The Victim - Road To Recovery

Looking back, it's been close to 6 weeks since I was nearly assassinated. I am making recovery but real slow. What puzzles me was how come my wound took so long to heal. Worry! Worry! Worry!. Wife start to show concern and began nagging me to see doctor again. The photo will send a reminder to me that all is not well.

So, off to the doctor (Dr. Choo) I went on 12 December 2007. And my birthday at that. I reached the clinic at about 4.35pm as this hour has the least crowd. So, I am the only patient there. Registered and in less than 3 minutes my name was called. This doctor has been my good friend ever since I visited him around March 2004. He will without fail always asked about how my 2 daughters are doing. He even has this conversation recorded in my patient card, just so that he can remember where and what we last spoke. "So, what bring you here today?" "Two problems" "Tell me"

"How come my left leg's wound since I last visited you on 2 Nov'07 has not healed?" "What did you do to your leg?" "Huh! I am asking you how come and you asked me what did I do to my leg?" "Ok, what did you use to clean your wound?" "As you recommended, Dettol." "Did you mixed it with water before use?" "Of course" "What is the proportion?" "Erh, 1:3 or 1:4" "You siow ah, that is too strong. No wonder there's so much rashes on your skin. Minimum ratio should be 1:10" (I just checked the recommendation for nursing wound on Dettol, it says 1:20. So doctor is also wrong but I am more wrong lor.) "But how come my wound stopped closing up and it's very itchy around the edges, at the calf and oozing transparent fluid? Is it because I have diabetes?" "How did you clean your wound?" "I use cotton dipped in Dettol and somewhat scrub the edges and centre portion where the dead skin is. Meaning, I cleaned away the dead skin literally." "Wah! Who recommended you to clean that way?" "Erh, Dr. Puan." He paused for a while as if to search for the Dr. Puan and finally realise that I was joking with him and remarked, "So you are your own doctor. You are not supposed to remove the dead skin." It is there to protect the wound. If you cleaned it away, your wound will open up again. What is there to protect it? Aiyo, you ah! I will give you some cleaning lotion to clean the wound. Remember, no scrubbing, just dab. Dilute it to 1:9 ratio ok" "Orh"


"What's your next problem?" "Erh, how come my wrist for nothing can sprain? I didn't even carry anything heavy. Look at the size of it." "You still climbing scaffold and roofs in Sentosa?" Wah! good memory. Actually, this was also recorded in my patient's card. "Got lah! But nowadays, a bit grounded so stay in office most of the time. But it only happened yesterday 11 Dec'07". "And you sit in the office armchair most of the time." "Yah, but what has that got to do with it?" "Hellooo! You are no longer young you know. Already 52. So when we reached this age, many funny things can happen when you least expect it during the younger days. And sometimes when you get up from your chair, you place your palm on the armrest and lift your body up, that's where you sprain your wrist because it's at a difficult bent position. Be careful next time when getting up from your office chair." "Anything to apply on the swell?" "No need to apply anything lah! Just rest your wrist a few days and it should be back to normal. You need MC?" "No need. Still under probation. If I take the MC it would be considered No-Pay-Leave. Further, I also have to bear the medical fees myself hor." "Ok, I will still give you the MC. If need to use it then use it. I will prescribe you the cleaning lotion, cream for the wound and tablets for the itch. Take care ok. Don't like to see you visiting me even though I got business." "Ok, thanks Doctor." I went out of the room and waited to collect the medicine. The fee: $26. Very reasonable fee, I must say.

The Victim - Making Progress

So, it's the 25th day of my injury after the attack from the Silent Assassin. Let's see how I am faring.




It's not as gory as the 1st day. I am going about things as normally as I can though I still can't bend my left knee at more than 80deg. Try to bend further and the wound would open up and the pain is quite unbearable. Unbearable in my standard is probably extremely unbearable to some people. You see, my threshold to pain is quite high. To reach 90% recovery will probably require another 4 weeks or so, according to the unlicenced Dr. Puan (me). However, I am grateful to HDB that I can still do my private business despite the apparent temporary handicap. Why, you asked? Now let's say if the current toilets are still based on the squat type in the old days and you get what I mean.

I can now wash my car on Sundays but have to wear long pants to prevent the car shampoo from getting into contact with the open wound. It's still difficult though to climb my car to wash the roof. Can't reach it without standing on top of the rear tyres. I have to be extra cautious and conscious when getting down to the floor and not forget that my left knee can't bend more than 80deg. So when getting down, I must always remember to lower my left leg first. Failing that would mean unimaginable disaster. Because if my right leg is lowered to the floor first it would be too late to withdraw it as the pain on the left knee would be so unbearable that I may possibly let go of the grip and fall to the floor and result in a more serious injury. Touch wood, touch wood, touch wood... pwee, pwee, pwee...

