Of Structures and Arches

Since Italy is famous for it's Leaning Tower of Pisa, Penang - until a few days ago - was in contender for - Leaning Arches of Penang.

It never ceased to amaze me, what all these people are thinking (errr, hopefully not just to make a quick buck). First somebody thought that 'hmmm.....I got RM X mil to beautify the Botanical Garden....why don't I put an arch there'. 'Lots of people will be really really happy'.....So in lightning speed it was approved and executed.

The result? The RM150,000 pair of arches - which looks to me -  like an eye sore! This is coming from someone with no expertise in architecture! People (more like visitors to the park) started to complaint (I guess they have eyes as mine). And not long after it's completion - it was found that the whole structure was tilting!

After much brouhaha, finally it was decided that the arch must go - demolished! It was said that this was based on the request of the people. The decision was based on a survey which noted that 71% of  the people wanted the arches be demolished. Funny thing is, while the thing was being planned  - the people was never in the picture! 

And the best part is, the demolition was costing taxpayer RM90,000 (it was later rectified that the actual cost was RM70,000 - was that supposed to make us happy - that it is cheaper???) 

Wow... that's ****** kind of money...hhmm...demolishing cost is half the cost  of erecting the structure. Probably I am in the wrong profession..... 

And by the way, for you guys out there - Muslims guys only - if you feel like fulfilling your quota, then fear not. If you don't get your missus signature for the approval of your subsequent marriage(s) - don't bother - just prepare yerself RM1000. That'll be enough....as proven recently!