KotaStar

A NEIGHBOURLY AFFAIR ESPECIALLY IN THE MONTH OF RABIULAWAL

2012-01-29T12:13:00.001+08:00

RIGHTLY AND IN RESPECT OF RABIULAWAL the third month of Hijrah 1433, the particular subject becomes an urgent reminder to us. We are made aware of our duties to our neighbors religiously , ethically and culturally and in respect of its adherence we may be satisfied and proud that there is a continuing sense or responsibility and commitment. Is it so?

Taking the following as obligations to Muslims, we must search its true applications in the current dimensions.

Prophet Muhammad SAW on the rights of the neighbor said,

" It is to help him if he asks your help, to lend him if he asks to borrow from you to satisfy his needs if he becomes poor, to console him if he is visited by an affliction, to congratulate him if he is met with good fortune, to visit him if he became ill, to attend his funeral if he dies, not to make your home higher than his without his consent less you deny him the breeze, to offer him fruits when you buy some or to take it to your home secretly if you do not do that, nor to send out your children with it so as not to upset his children,no to bother him by the tempting smell of your food unless you send him some"

Truly the neighbour holds a specific station in Islam. Islam encourages Muslim to treat their neighbors in a gentle way that reflects the true and genuine spirit of Islam as exemplified in its tolerant aspect especially with people of other faiths." Consider this .

" O Messenger of Allah, I have two neighbours. To whom shall I sent my gifts?" asked Ayesha the Prophet's wife .Prophet Muhammad said " To the one whose gate is close to you.'

It helps because we have many as defined "Your neighbour is 4o houses ahead of you and 40 houses at your back, 40 houses to your left and 40 houses to your right' That already makes a total of 160 good friends around us.

I am struck by the above subject by incidents and happenings that came to light in the last few days. Yes not even a week back yet. Hj Md Arshad, my father- in- law succumbed to his long illness on 29th Safar 1433 and was laid to rest on the same day. In those moments and hours of sadness and consoling to the family as the body lies for visitation by families and friends, none more comforting than to see friends, kins and neighbours descending on the home to pay their last respect and offer prayers as they saw him for the last time. More so when hundreds were at the mosque to offer 'solat jenazah' before he is laid to rest and the 'talkin' read.

He lived to the ripe age of 85, a week before his 86th birthday, a respected personality in the community, religious and forthright and never shunned to help and contribute. Yet he was humble, a non scholar as primary schooling was not even his forte yet he rose in life, a self -made carpenter and later a partner in a company that went to be listed on the board. A giant of a man who left much to be admired and followed. A father with seven sons and daughters, plus the in laws, forty-one grand children and nine great grand children.None so much richer with the blessings of Allah SWT.

A close door neighbour also came visiting a few days later. They had earlier conveyed condolences personally by phone and in their busy schedules saw necessary to call personally.They are our next door neighbour, whose gate is closest to ours as the fence are shared too. They and many others called to share their sadness while offering strength and consoling to my mother-in-law and the family.Theirs is a relationship that has stretched more than fifty years.

Yes truly our neighbours, friends and families become the token of our existence, our shared comradeship and our love and respect for one another. The linkages and enduring strength comes in moments when we most needed and hoped for. Truly it is a lesson in life.

Tun Siti Hasmah offering her condolences to the daughter of Al Marhum Hj Md Arshad

Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, the neighbour being welcomed by the son and grand son of AlMarhum Hj Md Arshad

Kisses and warmth sealed the visitation

The family is grateful for the visit from our neighbor

In his busy and tight schedule our visitor like others who called earlier honour the spirit of friendship and neighbourliness as exemplified in the quotes above

The grandchildren now learning more of their late grandfather

The family at the graveside before the 'talkin' was read

The 'doa' offered on the first three nights at the home with our neighbours and friends attending.

Al Marhum Hj Md Arshad with the wife. Both on the wheel chair while in his last umrah in 2008. Even when on the sick bed lately he expressed the hope of fulfilling the umrah again with the family. On many occasion he brought joy to friends and family by sponsoring their visits to the holy land for 'umrah'

ALFATIHAH

BULAN / MONTH OF RABIULAWAL

2012-01-23T11:21:00.000+08:00

'Katanya pada bulan Rabiulawal kebiasaannya di Tanah Arab pokok buah-buahan mula berbunga dan seterusnya berbuah. Setelah kedatangan Islam Rasulullah SAW telah mengekalkan nama Rabiulawal hingga sekarang.'

Biar pun kini pada bulan Januari dan menjelang Februari 2012 cuaca dan suhunya dingin di Hemisphere Utara, jelas pula tidak begitu di negara kita. Walaupun negeri-negeri di Pantai Timor masih menghadapi musim ketujuh nampaknya kedatangan Rabiulawal di negeri Jelapang Padi, Kedah yang bakal disambut dua minggu lagi telah menampakkan keistimewaan dan kelainan. Pada lazimnya pokok-pokok bunga khususnya di jalan-jalan utama berbunga pada bulan April dan paling awal Mac. Hari ini sudah kelihatan sausana yang menyegar dan mengistiharkan 'Rabiulawal' telah menghampiri kita. Jesteru segala persedian menyambutnya dan khusus ' Maulidur Rasul' perlu disegerakan.

Mengapa tidak kerana apa yang dirakamkan petang ini dan kelihatan dibawah nyata sekali musim bunga telah tiba di bandar ini, jauh lebih awal daripada biasa. Bukan Februari atau Mac tetapi pada tanggal 22 hb January 2012 bandar Alor Setar sudah digemparkan dengan satu keistimewaan.

Pohon indah ini yang berbunga lebat seolah-olah menyambut ketibaan Rabiulawal. ( It seems to flower much earlier than usual , in fact two months ahead)

It's flowering time in this city. Strange and a surprise indeed for 'springtime' comes much earlier than usual . No we do not have seasons here but we do have hot and dry plus the wet season. We are in fact approaching the dry season now with less of rainfall. Nevertheless it is good to see the trees with their blooms. Come February we also celebrate the arrival of Rabiulawal, the third month of the Muslim Hijrah year, it succeeding Muharram and Safar . Rabiulawal is historical and significant to Muslims throughout the world for on the 12th of the month it ushers the birth date of Prophet Muhammad SAW. This year it coincides with the 5th of February which is a public holiday in Malaysia. No doubt various programs have been arranged throughout the country to remember this auspicious day either privately or by the administration at all levels. All mosques and surau would have activities to remember the significance of the day and salutations to our prophet Muhamad SAW. Homes too will echo with 'selawat' ,'zikir' and the reading of the 'Koran' as Muslims remember ' Maulidur Rasul'.

Let me remember this day by reflecting on a mosque that is much favoured and visited by pilgrims or visitors to Saudi Arabia besides Al Haram in Mecca. I would like to share several pictures of the mosque in Madinah with those who have walked and prayed in its halls, felt its sanctity and sacredness. This is the Prophet's Mosque or 'Masjid Nabawi' at Madinah. InsyaAllah these photos would call for our return visits or cause those who have yet to visit Mecca and Madinah either for the Haj or Umrah wanting and wishing to do so soon.

Giant umbrella or canopies protect the pilgrims from the hot sun while adding to the richness and beauty of the mosque. The open space has its value when a million jemaah or more visit Madinah Al Mukarammah and do solat at the mosque.

The green dome of Masjid Nabi

One of the gates where jemaah enter the mosque. This is 'Babsalam' gate.

Among the doors and emblems that surround the mosque

In the interior section of the mosque you would find all things arranged neatly and orderly

Wall to wall carpeted with the 'Koran' neatly arranged on shelves and fully access to the Jemaah

On the open terrace of the top floor of the mosque

The open umbrella at the main court yard inside the mosque.This would be one of the first umbrella cover built in the mosque with extensions firstly 1368 - 1375H and secondly 1405 - 1414H.

