Why you should start your retirement plans now!

Please read this article to understand why you should start your retirement plan now. It will make a huge difference. I took the article from HSBC advertisement and felt that the writing was really good as it applies to all of us in general of our saving and retirement mindset. Well if you think that retirement plan can still wait or that you intend to solely rely on EPF – well think again.

I copied below article from The Star Saturday 20 November 2010 (Page N15). As I copied almost 100% of the content, I will include the contact number of HSBC but please know that I am not publishing this to article to advertise their product.

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You’re feeling on top of the world. Why shouldn’t you? You’re at an age where you can choose how to spend your money, buy most of what you want and live life however you please.

You may have already purchased your dream car, your dream house and you recently married the girl of your dreams and you just came back from your honeymoon in Bali.

When you feel like hanging out with your friends, you can choose to hang out at the latest cafes, catch the latest movies in town and dining would usually take place at restaurants with the best food to offer. Planning for vacation is the norm because you tell yourself what is life if you can’t even enjoy it!

You feel good because at this moment, nothing can go wrong with your life. You’re still young and you have so many glorious years ahead of you. You have definitely earned the right to enjoy the money you made. So you tell yourself ‘Enjoy first, save later’. Little that you know your ‘later’ could be too late.

Be young and smart

This is a familiar situation. In the light of more pressing commitments, saving for retirement is often relegated to the lowest rung of priorities. And you’re not alone. In a survey, more than half of Malaysian workers have not prepared for retirement while those who have, only started planning after age 40.¹

While it is better late than never, starting early can make a huge difference to your retirement fund. Here is a fictional case study that shows how two fresh graduates, who made different financial decisions, went through their lives.

Your secret weapon: Compound interest

Mark and Simon both graduated from university at the age of 22 and both started their careers earning RM40,000 a year. Mark understood the importance of saving early so he started investing RM250 per month towards a retirement plan that could potentially earns a 5% rate of return as soon as he landed his first job, Eleven years later, Mark terminated his retirement contributions because he had already build up and accumulated total of RM78,501.89. This nest egg would be good enough to grow to at least RM400,000 during retirement age. The extra RM250 would now be channeled to helped him achieve his other plans such as saving for a down payment for a house, non-retirement savings, or educational fund for the kids.

On the other hand, Simon, unaware of the value of time, procrastinated saving towards his retirement until ten years later. He then started saving RM250 per month as well but he would need to continue doing this until he retires to catch up on his goal.

What a difference in their accumulated total nest egg! Mark contributed only RM33,000 but he had RM387,532.06 in total at age 65 while Simon, who contributed an additional RM66,000 had only RM251,349.65. This scenario shows you why you should start saving for retirement as early as you can. The more time you have, the less money you need to contribute to attain the same accumulated amount (assuming that the rate of return is the same throughout). The principle remains: Pay yourself first. Just this one step of setting aside a sum of money towards your retirement the moment you get your first paycheck can make all the difference. By planning well in advance, you can ensure that you meet retirement with confidence and enjoy it to the very fullest.

A fulfilling retirement begins with one small step today. Talk to our Relationship Managers on HSBC Advance to find out about HSBC's new retirement plan. Call 1 300 88 0181, visit your nearest HSBC branch for more information or visit www.hsbcadvance.com.my to register online.

Facts that figure

-         90% of EPF contributors have less than RM100,000 in their accounts.²

-         83% used their retirement savings when the need arose before reaching retirement.³

-         39% intend to work beyond retirement age to supplement their income.³

Source

1 The Star, “Majority neglect retirement plans” March 14, 2008.

2 The Star, “Most Malaysians do not have financial security” May 27, 2007.

3 The Star, “Planning for Retirement” April 4, 2009

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How to download Youtube video tutorial

How to download youtube video (Click to enlarge the photo)

Its very easy to download youtube video. Just go the the website: http://keepvid.com/
At some point there will be a pop up that ask whether to trust this website. Tick yes.

1. Copy the url or website address from youtube
2. Paste it in the URL in the KeepVid website and click download
3. They will have around 4 options or more:
›› Download 3GP ‹‹ - Low Quality - 176x144
›› Download 3GP ‹‹ - Medium Quality - 176x144
›› Download FLV ‹‹ - Low Quality - 320x240
›› Download FLV ‹‹ - Medium Quality - 400x226
›› Download MP4 ‹‹ - High Quality - 480x360

I like this software because I can choose the video format and its very easy to use. I will usually choose the MP4 High Quality format. After that I will transfer the video to my HTC HD2 without converting the video. I use this method as I do not have any data plan in my phone and I only watch youtube directly when there is a wireless connection.

