Raju a/l Lingam,

123 A, Lorong Bahagia,

Taman Sentosa,
07231 Bandar Baru Sentol,
Kelantan
_________________________________________________________________

The President,
Bandar Baru Sentol Council,
Kompleks Utama,
07200 Bandar Baru Sentol 16 JUNE 2011

Dear Sir,

Uncollected Rubbish and Clogged Drains

I am writing this letter is to attract your attention to the above title. As the representative
of the community, I am calling to tell you that the 300 odd residents living in Taman
Sentosa are extremely unhappy about the lackadaisical attitude of the local town council
towards the uncollected rubbish and clogged drains in our area.

2. The rubbish in our area has not been collected for more than a week. The
rubbish is supposed to be collected on alternate days but this has not been the case.
The town council workers collect the rubbish according to their own whims and fancies.
The uncollected garbage has attracted not only flies and mosquitoes but also wild dogs
which had attacked the residents on several occasions. These stray animals also
scatter the rubbish and make the roads dirty and smelly. As a result, residents have to
bear the discomfort of stench from the garbage and risk their health.

3. We are also disappointed with the town council workers for not clearing the
clogged drains which are filled with rubbish. The drains would usually overflow when
there is heavy rain and the rubbish would then flow into the compounds of our houses.
Besides, putting up with the unbearable stench emitted from them, the residents have to
spend hours cleaning their compounds of rotten vegetables, food leftovers and other
rubbish.

4. Due to dengue outbreak recently, we are really concerned about the residents
health especially the children. Fogging service also was not done accordingly to the
schedule. The fogging authority only did their job whenever a case of dengue aroused.
They even fogging the neighbourhood late at night that caused us to leave the
residents. They need to consider the residents who have babies and also to those who
need to wake up early in the morning for work. The fogging also caused the people to
have breathing problem when we were not told the exact time of fogging.

5. We have made numerous appeals to the Municipal Council to look into our
complaints but to no avail. We have been putting up with this predicament for more than
a week. We hope the health authorities would do something to check these health
hazards.

Thank you.

Yours faithfully,
Raju
(RAJU a/l MANIAM)
A Holiday I Would Never Forget
Holidays, a time everyone gets hyped up over, parents planning activities for the family
to spend quality time with and school children ( as well as teachers) jumping for joy.
Hello, waking up late, celebrating, goin for tuition and best of all, vacations! In myy case,
a holiday I would never forget is a fruitful one I expereinced five years ago, where my
family I spent six days in the land of K-Pop and ' kimchi '- Korea.

Finally, after ages of waiting, our family arrived in beautiful Korea. Stepping out of
the plane, we could feel the chilly weather to our bones. Never experiencing that kind of
weather, my siblings and I were totally excited. Passing through immigration and
baggage claim, we were talking animatedly about our new surroundings. Since we went
with tour group, we knew we were in good hands.

Incident number one. We were supposed to take a bus to check in at the hotel, as
instructed. I guessed I was overeager and without thinking. I ran to a random bus and
knocked on the door. The young bus driver opened the door and looked at me with a
puzzled expression. He started asking me something in Korean, which of course I did
not understand. I tried to reply in English, but before I could make the attempt, my father
quickly apologized to the driver and walked me back to the tour group who was
watching from afar, shaking with laughter. It turned out that the bus I was running to was
not the bus we were supposed to take. I dismissed my burning cheeks. I was glad I
could be the butt of everyone's jokes on my first day in a foreign country.

It was a bit past lunch time when we were done checking in our hotel. Not doubt,
everybody's stomachs were grumbling. Thank God after checking in, we were going to
have our lunch and do a bit of sightseeing. While waiting for the others outside the
hotel, we walked around nearby. There was a row of vending machines that sold
various snacks and beverages, including Haagen Dazs ice-cream , and instant noodles.
My mother had a craving for Nescafe, so she spent her first Korrean money on that.

