Spice Up Your Noodle Game with Jinjja Ramyun Today!

 

Hey there, fellow noodle aficionados! If you're like me and constantly on the lookout for the next big thing to tantalize your taste buds, you're in for a treat today. I recently had the pleasure of diving into not just one, but three piping hot bowls of Jinjja Ramyun, and let me tell you, I think it's a game-changer!

JINJJA Has COME! Discover Real Korean Taste

 

First things first, let's talk about the brand. Jinjja is a Korean word which means real in English. Jinjja Ramyun is a Korean instant noodles brand brought into Malaysia by KMT Food, a Korean food expert company that has been focusing on introducing Korean food culture in Malaysia for the past 30 years.

Flavors: Spicy Mushroom, Spicy Chicken, Kimchi

 

Now, let's talk flavor. Jinjja Ramyun packs a punch with its bold and spicy profile that's sure to wake up your senses. The combination of savory broth and chewy noodles creates a symphony of taste that's downright addictive. And for those who like it extra fiery, fear not - Jinjja Ramyun brings the heat in all the right ways. 

There are three flavors: Kimchi, Spicy Mushroom, and Spicy Chicken. Oh, let me highlight to you that Jinjja Ramyun is halal certified.

Let's watch these "un-packet-ing" (sort of like unboxing 🤣) videos.

Jinjja Ramyun Spicy Mushroom (Soup)

Jinjja Ramyun Spicy Chicken (Dried)

Jinjja Ramyun Kimchi (Soup)

Let's get cooking!

 

Now, let's get down to business with the cooking process. With Jinjja Ramyun, convenience is key. The noodle's round shape makes it so convenient to cook when placed in the famous golden pot.

 

Just boil some water, pop in the noodles and seasoning, and voila! You've got yourself a gourmet meal in minutes. It's perfect for those busy days when you need a quick and satisfying fix without compromising on flavor.

 

But wait, there's more! What truly sets Jinjja Ramyun apart is its versatility. While it's delicious on its own, don't be afraid to get creative with your toppings. From luncheon meat to shredded cheese to a perfectly cooked egg, the possibilities are endless.

 

Trust me, you'll be amazed at how easily you can elevate this already amazing dish to new heights. The portion is quite generous at 120g per pack, guaranteeing a satisfying meal once you add all the ingredients to make it a wholesome dish.

 

Check out what I have cooked and my verdict for each flavor.

 

 

For the Spicy Mushroom flavor, I added luncheon meat cubes, shredded cheese, and an egg.

 

Verdict: 😋 I must say, the taste experience with Jinjja Ramyun’s Spicy Mushroom is delightful! However, it's important to note that the spice level might lean towards the higher end of the spectrum, which could pose a challenge for those who prefer milder flavors in their instant noodles.

 

If you're not particularly fond of spicy dishes, you might find the heat level for Spicy Mushroom to be a tad intense. Nonetheless, for those who enjoy a bit of heat, this noodle certainly delivers on flavor and satisfaction!

For the Kimchi flavor, I added luncheon meat cubes and an egg. If I had kimchi in my fridge, I would have added that too.
 

Verdict: 😋 Jinjja Ramyun’s Kimchi noodles bring a burst of flavor that's uniquely tangy and spicy, with a hint of sweetness from the kimchi seasoning. The broth is rich, tangy, and savory that ends with a satisfying heat.

 

 For the Spicy Chicken flavor (dried noodles), I added a fried egg.
 

Verdict: 🤯 Now, this Spicy Chicken flavor is truly, and I mean truly, spicy. For those of you who adore god-level spiciness, this flavor will steal your heart.

 

Where to Buy Jinjja Ramyun?

Happy slurping, folks!

In conclusion, Jinjja Ramyun is a must-have addition to any noodle lover's repertoire. With its bold flavor, easy preparation, and endless customization options, it's a culinary adventure waiting to happen. So go ahead, grab yourself a pack (or two) of Jinjja Ramyun, and get ready to spice up your noodle game like never before!

You can order online for doorstep delivery. Don't miss out on the chance to spice up your noodle game – grab your pack of Jinjja Ramyun today at Shopee and Lazada.

Wanna know more about Jinjja Ramyun? Follow them on Facebook and Instagram.
 

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Personal income tax reliefs in Malaysia for 2024 (YA 2023)

Have you filed your income tax for the Year of Assessment 2023?