On the work front, I am able to go about things normally as my current work do not require me to do much physical movements like climbing scaffolds and roofs though last Thursday (15 Nov'07) morning was a challenge. I had an appointment with a contractor (he is now my good friend from the time I know him in 1999 when working for my previous company. I am talking about you, PK if you are reading my blog) to check on my company's factory roof leaks at Tuas Ave 2. I have to climb up with them to check the leak (not necessary to do so but out of a sense of responsibility) and that is a major problem. I let the 3 of them climb first and follow later. One step at a time. Meaning, right leg up first and left leg follow but stepping on where the right leg rests and repeat with right leg and the sequence follows the rest of the way up. It's real dangerous seeing the strain and pain on the left knee. Climbing down is the reverse sequence. Left leg down first then the right. I tried to be smart seeing how slow it was to do the way I did so I do it the way normal people does. Left right left and I broke into a cold sweat because of the excruciating pain. I quickly reverted to the safe way.

Meanwhile, me and my big mouth. I suggested to my old friend (Lau) and ex-boss (Goh) (both are my ex-bosses) to have a round of golf next Saturday (1 Dec'07) afternoon in JB during lunch on 22 Nov'07. Both have no problem. Now it's for me to arrange and look for another good friend (he's also my good friend by the way) of my ex-boss to make it foursome. I am now considering if I should go ahead with the game and should I disappoint my good friends. I hope ego don't have the better of me. Actually, I should forget about ego. There's really nothing to lose face because I am my best judge. Health or face? We shall see by Tuesday (27 Nov'07) for my ultimate decision.

Cheers.

The Silent Assasin

I woke up at 5.30am for my regular jog. After stretching for about 5 minutes, I took the lift down and walk along the linkway from Blk 286 towards Bt Batok East Ave 6. It was probably about 5.45am as I reached the pavement. I was hesitant and wasn't sure if I should do the routine 5km run towards Bt Timah Rd. It was getting real windy and the sky was somewhat darkening.

I opted for a shorter route (about 3.5km I guess) to avoid getting caught in the rain and jog the other way round towards Bt Batok East Ave 3 towards the direction of the PIE and turn right into Bt Batok Street 23. It was an enjoyable morning jog. The weather was cool and windy. As I approached the workers dormitory opposite Vicom Inspection Centre, many Bangladeshi workers were already lining the road for the bus and trucks to pick them. A few were smoking away while waiting for the bus/truck. I thought, how can they afford to smoke? A packet of cigarettes costs about $10 to $11. Their daily wage probably about $22/day without OT. But never mind, MYOB I thought to myself.

As I reached Bt Batok Industrial Park, I looked up to the Heaven and it seemed somewhat uncompromising. Still I continue my jog and soon reached the main road of Bt Batok Ave 6. I turned left and continue down the pavement towards the direction of the swimming pool. I thought to myself, "Shall I jog further down to make it 5km instead of the targetted 3.5km. The sky seems to be clearing up." "Ok, I will jog further down toward the MRT viaduct, turn right towards Bt Batok Ave 1 and right again towards Bt Batok Central, straight down towards Bt Batok Ave 2 and stop at where I usually stop, outside Bt Batok Nature Reserve." That should do. Bt then I have reached the bus stop where I usually let my wife off for work.

THE SILENT ASSASSIN
As I passed the bus stop (at time it was about 5.55am), about 25 metres away, there was this lamp post on my right that stood quietly watching over me and the road with its light on. No sooner as I passed it I tripped over something. OMG, I lost complete balance as I fell forward, struggling with my now jellied legs to mainain my balance. I soon realised that I trip over the tree root that was hiding right smack under the shadow of the lamp post. Hopeless, I knew I can't balance myself safely and let fate took over. My mind flashed with fleeting thoughts over what would happen to me. How serious would the injury be? All this in a matter of micro seconds. Didn't know our mind can think faster than the action.

THE WEAPON
Then it happened. Plomped! So Humpty Dumpty had a Great Fall. A fall from grace as I landed on my left knee, quite heavily. Fortunately, I was holding the water bottle with my right hand when I landed. The wrapper on the bottle was torned and my palm was also bruised but was cushioned by the bottle. Yes, I was lucky. I couldn't move my leg as I sat on grass verge for something like 5 minutes. I scoured the pavement for that weapon and saw it (the root) protruding about 6cm from the ground.

THE VICTIM
I gazed at the injury as I struggle to my feet. I have a problem standing up because it's hurting on my left knee. I stood still for about 2 minutes before I made my way back home, painfully. There's nobody around to assist me. The street is quite deserted. I hobbled across the road and walked slowly home, about 1.2km away. Yes, it was starting to bleed a little. I could not hasten my pace as it was simply too stressful on my left leg. I passed Kemin Primary School and the gate was just opened by the guard.

