1. Tried to create backup via ROM Manager, but app hanged. Had to go to Apps > Running and stop the ROM Manager service.
2. Launched ROM Manager again, and this time was able to create a backup successfully.
3. Read about someone having lost APN settings after flashing the stable build. Took backup (screenshots) of existing Maxis 2G Internet and Maxis 3G Internet.
4. Reboot into CWM Recovery (CWM-based Recovery v6.0.0.2). Note: Already copied cm-9.0.0-galaxys2.zip to internal SD card earlier, and verified MD5 hash too (29e3679cc1387f127731f4dc6bd85d2f).
5. install zip from sdcard > choose zip from internal sdcard > cm-9.0.0-galaxys2.zip > Yes.
6. wipe cache partition.
7. advanced > Wipe Dalvik Cache.
8. reboot system now.
Been running RC2 for 340 hours (~14 days)
Stable!
APNs are still intact, and working fine.