Kota Kinabalu

The first day of the induction course is over and although it was long, it was interesting and I now have a new lap top and a fancy backpack to keep it in, my own Malaysian account and lots more information about the job and the Malaysian education system. The minister was unable to come after all so we had his deputy to explain the curriculum and the new project and the huge investment the Malaysian government are making to improve English in the lower primary schools - the children are expected to do 5 hours a week of English and this is all for the competitive future of Malaysia. We are a small group on the course of many nationalities. The other members of the team are already installed and working and we seem to be last dregs of the team. We are Zimbabwean, American, Canadian, British, French (sort of ?!) and everyone seems to have lived all over the world.
The Hyatt Regency is by far the smartest, poshest hotel I've ever stayed in. My "suite" is huge with mirrors and glass everywhere as well as a balcony. I haven't managed to benefit from the gym and sauna yet but i had a nice swim this evening after the course was over. There hasn't been any time to really explore Kota Kinabalu but I did eat last night at a street market. The Malay people seem very charming, friendly and polite. We leave the luxury of the hotel on Saturday and I will be going off to find out what Ranau is like. So far so good!