I hobbled but I did not wobble. Phew! If I did, it would be disastrous. I bought the newspaper and breakfast (noodle with toufu as usual) on the way home. I tried to walk as normally as I could and looked around, it seems no one noticed my injury. Bt then, blood was slowly trickling down my shin. Whew! Would be embarassing if somebody noticed. I just don't feel comfortable with people started to show their concern and asking funny questions. How come, why, when. I can understand their concern and appreciate it. Now, all I need is a nice shower, rest and have my breakfast.

I reached home and quietly went to the bedroom to collect my clothings for the shower. Wife is still sleeping and am unaware of what happened. I turned on the heater as I don't want to get a shock because of the cold weather and the wound. As I stepped into the bathroom, I was prepared for the worst. Excruciating pain as the water flowed from my head to the wound. Yes it was real bad and painful. It was like being bitten by hundreds of red ants. Fortunately, the warm water somewhat seem to calm the nerves and relief the pain a bit.

As soon as I finished my shower, I sat on the small pink stool my elder daughter brought back from her hall and started reading the newspaper. Ten minutes later, my wife woked and make her way to the kitchen to have a glass of water. Soon after, I told her I want to show her something, and pointed to my injured knee. On second thought I shouldn't have shown her. She almost burst into tears. Aiyo, it's only a bruise and nothing to be so unduly worried, I told her. She fussed about it and mentioned I shouldn't have jog along that pavement. But nevertheless, what has happened has happened.

Clearly, I am not too concerned with the injury, just that it would be quite awkward as I just started work in this new company on 16 Oct'07 and have to take medical leave (No Pay OK, under probation). I bandaged the badly bruised leg and report to work. No, I did not tell anyone in office. Hush! Hush!

The next day, I went to see my regular doctor. Took one look at it and said it's not a problem. Should heal in 2 to 3 weeks and charged me only $15. No, I don't need the MC, no medicine or lotion. Great! Looks like I have to go back to swimming again after a long absence.

We shall see.

It's now into the 11th day of my accident. The wound is healing up nicely. Meanwhile, the photos of The Silent Assasin, The Weapon and The Victim is posted to remind of the pain and caution to be taken in future. Look out for The Silent Assasin.

Cheers.

Dilemma of Cab Driving - In the News

As an ex-taxi driver who is now back in emloyment, I am truly saddened by the many complaints against taxi drivers in general. Branding all taxi drivers as cheats is unfair. Never mind the armchair critics or the general public's complaints. It is better to live with those who encourages rather than those who critise with offering a solution you will be a happier person. Though taxi drivers in the public's view are now among the lowest rank in society and Singapore's public enemy #1 (according to the number of complaints, negative feedbacks and hate campaigns posted over the internets, the important thing is you do not cheat or behave like those black sheep. Like someone who mentioned on 22 Oct'07 ST Forum that 4 out of 10 cab drivers are inconsiderate. We now have 18,400 inconsiderate taxi drivers on the road (OMG). Many road users forgot that cab drivers spend the most time on the roads, between 8 to 10 hours and sometimes more and it can be really tiring. It's not an excuse but I would like to challenge those who complained so much to drive his car for between 8 to 10 hours a day, everyday and judge for yourself how you will behave after 1 week of driving. Someone said that when the government is at fault, we complained about it in the coffeeshops, when taxi drivers are at fault, it apprears in newspapers, internet, radio (today's 93.8 feedback talk show), and even tv. Why? Because not many cab drivers are able to respond or defend these complaints and also because they are probably not as educated as those who complained about it to the press or post it on the internet. But nowadays, many taxi drivers are quite computer literate and internet savvy.If you have the opportunity, I would think that it's better for you to find employment. It's not glamorous profession and no appreciation from the general public. The income is not that great compared to those who can afford taking a cab. I drove taxi not by choice previously but out of necessity to support the family. So, as long as you enjoy cab driving, as long as you make an honest living, don't worry too much about the negative feedbacks, complaints and critisms. Armchairs critics enjoy watching the show after posting their negative response. Let them be if they enjoy every moment of it. Because pretty soon, the public will get to know who they are when they log on the internet. I am pretty much worried about the karma, for those black sheep.
Cheers and best wishes.

A Hell Ride from Changi Airport

It really has been a long time (6 months) since I last posted on this blog and here goes the story. This time it's not from me as a taxi driver but rather as a passenger.

On 6 July 2007, I was back from a company business trip from Shanghai. My wife and I boarded a CityCab Taxi bearing registration no: SHB2117D at Changi Airport Terminal 2 at 22:37hrs. As I got into the taxi, I told the driver I wanted to go to Bukit Batok East Ave 3. He was driving along the extreme right lane #1 and about 1km before the exit to PIE I asked him; "Uncle, which road are you using to go to Bt Batok?" His reply; "Which road you want take?" "PIE, it's nearer." "Go straight by ECP also can" was his reply. He must be joking, I thought to myself. From ECP via AYE via Clementi Ave 6. Traffic at that time was moderate. Hey, I was a taxi driver with CityCab and Comfort too, just that I didn't tell him.

