• 7 Simple Ways to Reduce Office Waste • William Song and Ivan Chan: IT Superheroes Battling Technology Demons • 5 Healthy Reasons to Donate Blood Today • Ann Sasipen Redefines Absolute Living with Jaw-Dropping Fitness Transformation • Daily Work Boosters • Finding a Place in the Sun • I Like To Work It, Work It • Staff Have a Bang-Up Time at #VCON17 in Penang! • Let Your Clothes Do the Talking! • Eat Absolutely!
{ MAY 2017 ISSUE }
o t s y a W e l p im S 7 e t s a W e ic f f O e c Redu
Welcome Note from the m a e T l ia r o it d E t s e u InQ
By Elvina Fernandez
we produce We spend so much more time at work than at home. This means we can as much, if not more, waste. Fortunately, there are tonnes of ways e simple steps, reduce waste, together. We can make a difference by taking thes and contribute to the global campaign for environmental protection by sharing our efforts to encourage others to do the same.
Hi Everyone! already happened ve ha gs in th ng ti ci ex of A lot ill to come. Which is st e or m y an m h it w , ar this ye bring you a brand-new to d te ci ex so al re e’ w why InQuest once again! ways to make life t ou ab lk ta e w e, su is is In th ve fun activities ha e W g. in az am e or m even productivity, k or w t os bo to – ic us m – and st in the office, be ur yo ok lo to w ho on tips waste to make and a guide on reducing Four of our the world a better place. eir stories colleagues also share th avel, and with us for some work, tr fitness inspiration.
1. Reduce printing Forget about printing documents. Today, emails are the real black and white you need. Since we all also carry laptops and gadgets around, we don’t really have to resort to printing documents for discussions. Teams should also be encouraged to take down notes using their gadgets.
2. Reuse paper Anju Lavina
you These and many more as turn the page! :D Sheena
Don’t throw printed papers that you no longer need; instead, clip them together to use as scribble paper. This comes in handy when you need to jot down notes, draft up a plan, or do some calculations. You can also keep them within reach to write down important information when on the phone.
3. Replace paper
cups with tumblers
ry
Fla n ne
a Regine M. Pa lm
design by Yusri ez Elvina Ferna nd
Gil H. Cadiz
Make it a point to carry a tumbler to your favorite cafés and have the barista pour your coffee into them instead. You’ll instantly be remembered for picking up a simple but meaningful practice. Encourage teammates to use mugs or tumblers in the office as well.
4. Remove personal
waste bins
When there isn’t a bin below your desk, you change your attitude from throwing to reusing! It is also a great way to start the habit of using lunch boxes instead of bringing back takeaway lunch in plastic or paper packaging.
5. Recycle organic waste Compost is organic matter that has been decomposed and recycled as a fertiliser and soil amendment. Things like tea bags, coffee grounds, and food waste can all be composted instead of thrown in a regular waste bin.
6. Shred paper for packing
Instead of throwing away old documents, shred and reuse them as packing material in shipments. This shredded paper could also be used when packing gifts for the team.
7. Reuse or recycle boxes Save shipping boxes by using them again for shipping something out. You could also place the reusable boxes next to every printer, copier, and fax machine for the team to drop papers in for recycling. Each effort, no matter how small, counts! Let’s all do our part in helping the environment.
William Song and Ivan Chan:
IT Superheroes
Battling Technology
Demons
By: Elvina Fernandez
Head of IT Security William Song and NOC & SOC Team Lead Ivan Chan have been going great lengths to guard our network and IT security, one recent example of which was the effective protection of our IT systems against the ransomware called WannaCrypt. They perform non-top security monitoring activities to ensure that the QI Group has a safe IT environment all year round.
delays, which means 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year! We have also moved our security monitoring tasks from Hong Kong to Malaysia, providing real time network and security monitoring, which produces faster alerts and improves our response time. This gives us the advantage to act on any negative activity as it happens.