 

Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri (LHDN) Malaysia or the Malaysian Inland Revenue Board (IRB) has extended the deadline for non-business taxpayers to submit their Tax Return Form for the Year of Assessment 2023 via e-Filing to 15 May 2024.

 

 

Tax Relief Information

 Infographic from Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri Malaysia website.

 

 Infographic from Lembaga Hasil Dalam Negeri Malaysia website.

More information

MyTax e-Filing Portal

 

Income Tax 101: Everything You Need To Know To Get Started (video)

 

Income Tax Brackets Explained (And How Much You Have To Pay)

 

Malaysia Personal Income Tax Guide 2024 (YA 2023)

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Malaysian Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) Restructuring Initiative 2024

 

Summary of the Malaysian Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) Restructuring Initiative 2024 (English)

 

1. The EPF Account Restructuring Initiative aims to increase the security of members’ retirement income while meeting their current life cycle needs.

 

2. Under this initiative, EPF member accounts will be restructured from two (2) accounts namely Account 1 and Account 2 to three (3) accounts namely Akaun Persaraan (Retirement Account), Akaun Sejahtera (Wellbeing Account), and Akaun Fleksibel (Flexible Account). New contributions received after the effective date will be distributed as follows to address members' retirement income while meeting their current life cycle needs:

 

• 75% to Akaun Persaraan (Retirement Account)
  
• 15% to Akaun Sejahtera (Wellbeing Account)
  
• 10% to Akaun Fleksibel (Flexible Account)
  

 

3. Akaun Fleksibel is a new account introduced to meet the short-term needs of members. Deposits in Akaun Fleksibel can be withdrawn by members at any time for any purpose, subject to a minimum withdrawal amount of RM50.

 

4. On the day when the new account restructuring is in effect, Akaun Fleksibel for members will start with a zero balance. Members are given the option to transfer part of their savings balance in their Akaun Sejahtera (previously Account 2) as an initial amount in Akaun Fleksibel. The purpose for the option to transfer the initial amount Akaun Fleksibel is to enable members to make withdrawals from Akaun Fleksibel without having to wait for new contributions.

 

5. The period for members to make this initial amount transfer option will be open from 11 May 2024 until 31 August 2024, whereby this option can be made only one (1) time during that period and the option cannot be cancelled. The amount to be transferred is based on the member’s Akaun Sejahtera balance at the time the selection is made.

 

6. Examples of savings transfers for members who choose to have an initial amount in Akaun Fleksibel are as follows:
 
Scenario 1: Members who have savings of RM3,000 and above in Akaun Sejahtera:

• Ten of thirty (10/30) of the savings in Akaun Sejahtera will be transferred to Akaun Fleksibel;
• Five of thirty (5/30) of the savings in Akaun Sejahtera will be transferred to Akaun Persaraan; and
• Fifteen of thirty (15/30) will be retained in Akaun Sejahtera.

Scenario 2: Members who have savings of less than RM3,000 Akaun Sejahtera:

• Akaun Sejahtera with savings of RM1,000 and below, all amounts are transferred to Akaun Fleksibel.
• Akaun Sejahtera with savings exceeding RM1,000 and not exceeding RM3,000, the amount transferred to Akaun Fleksibel is RM1,000, while the balance remains in Akaun Sejahtera.

No transfer will be made to Akaun Persaraan for savings in Akaun Sejahtera that are less than RM3,000.

 

Summary of the initial amount transfer as follows:

 

7. Members can make withdrawals from Akaun Fleksibel at any time for any purpose, subject to a minimum withdrawal amount of RM50.

 

8. Applications for withdrawals from Akaun Fleksibel can be made through EPF i-Akaun or at any EPF branch nationwide.

 

9. For more information, please refer to Frequently Asked Questions at www.kwsp.gov.my or the KWSP i-Akaun app.

Ringkasan Inisiatif Penstrukturan Semula Akaun Kumpulan Wang Simpanan Pekerja (KWSP) 2024 (Bahasa Malaysia)

 

1. Inisiatif Penstrukturan Semula Akaun KWSP adalah bertujuan untuk meningkatkan keselamatan pendapatan persaraan ahli di samping memenuhi keperluan kitaran hidup semasa mereka.