How to tilt the Samsung Syncmaster B2230 forward or backward tutorial

I read in their official website and from other users that this Samsung B2230 has a tilt function. However I was a little puzzled how to tilt the Samsung B2230. This is because the connector to the LCD look seamless and it does not look like it can budge. I tried pushing here and there but nothing move. On the first few attempts of pushing the lcd, it blink and there was no image. I could not find a solution on how does the other users manage to tilt the LCD. Was a little apprehensive that I will break the LCD after a few tries but in the end manage to tilt it. Enlarge the top photo to see the summary.

How to tilt the Samsung B2230.
-Stand in front of the LCD
-Right hand: Grip the Stand Connector (pink colour)
-Left hand: Grip the top of the lcd (green colour)
Stabilize the LCD by gripping the connector tightly with your right hand.
Using your left hand push the lcd backward bravely and carefully.

It look seamless like it wont budge. Picture shows that it tilt forward.

It wont budge if you tilt it incorrectly. Picture shows that it tilt backward.

Left picture shows that it tilt backward. Right picture shows that it tilt forward. Both shows the maximum view of tilting backward and forward.

Update*
Thank you for supporting my blog and for all your comments! I really appreciate that readers leave comments! Have fun watching and using your Samsung LCD!

Related post:
Samsung SyncMaster B2230 Unboxing / Review

HTC HD2 - Where to buy the casing and screen protector in Singapore

 HTC HD2 Barely There Cases. In the photo you notice that this casing protect the camera lense

I bought this HD2 case from Funan IT Mall. I couldnt find the casing in JB. Fearing that my new phone will get any scratches, I went into Singapore to find the casing. First destination is Funan IT Mall. There wasnt much choices there. They have those plastic/rubber type of casing which has a rectangular hole at the camera area. I notice that the camera of HD2 jut out a little and I was a little apprehensive getting those normal rubber/plastic texture casing. They cost about $12-15.

I then finally found this casing some where around the 1st or 2nd floor phone accessories shop. For your info there was a limited number of shops selling phone accessories at Funan IT Mall. In fact I notice that the business is monopolize by 1 or 2 shops.

In the shop they only have 2 choices of casing from Case Mate that also protect the camera lens. The price of the casing is really expensive at $42.90 (SGD) and there is strictly no discount. Compare to the official website of Case mate, they only cost $19.90 (USD).

I bought this expensive casing because its impact resistant, free screen protector and looks more reliable than the usual cheaper casing. However please note that the casing is very snug and hug tightly to the phone. This can be a problem if you wanted to change battery, reset the phone or take out the sd memory card. Just yesterday I have to force out the casing just to take out the battery when the phone hang.

Another reason I was at Funan IT Mall is because they have the original accessories of HD2. I did not buy their accessories as the design is rather disappointing. The authorize dealer of HD2 accessories only sell a normal transparent cover. However their leather case looks reliable.

 HTC HD2 Barely There Cases. You can also treat the casing as a mirror.

After buying the casing at Funan, I took the MRT and went to Toa Payoh for dinner. My heart sank when I see a few phone shops selling the HTC HD2 casing -those non branded rubber/plastic texture- for only $10 (SGD) with camera lense protection in various color. Conclusion is that if you do not mind getting those non branded casing with camera protection at cheap price, please proceed to Toa Payoh. But if you wanted something reliable then go for those casing with brand.

Bathing Angel! Isn't she adorable?

Just went to Malacca recently. While Angel is having her bath, I decided to take some of her pictures. I took using the HTC HD2 phone. Some of the shots of her are really adorable. It took a long time to upload the photo thru the blog so i cut the picture into smaller pics.

After bathing

Look at her as she nuzzle her owner

Eye contact

Look over here Angel!

After toweling

Brushing

She look so happy!

My favorite among all the photos~!

Microsoft Wireless Desktop 3000 Unboxing

While exploring Funan IT Mall in Singapore, I stumble on a Microsoft Wireless Desktop 3000 that I have wanted but which I did not purchase in Grex Multimedia shop in JB. I bought my Microsoft Wireless Desktop 3000 from Notebook.com Pte Ltd. They charge me $60 + 7% gov tax.