William has 16 years of extensive experience in IT security and compliance, and has performed security assessments for many enterprises in various domains, such as banking, insurance, software development, and security vendors. He has been with QI since January 2016, contributing to many areas such as IT Security (network, infrastructure, application, database, servers, processes and procedures, among others), IT Governance, IT Security Management, and Globalised and Centralised IT Ticketing System with ITIL and ITSM as well as providing technical advices for various projects including NS4S. Assisting him is Ivan, who steps into his fifth year with QI, performing IT security monitoring activities to analyse all the security threats, and also implementing IT security projects. The duo shared with us their experience of being IT superheroes.
How much is the shift from Hong Kong to Malaysia benefiting us?
Tell InQuest readers about the security monitoring activities that you have been doing. William: From January 2017 to
now, we have intercepted over 1,600 security incidents through our security monitoring activities that take place in real time without any
Ivan: This move has made our resolution time to respond to security threats two times faster compared to when we were still with the old vendor. We also work closely with the business application team to ensure that the security threats have no impact on the business. We are strongly
assisted by our new vendor who monitors a million logs per month, and with the help of some new and highly advanced technology, we get to quickly process and analyse all these logs automatically to find any possible security threats that can be harmful to the company.
What major improvements have we achieved with this shift? William: We have achieved cost
savings of about RM 180,000/ USD 40,000 per year with this shift. Recently, we have moved to a wellknown cyber defence SOC monitoring vendor, which helps us analyse all the security threats in real time. This world-class vendor also helps other clients in other sectors, such as banks, insurance companies, governments, stock exchange, and law firms to perform the same task. The monitoring tasks include actions such as detecting the threats in real time and reporting the incidents to us immediately with recommended actions to stop the threats.
Ivan: As mentioned earlier, our new SOC vendor monitors all the security threats and backdoors in 24/7/365 days in real time, and our team works closely with them to make sure the
analyses are accurate and the actions taken are authorised and best for our company. Because of our move to this new vendor, we now have an increased visibility of threat alerts, which we can act upon immediately.
Tell us about your team’s other achievements? William: In 2016, we have
successfully stopped over 20+ Phishing/FAKE emails sent to some of our staff, and that means we have prevented hackers from stealing our funds and P&C data. Also, we have turned our weakness in email protection into strength after we have upgraded our email security. We have also conducted a few rounds of security awareness trainings for our internal staff to drive security awareness. My team has also managed to stop and block 5,100+ security threats which targetted our company’s
network, key personnel, main websites, servers, databases, and many others, from 2016 until now. Furthermore, I always believe that IT security improvements are an on-going process and I will always ensure that I get to balance IT security controls with business agility, in line with our company’s risk tolerance.
What do you think has helped you and your team successfully bring significant IT changes at QNET? William: At QNET, there are no
boundaries to take on new challenges. We especially appreciate the support given by Directors and Chiefs who always welcome new ideas that are needed with the changing times. We are also often given the opportunity to take up new opportunities and challenges, which benefit the company. For example, even though my role is focussed on IT Security, when I provide recommendations on other IT areas (which are non-IT Security), the management is open to listen to my recommendations as long as they enhance our overall IT infrastructure into a better, secure, and stronger platform.
What can you say about working at QNET? William: If you have the passion
for the work that you do, this is the place. It’s a privilege to work in an organisation where staff are given the freedom to do what they believe in and contribute to the company. There is a sense of belongingness and this is something you do not get from out there. It is truly a great experience to be a part of QNET.
Ivan: In many companies out there, IT staff are always behind the scenes; here, we are given the space to come up in front and share our thoughts and ideas for improvements. The environment here makes one feel like a part of the family and not just a staff – we hug each other; there is magic in human touch as they say.
5
HEALTHY REASONS TO DONATE BLOOD TODAY
How to prepare for a blood donation • You have to be healthy and above the age of 16.
By Patrick Harney
Not only is donating blood an easy way to do something good and give back in a non-monetary way, you can also expect these five impressive health benefits from it:
1
• Eat iron-rich foods. • Hydrate yourself.