I thought taxi drivers are supposed to ask the passenger/s the preferred route. Never mind, I thought to myself, small matter. But no, this is just the beginning of our nightmare ride.

As we neared exit #1 to PIE about 100m away, he is still on ECP lane #1. Suddenly, he swerved sharply to PIE exit #1 and continued driving in a dangerous manner at speeds of up to 130km/h. He tailgated almost all the cars that were in front of him, weaving in and out and overtook on the left on many occasions disregarding the safety of the passengers and other road users.

Upon reaching Eunos exit #9, he was on the outer lane when he suddenly swerved to extreme inner lane of the PIE and continued his dangerous driving along the extreme inside lane, overtaking vehicles both from inside and outside and weaving in and out once until we reached Paya Lebar exit #11. He was on the extreme inner lane once again overtaking other vehicles. Now these lanes are meant for vehicle exiting to Paya Lebar only. He then made a sharp turn to the inner most lane of PIE and drove along the corrugated road markings to get back to the PIE.

At this moment, my wife held on to my hands tightly, shaking with fear for our safety throughout the journey. He continued his crazed driving, tailgating vehicles, driving in a dangerous manner without regards to the passengers in the taxi and other road users, and again weaving in and out, speeding excessively well above the legal speed limit.

When we passed Eng Neo Avenue exit #22, I told him to exit by the Clementi Road/Bukit Timah Road exit 26A, drive towards Upper Bukit Timah Road and turn left to Old Jurong Road opposite the Fire Station. I further told him to turn right at the traffic light after the Shell Petrol station and then left again at the traffic light leading to Bt. Batok Ave 4. Thereafter, I showed him the direction to my block at 287 Bukit Batok East Avenue 3. For every turns and traffic lights, we went through sudden twisting turns, braking and over-steers like a roller coaster. It was a horrific experience for my wife but I remained calm.

As we reached our destination at 23:02hrs, my wife got out of the taxi and stood there frozen. I asked her what happened. She told me she got cramps and was shaking with fear from the entire experience.

Now I am not sure what this taxi driver was unhappy with, but from the way he's driving, he is not only putting his passengers' life at risk but also that of other road users.

I personally have heard so much about black sheep drivers but this one takes the cake and score full points for tarnishing the image of other good taxi drivers in Singapore. While there are definitely black sheep in every industries, I never, for once imagined I would get to experience one real dangerous mad cap of a driver.

I have lodge a complaint with CityCab regarding this incident and was assure that firm action would be taken against this taxi driver. But I do know a fact that most of time taxi companies will only call the taxi driver personally and told them that a complaint have been lodged and would generally advise the driver to be more careful in future. Hey, taxi companies can't afford to offend the taxi drivers too much. They need revenue too from renting out the taxi. And is good profit. If not, why else would there be so many taxis on Singapore roads. In terms of taxis on our population, we are probably the highest in the world on per population ratio. We have something like 23,000 taxis serving a population of only 4 million.

I look forward to more posting if I see anything interesting to write.

Cheers.

Bout of Bad Lucks on 10 Feb'07

It has been nearly one month since I wrote in my blog. A bout of bad lucks struck me 10 Feb'07 and will remain entrench in my memory.

Incident #1

I picked up an old lady from Tampines Street 45 around 5.20pm. She wanted to go to Punggol Field. As I turned into the driveway of her block, she asked me to stop the vehicle in front of the truck. I told her I couldn't as there is a road divider and would be obstructing other road users. I proceeded further ahead and turned left into the rubbish disposal bay. She raised her voice at me about not stopping the cab at the spot where she wanted. I told her once again that I can't stop my cab as it would be obstructing other road users, this time in a higher tone. I felt bad after that. She soon realised my good intention and also that I had stopped at a better and safer place for her to alight. She asked me how much the fare was and I looked at the fare meter and told her $8.60. She then complained that she takes cab regularly and that it normally costs her about $6+. I told her that this is the peak hour where there is a $2 surcharge. She would not listen and insist that the fare shown in my cab is high. I didn't want this to affect my mood and asked her to pay me what she thought would be appropriate. She paid $7. I accepted and thanked her.

Lesson: Next time whenever I pick a senior citizen, I will have to remind them about the $2 surcharge for peak hour.

Incident #2

I picked up 4 boys (age presumbly between 15 to 16 years at Bt Merah Central around 7.40pm. Their destination: Yishun St 21. Along the way, the boys were using vulgar words and laughing in the cab. One of the boys was worried as he had not been home the night before and had not informed his mother about his whereabout. They really smelt of cigarettes. I told the one sitting in the front passenger seat that generally, parents have their children at heart. Parents' naggings are for their good and not a past time or that they like it for that matter. Education is important and that they should put more concentration in their studies for a better future. He nodded in agreement. All these while they were playing with their mobile phone, smsing to each other and I did not suspect anything.