Previously I did not buy from Grex as it is price at RM195. If you do the maths, the one sold at Grex Multimedia is more expensive by approximately RM42. So i was happy at the good price that I get from Singapore. But beware although the keyboard is cheap (compare with Grex - other JB pc shop price might be cheaper), some of the accessories are still cheaper in Malaysia. For example challenger sold their 4gb SanDisk pendrive for $19 but in Malaysia its sold for RM30. So its best to do some home work if you have the time.

The front of the packaging

The description

It can support 30 foot range. The Blue track technology enable it to work on various surface.

Notice the white dot on the corner rite top side? It indicate when you need to change battery.

Both the keyboard and mouse is really beautiful. I also saw the Microsoft Wireless Desktop 5000. The shape and size is also fantastic. But since i have a budget, i stick with my Wireless Desktop 3000.


Both the keyboard and mouse each uses 2 battery size AA. In the packaging they have provided 4 Energizer batteries. The white color pendrive in the picture is the "Snap-in Mini-Transceiver" of the mouse and keyboard. I was told that the primary receiver of the keyboard is the mouse followed by the Transceiver. If you plan to be away and wanted to save battery then you can take out the transceiver and snap it into the mouse. There is also a battery symbol at the edge of the keyboard to indicate the battery level. So far I am happy with its performance. I like it that i can bring the mouse to my bed and I can control the computer at a distance.

HTC HD2 - How to convert video to resolution 480 x 800 tutorial

Picture shows the result of converting to 480 x 800. You can see the subtitle clearly. Using the wrong resolution will cost part of the video especially the subtitle to be crop out.


I just bought the HTC HD2. The screen is really big at 4.3 inch. I bought it because i wanted to watch video. When I first started using it I have a big problem looking for the right video converter software at 480 x 800 resolution. I tried various software and manage to get one that is perfect for HD2 video converting.


The software i use is Xilisoft software. They do not have the option to specifically convert video for HD2 mobile phones but they can convert 480 x 800 resolution using other phone setting. I trial and error many times with different software and finally hit the right one software. I wanted to find the exact resolution for HD2 as I wanted to watch japanese anime with subtitles. If i use other resolution then the video size will be crop and I will not be able to view the subtitle.


How to convert to video resolution 480 x 800.
1. Go to Profile - Android - Nexus One Mpeg
2. Under video codec change the Video Size to 800 x 480.
3. Add files. You can add single or multiple files
4. Convert.

I like this software because its easy to use, can add multiple files quickly and let it convert while i sleep. Plus most of all it has the resolution that i required for HD2.

TP-LINK: 54Mbps Wireless USB Adapter (TL-WN321G)

TP-LINK: 54Mbps Wireless USB Adapter (TL-WN321G). Bought during the PC fair for RM38.

The packaging looks professional considering its a China product. Their price is also very competitive. The Belkin line would cost at least RM50

Description

54Mbps Wireless USB Adapter (TL-WN321G), Quick Installation Guide
USB cable, CD

Specification

BELKIN Surge Strip Surge Protector - Economy series F9E410sa2M (Unboxing/Review)

BELKIN Surge Strip Surge Protector - Economy series F9E410sa2M. RM59 bought from PC fair. It has a lifetime warranty. If damage either go to the shop that i bought from or call the toll line for replacement. Should the plug be damage you can get a one-on-one replacement. In addition there is a RM1000 coverage should your appliance be damage during lightning strike. The claims will be base on the current market value of your fried equipment.

In addition the plug is 4 socket and can support phone line.

Strangely i could not find this model in Belkin official website. Only can find this model littered over the internet by other retailers....

The back of the packaging stating description

Yellow colour: My economy series protect up to 13000 Amps with a max RM1000 claim. When i buy i did not understand why there is a price segment so i bought the cheapest model. I understand once i read the explanation at the back. Looks like 13000 is actually pretty low!! In the internet the usual lightning can be from 5,000 - 20,000 amps. Or bigger ones up to 200,000amps!

Red colour: Home series up to 25,000 Amps/1181 Joules. Recommend for personal computers, up to 27" TV, phone/fax/modem. Warranty claim RM5,000

Blue colour: Superior series up to 45,000 Amps/1940 Joules. Recommend for Laser printers/scanners, all TV, audio/video components. Warranty claim RM10,000

Mustard colour: Gold series up to 90,000 Amps/3240 Joules. Recommend for professional workstation, home theater systems, Ethernet networks. Warranty claim up to RM25000.

Lifetime warranty

Instruction manual

My modem is protected also. Insert the phone in Input. Output is the cable to the modem.