Reduced risk of heart disease
• Eat a couple of hours before you donate.
Blood donations help check the levels and reduce iron in our bodies, especially for males. This is important because, while iron is an important and essential element for our body to function properly, excessive build-up can lead to high oxidative damage in the blood which could result in premature ageing, heart attacks, stroke, and high cholesterol.
2
Free health check-up
3
Blood donation burns calories
4
• Make an appointment.
• Don’t smoke or drink alcohol before donation.
Blood donors receive a free mini physical check-up when they go to donate blood. Donors are then told about their blood pressure levels as well as their cholesterol levels. This check-up helps catch certain illnesses in the early stages that donors might not be aware of before donating, which makes it all the more beneficial to donate.
People burn approximately 650 calories per donation of one pint of blood, according to the University of California.
Better blood flow
Frequent blood donations help your blood to flow throughout your body better, limiting the damage to the inner linings, loosening the blockage in arteries, and thinning dangerously thick blood. TIME Magazine went on to say that blood donors are not hospitalised as often as non-donors, and if they are, they have shorter stays.
• Relax.
5
Mental satisfaction
Blood is constant, and so is the need for donations. The fact that they are saving someone’s life should ensure a person that they are making a difference. Not just for themselves and the benefits sought, but more for the people they’re also benefitting. A unit of blood can be used for up to 3 people. The most powerful health benefit of donating blood, then, is for one’s mind. Knowing that you’re helping someone get the help they need is more than satisfying. So get comfy and roll up your sleeve, because when you donate, you’re making a difference in your world.
Ann Sasipen Redefines Absolute Living with Jaw-Dropping Fitness Transformation Interview by Anju Lavina
Ann is pure determination and inspiration for those of us who work with her daily in Bangkok. Her fitness transformation has been gradual and a symbol of her sheer willpower and dedication to finding balance in her life. If you’re looking to refuel your New Year’s resolutions to get fit this 2017, look no further.
What made you decide to get into fitness and diet so passionately? On New Year’s Day of 2016, two of my sisters were planning to go to a kickboxing gym near my home. I went with them just to see what it was all about, and found that there was an amazing New Year’s promotion we couldn’t pass up. An employee of the gym told me that I could lose 10kg within three months if I was diligent with my diet and trained thrice a week. I decided
to give it a try, and the three of us signed up for the offer.
What were your goals when you started? Where are you now? My goal initially was to lose 10kg in three months. I managed to lose 10.5! I’m now at the 15kg mark and I’m more motivated than ever. I also no longer suffer from fatty liver disease and high blood pressure. The most important thing to remember is that you can’t expect
to get different outputs if you keep doing the same things. We need to change our habits.
How do you manage to stay motivated towards your goals? I have to admit that sometimes my motivation drops. However, when I look at my old photos, I realise just how far I’ve come, and that helps me get back on track again.
What do you think of cheat days? How do you deal with it? Cheat days are good. They help us reduce the stress caused when you’re on a diet. I usually allow myself one cheat day a week.
What is your advice to people who want to be like you? You need to change your attitude towards diet first. You have to keep in mind that it is not just about
exercise and food for a specific period. To see long-term change, you need to change your lifestyle.
What is your diet tip for people who want to lose weight? If you want to lose weight, YOU must make that decision and stick to it. I see many people who want to lose weight because other people say they should, and then they fail because they don’t want to lose weight seriously. When you really
want to lose weight, you will have a deep understanding that you need to change your behaviour and eating habits. Also remember that just as it takes time to gain weight, you need just as much time to lose it. Be patient! Follow Ann’s weight loss and fitness transformation on her Instagram and stay motivated! https://www.instagram.com/ annableann/
k k r r o o W W y y l l i i a D Da B Boooosstteerrss By Elvina Fernandez
ergy levels to go en r fo l ra tu na is it , by es go k As the wee level is low, the week gy er en ur yo n he w nd A n. w do slowly, also feels like it goes by more ity. which leads to less productiv Say it t with coffee Here are some ideas to boos n ai your energy levels ag A simple coffee treat is e tim k or w e ak m d an sometimes all you need to brighten a gloomy day. You’ll more fun:
Healthy work and play balance Because all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, we want to make sure we play enough in between work and bring more creative ideas for the team – right in the office by creating a mini play station for your department. Whenever you feel a writer’s block or are stressed out from your work load, have a short chat or board game session with a colleague. This fun booster is sure to refresh your perspective!