View of pillars and ceilings

It's flowering time at Madinah even in November 2010 as recorded in this photograph

Muslims who have been fortunate to visit Madinah and have the exception of praying at Masjid Nabawi is rewarded for one solat is equivalent to one thousand solat. In other words the reward here is greater than performing solat in other mosques excepting Al Haram. Forty solats in Masjid Nabawi are equivalent to forty thousand solats. Added a solat offered in congregation is rewarded by Allah SAW twenty five times more. Thus the forty solats will be equivalent to solats offered in five hundred years.Obviously it is in the reward and not in number.

We can say 'syukur' for Allah has opened His doors of Mercy by allowing us to visit Madinah al Munawarah and Masjid Nabawi again and again. Ya banyak yang merinduinya dan Al Haram dan mohon untuk kembali semula.

Let me close this writing by showing several other mosques especially in our part of the country that have contributed in no uncertain ways towards growth of Islam and the Muslim community. We had the the opportunity to visit them excepting one in Islamabad.

Masjid Faisal Islamabad, named after King Faisal of Saudi Arabia who funded the building. Construction began 1976 and completed 1986

Masjid Kapitan Kling Pulau Pinang (1801)

Masjid Melayu Lebuh Acheh Pulau Pinang (1801)

Masjid Kristal Kuala Trengganu

Masjid Zahir Alor Setar (1914)

Masjid Sultan Singapore (1824)

Masjid Putra Putrajaya

Masjid Agung Palembang (1738)

Jame Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Bandar Brunei Darussalam

Allah SWT berfirman di dalam Surah al-Anbia - 107

"Tidaklah Kami utuskan engkau ( wahai Muhammad) melainkan untuk mendatangkan kerahmatan kepada seluruh alam"

THE STORY BEHIND THE PHOTOGRAPHS ....

2012-01-16T00:50:00.001+08:00

THERE ARE HUNDREDS of photographs in our keeping, recorded through the years. What do we see in them? Memories, images , recollections, historical facts etc. Many a time we just had only brief glances, dismissing those that were irrelevant and unrelated to what we were focusing at the moment. Now looking at them again I find there are hordes of wealth and fact that we could derive rather than put them aside just because they don't show our own pictures or that of those that we know. Then you are only thinking only of images that you recognize or like.

But these photos which you yourself chose to place your finger on the camera's shutter and therefore record them for posterity unless of course you have erased them off tell lots of things. I am thinking of our dressing as one factor. Let's look at them and discover what we chose and how we dress. Therefore the subject THE STORY BEHIND THE PHOTOGRAPHS - WHAT WE WEAR depicted our choice to be seen. Particularly the children unless the very fussy and choosy ones left all to their parents to make the choice too. Did we do right? Do we dress them rightly?

Each one of us, depending when the photos were taken would have our own opinion, no doubt struck by the cost of things, the popularity of the moment and how much we could afford .

This is one of my early photos recorded on a colored slide and later transferred to print. The young girl would be married with a family of her own now .It was taken in a room at Cathay Hotel Singapore 1964. Even the hotel is no more though the name still stands representing a new one at the same site. Observe the flooring and of course the dressing. No departure I think from the present choice except maybe the polka -dots cloth is not easily available. Her hair do, any mother would have loved to bind them with a rubber band.

This is one of my favourite pictures taken with a box camera way back in 1949 when our classmates took to cycling to a sea side bungalow near Yan in Kedah about forty kilometers away from Alor Setar town. Yes we cycled on our Hercules and Raleigh bicycles. I wonder whether our parents knew where we headed too. Dressing? Your choice is as good as mine. Shirtless would be the best attire. Many known persons in the pix too. The writer is in white round neck T shirt in the middle of last row. Stripes seen to be a popular choice too. Shorts were favourite and even 'sarong 'were good choice too. Every one would remember the occasion since we were frightened away in the night and saw us cycling home the very next day.

Wow another pretty girl who has also grown up to have a family of her own. Picture taken in Brunei 1963. She must be a choosy lady, making sure she had socks on. Thankfully I could connect to her parents. Would little girls have choices like this still or the fashion has changed? Hair-do? Trimmed and short.

The mother chose to carry her baby on a safe chair attached to her bicycle. She was dressed properly in jeans and attired with a hat and a small bag strapped to her back. The cool autumn weather in Osaka Japan perhaps encouraged her to enjoy the sights of the city with the family.

The writer was warmly clad while his Japanese volunteer tourist guide chose the proper attire to meet the weather in Osaka too. He carried a small bag containing papers etc relevant to give whatever information required if necessary. In Japan volunteer tourist guides are available upon prior notice who would accompany you to see the city or places of interest. Mind you GRATIS and you ended up with true friendship. Meanwhile a person caught in the picture seems preoccupied to have his breakfast while crossing the road.For the tourist guide you have to give advanced notice if you require their service. They had good walking shoes necessary to walk the miles when touring the city.

Now would this the proper attire for a person serving 'nasi-kandar' at a stall? One of the client must be in a hurry as he still had his crash helmet on. Notice the choice of colors.

Head dress for the ladies may be the right subject for this picture. The colors too seems to be a combination factor to be considered,

Yes not often we have the chance to be attired like this. The bath robe provided at a hotel I was staying in Japan helped to keep me warm and perhaps encouraged in whatever way good exercise at the computer. One of those days you seemed to have the hair combed smartly

Last but not least, I clicked the shutter and had this picture of two colleagues as they stepped out of the mosque in Canberra Australia after a Friday prayer Both have settled in Australia but attired as any one you would see at home. The gentleman on the left obviously cared for his dressing. Even his socks matched with his shirt. ha ha.The white 'kopiah' has become a popular choice, being light.

Thank you for fleeting through the above being a departure from my normal observation but obviously a factor to think of with all the photos in our stock. A new direction at discovering their worth maybe.

THE INVITATION TO A MALAY WEDDING

2012-01-09T13:50:00.001+08:00

The evening sky at the Iron Mosque Putrajaya and ecstatic features of the mosque

On Sunday 8 January 2012 we had the pleasure of attending two wedding ceremonies or more definite receptions. One was at Putrajaya and the other close to it at Bandar Baru Bangi. Both receptions were held in a hall. The former was at Dewan Seri Hindon and the latter at Dewan Akademi Percukaian. Being held in a covered hall gives advantages to the organizers or hosts. I am not about to talk about the merits of it but want to look at the very aspects of invitation itself.

Firstly with all the prior attentions and procedures for the engagement of the couples made, how do the hosts set down to planning the invitation of their guests? Where would the wedding reception take place? How many would be on the invited list of the host? The biggest question perhaps would be how does he go about compiling the invitation list? Mind you 'he' would be a misnomer as many other 'he' and 'she' would come into the picture. Besides the man of the house, the 'lady' would have her guest lists too. Then the bride or the bridegroom plus the other members in the family who also would not like to exclude their close friends. Not forgetting the parents of the host and hostess. At the end of the day there will be a long list indeed. It therefore becomes a norm to 'slaughter' a cow or two if all are to be invited. Such is the occasion in the 'kampong' then and even now where necessities provide. For you and I who have passed through this encounter we would be happy to know that we have not forgotten the closest of friends. If that is done then there is another occasion if the opportunity allows us to have another reception for the following son or daughter. Foremost we will give priority to our neighbours and members of the 'jemaah' of the mosque or 'surau' which we attended, followed by relatives ( closed and extended), office mates, friends and all together with their families. Well I guess it is a big predicament if you determined not to miss all the closest of families and friends.

Next on the agenda would be the venue. Your home would be of course the best alternatives. But the huge guests list would make you decide otherwise, unless you have a palatial home.Even parking would be an issue to think about too now.

I would like to look at the format of the 'Invitation Card' as part of the order of things. From a simple one piece invitation card, it too has taken its role as an important part of the check list. The wordings and phrasing may not alter much, being fairly constant but the card and its format, size, colour and scent too may take different styles. Noticeably there is hope and expression as one notice an opening page which reads:
' Ya Allah Ya Tuhan Kami

Kami memohon restuMu,berkatilah majlis kami ini, limpahkanlah barakah dan rahmat keatas pasangan suami isteri ini. Jadikanlah rumahtangga mereka aman dan bahagia dalam ketaatan terhadapMu. Kurniakanlah kepada mereka zuriat yang soleh dan solehah, serta berikanlah ketenangan kepada mereka di dunia dan di akhirat. Sempurnakanlah agama mereka dengn ikatan ini. Amin Ya Rabbal A lamin '

Much as the host feels delighted and happy to forward the invitation for the marriage of his or her daughter, he too asks for Allah's blessings for the future of the bride and bridegroom, their well being, their steadfastness to the religion and the granting of good and religious off springs and blessings for their future. That would be followed with the invitation to attend the reception on a particular day and date and at a specific time and place. Invariably a map of the location will be added for the convenience of the guests especially if it is held not at his residence. .