4 plugs. If you notice there is only 1 switch. A little annoying that there is only 1 switch when I only wanted to restart certain switch at times like my modem when there is suddenly no internet connection.

Links below shows the review when they claim the Belkin warranty. Looks like we should not take for granted that if we have the surge protector that we should be 100% assured that our electrical components will not be fried from lightning. All the user below use more expensive models than me and their computer still has been fried. The claims are valued base on the current market price of your equipment. And general comment is that we should call the local Malaysia office at 1800 81 2076 or +60 3 7983 3010 instead of the international number that route to India or Philippines. Hem... not sure how i am goin to claim mine when i stay in JB though...............

Related topics from other blog:
Kena Lightning!!! Belkin support in Malaysia!!! (Part 1)
Kena Lightning!!! Belkin support in Malaysia!!! Update!!! (Part 2)
Belkin support in Malaysia
Belkin Warranty Review

Related topics from own blog:
Bought new gadget due to lightning strike
Samsung SyncMaster B2230 Unboxing / Review

Samsung SyncMaster B2230 Unboxing / Review

Just bought the Samsung LCD monitor model B2230. Its really beautiful and the graphics are great! I bought this during the PC fair at Persada on April 3rd for RM539.

Samsung SyncMaster B2230

The Unboxing

Specification

Whats inside:

1. Manuels: Quick Setup Guide, Warranty Card (shows above with the address in front), User's Guide (CD).
2. Cables: Power Cord, D-Sub Cable, DVI Cable. In short analog and digital cable provided. But HDMI cable not provided.
3. Others: Stand/Support, Stand Connector, Cleaning Cloth.
Free USB cup warmer and Headset.

Since my cpu is pretty old version, I use the DVI cable and kept the analog cable.

Beautiful design with touch screen features

Something different about this LCD as oppose to my BenQ model is the touch screen feature.The button shown:Menu button/Magic bright/Brigtness/Auto Adjustment/ On off button. They look really stylish and beautiful but the part that i dont like is that I need to find the off button in the dark before i sleep.

Magic Eco is a power saving mode. You can adjust 50/75/100% power saving.
Magic angle. You can adjust in the menu whether you are lying down, sitting, standing. Basically you can see the screen clearly from every angle.
1080 HD: Support Full HD
70 000 Dynamic Contrast which is rather high compare to the other competitors.
Soft power off: Consume 0.3walt of power during standby mode. Normally its 45walts. So you can save electricity.


Beautiful design with great display and touch screen buttons. Full HD with 70,000:1 Dynamic Contrast . Can be viewed in every angle plus power saving mode. This LCD is a great buy!

Related post:
How to tilt the Samsung Syncmaster B2230 forward or backward

Bought new gadget due to lightning strike

One day while coming back from work at 7pm I realize that my 19 inch LCD is not working, my modem has only 1 light blinking and my network card has busted. The funny thing is that my dad has already switch off all the plugs at 5pm that day and that on the same day I read the newspaper that there is an ang moh saying that we are quiet ignorant when our country has lots of lightning strike in Malaysia. Looks like even though the plug have been switch off, the lightning still travels from the phone/modem line. Good thing my CPU is relatively working. I use the word relatively as it is still working but now it takes longer time to load. So i am not sure whether there is anything wrong with the CPU.

Now that my electrical gadget has busted and the sadness has dissipated, its time for shopping! I have wanted to fix a wireless connection for a long time and upgrade my LCD but never really got a chance to upgrade since my present ones are working fine till now.

Bought a D-Link Wireless Modem Router DSL-2640T, TP-Link 54Mbps Wireless USB Adapter TL-WN321G and a Samsung B2230 LCD. Price for the modem is RM175 bought from Grex Multimedia which is more expensive than PC Fair price of around RM168. For the TP Link Wireless USB adapter bought for RM38. The price is reasonable compare to Belkin which is around RM50 for the same type of models. The Samsung LCD bought for RM539. Also bought a surge protector this time. I bought the Surge Strip Surge Protector from Belkin - Economy series for RM59 from E Cube Trading. Interestingly Grex Multimedia sold the same surge protector more expensive by about RM10-RM20. This is to share which shop to avoid if you decide to buy any PC equipment. All in all I spend RM811 as a result of a lightning strike. Moral of the story, better be save then sorry pls buy a good surge protector!!

Related Topics:
Samsung SyncMaster B2230 Unboxing / Review
BELKIN Surge Strip Surge Protector - Economy series F9E410sa2M (Unboxing/Review)