bring a beaming smile to your teammate’s face if you bring them a nice cuppa. Sharing our coffee moments was also how this daily booster idea came about. Now, we have our very own in-house barista, Yusri, who makes amazing coffee for the team every now and then, a perfect midday booster.
Celebrate your team A little appreciation goes a long way! A pat on the back warms the heart, translating to more inspired work. We’ve recently been celebrating in KL, actually – Dina’s baby project, QBuzz in Russian, is now live! Amir is a dad, for the third time! Elaine just marked her first anniversary with QNET! Yusri and Martin are birthday babies of the month! Yazzid takes baby steps to paint again! Go on now, start celebrating, and give your team this magic booster!
Share jokes, exercise tips, and quizzes Most of us sit all day long at our workstations, so it’s good to inject some light moments to the day. Share a joke with the team to crack the silence. It’s also great to get the team to stretch with some simple exercise routines or basic yoga warm-up. You could also have a quiz time and get the floor thinking. A little movement and laughter is always a great booster.
Potluck all week long The team that eats together, stays together! Talk to your colleagues about new food joints near the office and invite them to have lunch there. (Whether you treat them is optional, but encouraged. *wink*) It’s a great way to start the day by sharing breakfast – a mood booster early in the morning. You can also take turns bringing simple treats the office. This is a great way to introduce culture through food to our global staff! (Dina from Kazakhstan now loves Malay kuih!)
n u S e h t n i e c la P a Finding ritius
u a M n o ts ec fl re o to o o em rd a Ked M By Zahra Gayon
e first and ‘Mauritius was mad n being then heaven, heave us.’ copied after Mauriti - Mark Twain
d nation in the Mauritius is an islan known for its continent of Africa, and picturesque crystal blue waters d the hospitality mountains. These an e the island of its people has mad s from different ist ur to g on am r la popu While a lot of parts of the world. and to relax people go to this isl tion, one local and spend their vaca ugh its clear decided to sail thro new life abroad. waters and star t a
Seeking tertiary education had brought Ked Mardemootoo to Malaysia in February 2010. Right after finishing his studies, he started working at QI as a Network Service Engineer. Even though he has already built a new life in Malaysia, Ked has not forgotten where his roots are planted. When was the last time you went home to Mauritius? I was in Mauritius for the end of year festivities, Christmas and New Year. I stayed there for two weeks, from end of December up to the first week of January 2017. What do you miss most in Mauritius when you’re away? Home-cooked food, the turquoise water surrounding the island, and my dog, Leena.
What are the best activities to do during these times? End of the year is usually right in the middle of summer which gives clear blue skies and a hot weather ranging from 28 to 33 degrees. Most of the locals spend most of their time at the beach or simply enjoying the sun outside. The holidays are usually celebrated over barbecue together with family and friends, and followed by exchanging gifts to wish everyone a happy new year. This was also the perfect time for me to explore other parts of Mauritius that I’ve never been to before. What are the best places to visit and food to taste in the island? There are a lot of tourist spots in the island and you can start with Casela Safari, Charamel 7 Coloured Earth, Ganga Talao (sacred lake), The Botanical Gardens, L’Aventure du Sucre, and take a helicopter tour to see the underwater waterfall at Le Morne.