When we reached Yishun Avenue 2, one of the boys asked me to stop at Yishun MRT Station to alight. The rest of boys asked to proceed to Street 21. On reaching street 21 carpark at Block 305, as I was about to stop the fare meter, the 3 boys, in a synchronised manner, opened the 3 doors and dashed out in different directions. I was more surprised then shocked and didn't expect them to bolt without paying. I did not bother to chase them. It's just not worth the effort. The fare comes to about $18.30 and is now zero.

In cab driving, we have to be prepared for all sort of surprises, including robbery & cheats. What actually comes to my mind was, they are fortunate that I did not pursue the matter. I could have shouted, Robbery! Robbery! and they could have been apprehended by a group of about 15 people learning Tae Kwon Do just 50 metres away. And one of the boys was running in that direction. But, I will let others take care of them because somewhere in the future, they are bound to be caught. If they had told me they had no money to pay me along the way, I would still have obliged and send them to their destination. If they are caught, there would be a criminal record, regardless of how small the amount.

Lesson: Be more aware of the passengers, particularly teenagers. I will next time prepare myself to unfasten the seat belts before I stop the cab. This way, I will be able to react in time and apprehend the culprits.

Incident #3

I was on my way home to Bt Batok and driving along Jln Jurong Kechil at about 1.40am when 3 boys age about 15 to 16 years stopped my cab. "Oh no, not again", I thought. Anyway, I stopped and one of the boys said if he wants to go to Jelapang Rd at Bt Panjang, would $6.00 be enough. "Of course not enough lah!" With midnight charge, it could easily be $10.00 to $11.00. But since I have already ran into 2 unlucky incidents, I guess this time round I will do the good deed since the boys are honest with me. They paid me the $6.00 and board my cab. As I drove along Jln Jurong Kechil, one of the boys asked to stop about 2 bus-stops away from where they boarded and outside Signature Park to alight. After he alighted, I drove along Jln Jurong Kechil again and was intending to turn right at the junction to Old Jurong Road towards the direction of Bt Timah Road, one boy asked me to turn left and proceed to Bt Batok. Bt Panjang would be later. "What? I thought you said Jelapang Road". Why didn't you tell me earlier? Which part of Bt Batok are you staying?" "Er, near the swimming pool." "No, I will send you back last", I said. "Because I stay in Bt Batok and don't want to do a big detour."

So I proceeded with turning right towards Bt Timah Rd. As I reached Jelapang Rd, the other boy said, "Turn right, then left, then right again." The boy who lives in Bt Batok scolded him, "Oei, your $6.00 very big is it? Wah lau eh! Like that also cannot walk in and want to make uncle drive in." "Shut up lah." I drove in as directed. As he alighted, he thanked me with the Bt Batok boy still cursing him for causing him to lose face.

I then drove out towards Bt Batok Rd and turn into Bt Batok West Avenue 5 and towards West Mall. Upon reaching the boy's place, he alighted and thanked me for the generosity. I look at the meter and it shows $14.70. Oh well, at least these boys are unlike the Yishun boys.

Lesson: Nothing to learn here except to learn to be generous and charitable towards those honest enough to own up first.

Cheers.

Don't Judge a Book by It's Cover

I received a current booking on 22 Jan'07 to pick up a lady passenger from Ngee Ann City Taxi Stand for Pasir Ris St. 71. I didn't talk much to the lady as she seem tired. As I am not very sure of exactly where St. 71 is, the lady agreed to guide me when we reach Pasir Ris. After she alighted at about 10.35pm, I turned out from carpark and turn right into St. 71 again with the intention to go to Changi Airport to pick passengers.

Immediately after I turned right, a big burly Malay man (about 1.78m tall) waved for my cab in the opposite direction. He have tattoos from his neck down to his arms and legs. (I can see the tattoos on his legs because he is wearing bermudas not skirts, ok). As I could not make a U-turn because of the road divider with a 750mm railing, I stopped my cab for this guy. I was actually hesitant to pick him for safety reason (you know what I mean?), but decided to take the chance. Despite his imposing size, he manage to jump over the railing and speedily get into the front seat of my cab. He seems to be in a hurry and told me to go to Yishun. "Eh, which part of Yishun are you going Sir?" It was intentional on my part to ask him and confirm my suspicion that he is not what I suspected (a robber) and also to make sure that he knows what he is talking. He went blank for a moment as I proceed to drive forward (Aha, I got him square on this question, I thought). After an agonising wait of about 10 to 15 seconds for an answer, he blurted out, "North Point, go by TPE". "Ok" was my reply as I continue driving towards TPE. Just as I was about to exit towards TPE, he asked, "Uncle, where are you going?" "I thought you said go by TPE?" "Yes, but this is going to Changi Airport." "Oops..." I apologise to him and made a U-turn. "I am not very familiar with this area, could you guide me to TPE exit towards Yishun?"