For our attendance at the above two receptions, we had to refer to the maps. Invariably guests are invited to the reception which are often held between 12 .00 to 5.00 pm with mention of the time the bridegroom and bride would arrive. Hoping that guests will scheduled their time to be at this specific hour. Invitation to Majlis Marhaban or special prayer would have been arranged earlier with a chosen invited guests. This occasion would have been part of the program still if the function is held in the kampong and in the towns outside the capital cities. For convenience too several telephone numbers would be included in case guests would like to get explanations etc. Yes 'rsvp' is not requested. Neither is there a dress code. You could come in your normal attire or come in the best traditional dress.

Therefore the host has to make the best of his planning especially in the preparation of dishes etc to be served. It would be a calamity if the servings should fall short of the expected number. In the kampong and suburbs where community identity and spirit still endures, reception and the preparation plus serving of the dishes for the special occasion would still be organized and prepared by the community's group who has always been trusted to come forth at such function. This would of course make for a complete participation of the neighboring members and friends.

Attendance at wedding receptions especially, continue to link the close friendships of friends, neighbours and relatives. It helps to bring about meetings of relatives and friends who may not have met each other for reasons of their own. Therefore every one concerned would attempt to attend irrespective of distance or time. The occasion of our trip to Putrajaya and Bangi with other relatives that accompanied us testify to that objective. As such we were glad to meet relatives and friends who had journeyed there from other towns and districts as well. No momentous would be more valuable then a photograph that recorded the warm meetings. All will go home with fond memories not so much of the wedding reception but the opportunities to have met uncles, aunties, grand fathers or grand mothers, cousins and nieces etc. By order of nature, perhaps the entourage could be invited to our home after the ceremony. This did happened.

However we must remember that no amount of brilliance in the invitation card can surmount the personal invitation by the host or hostess. They must make an effort to call at the individual homes of the closed relatives and friends.It would be excusable decades ago when transportation or communication was at its infancy. Now where motor vehicles and other means of transport are available there is no excuse. Telephone calls or 'sms' would be alternatives. Even 'emails' would be a good choice. As much as our guests take the opportunity to attend we must also be there at the front to welcome them when they arrived and departed. Such is hospitality.

The wedding reception at Putrajaya held in Dewan Siti Endon. Here we met our neighbours of Precinct 16 and also friends from Kedah itself.

The other reception we attended on the same day at Dewan Akademi Percukaian

Bandar Baru Bangi. This was a family affair and you can see the closeness as all took time to have a photograph taken with the "Raja SeHari" It was more poignant to me as the father of the bridegroom was a student of mine when he was in the secondary school. Sadly he has passed away so too his parents and the children grew up with their mother.

Our visit to the capital city gave us the opportunity to also record a few photographs of the new mosque at Putrajaya which has yet to attract jemaah and visitors as seen at Masjid Putra, the other mosque in Putrajaya.

It seems to flow into the lake beyond and thus bring the classic background as part of the backdrop to Masjid Tunku Mirzan Zainal Abidin which boasts of a no wall surroundings. Not a wadding pool but part of the mosque features.

Iron everywhere and no doubt for its name. The entrance as you move in from the east into the main prayer hall for men.

Arches and frames that make the mosque a piece of architectural design

Another view as seen from the mosque

The mosque is an integral part of the wedding ceremony too. The solemnity of the marriage ritual and vow is better done in the mosque than elsewhere else. It calls upon all to be at the mosque as at other times in the day too.It is good to see the adherence to this practice or choice.

THIS 2012 YEAR A LEAP TO THE OLYMPIC

2012-01-01T21:13:00.002+08:00

You and I have gone through the first day of the NewYear with our own activities. WELCOME all to 2012 which incidentally has an extra day for the year. Yes we will welcome 366 days instead of the common 365. February gives us 29 days .Therefore the year is exceptional and let us see others as we go through the days and nights.This is a LEAP YEAR.

BACKDROPS TO OMBAK RINDU THE MOVIE

2011-12-31T03:24:00.001+08:00

There are queries as to the location of the film 'Ombak Rindu' which has hit the movie houses and now entertaining the home audiences through the TV. Ombak Rindu is not the only movie that has been shot on the island of Langkawi. Anna and the King of Siam was one and Sharook Khan has also chosen to make his film in Langkawi too. Sometimes we failed to recognize the location as being Langkawi because the directors or producers failed to advertise its where about or hide its true identity.

Ombak Rindu with its director being from Langkawi itself helped to promote the beauty of the island. The sea, landscape, the beaches with their rocks, the typical Malay homes and yachts that roam the legendary island all added to its majestic splendor. Not to mention the hills and padi fields and the soothing music plus the breeze that beat the beaches and the padi stalks in the fields all helped to move the film towards its romantic mood. A close up of the old railway station in Alor Setar when the actress and her uncle took the train to Kuala Lumpur added antiquity as well. But one noticed that the train was moving northwards rather southwards to Kuala Lumpur. Cameron Highland with the Boh Tea plantation added to the richness of the hero's background while showing that Malaysia does have color and beauty of all dimensions.

Please see the following as being parts of the scenes that are located in the film or a similarity that one can easily seek out. It is a discovery that surely will bring more visitors to the island. I am from Kedah and the scenes and locations of the film are no strangers to those who know the state and the island in particular..

The Railway Station at Alor Setar. Notice the Clock Tower

One of the houses featured in the film

Langkawi has many scenes like this, with fishing boats basking in the hot sun on blue waters

The Boh tea house in the Cameron Highlands

Another scene in the Cameron Highlands

The swimming pool that was in the movie. Notice the wide open fields and the mountain in the background

No such scenes in the movie but they make authentic scenes any time

A yacht one of many at Langkawi

A REMINDER AND GREETINGS TO ALL

2011-12-30T19:11:00.000+08:00

When in Guangzhou China, I was struck by this poster. It was placed at the convenience rooms for all to take heed. Maybe as a start to the New Year we need to remind ourselves who use the convenience rooms to be aware of such doings. Now that PLUS especially have constructed new ladies and men toilet facilities along the highways with attendances to see to their upkeep day and night we should like wise assist towards their upkeep and cleanliness. So too facilities at many petrol stations which come pretty handy when we need them. Malaysian 'men'/'gentlemen'/ 'Lelaki' or 'Ladies' / 'Perempuan' were at one time the focus of visitors from overseas. Even parliament debated the issue. Thankfully they have improved but you and I know that more have to be done to make the practice favoured by all and at ALL places too.

Less you may not make out the small prints above let me spell it out what were written in English. Never mind the grammatical errors if any but the message was exact and clear. Have anyone seen a similar reminder anywhere at home?

Pay Attention to Social Mobility and Sanitation

Rules in the Washing Rooms

Don't damage facilities in the washing room

Don't erlieve ( relief) yourself anywhere.

Please Throw used toilet paper into the litter basket

Don't throw butt, peel, cans and pour remaining tea anywhere

Throw them into the dustbin

Don't scratch on the wall and board

Please save water. Don't have the tap running after use.
THANKS
...............................................