At the restaurant, a delicious meal was already spread out for us. That was the first
time we all tried kimchi, a spicy and sour vegetable side dish.I did not think it was
horrible, buut I preferred the fish kimchi much better. We all ate using chopsticks, so
that was kind or awkward for me and my siblings, as we were not skilled at using them
yet. Being Malaysians, we were used to rice, so it was a good thing that the Korean
meal included rice and a few other side dish, eaten from a Bento box. It was weird
though, the rice was stickier compared to the rice we eat at home, mainly to make it
easier to eat using chopsticks. There was also hot and scumptious miso soup together
with the meal. Since my sister and my brother did not like it much, I finshed up theirs. I
gulped the warm soup down my throat- a nice connntrast from the shivering weather
outside.

One of the highlights of our activities that we did in Korea was skiling. Everybody
from the tour group was looking forward to that, even the 52-year old couple traveling
with us. Since it was'nt fully snownig yet, the hill was coverred with artificial snow. After
grobbing our ski gear, we listen to a briefing by the instructor. He was very help ful,
especially with us kids annd the elderly couple.

Feeling jumpy and hyperactive, me and my sister made our way to the cable car
and successfully skied down a slope. I thought, " We're natural at this," and my sister
could not agree more. When we came to see how our parents and brother were doing,
my brother started to throw a snowball towards me and my sister. It hit me, and we
started having a small snowball fight of our own, just like in the movies! I guessed we
got a bit out of hand and my sister accidentally hit a woman's back. when she turned
around, she had this angry look on her face and started to walk towards us.I hurried my
siblings to continue skiing with our parents,and we ran away before she cold catch us.
Breathless, we giggled innaivety as we recapped the moment.

In a way, skiing is like swimming. Why do I say so? Well, when swimming ,you do
not feel tired , but you would see the effect when you get ravenous and eat more after a
session or when you aintend to tke a nap, but it is extended to long hours. The same
goes to skiing. When we arrived at the hotel after skiing, we were drained out and
starving. Instant noodles saved the day! We all ate curry-flavoured Maggi together,
savouring the memontary pleasure. We also dozed off quite early that night , right after
going for a walk to enjoy the amazing night view of th mountains, and breathing the
cool, fresh winter air.

Shopping in Korea was also different compared to Malaysia. Its malls were packed
with small shops or stalla on every floor. Big boutiques were not seen as much as the
quaint kiosks. Nevertheless, I found shopping at their markets more enjoyable,
especially because you could haggle the price. Their specialities were crystals, fabrics
and outerwear. Apart form that, I also liked their wet markets , mainly because they
were very clean and they did not have that fishy smell. I remembered a shocking
incident when walking through the stalls of the wet market. A large fish jumped out its
aquarium and onto the floor. I stared at it and suddenly, I saw a huge cutting knife
slicing through the fish's neck! It was the owner of the stall's doing. Then, the owner left
the fish flapping around lifelessly without a head.

There was also a treasure trove among the stalls of the wet market- a tiny shoop
which served grilled seafood. My family stepped into the shop and ordered some grilled
fish and cockles.

After saying our prayers, we devoured our mouth-watering find of the day. Dripped
in a type of souce, the seafood was the best I had ever eaten, as you could taste the
freshness. Or maybe I was just hungry after a full day of activities.

If it was up to me, there were so many things to write on my memorabe trip to

Korean. Not onli we got to spend quality time together as a family, but we also learnt
countless new things and even discovered hidden talents. My father always said we
should travel with an open mind and an open heart. This is when you get to see your
capability to adapt to changes. Just enjoy the simple things in life and be thankful of
what you have. So, do just that. Who knows you might discover a part of yourself you
never know existed?
Informal Letter Sample
You recently went an expedition with your classmates to Langkawi. You have been
asked to write a letterto your cousin about your visit to Langkawi Island.

Rosni Alias
No.3,Jalan Sutera,
Taman Cempaka,
43600 Bandar Baru Bangi,
Selangor.
12 March 2012.

Dear Zarina,

How's life? I hope you are in the best of health. How's my beloved Uncle Johari? I
miss him too.The reason I write this letter is to tell you about my expedition to Langkawi.
Guess what? We just came back from Langkawi . I went there with 25 of my classmates
and my class teacher. Mr, Zaid had kindlly accompanied us for the 3 day-trip. You
should have joined us. It was such an awesome experience!