I reach the exit of TPE in less than 2 minutes. As I drove along TPE, crazy thoughts went through my head. What if he wanted to rob me? Can I take him on? Physically, I may not be able to (He weighs something like 90 to 95kgs). I comfort myself that all Comfort taxis are installed with a panic button for cases like this on the right side near the accelerator pedal. Will it be too late to depress the button as he can see what I am doing from the front passenger seat? Will this be the end of my taxi driving career? What will happen to my family? Throughout the journey, there was no conversation. He probably can sense that I am uneasy.Sheesh, and I really am.

It was a relief that we are nearing North Point. As I was about to turn right at the traffic lights, he told me to proceed ahead. He did not intend to go to North Point. God, now this is really getting to be more than a suspense as my earlier thoughts ran through my head again. "Turn right at the next junction, into Yishun Ring Rd and stop at the corner of the junction." "OK" was my reply. Phew, that was close. I am not suppose to stop my cab at the corner of the junction as it is against the traffic rule but at least he didn't asked me to stop at some secluded place. I stopped my cab at the corner of the junction as asked and stopped the meter. It shows $12.60 but I told him $12.00 as I had made a wrong turn at the start of the journey and gave a discount. "No lah Uncle, cannot lah! You also cari makan mah!" He paid me the full fare. I thanked him for the fare and generosity and drove off.

Wow! That was some experience. Again, come to think of it, if he had wanted to rob me, he would have taken the back seat. It is easier for him to hold me at ransom from the back. But then again, he would not be able to see what I am doing with my leg. Oh well, I have to move on. This is one experience that I will definitely remember. I have to be more cautious in future.

Cheers!

Vehicle Refused to Start

After only having about 3 hours sleep on 20 Jan'07 in the wee morning after my Friday night drive, I woke up at 6am as usual on Saturday. (Usually, I would drive longer hours on Fridays, Saturdays and eves of Public holidays as there are more merry makers on these days) As I opened the door of my cab I found to my horror I couldn't start it. The battery is near flat. I could jump start the cab if I can push it to the edge of the slope where I parked my cab. I have this habit of taking precautions just in case something like this happen. Lucky for me, the cab is a manual transmission. I pushed and pushed and God, it was real heavy. I think it weigh something like 1.5 to 1.6tons. As I pushed the cab, 2 guys walked pass and stared at me. I was hoping that they would help me push to jump start the cab, but no, they gave me a pathetic look and go on their way. My fault. Because I didn't open my golden mouth. But hey, I am near breatheless. If I see anyone in the same situation that I am in, I will without fail offer my help without being asked. At that moment, I was literally struggling to push it with all my might as I tried to steer the cab towards the top edge of the slope. In my younger days, I would have no problem pushing it. I am now in my 50's and is slowly losing my physical strength as the years move on. The steering wheel is also real heavy without the power steering. I refused to give up despite the fact that I am losing my stamina and strength quickly and finally managed to get it to the top of the slope. With a final look at the downslope, I turned on the ignition key and give it a last full-bodied push and quickly jumped into the driver's seat as it gained speed down the slope. I depress the clutch, engaged into 2nd gear and let go of the clutch. The engine sprung to life. Oh, the sweet beautiful sound of the purring engine. As I pant and try to catch my breathe, I drove off slowly with the aircon switched off. This will allow the battery to charge faster. I manage to make 9 trips after that.

Later on, I sms my partner and told him of the problem and that I will be sending it to Sin Ming workshop for checking. On reaching there, the mechanic checked and told me, "Wah, Uncle, you never check the battery water one is it?" "Hah! I thought you guys will check it when you carry out the monthly servicing?" "No! You have to check it yourself." I now realised that Comfort is unlike private workshops where the mechanic will carry out multiple checks on the vehicles and top up whatever fluids if necessary. Life must be easy for the mechanics.

Kind of stupid of me though for not checking it in the first place. Later, as I refuelled for the impending handing over of shift to my partner, I bought 2 bottles of battery water. I opened the battery caps and found that the battery is indeed dry, (now this is dangerous as it may possibly explode if I continue driving it without battery water). I emptied the 2 bottles and found that it is still insufficient. I bought another 2 bottles and only then it is just enough to fill it to the maximum recommended level.

Now this is the first time in my 31 years of driving that I have actually top up a battery with 4 bottles of battery fluid. I suspect that the battery is of inferior quality. Today, I checked the battery level and found that the fluid level had gone down a bit and it is not normal as I had only topped it up on 20 Jan'07. The lubrication oil is also below the minimum level (something to be concerned of), despite the fact that this vehicle is only about 4 to 5 months old. Well, I have to be more careful in future about this issue.

Cheers.

