Keketuohai, UNESCO Global Geopark, “The Green Jungle.” The scenery changes with the seasons, Gem Valley blooms in splendor, the birch forest turns a blanket of yellow as autumn arrives. North Xinjiang unfurls like a painting, the long river flows into the gorge.
Clouds cannot conceal the cliffs, water cannot wash away the precipices. The Irytsh Grand Canyon, majestic, rugged, yet elegant and perilous. Shaped by years of river erosion, a natural scar of beauty is etched between the steep rocks and cliffs.
A lone peak stands proudly, with feelings alas finite; the mountain range extend endlessly, peak upon peak, with infinite connections. With the slow passing of time, strangely formed peaks and bizarre-shaped rocks, with freeze-thaw weathering— Divine Bell Mountain, Small Bell Mountain, Elephant Trunk Peak, Kalazhuole Waterfall. The river rushes through the canyon, heading towards the Arctic Ocean.
“The Shepherd of Keketuohai,” a timeless love song. The shepherd and the beekeeper, unstable livelihood and helplessness against fate unable to smother their deep affection. The song is rich and pure, stirring the heart, resonating in the soul, reaching deep into the spirit, climbing to the heights of the soul.
Lightning, the driving force of self-reliance, pioneering a new homeland. The tireless toil of our forefathers have brought sixty years of prosperity and flourish, peace and security for the nation and people.
A tiny nation, yet its purchasing power parity per capita (PPP) has astonishingly reached Number One in the world. On the international stage, it has punched above its own weight to earn its place — the People’s Action Party deserves much credit.
Decades of one-party dominance, using the Group Representation Constituency(GRC) system, to parachute candidates into Parliament. The zeal and passion have thinned, the ideals of good governance and integrity have blurred, and the original heart for public service has been lost.
In the thick of global inflation, government went ahead to increase Goods and Services Tax(GST). Professionals, managers, executives, technicians face competitive pressure from foreign talent. Millionaires and new citizens drive up housing prices, and public housing soars with the market.
In the midst of the U.S. unilateral tariff wars, and tense and turbulent international trade, the ruling party seizes the moment to call an election. Voters are forced into making a difficult decision at this critical time—- wanting the ruling party to steer the ship, and also wanting opposition voice in Parliament.
The hammer, shouldering heavy burdens without complaint, braving countless obstacles in unfairness, bring forth a blue sky. The Workers’ Party, high in fighting spirit, speaks for the people, answering the calls for justice and fairness.
Voters are wise, pragmatically safeguarding their enlightened self-interests. Opposition parties that cannot gain traction are dropped by the wayside. The Workers’ Party gains two Non-Constituency Member seats, the People’s Action Party sees a rise in overall votes, and narrowly preserves the Deputy Prime Minister’s GRC seats.
Post the cleansing of the general election, the ruling party should reflect, conduct deep reviews, listen to public voices, integrate feedback from all quarters. Prevent policy making by elites out of touch with the ground, avoid gerrymandering electoral boundaries, and stop the muffling of civic groups.
People’s vote — a general election once every five years, a fleeting snapshot, can it truly appreciate five years of people’s livelihoods? People’s vote may be given; but are people’s hearts won?
As the election curtain falls, people’s votes have sounded, the people’s hearts are silent, can those in power hear them?
P.S.
In terms of GDP per capita using Purchasing Power Parity (PPP), Singapore is consistently ranked among the wealthiest nations globally. In 2023, it was ranked 2nd with a PPP GDP per capita of $141,553, according to Uniwide, and 1st in 2025, with a PPP GDP per capita of $156,755, according to the IMF.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
2023:Singapore ranked 2nd in the world for GDP per capita (PPP), with a value of $141,553.
2025:The IMF projects Singapore to have the highest GDP per capita (PPP) in the world, at $156,755.
The winds of May revisit the 汨罗江 Miluo River, blowing past millennia of culture and dynasties, calling forth the yearning for home and country. Remembering the sages of the past, “suffer nine deaths with no regret”, the steadfastness of love for the nation
The poet’s pen narrates the story of shattered mountains and rivers, the unyielding original intent, the starting ideals, the pure and sober (awakened convictions) and resolute self-discipline. Leaving behind the spirit of poetry, river, and indestructible bones of patriotism, to comfort the world for the loss
The fragrance of dumpling leaves wrapping weaves together warmth and love; layer upon layer behold the love for country. Generations gathered around one table, making and eating dumplings, relish old stories, sharing food and love; ensure the passing on of festival culture and love through the ages
The cry of 离骚 is the call of history. The racing team pull in unison, the sound of drums reverberate. The dragon boat cuts through the water, lifting up wave droplets that splash across the millennia. The soul of poetry stands erect between heaven and earth; its spirit will endure, exuding fragrance through the ages
P.S.