AT THE APPROACH OF TWILIGHT THE SUN SETTLED DOWN IN THE WESTERN SKY HERALDING THE NEXT DAY A BEGINNING NEW YEAR 2012

SELAMAT TAHUN BARU AND ALL THE BLESSINGS WE SEEK FROM ALLAH FOR OUR GOOD HEALTH AND HIS GUIDANCE TO US AND THE FAMILY

as photographed along the north south highway when approaching Alor Setar

A WEEK IT WAS ....AN A HISTORIC DAY TOO

2011-12-24T10:14:00.000+08:00

It was a week and a day in history too. For on the13th of December 2011 early in the morning, as from 5.30 am chartered buses had dropped groups of people along the main road in front of our house at Titi Gajah. They came from offices, departments and the communities. Many too had come out from their homes fronting the road that stretched from the Istana at Anak Bukit to the Sultan Abdul Halim Airport at Titi Gajah. All gathered to bid safe journey as well as shower the people's gratefulness to the Sultan and Sultanah of Kedah for their appointment as the Yang DiPertuan Agong and Raja Permaisuri Agong of Malaysia. Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah took office as the 14th Yang DiPertuan Agong of Malaysia on the same day. The Sultan's departure for the next five years left the state of Kedah under the charge of a regency of his three brothers and his daughter. It is historic for this is the first time that a Sultan from the states has been appointed as the Yang DiPertuan Agong for the second time. Tuanku Abdul Halim was the fifth Yang DiPertuan Agong 1970 - 1975. It also saw a council of regency applied for the first time. On the previous occasion the Raja Muda held fort but his poor health has called for the new arrangement.

12 Dec 2011. I took this picture of the fountain fronting the airport a day earlier at sunset. Characteristically the monument was built in conjunction with the Sultan's appointment as the fifth Yang DiPertuan Agong. and was erected at Jalan Teluk Wan Jah in Alor Setar. Double tracking of the Malayan Railways and new road constructions at Jalan Teluk Wanjah saw the historic monuments pulled down and a new one replaced and rebuilt at the airport frontage. It too heralded the Sultan's departure to Kuala Lumpur for the second appointment.

The following pictures show the scenes on Tuesday morning 13 December 2011 as people awaited and gave farewell to the Sultan and Sultanah of Kedah.on the departure to Istana Negara Kuala Lumpur. Thhe royal couple would be the first residents at the new Istana Negara too.

13 Dec 2011 1.

7.

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Not to be forgotten too was our gathering of ex-classmates of Cambridge School Certificate 1954 as we met at PJ Hilton on Saturday 17 December 2011. Happy and grateful that this gathering has continued to take place permitting us to meet one another otherwise there would be no opportunity of its kind. A previous meeting was held in Alor Setar 18 June 2011.

Out of two classes with a total of eighty plus classmates in 1954, the small group as seen tells its own story as many has been called by Illahi and others were unable to make the trip to PJ.

17 Dec 2011
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On Wednesday 21 Dec 2011 saw us at Banding in the Royal Belum territory as the consultant group set out to define their works that would start soon. Off they go in the two boats that took them an hour away to reach their destination in the majestic Belum Territory.

21 Dec 2011. In the background the bridge that linked the East West Highway Kota Bharu and Kulim

Not to be forgotten as we attended a happy occasion at a neighbor's home in Putrajaya earlier in the week as they celebrated their parents 50th wedding anniversary, To add joy to it Sdr Hj Zainal Manaff and wife were ex Kirkby students who lived in Ipoh and had come to Putrajaya to celebrate the happy do with their daughter and son -in- law. Other Kirkby friends, Dr Shaari Isa and wife, Aziz Sultan and wife and Othman Desa were there too.

Hj Zainal Manff and wife walked in with claps of joy from friends and family that gathered to wish them blessings.

11 Dec 2011

2011-12-12T01:47:00.001+08:00

'OMBAK RINDU' THE FILM - A THROW BACK INTO TIME

It was many months ago that I last visited the cinema to see a movie. No. It has been no less than three years ago. Last Saturday with the urge of the family I found myself at a matinee show in the cinema hall at Alamanda Putrajaya. The movie 'Ombak Rindu' was good in all characteristics since it pulled you to see the film to the last. Scenes shot at Gunong Jerai, Langkawi and a riverside some where in Kedah all made the movie authentic and alive. Sufficient that it is a box office hit now. Not to mention the actors and actresses for their performances. As the title goes be ready to have your tissues ready.

No I am not about to talk about the film but to grasp with one that came to mind when I was waiting in the foyer to enter the cinema hall before the scheduled time. At that very moment I was transported back into time. Not far back but distance enough to retreat at least a half century ago. I looked at the colorful posters that acclaimed the movies on show or the forthcoming ones. They were sizable printed copies large enough to be noticed ten yards away. They attract the audience to realize what are forthcoming at their favorite cinema.Those posters and other photos about the current movies on show or those forthcoming must have come together with the movies. The people at the movie house have only to place them where necessary.

You who knew the cinema as before may recollect that cinema halls in the past had resident artists as their employees. I remember 'Pak Hassan' of the Empire Theatre in Alor Setar. A senior man in his forties he had the indomitable duty of painting large sized posters of the forth coming movies at the cinema. Be it a 'tarzan' picture, a gorilla or a 'Gary Cooper' cowboy film, you would find posters right in front of the cinema hall days before the film was scheduled for screening. They were not life size but giants in comparison. I remembered that his drawings were life-like and attraction pullers. At times they were paraded round town attached to the bodies of lorries that canvassed for the films currently on show. Pak Hassan must have been 'commisioned' to draw hundreds of posters, portraits of movie stars and other images. Thinking back if only those posters or 'masterpieces' were salvaged they would have been a collector's dream now. Imagine selling them in EBay or at Hollywood itself. And what about the productions from the other cinemas in the country. Alas we were unaware of their contributions or we failed to value their assets. Like many others they suffered the fate of being discarded. Yes much we do not know and only live to regret. Now there are no more Pak Hassan or no more resident artists at the cinema halls. I do not want to think whether Pak Hassan's sons or daughters managed to salvage some of his works or if ever they realized his contribution to the arts in Malaysia.

Then, I gazed at the wall with eight slots marked " Now Seating". At first it baffled me. If we had only one cinema hall with all its characteristic then here the audiences had the choice of eight halls showing different movies at specific times. Entrance is allowed once the slot is lighted. Just like others I too waited for the lights to be on at No 2. The hall where Ombak Rindu would be shown. What an adventure! Back then either the black curtain was pulled aside or the door was opened with the attendant standing to tear your ticket and returned the other half to you. Keep it for otherwise you may have to move from your seat if someone demanded to sit there. Now tickets were numbered and you sat at seats allocated. Back then for several classes, early entries get the better seats; unless you bought first class or reserved class seats. Let's not talk about the comforts of the seats!

Purchasing tickets? If it was a good movie expect there to be a big crowd. You would probably buy tickets through the black market.Of course with extra dollars for the guy who had ventured forth to push himself over the crowd at the ticket booths. All are made easier now. You can buy tickets via your phones and pay pal etc. Maybe the adventure of going to the cinema has been taken away.

Back again to the past you would not like to bring refreshments into the hall. 'Kacang' or 'koci' would be acceptable for reasons you would know why. Surprised when the lights were on after the show at seeing the floor of the cinema halls. Now 'pop corn' and beverages in containers accompany you into the hall. Even in exclusive kiosks you may be served with hot drinks too while enjoying your movie.

Be that for the meantime as the opportunity allowed me to recapitulate what comforts we enjoyed when going to the cinemas during times before 'Merdeka'. But one thing for sure we picked up and improved our English with attendance at the cinemas and reading the 'movie news' magazines. Even learning to sing popular English or later Hindustani songs came from the frequency of patronizing the cinemas. Yes we even gathered 'programs' or pamphlets that were distributed in the towns by distributors who came on trishaw or lorry.

The old cinema halls have all been pulled down or converted to other usages. At one time it looked like the movie houses were destined for their ends.Sadly or otherwise the new cinemas with their technologies are making a come-back and the movie industries are moving into finer directions. TV programs were heralded as putting the death knell to the movie industries. That too has not come about. In fact movies come into TV as well with purchases to be made for the movie you would like to see at home.

It is interesting to know how the movie houses in US, Japan etc are functioning now. What are their extra qualifications in the industry?

DID YOU GRADUATE FROM THE OLD DRIVING SCHOOL?

