal photo printer, to the largest industrial press system.

Without any further ado, may the Guest Of Honour declared the Launch of Epson's L-series ink tank system printers.

It's time to unveil the magic within.

Epson's L-series ink tank system printers is officially launched.

Epson has come up with 7 L-series models which are designed to empower users to print freely without worrying about running costs, productivity and warranty issues, the L-series printers also provide corporate users the opportunity to switch from using laser or dot matrix printers to the highly affordable L-series ink tank system printers.

A remarkable special laser light performance that symbolizes our advance technology in the world today.

He had good controlling skill. Awesome performance.

Mr, Koichi Endo, Managing Director of Epson Southeast Asia an Singapore Epson Industrial Pte Ltd, gave an opening speech.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the technology, Epson has launched its latest L-series ink tank system printers. Boasting unique benefits that have been made possible by the Micro Piezo technology, the L-series ink tank system printers effectively demonstrates how far the technology has developed through the years.

Next up were the C.M.Y.K girls.

What did the girls have for us?

Extremely high print volume and low cost per page

 All models in the Epson L-series continue to offer customers high capacity ink bottles (worth SGD 9.90 each) that allow them to print at incredibly high volume and low cost per page so as to free them from worrying about printing costs. 

Ultra high performing and reliable Epson Micro Piezo print head 

The high reliability of Epson’s Micro Piezo print head allows it to be built into the printer and cater for high volume printing. It achieves a maximum print resolution of 5760 x 1440 dpi and its variable size droplet technology (VSDT) allows the print head to eject ink droplets in multiple sizes. These capabilities ensure the greatest detail and extremely smooth gradations in documents or photographs.

Easy operation

The Epson L-series printers feature Epson Original Ink Tanks, neatly integrated ink tubes and a special choke valve, all of which allow for easy ink refilling as well as convenient transportation of the printer.

Peace of mind through Epson warranty

Epson L-series ink tank system printers are covered by Epson’s warranty for a year or for 15,000 pages (L110 and L210) or 30,000 pages (L300, L350, L355 and L550) and six months for L800 or 3,000 pages, whichever comes earlier.

After hearing so much about the goodness of the Epson's L-series ink tank system printers, let's find out more about the individual models:

Epson L110 and L210 ink tank system printers

Designed for home and SOHO (small office / home office) users, the L110 single function and L210 all-in-one ink tank system printers have a 6ipm print speed and compactly designed to take up less space which means you can fit them comfortably anywhere in your home/office.

Epson L300 and L350 ink tank system printers

For SMB (small to medium business) users, these models offer a productivity-boosting print speed of 9ipm and assure users of reliable performance. 

Epson L355 & L550 ink tank system printers

Further enhancing connectivity in the office, both models facilitate workgroup sharing with WiFi and Ethernet connectivity respectively, on top of the USB 2.0 connectivity offered in the L-series printers. Both the L355 and L550 also offer iPrint, making it simple for users to print and scan to and from compatible mobile devices without having to connect software, drivers or cables. 

Epson L800 photograph ink tank system printer

Catering to photo enthusiasts and SMB users, the L800 single function ink tank system printer promises to deliver high quality printouts with greater cost savings. The L800 helps users save time by offering efficient print speeds of 11 seconds for black and colour in 4R draft mode. 

Thanks Epson for the great hospitality, I enjoyed myself at the launch event.

If you are intending to get a new printer, do consider getting Epson's L-series ink tank system printers who position themselves at consumer's best interest.