屈原 Qu Yuan Qu Yuan was a patriotic poet of the State of Chu during the Warring States period. After witnessing the fall of his nation and the shattering of his ideals, he threw himself into the Miluo River, sacrificing his life for his country.
离骚 Li Sao (The Lament) – Qu Yuan’s 3730 word, longest political lyric poem in ancient China
Quotes- “Even if I were to die nine times over, I would not regret the pursuits of my heart.” “Though the whole world is muddy, I alone remain pure; though all others are drunk, I alone stay sober.”
Qing Ming Traditions Families go out together, visiting graves and honoring ancestors, Remembering those who have passed, Sorting through the sorrows of farewell. A moment of solitary reflection Is also the pillar of family reunion.
Qing Ming Customs Lighting incense, burning paper offerings— Acts of respect, and also of care and gratitude. One life journey draws to a close, Another begins, growing and flourishing— The passing down and continuity of life and love.
The Season of Qing Ming Fresh air, clear skies, and grass newly green. Springtime excursions Open the spirit to the breath of life. A passing shower Caresses the damp earth.
Spring in Full Bloom All things are nurtured and grow, all forms renewed. In rhythm with nature’s pulse, There is an inner release— The joy of sensing, The quiet flow of the heart’s intent.
Spring Breeze, Softly Smiling The breeze stirs the clouds; flowers bloom in silence. All unfolds quietly, Yet in a moment, unaware— Merges into nature’s embrace. It is a truth beyond words: A resonance of the soul.
The wind rises Lifting up the wavy hair, Dispersing thoughts and memories, Yet unable to blow away The longing, born of kinship.
The rain falls Blurring generations of footprints, Messing up paths and directions, Yet failing to conceal The cherished memories of days gone by.
In Childhood days Parents shielded me from wind and rain, Siblings guarded and loved me. Though the family was poor and living spaces small, and clothes and meals were plain, we lived the simple joy of a happy family.
That year I left home at eighteen to pursue my studies overseas Who could have known the parting was also the last farewell? my heart thus harboured this deep sorrow of having loved ones already departed when I have the wherewithals to care for them
Remembrance Overflowing with tender memories of the past, From inside and outside the urn, two worlds gaze upon each other. Qing Ming worship Summons a sigh—of reunion after long separation.
The letter from home Silently treasured through the passage of time, Its ink now faded, Yet it cannot erase your parting words. This belated reunion Feels like waking from a dream, retracing the steps once walked by those now departed.
There is no such thing as a Free Lunch — avoid being scammed
as people age an unexplained sense of fear creeps in afraid of falling when walking or running, worried about accidents when driving constantly fearing missteps
things once taken lightly in youth now cause hesitation, even anxiety
all one wants is a peaceful old age no shocks no turmoil no desire to leave the comfort zone
life has many facets and dimensions one may be successful and confident in one area yet stepping out of the comfort zone can cause one to tremble in fear a single mistake can shatter one’s confidence
having braved more than a few stormy seas and sailed through safely and steadily successes and failures belong to the past the days of struggle left far behind
let not the calm waters be disturbed confidence and self-esteem suffering a severe blow can lead to sudden loss of control and loss of judgment adrift and directionless without ruddle
having toiled a lifetime one should enjoy a peaceful old age there’s no need to chase wealth and glory just hold on tight and don’t lose one’s life’s savings
there is no reward without effort there is no such thing as a free lunch only through hard work can we realise our dreams
Bakuteh a sensation across Southeast Asia a household name a Singaporean delicacy, bearer of emotive connections far beyond
rich and savoury a broth infused with the fragrance of white pepper prime pork ribs, perfectly balanced in lean and fat tender yet firm, indulgent yet not greasy a burst of umami lingers on the palate
a bond of love tied to taste experience steeped in blood and tears in the early days, immigrants, to earn a livelihood young and old alike toiled as dock labourers – “coolies” a daily struggle, just to earn a meal
pork bones, simmered into broth affordable, convenient, fill the stomach, restore the strength only then could they endure the scorching sun, the crushing loads the searing heat, sweat soaking the backs the days of backbreaking labor where even the face of youth is lined with wrinkles of time
traditional taste slowly brewed to aromatic perfection, with lingering sweetness best paired with 油条 crispy dough fritters soak in the broth, absorb its richness a bite unleashes a burst of flavour followed with a sip of 功夫茶 a taste of heaven, a life fulfilled