 

2. Di bawah inisiatif ini, akaun ahli KWSP akan distruktur semula daripada dua (2) akaun iaitu Akaun 1 dan Akaun 2 kepada tiga (3) akaun iaitu Akaun Persaraan, Akaun Sejahtera dan Akaun Fleksibel di mana caruman baharu yang diterima selepas tarikh kuatkuasa akan diagihkan seperti berikut: 75% kepada Akaun Persaraan, 15% kepada Akaun Sejahtera dan 10% kepada Akaun Fleksibel.

 

3. Akaun Fleksibel merupakan akaun baharu yang diperkenalkan untuk memenuhi keperluan jangka pendek ahli. Simpanan dalam Akaun Fleksibel boleh dikeluarkan oleh ahli pada bila-bila masa untuk sebarang tujuan, tertakluk kepada amaun minimum pengeluaran sebanyak RM50.

 

4. Pada tarikh kuat kuasa struktur akaun baharu, Akaun Fleksibel ahli akan bermula dengan baki sifar. Ahli diberikan pilihan untuk memindahkan sebahagian daripada baki simpanan yang ada dalam Akaun Sejahtera mereka (sebelum ini Akaun 2) sebagai amaun permulaan dalam Akaun Fleksibel. Tujuan ahli diberikan pilihan pindahan amaun permulaan ke Akaun Fleksibel ini adalah bagi membolehkan ahli membuat pengeluaran daripada Akaun Fleksibel tanpa perlu menunggu caruman baharu.

 

5. Tempoh bagi ahli membuat pilihan pindahan amaun permulaan ini akan dibuka mulai 11 Mei 2024 sehingga 31 Ogos 2024, di mana pilihan ini boleh dibuat sebanyak satu (1) kali sahaja dalam tempoh tersebut dan pilihan itu tidak boleh dibatalkan. Amaun yang akan dipindahkan adalah berdasarkan baki Akaun Sejahtera ahli semasa pilihan ini dibuat.

 

6. Contoh pindahan simpanan bagi ahli yang memilih untuk mempunyai amaun permulaan dalam Akaun Fleksibel adalah seperti berikut:

Senario 1: Ahli yang mempunyai simpanan sebanyak RM3,000 dan ke atas dalam Akaun Sejahtera:

• Sepuluh per tiga puluh (10/30) daripada simpanan dalam Akaun Sejahtera akan dipindahkan ke Akaun Fleksibel;
• Lima per tiga puluh (5/30) daripada simpanan dalam Akaun Sejahtera akan dipindahkan ke Akaun Persaraan; dan
• Lima belas per tiga puluh (15/30) akan dikekalkan dalam Akaun Sejahtera.

Senario 2: Ahli yang mempunyai simpanan kurang daripada RM3,000 dalam Akaun Sejahtera:

• Akaun Sejahtera yang mempunyai simpanan RM1,000 dan ke bawah, semua amaun dipindahkan ke Akaun Fleksibel.
• Akaun Sejahtera yang mempunyai simpanan melebihi RM1,000 dan tidak melebihi RM3,000, amaun yang dipindahkan ke Akaun Fleksibel adalah RM1,000, manakala baki adalah kekal dalam Akaun Sejahtera.

Tiada pindahan akan dibuat ke Akaun Persaraan bagi simpanan dalam Akaun Sejahtera yang kurang dari RM3,000.

Ringkasan pindahan amaun permulaan adalah seperti di bawah:

 

7. Ahli boleh membuat pengeluaran daripada Akaun Fleksibel pada bila-bila masa untuk sebarang tujuan, tertakluk kepada amaun minimum pengeluaran sebanyak RM50.

 

8. Permohonan bagi pengeluaran daripada Akaun Fleksibel boleh dibuat melalui KWSP i- Akaun atau di mana-mana cawangan KWSP di seluruh negara.

 

9. Untuk maklumat lanjut, sila rujuk Soalan Lazim di www.kwsp.gov.my atau aplikasi KWSP i-Akaun.

Sources: 

Penstrukturan Semula Akaun KWSP Untuk Menangani Keperluan Kitaran Hayat Ahli 

Nota kepada Editor: Ringkasan Inisiatif Penstrukturan Semula Akaun KWSP

Note:

According to The Star, there would be no different dividend rates between Accounts 1, 2, and 3 as assured by EPF.

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Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) & Automated External Defibrillator (AED)

 

When a person suffers cardiac arrest, every passing minute without restoring a regular heartbeat reduces survival chances by 7% to 10%. Immediate CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) coupled with AED (automated external defibrillator) usage can potentially double or even triple a person's chances of survival. 