As for the food, mangoes and lychees are the ones you should try, as these are nothing like what you’ve tasted before. Also, Mauritian dim sum called boulettes can be seen in almost every corner and are usually served with soup, green chili, lemon mix, and chives. If you’re into street food, dhal puri and roti are a must-try. What advice can you give to those who are planning to visit or move to Mauritius? Leave all your worries behind, pack your greatest smile, and make sure to enjoy every moment. Mauritians are known for their hospitality so do not hesitate to ask about anything!
too proudly Ked Mardemoo aduation after poses on his gr s tertiary studie completing his
g, Leena Ked’s do e scenic island An aerial view of th
adise! skies: a true par ue bl d an s er r wat Mauritius’ clea
I L I K E TO WORK IT, WORK IT
uctive day is a bit of od pr a r fo ed ne u yo l al , es im et Som e fuel for productivity! at tim ul e th ic, us m e Cu n. tio iva mot ly focus your mind on the al re n ca s ne tu of n io ct le se ht The rig to a fortress of ingenuity. in d in m le id an rn tu d an nd ha task at r a bit of inspiration, fo g in ok lo re u’ yo e tim xt ne e Th ork! put this playlist on and get to w N EARLY MORNING MOTIVATIO
ep, and help your To shake-off the last dregs of sle re are a few songs to morning cuppa really kick in, he ur brain active. get your blood pumping and yo Queen (UK) Another One Bites The Dust – n (UK) Immigrant Song – Led Zeppeli O) 5 Fine Frøkner – Gabrielle (N Lights Out – Royal Blood (UK) Thunderstruck – AC/DC (AU) Dewgng – Sphaeras (SG)
T IS L Y A L P E T A IM T L U YO U R F O R W O R K P L AC E PRODUCTIVITY By Anju Lavina
THE POST LUNCH LULL
into our full While that yummy lunch settles r eyes just for bellies and urges us to close ou this playlist a few seconds, you might need ur to wake you up, and re-direct yo nd. ha wandering mind to the tasks at Clint Eastwood – Gorillaz (UK)
mmes (US) Blister In The Sun – Violent Fe m Part II Touch Me I’m Going To Screa – My Morning Jacket (US) a In The Aeroplane Over The Se – Neutral Milk Hotel (US) Basket Case – Green Day (US) Around The World – Daft Punk
(FR)
THE HOME STRETCH
MID-MORNING MATTERS
Mid-morning is the perfect time are for really getting into work. You and through that early morning phase e tim is ready to make a difference. Th that can of day is perfect for something ing that float in the background, someth ieving will help you concentrate on ach for something worthwhile be e the dreams of lunch takeover.
r on Drugs (US) Under The Pressure - The Wa ddard (UK) Music Is The Answer – Joe Go ) Dismantle – Peter Sandberg (SW Hoppípolla – Sigur Ros (IS) Mugatu – Tom’s Story (PH) Darling – Real Estate (US)
For a final burst of productivity, you here’s some music that will see to the end of the day, and make sure you walk home swinging. ) Still Awake – Plastic Plastic (TH S) Pink + White – Frank Ocean (U
en (JP) Sailing Day – Bump of Chick Mildenhall – The Shins (US) ) Fire Cracker – Ellegarden (JP Supremacy – Muse (UK)
Listen to the entire playlist here: https://play.soundsgood.co/playlist/i-like-to-work-it-work-it
STAFF HAVE A
BANG-UP TIME AT
! G N A N PE IN #VCON17
g more than 15,000 IRs V-Malaysia 2017 ended with another record-breaking success, seein ty, and Service. from all over the world gather in Penang, in the name of Love, Loyal
Does this even need asking? But you know who else displayed all three with utmost passion? nd the screens� (our PC screens Every member of the QI Family of course! Most of us did so “behi for the 5-day event. that is) while many took part in all the action right inside SPICE Arena N17!
Check out these photos of the mad, mad fun that went down at #VCO
LET YOUR CLOTHES DO THE TALKING!hion Icon How to Be the Office Fas By: Elvina Fernandez
Fashion is powerful. It has a secret language and speaks before we do. How we dress tells the story of who we are and, often, also what we do for a living. Picking the right clothes for work is very important, because when you look good, you feel good; and this translates into more confidence, increased productivity, and better team work! Here are some fashion tips for you to become the office fashionista all year long!