waking early for a brisk walk in the neighbourhood the dawn is quiet, bathed in soft glow the morning hue edges the border of the clouds and slowly dyes them in gold as the rising sun peeks over the horizon, golden rays lit up the treetops bringing forth energy for a new day
neighbours wake one after another rising, washing up, and having breakfast busy and ready for daily routines sending children to school, heading to work, buying groceries cars and pedestrians begin flowing like a river another day unfolds in bustling rhythm
the city’s pulse beats with steady rhythm society, like a mighty beast, thrive and move ceaselessly as a macro organism
each person a part of this vast body follows the rhythm of life rushing about along his own orbit
clogs and wheels engage turn in seamless coordination yet each person holds a space of his own a happiness that belongs to oneself that blooms quietly amidst a busy day
when you are old will your loved one still be by your side walking in lock-step through the twilight years?
when you feel lonely will your old pals still be there chatting and reminiscing the past?
when you are weary will you find a shelter of quietude of your own to heal and restore?
when you fall ill will your family and loved ones stay by your side and take care of you?
when you are aged and frail will the world slow down for you so you can keep up?
sipping wine, enamored with the dusk; the evening glow intoxicates your gaze autumn chills, the world grows silent, silver hair creeps upon my head youth fades like falling petals, like water flowing past, never to meet again years grow old in dreams, autumn deepens into the night the past lingers vividly, while all fades gently with death
南怡岛枫林 Nami Island maple forest 1.11.2024南怡岛滑索 Nami Island zip line 1.11.2024南怡岛银杏落叶 Nami Island gingko leaves 1.11.2024南怡岛银杏林 Nami Island gingko forest 1.11.2024南怡岛鸵鸟村 Nami Island ostrich sanctuary 1.11.2024
南怡岛之秋
南怡岛 远眺 秋天落叶，秋意盈漫 枫叶 火焰飘曳点燃了树梢 随着时间的脚步 铺满遍地残红
空滑索 仰望 一线流星，划破蓝空 凌驾 天神之威势临空而降 89米高塔940米地 跨空飞越岛河
银杏树 近观 迎风轻舞，摇首弄姿 杏叶 数千黄折扇挥之潇洒 顺着入秋的步伐 撒满落地黄金
游池塘 环视 水鸭列阵，鲤鱼戏水 鸵鸟 鹤立园中鉴日月时空 伴着镜月的时针 追溯昔日芳华
c.h.e.f andy
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published on 1.3.2025
see my English translation 👇
南怡岛之秋 Autumn on Nami Island
Nami Island gazing into the distance leaves falling, the mood of autumn brimming and spreading maple leaves like flickering flames, they ignite the treetops with the passage of time they cover the ground in a tapestry of the crimson past
the Zip Line looking up a shooting star streaks, slicing through the blue sky soaring with the might of a deity descending from above from an 89-meter tower, across 940 meters flying over the islands and river
ginkgo trees up close dancing gently in the wind, swaying with grace ginkgo leaves thousands of yellow fans fluttering elegantly following the footsteps of autumn scattering golden hue across the ground
viewing the pond looking around ducks in formation, carps playing in the water ostriches standing tall in the garden, witnessing the passage of sun, moon, time and space accompanied by the illusory hour hand of the moon in the mirror retracing the transient beauty of youth
Korankei maple leaves fan the hills in fiery red a lone ginkgo by the side of the stream is shrouded in gold stroll through the autumn forest, and bath in the colors of fall
Taigetsu Bridge clear waters of Tomoe River play out nature’s music maple canopy over taigetsu bridge and the flowing stream spread out coolness walk the maple tunnel, and step softly on the red carpet
Goshiki Maple (5 colour maple) maple leaves sway in the gentle breeze like five-coloured clouds green, red, orange, yellow, lush greenery offering the shade a dazzling tapestry, the mountain and river woven into an art piece
Mt. Iimori crimson clouds colour half the sky the mountain is ablazed with autumn’s embrace take a step, climb higher, the air is crisp and refreshing
leaning by Tomoe Bridge in drunken stupor, the lanterns lit up a scarlet dream a thousand lights enchant the maple moonlit night golden gleam on both shores of Tomoe, a breathtaking, ethereal sight
Time waits for no one a one-way ticket moving forward, only one direction no hesitation, no looking back never stops, never waits no one, can command or control it
Life no second chances a lifetime spent in obsession with success and failure and entanglement in the web of love and hate yet in the torrent that is the passage of time everything, is but fleeting mist
Life’s Meaning what is it? rushing and toiling experience sorrow, joy, separation and reunion having tasted the full spectrum of emotions in the ripples of time all that have been, float and vanish like a bubble
Contemplation complete the cycle of cause and effect and realise one’s full potential? or simply living in the here and now fully embracing life’s experiences within the endless river of time is there hidden, some cosmic truth?
