alter

28th February 1991, a historical date for Malaysia. At that moment, the Prime Minister of Malaysia was Dr. Mahathir (presently addressed as Tun Dr. Mahathir). He was giving a speech about his vision to modernize this country, to put Malaysia at par with other developed countries. It was that day, February 28th 1991; Dr. Mahathir presents out his idea of Vision 2020, and the day that my mother gave birth to me.

28th February 2009, I am eighteen. The age that most people certified as above age, eligible to buy cigarettes on my own, eligible to watch adult-rated movies in Malaysia, and most importantly, eligible to withdraw more than RM 200 daily from my CIMB Bank account. But, these are not the main purpose of my topic today. I am now eighteen years living in this world, and I have been through many events that somehow have changed me in many ways.

I was a shy boy back in my kindergarten days. Well, to be honest, I only went to the kindergarten for three days, because of an event that truly embarrassing to be remembered. It was really hard for me to socialise with other kids in my class, and as they stare at me, the quiet little boy who sat at the corner of the class, I became deeply terrified. I don’t know why but it was me back then, and after the third day, I called it off. No more going to the kindergarten. I stayed at home and hide under the table when my bus came to pick me up. Haha. But, as I grew older, I began to change myself. I tried to be more sociable, started to interact with people of different gender and races, participate in any kind of group works. I make friends with many people and started to gain reputation in school. I was elected as the President of School Cleanliness Board when I was in Form Five. Four years before, I was barely able to speak to any one of my peers, but four years after, I was able to manage one of the school organisations.

The way I studied was also altered from year to year. At school, study is simple. By doing the homework given by the teachers was considered as study. Another habit is what so-called last minute studying. I will only study if the upcoming test is approaching in less than 24 hours. I don’t have the tendency to study earlier than that. But, I change the way I study as I grew older. I knew that the studying was getting tougher and tougher. So, I decided to double my effort, and now, the way I study is different from when I was in school. Now, I am able to study everyday without any hesitation.

I have also changed the way I view things, change my style, and change towards the better me. I hope that I can change more. I change not only to satisfy myself, but for my family and friends, so that I will be able to be a good son, a good brother, a good friend , and a good citizen.