Pick the right fit
Not too baggy and not too tight. The proper fit is what you need to give yourself that dashing look. This will also give you the freedom to move about, and not feel wary about exposing yourself when bending down, or worry about tears if you take long strides to the meeting room.
Accessory is Queen Girl’s favourite things – rings, statement necklaces, watches, and bags! Match them with your outfit of the day well, and you’ll stand out throughout. Although experimenting is great, remember to stay classy when you are at it, and to not over-accessorise.
Get the colour palette right
Colours make a dull day at work better. Alternate dark colour ed outfits with bright coloured outfits, so you look different every da y. If you choose black on Mon day, make sure Tuesday offers a splash of eye-catching shades on you. Don’t be afraid of putting on bright colours and prints. Pretty, flo ral print tops go great with plain skirts or pants, and vice versa.
Build your wardrobe
Planning your outfit the nigh t before will help ensure your morni ng is as stress-free as possible. Bu ta fashionista plans her week’s outfits – and accessories too! This gi ves you the chance to walk the offic e ramp with a variety of styles.
Go Indo-Western or traditional
A trendy choice is to match Indo-Western pieces such as a handmade embroidery vest over a plain top, matched with a pencil skirt. You could also pick a da y in a week to wear a saree or any other traditional outfit, and everyo ne in the office will look forward to what you show off next every tim e!
Eat Absolutely!
pes
ci Quick, easy, and healthy vegetarian re Spaghetti ala Puttanesca Ingredients
• 8 oz whole grain spaghetti ato • 1 large (28 ounce) can of chunky tom sauce or diced tomatoes • ⅓ cup chopped olives • ⅓ cup capers es) • 1 tbsp olive brine (from your jar of oliv ) capers • 1 tbsp caper brine (from your jar of • 3 cloves garlic, pressed or minced • ¼ tsp red pepper flakes • 1 tbsp olive oil divided • ½ cup chopped fresh parsley leaves, • Freshly ground black pepper • Salt, to taste Instructions
tomato 1. In a medium saucepan, combine the er sauce, olives, capers, olive bring, cap g the brine, garlic and red pepper flakes. Brin heat, mixture to a simmer over medium-high r, then reduce heat to medium and simme stirring often, for 20 minutes. in the 2. Remove the sauce from heat, and stir sley, olive oil and almost all the chopped par d reserving some to sprinkle on the finishe und bowls. Season to taste with freshly gro black pepper and salt, if necessary. pot 3. While the sauce cooks, bring a large of salted water to boil and cook your ns. spaghetti according to package directio Drain and return it to the pot. pour 4. Once all your components are ready, bine. the sauce over the pasta and stir to com h Divide into individual bowls and top eac bowl with a light sprinkle of parsley. Serve immediately. 6/ Source: http://cookieandkate.com/201 vegan-spaghetti-alla-puttanesca/
Fritters Ingredients • 198 g can sweetcorn, drained
• 2 spring onions, finely chopped • 50 g courgette or cucumber, grated • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika • 50 g self-raising flour • 5 eggs, 1 beaten, 4 for poaching • 40 mL milk • 4 tbsp sweet chilli sauce • 1 lime, juiced • 1 tbsp vegetable oil • mixed leaves, to serve Instructions 1. Mix the sweetcorn, spring onions, courgette or cucumber, paprika, flour, beaten egg, milk and some seasoning in a large bowl and set aside. 2. Put a large pan of water on to boil. In a bowl, mix the chilli sauce with the lime juice and set aside. 3. Heat the oil in a large, non-stick pan and spoon in four burger-sized mounds of the fritter mixture, spaced apart. When brown on the underside, turn over and cook for 3 minutes more until golden. 4. Meanwhile, poach the eggs in the simmering water for 2-3 minutes until cooked and the yolks are runny. Remove with a slotted spoon. Serve the fritters topped with a poached egg, mixed leaves and a drizzle of the chilli dressing.
Source: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/ sweetcorn-courgette-fritters