Passenger's Unethical Behaviour

16 Jan'07 after finishing my lunch at Tiong Bahru Food Centre at 1330hrs, I drove off from the Multi-storey carpark with the intention of taking an afternoon break before continuing with my shift work at 1630hrs. At the bus stop opposite Tiong Bahru Plaza at about 1338hrs, a young Indian lady flag my cab and says she is late and have to reach Choa Chu Kang Loop by 1400hrs. I told her the shortest way is via Clementi Rd but it's not the fastest way as there are many traffic lights. I recommended going by Farrer Rd, PIE, Dairy Farm, Upper Bt Timah Rd and Teck Whye Way straight to CCK Loop but it will be costlier due to the longer distance. Besides, I cannot guarantee I can reach the place in such a short time of 20 minutes. I told her that if she took the MRT, it would probably take about 40 minutes to reach the destination considering that she has to do a transfer at Jurong East Interchange and then when reached the place, it would be a mad rush to her block. All in, it may possibly take about 50 minutes.

With her consent, I drove towards the suggested route. When I reached Dairy Farm, I only have about 7 minutes left to 1400hrs and the fare is already $10.40. Then she asked if I can give her a discount. I told her that I have already mentioned earlier that it would be costlier. She kept pleading with me for the discount. I told her we will talk about it when we reach her destination. As the minutes ticked by, she became even more anxious and kept pestering me to hurry. I told her I am already doing my best after breaking so many traffic rules. Speeding is the most expensive offence with 12 demerit points if caught. Come to think of it, it is rather foolish of me to drive the way I did.

I reached her place about 1403hrs and the meter reads $13.60. She pleaded with me to accept $9.00. What? 33% discount? I told her even with the shortest route from Clementi Rd, it would have cost her more than the $9.00 she is willing to pay. Besides, I really was pushing all the way to help her so that she can be there by 1400hrs. Completely upset with her, I reluctantly accepted her offer, at the same time consoling myself that I could be worst off and possibly have returned home empty cab from Tiong Bahru.

Lesson: Never ever perform such stunts again. I may be lucky this time round but one day, just one day, I will be caught for the offence and it would not be worth the money the passenger paid me. Next time, if ever a passenger tells me the same reason that he/she is in a hurry, I will tell them matter of factly that I don't want to break any traffic rules as this is my rice bowl. This is not the first time I encountered problems with such passengers, but rather third time. The first two were the same reasons. Promising to pay me and asking for my bank account number so that they can transfer the money to me because they don't have money with them at the moment. Eventually, the first one (a guy owing $10.90) never did despite repeated promises for the 3 weeks and the second one tooks close to 3 weeks of pestering before she finally said she had transferred the money to my account and asked me to check immediately. I can't be bothered to check the $6.30 she owed me and simply told her I trusted her.

My response to such experience in future would be if they can't afford to pay, just tell me and I would treat it as a donation to charity and will not pursue the matter anymore. Besides, all the phone calls and smses I sent would have already been a big discount and it would not be financially worthwhile to continue pursuing. I should move on.

So much of the encounters, I promise myself to never ever be foolish again and fall into such trap. I must be careful with such people in future.
Cheers.

Bad Weather Again

Thursday 11 Jan'07, I picked up 2 Caucasian gentlemen and an Indonesian lady at Terminal 1. Strange that these 3 passengers have no luggage with them. As usual, I greeted them and asked where they would like to go. One of the Caucasian jokingly said, "Where are we heading guys? Yati, where would you like to go? We have a few hours to spare. Shall we go to the Police Headquarters? I think that's where we will go. Ok, we go to Police HQ."

As I drove along ECP towards Marine Parade, they were talking about something related to some cases or something related to it. Then, the same guy asked again, jokingly, "Yati, would you prefer to do some shopping?" I told them the nearest and biggest shopping centre is Vivo City, which is near the Police HQ. Then I asked the same gentlemen again, "You are not joking with me about going to Police HQ are you, because I have not pick any passengers from the airport without luggage except those who sent their friends and relatives off? "Yeah, don't worry. We go to Police HQ, then we go to Vivo City, right Yati?"

When we reached Police HQ, I stopped behind a row of cars that was under the direction of the policeman on duty. The same gentleman said they would like to alight first. Ok, no problem. After they alighted, the policeman stopped my cab and said I am not allowed to let passengers alight at that spot where I had earlier and pointed to the camera above. I apologised for it and said I wasn't aware of it. He pointed to the double zig zag lines on the road and again said to next time stop further down where there is a double line. I said ok and apologise once again. I hope won't get a fine for it.

Friday on 12 Jan'07 is a day to remember. Not because it's interesting but for another reason.