Fate a mere chance fleeting in an instant to hold and keep for a lifetime or just brush past each other? within the compass of reincarnation do we miss it and pass over, or endlessly repeat?
If I were to write a letter to myself 50 years ago what would I say?
1975 my grandmother passed away the following year my parents had just turned sixty, though not very old yet they did not live past another five years
my older brother and sister had already become role models— spiritual guides, gently leading the way nurturing countless disciples across the land
it was also the time when Singapore’s economy was booming and leaping forward a decade of rapid growth the face, vision and mindset of society already in a major transformation
I would say: spend more time with grandmother, mom and dad even if there isn’t much to say even if it’s just silent companionship it will still bring mutual smiles and joy— a memory to cherish for a lifetime
I would say: care more about brother and sister take time to truly understand and communicate with them familiarize with each other’s daily routines, needs, likes, and dislikes familiar love is priceless and irreplaceable
I would say: the most important thing in life is to have inner strength so you can stand by your principles without being swayed by others that strength comes from within— first, strive ceaselessly for self-improvement and success be knowledgeable, skilled, and insightful
everyone’s circumstances differ in life so much depends on fate no matter what kind of dice destiny rolls for you whether the outcome is good or bad ultimately you decide how to live it
after all life comes only once, yet you can start by being grateful from today— live each day to its fullest and truly put into practice the words i want to tell myself 50 years ago
Gift to me the eyes of 乐恩 clear as autumn waters, twinkling like stars deep and imbued big eyes that harbor supreme wisdom kind and charitable, grateful to accumulate blessings a benevolent one whose virtue endures through the ages
Gift to me the elegance of 乐瑄 joyful in study, diligent in following the Way exemplary in both character and scholarship vast and overflowing being the elegance of a precious gem offered to the world brimming with talent, noble and upright a saintly one of unadorned simplicity
Gift to me the hands of 俊利 outstanding in talent, soaring like mythical birds and phoenixes to the heavens hands that uplift goodness, that bestow blessings helping others and enriching the world industrious in endeavor, wholeheartedly devoted to the Way a capable one who possesses both virtue and ability
Gift to me the heart of 星颖 like the sun, moon, and stars—imbued with wisdom accumulated through the ages elegant and outstanding a heart that is sincere and pure caring for the world, with aspirations lofty as a swan taking flight a wise one whose beauty, wisdom, and ambition are complete
shikizakura, a breathtaking natural spectacle flowering in two seasons—spring and autumn in March and October, flower viewing in both spring and autumn seasons youth and beauty is reborn, poetic sentiments rekindled
mountains, wilderness, lakes, and rivers, falling leaves mark the arrival of autumn maple forests a fiery red, ginkgo trees in slates of gold red leaves and white shikizakura blossoms intertwine, bringing out and enhancing each other’s beauty dancing together in spring and autumn — the artistic mood is enduring and timeless
with a flowering period spanning across seasons, shikizakura flourishes through autumn and winter standing firm in exposure to the cold, exuding pure elegance maple leaves fan the spread of red like fire, shikizakura petals flutter and float like frost a radiant harmony of red leaves and white shikizakura, as the seasons revolve
the autumn wind lifts up a romance of red and white— the allure of crimson the purity of snow-white shikizakura petals and maple leaves brings up artistic conception autumn colours weave into poetry and art an uplifting of the state of mind a journey of the consciousness through time past and present return to this very place the end boundaries of the earth is back at this very time
poached chicken a sensation across Southeast Asia no feast is complete without chicken from Singapore restaurants to hawker centers this is a must-have classic gourmet dish