Well, on the first day, we arrived at Langkawi in morning after a short flight. Then,
we were taken to Langkawi Geopark, a UNESCO World Heriatage Site where we could
see magnificent rock formations. We were taught the history of the place and some
fossils of fish could also be sighted. This is a wonderful opportunity to understand
geogical aspect of the island at the Geopark.

After visiting Geopark, we were taken to Pulau Dayang Bunting which about an
hour boat ride. I forgot to mention that the boat ride itself was so exciting and
adventurous. Upon arrival at the island, we were greeted by monkeys and soon, we saw
a breathtakinng lake, with its gree clear water. Not forgetting the fish spa where
thousands of catfish nibble at your feet when you lower feet into the water. Again, this is
a new experience for me. Other than that, we could really enjoy the beautiful scenery of
the island.

The next day, we went to Underwater World where we saw the penguin, giant
fishes, colourful onemones and all sorts of marine life there.I'm sure, it's heaven for fish
lovers. One advantage of this trip is I could learn about themarine life. Well, on the final
day, we went to Mahsuri Tomb and Padang Mat Sirat to relive the legend of Mahsuri. It
was a good experience since I managed to see the historic sites and understand
Mahsuri legend better. Other than that, I also learn about the importance of being true to
our words and do not spread false gossips since these can lead to horrible
consequences. I also managed to make friends with some other tourists visiting the site.

Okay, I guess I have to have to pen off now. Hope to see you in the next letter.
Please convey my love and regards to my uncle and aunti. Take care!
Love,
Rosni
The Unusual Experience
The Unusual Experience

It was the same bus I got onto every morning, but today, I fell asleep in the
bus. When I woke up, I sensed something was unusual. The bus took me to
a strange place that I had not seen before. Before I managed to ask the bus
driver, it vanished.

Wandering around aimlessly looking for anybody, the place seemed weird.
Some crows were flying above me. There was an old building on the waste
land. When I reached the building, a girl tapped me from behind. Liz was
wearing a school uniform. She looked very beautiful as she gestured me
towards the building.

When I got into the building, there were many people. They were wearing
the same uniform as Liz. I realised that it was a school. The students were
going to their classes. Being a new student, Liz brought me to see the
principal. I followed her without saying any word.

In the spacious principals office, I was welcomed by En. Juhair. He told Liz
to bring me to Class A. It was overcrowded. We took our seats at the back
row. Everybody stood up and said Sam! Welcome to Monster School! I was
so shocked to hear that. I could hardly believe my ears and eyes. All of a
sudden, the students and teachers looked like monsters.

Looking closer at Ms. Munirah, I noticed she wore a tail. I had an unpleasant
feeling in my stomach. I turned to face pretty Liz and felt relieved that she
was still the same, she was just smiling. The very thought of this bizzare
place made me feel like running away. Nevertheless, I kept the thought to
myself.

When the school bell rang, I planned my escape route. I couldnt leave LIz
behind and decided to invite her along. She happily agreed to my infamous
plan because she knew that the monsters would kill me for being a human.
We rushed out of school quickly. I showed her the bus station where I got
down in this morning.

Apparently we had been spotted by the monsters. They were trying to catch
us. As we were beginning to feel helpless, fortunately the bus came into the
station. Both Liz and I boarded the bus. It was going at a maddening speed.
Feeling exhausted, I dozed to sleep . When I got up, I was surprised to see a
vacant seat next to me.

Did you see the girl next to me?

Which girl? You were alone.

The bus driver looked at me with cynical eyes and shook his head
unbelievingly. It was 2.30 pm when the bus stopped in front of my house. I
still could not understand what had happened to me until now. Maybe to
some people this seems like a joke; to others, it is just a fantasy. However,
to me, this has been a very shockingly unexplainable experience in my life.

.
My Favourite TV Programme
The television (TV) is part and parcel of many households. Therefore, watching
television is a culture of todays modern society. It is a favourite past-time of many
people, cutting across the culture, creed, gender and age. I must admit that I too enjoy
sitting glued to the TV as mum often laments. Since I watch TV whole day long, I dont
blame mum. However, whenever I watch my favourite TV programme she doesnt
complain. In fact, she often sits together to watch it, the National Geographic.