2011-11-29T21:39:00.001+08:00

The motorcar with its auto parts to learn and know. Learning to drive would require you to know how it works too. Helping you when there is a breakdown. No doubt quite often too

Do we ever learn about the motor engine now? We have complete trust and therefore why bother to know how it works.

THERE ARE MANY DRIVING SCHOOLS NOW. All guiding and teaching learners to ride the motor-cycles or to be at the wheels of lorries, buses and motorcars and pass with flying colors in quick time. Technologies and no doubt the schools with all the facilities have made learning to drive an easy accomplishment, just as in many other approaches too.

Recently, while rearranging my collection of books, I found " Odhams Motor Manual - How Your Car Works and How to Service it' a fourth edition copy printed in 1960, a hard cover book with 320 pages. Noted on the front page " Bought in Singapore 25 March 1961. The price (Ringgit) $ 9.00 This is one habit which I practiced even currently allowing me to trace through the years all the books that are in my collections and realizing when and where I bought them.

Pretty sure we do not refer to such signage now though a few may be standing still in many parts of the world

That reminded me that it was within that time that I took to driving. First a motorcycle and later the motor car. I got a 'D' licence for the former allowing me to ride a 500cc big bike and a B for the latter.I used to ride an BSA, a Triumph and a Norton.Not my own of course. While for the motorcars, the likes of Ford, Triumph, Rover, Austin, Morris, Worsley and VW would be familiar names.

It is to be reminded that driving in the 1960's and earlier is far different from what it is today. Now firstly the vehicles are modern with automatic facilities. Secondly the road signs , road conditions and traffic regulations are a far cry from what they were before.

MANUAL would be the order of the day. No automatic gears. Especially NO air conditioning. Road signs have to be given manually. You stretched out your arm if you want to turn left or right and giving the correct signal. When stopping, you held up your arm giving another version. .

How the arms give instructions when auto signals were not yet designed

The policeman on duty.Characteristically you would still obey his signals when he is on duty Notice however currently they are casual

Yes sorry no traffic lights. No red, orange or green. At main junctions you looked out for the policeman on duty. He would give directions.

Imagine when you had a traffic light failure now. Everybody rushes making a hell of a jam until a person or a traffic policeman comes to sort out waving his arms left and right. Traffic policemen are still trained to move vehicles when such situations occur.

Much as it would give me fine moments to remember the way we drive before, maybe you could look at the illustrations from the book I mentioned earlier and see the differences of then and now.

Most of us, road-users and not necessarily car owners would have to learn the basics of the cars. So such a book as above became a collection piece. We need to know about the vehicles especially the engine and other parts of the vehicle. It came down at weekends for us to open the car bonnets and look at the engine and do the servicing ourselves. Timing chain, carburetor, spark plugs,petrol pump, battery etc received our attentions. We were not machinists but circumstances made us learn the simple aspects of the engine and how it works.

At modern launching of brand new cars, you may notice some differences in the observation styles or techniques. While a great majority will get into the car, appreciate its interior, its dashboard and cozy feeling plus the sound system etc, there will be a small majority who would open the bonnet and look what's under it. This would normally be the seniors. They would also like to look the undersides of the vehicle too. Well what are your preferences? How do you choose your new car?

I am happy with what is in the 'stable' as it is reliable like the old horse.

Hoping this article triggers some past episodes.

The First Day of the Year 1433

2011-11-28T12:27:00.001+08:00

1 Muharram 1433 / 27 November 2011

I am no diary man. Though there are plenty now in the market for the coming 2012, meaning the diary of course. But I would admit if you had kept a diary, dotted down what went through each day of the year you would no doubt be awake to your past. I know a friend in Kuala Trengganu who can vouch for this reality. He has gracious moments to look back and remember intimately his actions in the past.

Freshness as the new year, the break in the clump of trees seems to usher you into a new horizon. After clearing the branches and leaves that fell on the path, it would look more inviting.

Oh! to see the old home, as old as the writer himself standing exacting promises that many more years will come by for the occupants of the home, if they so care and cherish it. As a friend asks how many Awal Muharram for us? How contributing can we be?

Perhaps this is a good moment to pen down what transpired on this day Sunday as it is a public holiday and many in the country would have a three day stretch break. If last night I was at Zahir Mosque in Alor Setar, way out from our home in Titi Gajah but the state mosque has been part of my life as we used to have a home only 200 metres from the mosque and that's where I grew up. So the attraction and the pull will be there. Not surprisingly I was there again tonight. But early in the morning it was a short drive to a kampong nearby to see to the clearance of bushes, bamboo grooves etc at the old home that once appeared in this blog. It has been raining, on and off and thankfully the flood warning remained a caution only as the deluge of heavy rain and water from the dam upstream never come about. Yet the wet weather caused the greenery around the home to sprout fast and clearance become necessary. It was a fine morning, lush with the greens and coolness as you could observe from the pictures and necessarily a healthy exercise swaying the 'parang' for an hour or two. Of course leaving the tougher task to the men given the task to do it.

The Zahir Mosque , a view from the back and from the car -park where once stood the homes of many 'Syed' families. Kedah had a gathering of 'syed's and the earlier families built homes close to the mosque.
This is perhaps one story that has not be written or told about.

A larger congregation than last night since Tuanku Sultan and the Menteri Besar attended the Maghrib and Isyak Prayer while also the Surah Yassin were read in conjunction with the Sultan's actual birthday.

In conjunction with 'hijrah' we may take a cue from the acceptance of Tuanku Sultan Kedah to hold office as the Yang DiPertuan Agong at his age. For sure it will not be a cosy office as there will many official functions. There was a talk that once Tuanku Sultan Kedah advised the Raja of Perlis to accept the appointment of the Yang DiPertuan Agong as he was reluctant as only recently he was installed as the Raja of Perlis.. His advice was that it is 'duty ' bound. So when it comes to his turn the same advice was heard again. "Tuanku ini adalah satu kewajipan untuk Negara" Cannot vouch for its truth but it reflects the high esteem given by the Raja to hold office. Are we consenting to accept offers that require our attentions and contributions especially in the community?

Tuanku Sultan Kedah, Menteri Besar Kedah and jemaah reading surah Yassin led by the Imam of Masjid Zahir

This being a notation of things that happened on 1 Muharram 1433.

2011-11-26T22:31:00.001+08:00

Awal Muharram 1433

Muslim throughout the world begin a new year today. In Malaysia mosques throughout the country offer prayers farewell to 1432 and welcome 1433. No celebrations, No fireworks. No toll of the clock towers. Only remembrance; religious significance in the mosques and suraus. A special prayer for the passing of 1432 was read several minutes before the Maghrib prayer, signifying the entry of the new Muharam at 'Maghrib'. And therefore no association with the clock striking 'twelve' midnight. The maghrib prayer is followed with the reading of 'Surah Yassin' by the jemaah and lead by the Imam and followed with a special prayer " Doa Awal Tahun Hijrah'.

The pictures above records the prayer at Masjid Zahir the state mosque in Alor Setar at Maghrib time a few hours ago. .It seems tomorrow there is another session of reading Surah Yassin in honour of Tunku Sultan's Kedah birthday and that of Majlis Perbandaran Kota Star celebrating its anniversary as a city. Masjid Zahir in Alor Setar will honour the departure of Tuanku Sultan to Kuala Lumpur with a reading of Surah Yassin on 9 December 2011 after the Magrib prayer as Tuanku Sultan Abdul Halim Muadzam Shah departs to take office as the new Yang DiPertuan Agong of Malaysia. It is historic too since Tuanku Sultan Kedah will hold office for the second time. Kedah and her people wish our Tuanku Sultan and Sultanah a glorious reign as the Yang DiPertuan Agong and the Raja Permaisuri Agong of Malaysia .

Saya dan keluarga mendoakan kebahagian dan keimanan kepada pembaca blog ini agar tahun Hijrah 1433 memenuhi segala cita-cita dan harapan kita. Wassalam..

'PADANG HANG' REVISITED

2011-11-07T12:04:00.000+08:00

The place is called PADANG HANG. It is a village outside Alor Setar. Interestingly it meant " Your Field" or 'Your own piece of property'. In Kedah's dialect it would sound 'rough', 'crude' or 'wild' but at the same time 'passionate' and 'intimate'.

