Chinese zodiac

by Rtr Fue Yin

Ever wonder why the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and Pig were selected and in that order? Or why was the cat not selected? There are many versions of the story, this is one of them. Of course this is not a true story but it helps us to remember the characteristics of some of the animals and also explain why the cat was not selected!

An ancient sage wanted to select 12 animals to form the zodiac. He wanted to be fair and he sent a message out to all the animals to gather at a certain spot on a certain date. The first 12 animals to arrive will be selected and the zodiac arranged in their order of arrival.

The rat and the cat made an agreement to wake each other up early the next day to start the journey. The cunning rat however did not do that, but started out on the journey much early hoping to be included in the zodiac.

The ox realized that he is slower than many of the other animals, decided to start the journey the night before and walk all night to reach the destination.

On the designated day, the animals started arriving. Ox was the first to reach the vicinity and thought he would be the first animal on the zodiac. However unknown to the ox, the rat was actually riding on the ox’s back the entire journey. And just before the ox reached the designated spot the rat jumped over the ox and took the first place.

This is also the reason why the Rat is described as intelligent and cunning while the Ox is hardworking and persistent. Close behind the Ox was the charismatic Tiger. Hopping quietly behind was the prudent Rabbit, who passed the head strong and ambitious Dragon unnoticed (lucky rabbit!), with the wise but tricky Snake slithering not far behind.

Galloping happily at the back was the high-spirited Horse, joined then by the sentimental Goat. Next to arrive were the versatile, charlatan Monkey, and the Rooster, full of color and bravado. The lovable Dog came next, brightly wagging his tail behind him.

Last of all came the Pig, gallant, entertaining and ever popular.

The Cat never forgave the Rat thou and became mortal enemies ever since!
This is the story of the 12 Animal Zodiac.

Gong Xi Fa Cai! Happy Chinese New Year!

by PP Gregory Sim

Chinese New Year is a festival to celebrate the start of the Chinese lunar calendar. Considered one of the most important dates for Chinese, it is a celebration of togetherness between family members as well as friends.

The club celebrated Chinese New Year together this year at Machap Baru again! After having such a wonderful time last year at Machap Baru, we decided to go back for more!!!

So, on the 12^th of February, 14 of us took that hour’s drive from town, across the Durian Tunggal Dam to this small village across the lake that is famous for its exotic spread. With some old faces and new guest, we challenged ourselves to what seemed like an episode of Fear Factor. Among the less ordinary meats served were frogs, wild boar and the even less ordinary meats, the squirrel and flying fox.

Despite having to challenge ourselves to take the first bite for many of us, the taste soon got to our palates and before we knew it, we were ordering second helpings. By the end of the dinner, all of us were stuffed to the brim. Overall, it was another wonderful adventure and as always, warmth fellowship. Till the next new year!

Yee Sang(raw fish salad), symbol of prosperity, abundance
and vigor is a must have during CNY celebration!

Ready guys!

Get set!

GO!!! Gambatei guys!
The higher you toss, the greater your fortunes

LOL! I can guarantee you guys that these are not the only
dish we had for dinner. Other dishes just vanished before the camera clicked.

HunT 4 Fun+D newest update!

by Rtr Fue Yin

Dear Rotarians, Rotaractors and friends,

Due to some issue, HunT 4 Fun+D has been delayed. Rotaract Club of Kota Melaka would like to apologize for the inconvenience caused. We truly hope that this delay would not affect your participation. Latest details are as below:

Venue: Menara Taming Sari, Melaka
Date : 14th March 08
Time : 0800 hours
Lunch: sponsored by The Friends Cafe, Melaka Raya

In addition, we are introducing Team Referral Program: Introduce a second team and you'll be entitled to get RM25 off your team's registration fees. Find 4 teams and your team will take part for FREE!!!

Hurry up and register before 4th March 09 by simply filling this registration form and email to hunt4fun_d@yahoo.com.

Happy Chinese New Year

Rotaract club of Kota Melaka wishes everyone Happy Chinese New Year. Ride the bull and arrive in the valley of happiness sandwiched by mountains of prosperity.