What is Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)?

 

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is a critical emergency procedure performed to potentially rescue an individual's life when their heart and/or breathing stops (cardiac arrest).

 

During a cardiac arrest episode happens, the person's heart ceases its normal beating, resulting in the inability to supply blood to vital organs such as the brain and lungs. Without immediate intervention, the person could die.

CPR involves chest compressions that simulate the heart's pumping action, effectively sustaining blood circulation throughout the body. Good and effective chest compressions play a pivotal role in maintaining blood flow and enhancing the likelihood of survival during cardiac arrest.

Watch the following video to understand how does CPR provide the chance of survival while waiting for an automated external defibrillator (AED) to arrive.

 

 

What is an Automated External Defibrillator (AED)?

 

An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a user-friendly portable medical device engineered to aid individuals facing sudden cardiac arrest. Capable of analyzing the heart's rhythm, it can deliver an electrical shock (defibrillation) if necessary, to help restore a normal and effective heartbeat. AEDs are indispensable lifesaving tools, playing a pivotal role in addressing cardiac arrest.

 

Next time you visit shopping malls or any buildings with throngs of people, take a moment to locate the AED. It could prove invaluable during emergencies.

How to conduct CPR for adults?

Remember D.R.C.A.B

 

1. Check the surroundings of the victim. Remove danger (D).

 

2. Check for response (R). Tap the victim's shoulder and call loudly, "Are you okay?" to check for response if the person is breathing / not breathing.

 

3. If there is no response, shout for help, call 999, and get someone to retrieve an AED. This is why you need to know where the AED is located.

 

4. Start chest compression (C).

• Position the heel of one hand in the center of the person's chest, directly over the sternum (breastbone) and between the nipples.
• Place the heel of your other hand on top of the first hand, interlacing the fingers of your top hand with the fingers of the bottom hand. Ensure that your shoulders are directly above your hands.
• Start pushing down firmly (5 to 6 cm), using the weight of your body. Keep your arms straight during the compressions.
• Repeat the compressions continuously to achieve 100 to 120 compressions per minute. Do not stop compressions for more than 10 seconds. 

 

5. Tilt head, lift chin to open airway (A).

6. Use CPR mask to give 2 successive breath blows to the victim.

 

7. Continue CPR until the victim starts breathing (B) again.

8. When the AED arrives, follow the guided instruction while continue to administer CPR to the victim until the ambulance arrives.

Remember: Attend CPR and AED trainings when they are available. For example: Basic Occupational, First Aid, CPR & AED Training.

 

Keep in mind, in critical moments, your knowledge and swift action can significantly impact saving lives.

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8 Smart Tips That You Can Use to Manage Your Online Study Time

 

In today's digitally-driven world, managing your online study time is a crucial skill for academic success. With the abundance of distractions just a click away, effective time management techniques are essential to maintain focus, productivity, and ultimately, achieve your learning goals.

 

Whether you're navigating virtual classrooms, online lectures, or self-paced courses, finding the right balance between studying and other online activities is key to optimizing your educational experience.

 

By implementing strategies tailored to your individual needs and preferences, you can harness the power of technology to enhance your learning journey while avoiding the pitfalls of procrastination and digital overload.

 

Here are 8 smart tips that you can use to manage your online study time.

 

#1 - Find a Right Study Space

 

Find an ideal study space to cultivate a positive mindset and enhance your motivation conducive for studying. Take into consideration these factors: comfortable seating, adequate lighting, minimal noise.

 

#2 - Devices & Internet

 

 Ensure that your study devices such as laptop, tablet or smartphone are working well and your internet connectivity is stable. If you plan to study on the go, ensure your devices are fully charged or pack along portable charging devices.

 

#3 - Study Planner

 

Keep a study planner to allocate time commitment for each course/subject to ensure you don’t find yourself rushing at the last minute.

 

#4 - Study Notes

 

Taking notes while attending online classes is an effective and helpful way to capture key points for quick reference during revision later.

 

#5 - Break Tasks Down

 

Understand your course schedule, along with the required resources, and create a study timetable that breaks down tasks into manageable segments.

 

#6 - Seek Support

 

 You’re not alone. Reach out to relevant personnel for help, support, and advice regarding academic and non-academic challenges that you face throughout your course.

 

#7 - Pace Yourself

 

Take a moment to step back and acknowledge that it’s okay to take time-off throughout your study journey. Save your energy for when you can fully commit to your studies on another day.