'Hang Nama Apa?' would be a request to know one's name but not heard in good circles. As it would sound abrupt and unpolished if compared to the more often familiar approach " Apa nama saudara? atau 'Siapakah Encik, Nama apa?"

Let's not digress but stick to the actual story. I meant revisited because we were here several decades ago. Many changes have taken place. But many years ago it would have taken us half a day to reach the village. No roads to take you there. It would mean a good walk along the footpaths of the padi-fields, crossing rivers and drains and sweating out in the noonday sun. Now with all the infrastructures in place: tarred roads leading right to the front door, bridges across rivers and canals, electricity to light the homes and water supply connected as against well water or kerosene lamps then,you would reach the place in quick time and marveled by the expansion.

Thankfully there are old charms that still remained and to be enjoyed. The tranquility and simplicity of 'Padang Hang' hopefully is seen in the photos. Being AidilAdha and a public holiday we made the familiar 'kunjungan ke rumah keluarga' calling on old family friends and their families. Expected there would be other family friends there. No doubt about it. The group photograph spurred by the charming background and the old 'jelapang padi' ( old padi storage hut) and the families in their colorful dress on the non manicured lawn come as an added bonus to an unexpected return visit. More than sixty persons happened to be at the home in Padang Hang a great opportunity meet and get connected again.

Earlier we had the delights of 'daging rebus cicah ayer assam' and bowls of 'sup tulang' or 'gearbox' sometimes referred too. The fresh beef and all delicious inner parts come from the 'Qurban' that comes with Aidiladha.

I am thinking of getting the cycling group to tour the country side while the charms are still visible.

Green all the way. Young padi plants in the 'sawah'

Gunung Keriang ( elephant hill ) in the background with the 'Padi Museum' nearby.

Our daughter and grand children on the country road and children in the background.

Di sana tu pokok 'beras'. She gets to see the padi field.

What a natural view with the old 'jelapang' and the clumps of nipah palms in the background

The nipah palms: once it provided provisions for the home: roof as shelter and of course pure sweet juices as drink,

our supply of sugar and the fruits too are edible.

I am hoping the owner will want to demolish the hut and hence I can get it moved and restored in a new home. Mind you the 'jelapang padi' store for padi is hardly found now.Will inform if successful. Otherwise it will go with the wind.

Old staircases lent magic to your pictures. Maybe it brought back old memories when 'appointments' saw you there at one time.

satu kenangan di AidilAdha 1432

SENTIASA DALAM INGATAN KITA

2011-11-06T00:41:00.003+08:00

AIDILADHA 1432 10 ZULHIJJAH ( 06 NOBEMBER 2011)

Yang tidak kesempatan mendapat kemudahan bilik-bilik di hotel dsbnya. tembuk dan pagar ini menjadi tempat simpanan barangan mereka.

Sebentar tadi semua sudah meninggalkan bumi Arafah. Khemah-khemah ini akan tinggal kosong hingga menjelang tahun Haji 1433.

Jummah dah sampai di Mudzaliffah. menunggu masa dan kenderaan utuk dibawa ke Mina seterusnya

Kita yang telah menjadi tetamu Allah tentu sekali mengingati detik-detik sejarah semasa di bumi Mekkah dan khususnya Arafah, Mulzaliffah dan Mina.Kita mendoakan kesejahteraan kepada semua jumaah yang kini berada di sana dan khususnya pada hari yang berbahagia ini. Semoga mereka mendapat Haji mabrur.

Kita hamba MU mendoakan agar sampai juga sekali lagi di bumi Mekkah dan Madinah dan khususnya di Masjidal Haram dan Masjid Nabi. InsyaAllah

( Above is a throw back to moments that happened to the Muslim pilgrims on their journey after completing the obligations at Arafah and now moving on to Mulzalifah and Mina to complete the rituals.) Then they returned to Mekkah.)

' BELUM' AS TO 'HAVEN'T' BUT NOW ITS A TREASURE PIECE

2011-11-04T02:37:00.000+08:00

View from the Sg Tiang camp site

There are boats for rental as well as a boathouse too that can accommodate 20 pax. It comes with sleeping and cooking facilities.

'BELUM' as a Malay word evokes negativeness i.e referring to as 'belum makan', 'belum pergi' or 'belum berjaya' indicating not having food, not gone yet and not successful too. It's a preface to such verbs. However 'BELUM' in its reality and solid identity now refers to a large area in Perak Malaysia gazetted and preserved as national park. It takes the calling as "Royal Belum"

Where? It is half way on the east - west highway. You discover it as you reached Pulau Banding, an island that is joined by two bridges that stretched across the lakes. I cannot say that I have NOT gone to 'Belum" as from today because we had the good fortune to enter into its realm on Thursday 3 November 2011.

Royal Belum with its 117,500 hectares, three times the size of Singapore Island was given the royal status on 31 July 2003 is rich in biodiversity. It is known that 3 out of 20 known species of Rafflesia flower are found here. All the 10 species of horn bills in Malaysia reside here and there are 60 salt lick locations where animals come to lick to get their mineral substances. It is thus a priority site for eco- tourism.

I would like to share with you some of the pictures we managed to click as we moved in the boat on the lakes and walked in the jungle tracks. We hear fishing and staying on the boat-house overnight (with rental subscriptions of course) is an added experience. Just imagine having fish freshly caught for dinner in the quiet of the evening.Time to digest the majesty of Allah's gift and creations too.

In the background, the bridge that crossed the lake.

Several guard posts and halting stations in Belum Valley.

As we near the Sg. Papan Camp Site

Could be seen a hanging bridge in the background

Thick virgin forest away from loggers and their machines

An outstretched tree lent a unique feature to the guard post

An observation tower for you to see the animals as they come to the salt lick

This is one salt lick, favored by the animals and close to the above observation post

This is Sg Tiang camp site. Unfortunately we were unable to scout farther in as the water level was low and therefore unable to see the waterfall and the other aspects of the campsite. From above you would get a majestic view of the lake and surroundings.

No it is not a casual visit but an opportunity to submit a proposal for the development of the area as an eco tourism hub and also for the upgrading of the existing sites. InsyaAllah we may have the opportunity to see the Royal Belum at a closer and more interesting facade.

Pulau Banding lies across the lake. It's serene and peaceful in the morning.

The highway route from Grik to Jeli crossed the lake via this bridge into Pulau Banding. It exits via another bridge three kilometers away. Pulau Banding is one of many islands formed as a result of flooding the valleys that now formed Royal Belum Park.

TOWERING UPWARDS

2011-10-30T00:56:00.000+08:00

We are pushed to look upwards as buildings go higher and higher. Malaysia does not lack behind in show-casting its grand towers. The KLCC Petronas Tower in Kuala Lumpur being the prima donna followed by the Kuala Lumpur Tower and several others including the TM Tower at Bungsar. For sure even this week, another high rise project was launched representing an icon for the Kuala Lumpur city.

NazaTTDI with a project of RM15 billion is set to start the KL Metropolis taking Kuala Lumpur to the height and distinction of a world city. How and what will come through is left to be seen.

Meantime I was made known by a friend in Canada of a new iconic tower being built and ready to be moved in by its residents before the year end. The Absolute World a landmark development in Toronto Canada ( 28/11/2006) saw an international design competition held with 600 registrants and 92 submissions all over the world. By 30/1/2007 six finalists were announced; they being from Canada (2), UK (2), Mexico (1), China (1).

The public were invited to vote for the favourite design and voting stopped 22/3/2007 . The winning design was announced 28/3/2007, Sales started in May 2007 and the towers are expected ready by August 2011 or there about.

The description above shows several aspects of the on going project. It has gone International. Competitive, fast tracking and with public feedback or participations. Of course there was a mad rush to purchase even before building started. The winner was an Architect firm Yansong Ma from China.

What's the design concept? What is its appeal? I leave it to you to see and guess why it is so much favored and why the rush to stay in this excitingly designed towers for the 'Absolute World'. At times when things are closer and intimate with us we forget to see the highlights and the impact. Possibly the guys from the orient continue to be overwhelmed by MM's effects. Then again imagination is a big realm. Huge.