fresh, sweet, and silky smooth its skin translucent and glistens like crystal the meat—juicy, delicate, and tender retaining its pure, natural taste, smooth but not greasy rich in subtle chicken aroma it lingers on the palate unforgettable
the chicken rice is a masterpiece too— the fragrant rice cooked with chicken fat, chicken broth, ginger and garlic paired with minced garlic sauce, chili sauce, and dark soy sauce enhancing flavor and enriching taste, truly divine
clean the chicken, massage with salt prepare pot of water with salt, cut ginger, garlic, and carrots bring to a gentle boil, submerge the chicken turn off the heat, let chicken poach, sealing in the juices ice bath brings out the crystal, silky smooth chicken debone chicken, boil the bones, and reduce to rich broth the flavourful chicken rice is fully infused with fragrant chicken stock aromatic and silky, loved by all ages
golden yellow smooth and glistening fresh ingredients, a feast for the senses
fragrant and aromatic steaming hot the enticing scent surrounds the stove, an absolute delight
rich in umami aroma surrounds a perfect harmony of color, aroma, and flavor—mouthwatering!
fried hokkien mee a signature dish of Singapore savory prawn broth wok hei-infused aroma pork belly slices juicy prawns and squid fish cakes and bean sprouts yellow noodles and laksa thick beehoon light, fragrant and delightful colour texture smooth and glistening bursting with umami leaving a lingering taste on the lips and teeth
roaring flames, hot wok and spatula in hand hot oil sizzles as belly pork and garlic release their fragrance yellow noodles and prawns tossed in quick, skillful strokes add laksa thick beehoon and all other ingredients stock from prawn heads and shells enrich with thick chicken broth as the stock hits the wok, the air is filled with irresistible aroma a dish with colour, aroma, taste so inviting a delicacy to be savored and enjoyed together!
time have not left behind, years have not forgotten on Chinese New Year(CNY) eve, families reunite, carrying on Chinese traditions that shine through the ages every home holds a feast, every household sets a banquet around the steamboat, keeping watch on the countdown, generations gather together as one
steadfast through changing times and storms of uncertainty descendants of Yan and Huang guard the customs of Chinese culture old and young bonded through kinship, generations joined by love engage casual family conversations, and parents and children share the joy of togetherness
may the Year of the Snake bring good fortune with a bright and radiant path ahead may all things go smoothly according to our wishes and every family enjoy peace, as the heart wishes, and harmony
shopping and buying gifts and goodies for the New Year people bustle and line up like dragons to buy goodies in Singapore and Johore lukan, abalone, bak kwa love letters, almond cookies, and pineapple tarts golden kumquats, silver willows, money plants narcissus, butterfly orchids, and festive amaryllis (holly)
a heartwarming CNY eve dinner with family reunion year after year, a joyful occasion for all the Year of the Snake brings new beginnings cherishing the old and welcoming the new with vigor hanging up lanterns and making decorations for the New Year visiting to exchange greetings, reinforce old connections and further new ones
char kway teow is one of Singapore’s most iconic street foods alongside hainanese chicken rice, bak kut teh minced meat noodles, fishball noodles, prawn noodles wonton noodles, laksa, and more these dishes are among the signature Lion City’s hawker cuisine
over roaring flames, with a searing wok the spatula dances as the wok gleams and flashes tossing, turning, flipping, creating culinary storms with skillful hands and craftsman’s devotion the art of stir-frying brings forth superb “wok hei” golden egg-coated noodles, enhanced by chinese sausage, fish cakes, bean sprouts, and sweet soy sauce and finally, raw cockles— a heavenly delicacy awaits the eager diner😋
skip the sweet soy sauce? for sure that gives you white kway teow the “wok hei”, the aroma— both black and white char kuay teow have their own charm! but I still prefer black kway teow top-up more cockles and just one egg— the authentic old-school flavor!
and the pork lard a purist’s paradise! crushed into grainy bits stir-fried with the noodles it’s a stroke of genius! adding texture, richness, and umami one bite, and life feels complete, no regrets!
c.h.e.f 