 

#8 - Self Care First

 

Never doubt your abilities even on difficult days. Reward yourself for your hard work with small treats and celebrations to acknowledge your accomplishments.

 

Download the Infographic

 

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2024 Dragon CNY & Valentine's Day

 

This year, my family and I went back to Kuala Terengganu for the Year of the Dragon's CNY celebrations and holidays. It was a time of togetherness, joy and happiness, marking the start of a brand new year filled with hope, prosperity, and boundless blessings!

 

The post above showcased our meals when we were back in Kuala Terengganu. The first photo showed an ensemble of homemade nasi lemak. That homemade sambal petai by my MIL was awesome!

 

The rest of the photos were about our CNY eve dinner dishes and snacks. The "tong sui" or Chinese sweet soup was a dessert I looked forward to!

 

From the post above, it's about #makanmakan during our stay in Kuala Terengganu.

1 & 2 - Nasi minyak & sate
3 - MIL's soy sauce chicken dish, crab cakes & roast pork
4 - Steamed keropok lekor
5 - Homemade musang king durian ice cream
6 - Local breakfast (laksang, kayu keramat, karipap)
7 - Nasi ayam
8 - Sotong celup tepung
9 - Homemade fried nian gao

 

Hubby and I then went to Cherating to spend our Valentine's Day. 😍❤️

 

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Simple Pork & Bacon Burger and Pork & Potato Patties (Recipes)

 

Simple Pork & Bacon Burger

 

Ingredients:

 

Burger buns, pork patties, pork bacon, cheese slices, tomato slices (or any veggies you like), any sauce you like

 

 

Instructions:

 

First, I pan-fried the pork bacon slices without oil in a frying pan, because they will release oil when they are pan-fried.

 

Then, I used the leftover oil to pan-fry the pork patties. After scraping off burnt bits from the pan, I used the remaining oil to slightly char the burger buns.

Then, just assemble everything into a burger to your liking! I only have tomatoes at home, or else I'd have added some lettuce and gherkins too.

I like my burger dry, without any sauce dripping all over my plate. Haha. You can add your favorite sauce if you like.

 

Now, let's move on to the next recipe.

 

Pork & Potato Patties

Ingredients:

 

400g ground pork

2 large potatoes, peeled and chunks

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup Korean pancake flour mix

1 large egg, beaten

Cooking oil for frying

 

How to:

 

1. Boil the potatoes chunks until fork tender. Drain and mash them slightly.

 

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground pork, mashed cooked potatoes, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add pancake flour mix and beaten egg to bind the mixture together.

 

3. Heat cooking oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Take a portion of the mixture and shape it into a patty. Make a few patties at one go.

 

4. Place the patties in the frying pan and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You just have to eyeball them.

 

5. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve hot!

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My Weekly Roundup | Three Inspirational Posts

 

7 Visuals that Will Change How You See the World

 

Top 4 Productivity Methods

 

7 Different Types of Rest

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Braised Chinese Arrowhead (Ngaku) with Minced Pork & Mushroom (Recipe)

 

Chinese Arrowhead, also known as Ngaku, is a type of tuberous plant that becomes readily available as Chinese New Year approaches. Ngaku Chips are a popular delicacy during the Chinese New Year season. However, I personally prefer to eat ngaku when it's cooked into a dish alongside other ingredients.

 

Braised Chinese Arrowhead is a delicious, savory dish that features the unique flavor and texture of arrowhead. Ngaku looks like water chestnuts and taste like potatoes when fully cooked.

 

Due to its mild flavor, ngaku pairs exceptionally well with robustly flavored sauces such as oyster sauce and dark soy sauce.

Here's a simple recipe for Braised Ngaku with Minced Pork & Mushroom that I cooked recently.

 

Ingredients:

 

7 fresh ngaku, peeled and cut into chunks

100g minced pork

4 dried Chinese mushroom, soaked, rinsed, cut into slices

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon ginger, minced

2 tablespoons dark soy sauce

1 tablespoon oyster sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon salt

2 cups water
 

How to:

 

1. Rinse the ngaku chunks well. Coat minced pork with some cornstarch and mix well.

 

2. In a sauté pan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and ginger, and sauté until fragrant.

 

3. Add in minced pork and stir-fry for about 2 minutes, until the meat changes color. Add in Chinese mushroom slices and ngaku chunks. Give everything a good stir for a few minutes.