I wonder however why we continue to harp on the 'Metropolis' a long time even historic terminology by now. In short limiting the large overview especially in planning the city of the future in Malaysia.

Absolute World Tower 4 was dubbed 'Marilyn Monroe' by Sam Sibar during the announcement of the winning Yanson Ma design because to him it looked like MM.

p.s Thanks to my friend 'Uncle Lee' in Toronto who sparked my attention to this new tower which now joins the 'exciting towers of the world'

YOUR SHANGRI LA

2011-10-28T03:04:00.000+08:00

I am sure many of us are familiar with the word "Shangri-La' since many hotels in the country and else where in the world carry the name. I am made to understand that the first hotel that carries that name sprung in Singapore 1971 and there after many others follow throughout the world , all accepting the finery and delightful design as put in place or even much better.

Then again 'Shangri-La' also evokes a mysterious, magical place that has been sought out as an earthly paradise. Yet to be discovered. The setting and the urge to discover 'Shangri La' came with the novel 'Lost Horizon' written by a British writer James Hilton in 1933. The seniors among us and the younger ones too who have opened the pages of the novel may know why there has been that search for " a mystical harmonious valley gently guided from a lamasery, enclosed in the western end of the Kunlun mountains" The Hilton novel placed Shangri-La synonymous with an earthly paradise but a mythical utopia'

Each one of us may have dreams or sights of our own Shangri-La. Maybe we have found one because there are varieties of choices and not confined to the mysterious mountain abodes which has been sought for half a century now.They are however Sangria La or paradise that awaits us and that knowingly is easier to reach but with devotions, religiosity and all the finer qualities of this present life.

Let me share with you some sights that caught my eyes and therefore the camera lenses of flora and fauna just around the Shangri-La at Putrajaya. The greenery surely grants freshness and life.

The palms and the shadows caught in the afternoon light

KOTA MELAKA REVISITED

2011-10-26T13:27:00.003+08:00

WHEN were you last in Malacca? We were there on Saturday /Sunday 22 and 23 October 2011. If you have not been there in the last three years or so then expect the unexpected.. The city centre can be in the running with what our nearest neighbour in the south has done. No wonder there is a large flow of Singaporeans in the city by the sights of tourist buses and cars.

It is a generalized opinion since being in the state for no more than twenty four hours. But what you see, what hit you is enough to show that there has been changes. a BIG CHANGE too. How we wish other states in Malaysia especially with the God's gift of their flora and fauna and the winding RIVERS wake up to reality and do the necessary for reasons they can conjure up themselves. Either for revenue or for the simple reason of protecting our environments. There is a wake up CALL but who hears!

And I am not touching on heritage issue yet. That's another special case for Malacca and others to copy. ( Yes, no need to crack your heads and minds - just follow what they have done) No need to travel outside the country and come home after enjoying the tour and sit back dreaming and nothing transpires. Yes a much repeated story.

By the way our visit to Malacca took a BIG alternative. We traveled by car to the city. Parked and the vehicle stayed put until we were ready to depart. We carried TWO bicycles in the booth. Bolehkah dua buah basikal dimasukkan ke dalam 'boot' kereta? Mengapa tidak kalau kita guna gerek 'foldie' atau 'basikal lipat'. Lihatlah apa terjadi bila basikal jenis ini dibawa bersama.

Not easy to fit in but possible if you disassemble the wheels

A row of 'foldies' in the hotel foyer ready for their riders in the morning. Yes safety too the bikes are 'parked' inside, under shelter and under watchful eyes.

Folded and light too

This is the scene by the old Malacca River, renewed and alive again caught before 8.00 am.. Imagine if it was much earlier in the morning, it would have represented a more intimate atmosphere.The old backyards corners of homes have thrived exploding their values and statures. Was it so five centuries ago?

The truth to my earlier statement

We were in this Putrajaya Urban Riders group by pure coincidence as we just decided to join them a few hours earlier.. Even the hotel rooms where the group have booked were full. Never to be disappointed we checked out via internet booking. Yes it is available. next time if the hotel says it is full house, you know it is still available via internet booking

Caught these ladies on the steps of the Malacca old Istana all geared up for the next route along the Malacca River

Kampong Morten along the Malacca River, an example of pride and love for the homes we have.

The families take pride in displaying their homes

Intricacies and modernity . Salutes to the power that takes pride in the beautification of this city

Feel like showing ourselves today because it was our anniversary by chance on the same date.

Before and after. One as it is and the other folded up for easy carriage

(Friends overseas, please see what you can get when you fly home to Malaysia. Only don't go for the BMW,Volvo, VW etc. You won't see what are captured in the photos above. Get yourselves ready to cycle . You have done that many decades ago so no problem getting back to peddle power. We can provide the foldies.) or you can bring one yourself. The airline will provide carrier facilities as its your luggage.)

TREASURES BY THE WAYSIDES

2011-09-16T13:12:00.000+08:00

Traveling around the country in between family, friend plus work related duties, we have often come across what can be termed 'treasures': sites , buildings, art pieces and artifacts. They caught our eyes, perhaps because we strained to look for them and halted the very moment they come into sight. Giving them a miss would be a loss at a discovery of a kind. More over they may not be around the second time you come around. Discoveries too pleasantly open avenues that you hardly know before.The camera however is always close at hand.

1.0 Seen somewhere in Perlis

Take this small hut for example. It is solid, steady and protective by its constructive details. It stands a distance away from other buildings but not too far away for the owner to approach it. You may be lucky to come across one, that stands near the main road. This is a 'jelapang' a storage house or a store for keeping rice or padi that has been harvested: guaranteeing the owner sufficient 'subsistence' for the family and security in times of scarcity and bad times. Of course presently you may find other things stored in it.

2.0 At Pasir Puteh in Kelantan

Only last week we were at a village in the Pasir Puteh district of Kelantan and came across this ornate and well constructed 'mimbar' or pulpit translated for its usage rather than anything else. The Imam told me it was designed and constructed by the craftsmen of the village. A mosque in our area in Alor Setar is wanting one and its size or proportion is suitable for the mosque, not being too big or bulky.

3.0 In a village at Jeneri in the district of Sik Kedah

Old Malay houses surprisingly show many decorative features especially being wooden homes. Here the glass frames decorated with wooden panels stand out.

4.0 Simpang Empat Alor Setar Kedah

Long and high stair cases. Malay homes would naturally have odd number of staircases.Thirteen or nine would be the correct choice

5.0 A wall in the sky at Singapore

An earlier visit to Singapore during May 2011, saw us straining at two buildings, miles apart but designed by the same architect.We wonder at first, how could it be. A wall standing by itself but too high in the sky. Then there was another one, a much taller building and right in the centre of Singapore. It seems the architect likes to challenge our perceptions and his design are as such.

Notice the tall white building on the right.No not a piece of wall but an office building with the normal facilities, though the main building is hidden architecturally by design.

6.0 At Kampong Bunut Payong Kota Bharu Kelantan

This was a discovery indeed. a beautiful bungalow home was offered as a guest house or a home stay

Intricate designed doors and a lounge that were welcoming

An opened courtyard with a grass verge that is pleasant to the eye and a guaranteed safe playground for the children right in the home.

7.0 At Kuala Besut

A goldsmith shop next to a home for the birds at Kuala Besut Terengganu. Notice that the open window has been sealed with brick blogs but permitting a small entry. No wonder, because I have seen even a seven storey hotel building converted into one itself.

8.0 At Langkawi

It was a lucky day when I managed to photograph the two 'burung enggang' chattering and cracking their loud cry just outside the back porch of our home in Langkawi. The coconut and rubber trees seems to be their playing fields.

Thankful that we continue to be blessed with sights that grant the beauty and magnificence of nature and God's creativity.

Sekolah Menengah Sultan Abdul Halim (Jenan) Menyambut AidilFitri di Dewan Baru September 2011

2011-09-06T21:33:00.003+08:00

Kerana dah memiliki gambar-gambar yang diambil semasa menghadiri majlis bersama bekas pelajar di sekolah lama saya muatkan untuk tatapan kawan-kawan dan khusus mereka yang tak sempat balik kampong.