I was driving along Bt Timah Rd (4m/s) near the newly opened NUS Campus on the extreme outer lane on my way home for a short break in the afternoon about 3pm. It has been raining since 11 Jan'07 afternoon when I saw that the water level had risen to about 600mm near the top of the monsoon drain, which in my view, is pretty dangerous if it overflow and spill over to the roads. If it had continued raining unabatedly without break, I belief that area would have flooded. This brought back memories of the 1969 - 1970 when the area stretching from Whitley Rd/Stevens Rd/Bt Timah Rd junction right up to Chinese High School is often flooded whenever there is a heavy rain. I was then studying at Dunearn Secondary Technical School (no longer around) and my mother and sisters would be really worried whenever it rains. Even heavy vehicles can't pass through the knee high water level back then and had fallen victim to the flood. If there is a flood and vehicles stalled, fear not. There would always be help around from the malay communities living around that area. The boys and men would be out half naked to help you push your vehicle to side of the road or dry land for a small fee. Good money back then.

I would like to take a break for now and will be back again.

Cheers.

The Christmas Countdown/Showdown

So, the Christmas Countdown is here and gone but not the memories. But I was not on duty for that day. I was on duty from 22 Dec'06 noon to 24 Dec'06 noon but I was caught in it earlier that the eve of Christmas. Particularly on 22 & 23 Dec'06 as the days fell on Friday & Saturday respectively. The whole of Orchard Road is full of activities and people doing their last minute shoppings. On both nights between 10pm to 12midnight, the situation is quite chaotic as there was a lack of supply to meet demand. There were many attempts on cab-jacking, literally. Most of the trips I made are for on-call bookings, which comprises about 60% of my fares. One couple on 23 Dec'06 along Orchard Boulevard before the turn-in to Wisma Atria (the guy actually) was trying to pass of as the person I am suppose to pick at Wisma Atria but when I asked for his name, he just went er, yabba yabba. Aha, gotcha. Sorry, I am suppose to pick up a Ms. Agnes and your name is not even close to it. I think guys have thicker skins than the ladies.

I was practically all over the island from 5pm onwards on 23 Dec'06, starting from the Western to Eastern to Central to Northern and to Southern and back and criss cross all over. Yes, business was quite good but there is a limit as to the physical ability of the body, the mind and we need breaks to relief ourselves. But overall, it is a really interesting night. I hardly had chance to talk to the passengers as they are usually couples and I would not want to bother them in their small sweet talks. I left the passengers alone for the most part of this festive mood except to wish them "Merry Christmas" when I reach their destinations. And now I would like to say "Good Night". Wife is making some background noise now about me being on shift duty tomorrow.

"I'LL BE BACK"

I am back

Wow! Can you imagine it? My computer was down since 23 Dec'06 and I was like handicapped until 5 Jan'07 evening when my daughter's friend, Wei Ming, so kindly came over to help me reset it. I was only doing my virus scan on that day and am not sure what went wrong after that. I just simply couldn't log in. Tried a few days calling Singnet for help but wasn't able to get through their technical hotline and was always put on hold for hours, and I mean really hours. I was using my home cordless phone and put it on hands-free speaker and just simply let it play until the battery went flat. I leave it to you people out there to guess how long was the wait. Exasperdated, I hung up, recharged the phone and call again. After more than 30 minutes of being on-hold, I finally manage to get though the line.

At last, there is life out there in Singnet after all, after days and many many attempts and frustration in trying to get through the line. Can you imagine what that guy told me? "Sir, don't worry, I am here to help you solve your problem." Yeah, nice comforting words. Anyway, I was just happy to be able to talk to a human after days of talking to the ASTD(+-*/) machine. I was just glad to have an expert over the phone to guide me in resetting.

I explained to that guy the problem I faced and the reply was because of the Taiwan earthquake. Yeah, I know. But hey, he wasn't paying attention to what I was trying to tell him. I wasn't able to log even before the quake happened. Wah, he mean to tell me my computer got sixth sense that the quake is about to happen and took the initiative to break down first. After he learnt that the router I was using D-Link ADSL router together with Linksys wireless router, his immediate response was that it was not compatible with Singnet's network. Huh! My impression of this guy changed immediately after that statement was made. I am not sure if this guy is really helpful or an expert after all. Hey, I have been using that equipment for the past months without problem and now he says it's not compatible with Singnet's setting. Okay, fine. Benefit of doubt given. He asked me to hold the line after confirming my telephone number and the phone line went silent. No background music to soothe me or indicate that I was on hold, while he, presumably went in search for assistance. Initially, I wasn't sure whether to hold the line or hang up. After much deliberation, I decided to hold the line and was waiting for something like 10 minutes (now that would be quite dumb under normal circumstances but thinking back on the days and many attempts in trying to get through the line, I waited) before I made the final decision after 15 minutes to hang up. I would expect that this guy would call back as he has my number but then as it turn out, there was no call. What kind of service is this? I intend to pursue this issue with Singnet in the foreseeable future. Fortunately, we have other ISPs available. But until now, Singnet still have a sizeable market share and that is probably the reason why they can afford to be lax on their service. Okay, today's topic wasn't suppose to be talking my computer problems but rather my taxi adventure, which I will publish in another posting.
Cheers