 

4. Meanwhile, mix together dark soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, and salt in a small bowl. Pour the sauce over the ingredients in the pan and stir well to coat.

 

5. Pour in water to cover, add more water if necessary. Let everything boil for about 3 minutes, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the arrowhead slices are easily pierced through with a fork.

 

6. Taste the dish, make sure the ngaku chunks are tender and not bitter (under-cooked ngaku is really bitter to the taste). Adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more soy sauce, salt, or sugar according to your taste preferences.

 

7. You can garnish the dish with chopped spring onion if you like. I don't like raw spring onion, so I don't add it.

8. Serve piping hot with rice! Yummy!

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Is Pursuing a Master’s Degree in One’s 40s Worth It?

 

Do I Need to Clearly Define My Reasons for Getting a Master's Degree in My 40s?

After going through numerous articles on the internet regarding pursuing a master's degree in one's 40s, I arrived at the following conclusion. While having a clear and specific reason for pursuing a master's degree can be beneficial, it's not always necessary to have a highly specific goal.

 

Common Reasons or Motivations for Getting a Master's Degree in the 40s

 

Personal Growth and Exploration

 

The decision to pursue higher education in the 40s is often rooted in profound desire for personal growth and intellectual enrichment. If you feel that pursuing a master's degree would contribute to your personal development or open new avenues for exploration, that can be a valid reason in itself.

 

It's absolutely valid to express a desire for change or personal growth as a reason for pursuing further education. Some may pursue the sense of personal fulfillment and accomplishment that comes with earning a master's degree.

 

Embracing the Passion for Lifelong Learning

 

If you have the passion and curiosity to delve deeper in a particular subject, that can be a compelling reason. Academic pursuits driven by genuine interest often lead to more fulfilling experiences.

 

Individuals in their 40s may find themselves seeking a deeper understanding of their field or venturing into entirely new domains. "Going back to school" may become an avenue not just for career advancement but for the sheer joy of learning.

 

Navigating Career Advancement or Transitions

 

It's totally understandable to have a general sense that further education can enhance your career prospects. Many individuals pursue master's degrees to gain a deeper understanding of their field and improve their overall skill set.

 

Pursuing a master's in one's 40s, for many, is a strategic move in their career journey. This shift may be prompted by the evolving demands of their industry or a personal aspiration to explore new professional avenues. This decision can reinvigorate one's career trajectory and provide an opportunity to stay relevant in a rapidly changing job market, thereby enhancing job security and opening avenues for upward mobility.

 

Adaptability

 

The job market is dynamic, and having additional qualifications can make one more adaptable to changing career landscapes. Expressing a desire to remain versatile and equipped for evolving industries is a valid reason. Learning new technologies and tools can help future-proof your skill set.

Other Useful Resources

Is Getting a Master's Degree in Your 40s Right for You?

8 Advantages of Studying an Online Master's Degree

 Factors to Consider When Pursuing a Master's Degree in Your 40s

Balancing Priorities

The decision to go back to school later in life comes with its set of challenges, particularly in managing existing responsibilities. If you're in your 40s, you're likely to have an established career, a family, and financial commitments.

 

Balancing the demands of completing assignments and a thesis or research project with these existing responsibilities requires meticulous planning and strong time-management skills.

 

Work-Friendly, Online Programs

 

Look for universities that offer programs tailored for the needs of busy, working adults with a proven track record of helping them succeed. Depending on your preference, opting for a fully (100%) online program will enable you to have the flexibility of managing both full-time work and education.

 

To do so, you need to stay organized and manage your time effectively by setting aside dedicated time for your studies per week.

Financial Considerations

Financial commitments are a crucial aspect to consider. If you lack the means to fund the fees independently, explore potential solutions, keeping in mind the availability of options at the university (public - IPTA or private - IPTS) you are enrolling in.

The Employees Provident Fund (EPF) or Kumpulan Wang Simpanan Pekerja (KWSP) allows its members to withdraw funds from Account 2 to help finance education at approved institutions locally or abroad.

 

If you're doing your master's degree in one of the public universities (IPTA) in Malaysia, you can find out more about PTPTN Education Loan Scheme.

If you're considering taking an education loan from a bank for your master's degree, for e.g. Maybank's Education Financing/-i, you need to apply before you turn 45 years old. Same goes to AFFIN Education Financing-i. But Bank Rakyat's Education Financing-i is more forgiving. The maximum age is 70 years old at the end of the financing tenure. Please do contact the banks for more details.