The National Geographic is a well-known documentary programme, focusing mainly on

the ever-changing world, on Mother Earth and on nature and peoples and creatures that
colour it with. Just the press of a switch and a button and Hey Presto!, the whole world
is brought before me, for me to savour its beauty and wonders. Personally, I am often
awed and amazed with them.

I like this programme because it is very educational. It is a window to the world. By

watching it, I can travel, explore and discover the four corners of the world. I have
trekked up the highest peak and conquered Mt. Everest. I have dived down the deepest
trenches. I have walked through the wilderness and be amongst the wild beasts, big
and small. Thus, this programme has helped to expand my horizon and improve my
knowledge and experience. I can proudly say I am no more a frog in the well.

I also enjoy watching the National Geographic because it is entertaining, interesting and
stimulating. I never imagined that such an educational programme can be very
enjoyable. I get a chance to enjoy the kaleidoscope of sights, sounds and colours of the
world and its different peoples, all in the comfort of my own home.

In addition to that, this programme is of very high quality and it is produced by a team of
experts, all are authorities in their own field of interest. The photographic footage is
extremely breath-taking and inspiring. Besides, the narration is very accurate,
informative, vivid and descriptive. Thus, I have never felt restless, distracted or bored
watching this programme.

The National Geographic is my favourite programme as it has helped me to grow and

mature. I have watched it since I was a seven-year-old innocent child. Now, I am more
sensitive and aware of the world and Mother Earth. I learn to be more appreciative of
Mother Earth and its beauty and wonders. I am more concern about the preservation
and conservation of the world not only now but also for posterity. In short, the National
Geographic has converted me into a more responsible citizen of the world and a
caretaker of Mother Earth.

It is a touching and heart-warming TV programme and I will not hesitate to recommend

it to others so that they too have a chance to savour amazing moments and appreciate
and care for the one and only world we live in.
A Report about a Fire in the School Science Laboratory

To: The Principal,

SMK(P) Methodist,
Jalan Tengkera,
75200 Melaka. (F1)

Explosion in the Chemistry Laboratory (F2)

Last Friday, which was the 13th of May 2011 (C12), my friend, Lucinda and I, saw a
suspicious man run out of the chemistry laboratory while we were waiting for our
parents to pick us up after school. The strange man was dark-skinned, possibly Indian,
had black curly hair and was wearing untidy clothes which had patches on them. His
hair was unkempt and messy and he had fashioned a beard (C1).

Right after he had run out of the laboratory, there was an explosion in the lab. There
were no teachers around at that moment and it seemed as if my friend and I were the
only witnesses to the incident. So we headed towards the lab to investigate the
explosion.

When we reached the laboratory, we discovered that a terrible fire was raging inside it.
We were horrified. Realising that the chemicals in the lab were probably flammable, we
decided to attempt to put out the fire (C3). Lucinda grabbed the nearest fire extinguisher
and we hurried into the lab (C2) before the fire caused more damage. Suddenly, more
explosions occured behind us (C4). We truned around, only to be greeted by a
devastating sight. The explosions had caused the flames to spread near the door. We
were trapped (C5) and there was no way out.

Lucinda and I frantically looked around for another escape route. We noticed the
windows but they were narrow and had metal bars across the window-frames (C6)
which barred them and ultimately, we could not get out that way. We were about to
search for an alternative exit, but the fumes and smoke were overwhelming and we
started to choke (C7). We had no other choice, so we ran to windows and broke the
glass panels (C8). Then, we screamed (C9) at the top of our lungs for help. People
heard our cries and gathered outside the laboratory (C10). Somebody called the fire
brigade and thankfully, the fire fighters arrived in just a few short minutes. My friend and
I were mercifully rescued (C11) and were extremely grateful to everyone who helped us.

Not long after, the fire fighters put out the dreadful fire and everyone was filled with
relief. However, I can bet that nobody was as relieved as Lucinda and I.
Written by:
Michelle Soon (F3)
Form 4K5
SMK(P) Methodist,
Melaka
Descriptive
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.