What a day it was. I am still "star-struck" at getting the opportunity to be up close and personal with the first Malaysian medical doctor to go to space. The one and only Dato' Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor. My Principal (bless you Mrs Chee!!) actually put me in charge of organising the programme to receive the Dr. To be the anchor. It was a real priviledge to accept this unexpected task. I have organised more challenging functions before but none as glamorous as this.
Dr Sheikh is a Malaysian celebrity albeit a controversial one and every Malaysian knows him (unless that person has gone to space or hiding underneath the coconut shell). It was such a short notice. I knew about it on thursday and Dr Sheikh is coming on monday!! After receiving some guidelines from the Principal, I quickly roped in some help to get things rolling.My classes went on as usual, my test papers were 90% done. But I am not going to meet the monday dateline. But I am sure, the exam sec will understand.
Everything was prepared as well as could be. Banners, posters, all the logistics, floor plan for arrangement of seating, music,script for the MC and the itenary for the day. All went like clock work - well almost anyway. Minor glitches were taken care of immediately. Thank God.
Dr Sheikh himself, despite having gone to space, was so so so down-to-earth,friendly and charming. And of course, his talk was fluent (despite negative rumours about his communication skills)and his presentation was engaging, enlightening and inspiring.
He must have got used to being mobbed and crowded upon by everyone, young and old. He was also very patient with the primary kids, answering every single question asked. He is always smiling and ready to have his photograph taken and to sign autographs.He encouraged them, saying and I quote, "Don't be shy. Always ask for what you want". And that was my cue to stand right next to him to snap a close up photo with the very sexy and handsome doctor. I managed a very intimate self potrait with him. Don't believe me? See the picture. I took it myself!! His cologne lingered on my scarf, he was that close. Something I will treasure and remember for as long as I live. You can bet your stars on that.
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