Or else, if the university offers scholarship options, I believe you could go for it too if you fulfill the eligibility requirements.

Final Reflections

From what I have gathered so far, deciding to pursue a master's degree in one's 40s is a deeply personal choice. It involves introspection into one's goals, a realistic assessment of the challenges, and a commitment to the journey of continued learning.

 

Just ensure that you've thought through your decision and have a sense of how the master's program aligns with your broader aspirations and values.

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My Weekly Roundup | Highlights

 

Here's a compilation of internet posts that I found informative and/or interesting throughout the past week.

5 Financial Resolutions for 2024

One thing to focus on in 2024: Upskilling

Dreaming About Going Back to School!

𝗠𝗥.𝗗𝗜𝗬 𝗖𝗡𝗬 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 - 我爱你 𝗪𝗼 𝗔𝗜 𝗡𝗶

Seishin vs Maeda (Gyeongseong Creature)

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Cervical Health Awareness Month (January)

 

What Is Cervical Health Awareness Month?

Cervical Health Awareness Month, observed in January, is a pivotal time to raise awareness about cervical health. It encourages women to prioritize scheduling regular check-ups, going for routine screenings, discussing vaccination options, and committing to a healthy lifestyle. These proactive steps aim to minimize the risk factors associated with cervical issues, promoting a culture of preventive healthcare.

 

What Is Cervical Cancer?

 

According to HPV Information Center, cervical cancer is the 4th most frequent cancers among Malaysian women and the 2nd most frequent cancer among women between 15 and 44 years of age.

Cervical cancer happens when the cells lining the cervix (the opening between the uterus and the vagina), behaves abnormally. The leading cause of cervical cancer is Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which can affect anyone who are sexually active. Most cervical cancer cases result from persistent HPV infections.

Despite its slow progression (cervical cancer often takes years, even decades, to develop after an individual gets HPV) and initial lack of symptoms, cervical cancer is both preventable and frequently curable when detected early through routine screening and vaccination.

 

What Are the Screening Options for Cervical Cancer?

Pap Smear (Pap Test)

Pap Smear or Pap Test is a screening for cervical abnormalities that involves examining the cervix and sending samples to a lab to detect precancerous cells. This test is considered the primary screening tool for cervical cancer.

HPV Test

HPV Test checks for the Human Papillomavirus, which raises cervical cancer risk. It can be done concurrently with a Pap test.

Who Should Go for Cervical Cancer Screening?

 

How often and which tests you should undergo for cervical cancer screening depends on your age and medical history.

Women Below 30

Women below 30 should undergo Pap smear test every three years.

Women Over 30

Women over 30 have three testing options:

 

1. Undergo a Pap test and an HPV test (co-testing) every five years.

2. Undergo a Pap test every three years.

3. Undergo an HPV test every five years.
 

Who Should Get the HPV Vaccine?

In Malaysia, female students will receive their first shot of the HPV vaccine in school when they are in Form One (13 years old). A three-dose schedule is followed, with the second dose administered one month after the first, and the final dose given six months after the second dose. The aim is for the teenage girls to be fully protected years before they become sexually active and are exposed to HPV.

For further information about HPV vaccination for sexually active adults, please do check with your gynecologist for the latest information. Generally speaking, based on CDC's recommendations, adults older than 26 years old generally do not require HPV vaccination unless otherwise advised by a medical professional.

What Else Can You Do to Prevent Cervical Cancer?

Beyond screenings and vaccinations, certain lifestyle choices contribute to cervical health. Maintaining a balanced, healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and antioxidants can support your immune system. A healthy immune system usually does its job to eliminate HPV from the body.

 

 Quit smoking if you do or better still, don't smoke at all.

 

Practicing safe sex is a straightforward preventive measure against cervical cancer. Limit the number of sexual partners and use protection such as condoms during sexual activities.

 

Conclusion

 

As an ongoing commitment to our well-being, all of us should follow the recommended guidelines for screenings, stay informed about HPV, and adopt a healthy lifestyle.

 

Let's make cervical wellness a priority on our health journey, working towards a future where cervical health is universally safeguarded and cervical cancer is a thing of the past.

 

References

1. HPV Information Center
2. CDC
3. 7 health screening tests every woman should do
4. Cervical Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment
5. Everything You Need to Know About HPV Vaccination in Malaysia

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