Apa pun perjumpaan itu sangat meriah. Bagi Pengetua sekarang Che Gu Ahmad Din, bekas pelajar yang telah bertugas selama 10 tahun di sekolah ini, majlis itu tentu sesuatu yang mengembirakan dan menjadi 'farewell' yang susah hendak dilupakan. Saya ucapkan selamat 'Bersara' kepada Che Gu Ahmad Din.

Katanya satu Majlis sedang diatur dan akan diadakan di Kuala Lumpur sebulan dua lagi. Tentu ramai akan ke Majlis ini. Kalau dijemput InsyaAllah kami akan bersama.

Dihiburkan oleh pengganti M.Daud Kilau
Lihat tulisan di belakang. Malam itu dikenali sebagai
Majlis 'Tautan'

Dewan baru, besar pula. Tapi hilanglah dua buah rumah banglo yang pernah menjadi rumah guru satu masa dahulu

Abu Bakar Omar menyanyi lagu 'Hindustani". Dia bawa bersama seorang cucu ke majlis ini.

Bekas pelajar dan kini VC UUM Sdr Mustapha Ishak dengan Abu Bakar Omar

Kenali mereka? Che Gu Hj Omar Saad, Hj Norini dan Hj Nasariah Maghribi

Pengetua Hj Ahmad Din bersama Che Gu Hj Omar Saad

WELCOMING SYAWAL ( AIDILFITRI) BUT NOT BEFORE REJAB, SYAABAN AND RAMADAN

2011-09-06T15:47:00.000+08:00

Four months in the Muslim Calendar (Hijrah ) one following the other instill their own significance and awaited by Muslims throughout the world. Ramadan of course is more observable and recognized because of its own distinction when Muslims observed the fasting month. The atmosphere during the day and night time takes a change from the normalcy. Mosques and 'suraus' see their spaces filled with the devout who come forth for the jemaah prayers. Besides they too offer 'breaking of fast' for those who take the opportunity to be with their brothers at 'maghrib' or time to break fast. In the city like Kuala Lumpur when traffic does not allow you to reach home in time, the mosques especially are better stopping venues when the 'azan' is heard at 'maghrib' times. In homes the atmosphere too take a certain change when the lights are on in the hours before dawn when Muslims take their meals before beginning their fast. The women folks are awake much earlier to prepare the dishes. Alarm clocks and lately the telephones break the stillness of the night to awake the sleepers from the comforts of their sleep to perform their duties in the month of Ramadan. I have always felt the candour of Ramadan and like many its closing stages are saddening;leaving us wondering whether 'Ramadan' will meet us again.

On record are poignant moments or photographs of events recorded in the months just past. We usher activities involving neighbors, friends and relatives both at Putrajaya and Titi Gajah Alor Setar.

Before Ramadan began, we had a 'bacaan yassin' and 'tahlil' at our new home in Putrajaya. It was good to meet new neighbors and their families. Surprisingly the reception from neighbors and the Prescient Community Association was extraordinary. All attended together with their families and those who can't forwarded 'sms' apologies.

We were at Putrajaya Prescient 16 and attended the Al Rahman Mosque for the 'majlis buka puasa' and 'terawith' prayers. during the earlier parts of Ramadan. The picture shows the attendance and the contributions during the 'breaking of fast'.

Like others we too received invitations for ' majlis berbuka puasa' . This was from an ex - student who has done well in the motor industry. Earlier it was at Jalan Tun Razak Kuala Lumpur and a week later at Alor Setar. Naturally it was an invitation not to be refused. Opportunity and good luck permitted us to attend both functions.

Back at Masjid Tuan Hussein Titi Gajah 10th kilometer of the Alor Setar Jitra road, opportunities allowed us to attend 'breaking fast' functions at the mosque most evenings and therefore enabled us to meet the community and neighbors especially.The 'gotong royong' spirit allows things to be organized and carried out especially during Ramadan with spirited vigor and understanding. The jemaah 'tarawith' prayers too were well attended.

When friends and families return home to the 'kampong; for the Aidilfitri break, many of course organized get-together or 'return to school' functions. Being a former teacher and Principal make you a favourite invited guest. My former students at Sekolah Menengah Darulaman ( 1973 - 1979) continue to ask our attendance and we accepted it with pleasure. It is gratifying to see them and heartening to know that they remember their teachers despite the strictness that we imposed then

With my wife and students of SM Darulaman Alor Setar. Many distinguishing persons among them. bankers, entrepreneurs,TV personalities, Penang State Secretary and a Motor Vehicle Importer.

On the 4th day of Aidilfitri it was another invitation to a former school. One of the earliest in my career. It was Sekolah Menengah Sultan Abdul Halim Jitra Kedah. A premier residential school next to Sekolah Menengah Alam Shah Ceras ( the only two Malay Medium Residential Schools of the period).We were here in 1964 - 1968. Two distinguishing students being Dr Abdul Rahman Mustapha (VC UUM) and TV personality and actor Abu Bakar Omar as seen in the picture.

InsyaAllah at the later part of this month we will be visiting Brunei Darussalam and hopefully we will meet much elder ex school 'boys' and 'girls' when we were seconded to the oil rich Sultanate in 1960 - 1964.

No, no it was not to be the last of the celebrations and invitations that come especially during Shawal. Here we were at Sdr Mansor ex KSDN director, an ex student of SMSAH Jenan; again an opportunity to know more people.

THANK YOU ESPECIALLY TO ALL MY FORMER STUDENTS WHOM I HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO KNOW SINCE 1959.

THE CHAIR

2011-08-25T07:28:00.056+08:00

It sits by a corner. It's yellow backing signifies a certain trace of its originality. The silver container by its side perhaps added a certain richness of its own. It bids you to take a sit ,

Reference to my previous story, I must say that I was really fascinated to find the above chair at a friend's home in Kota Bharu recently. Of course it is once in a blue moon that you will discover or come across one. No not anywhere but somewhere lovingly kept by the owner for a very personal reason.and that too if you find yourself visiting a home and by a stroke of luck you manage to keep your eyes open and by chance have your camera ready.

As a friend intimated, such collection or furniture could easily be discarded or disposed along with the old home if demolition was the order. Especially if the chair was slightly damaged or showed signs of disused. Not knowing that restoration could bring it back to its original splendor and prime.

I am sure those who have some sentiments over such beauty will realize how easily we have lost some old treasures and features or ornaments because of the lack of awareness or appreciation for beauty or the heritage.Or the 'tidakapa' attitude.

The CHAIR by the way belonged to a classmate friend who happened to be a nephew of Tunku Abdul Rahman and his father therefore a brother to our first Prime Minister. For sure it is almost a century old and you can start asking questions about the chair itself and surely there will be many unanswered questions. Who designed it? Where was it made? What kind of wood is used? What are the inscriptions on the chair itself? How much it cost then?

It is in Kota Bharu now but was in Alor Setar before it moved to its new home on the east coast. Could it originate farther north? Believing that the Kedah royal family especially Al Marhum Tunku Abdul Rahman and family had close linkages with Thailand.

Or have you seen a similar or a more attractive one than the one above. Maybe there is one hidden somewhere in your home! Of course it may not have the same luster.

An indulgence on this drizzling Thursday morning 25th day of Ramadan and August too. Selamat Berpuasa.

It's raining and my trip out to this part of the town failed to view fishermen bringing in their catches. So no fresh fishes and prawns for 'iftar', Maybe tomorrow morning promises a good buy. The inclement weather however showed the hardship faced by the fishermen. Even near the coast they have to secure their boats less buffeted by the strong wind..

Instead I was rewarded by this view of the 'island' in the rice field. Here it comes close to the road and yet there is only a narrow path to it. It beckons you to take the challenge. Seriously I have often thought how interesting and comforting to have your home built on an island like this. Never had the invitation to own a padi field yet but the dream for a home on an island amongst the rice fields have long existed.

Let me sign off with a scene just photographed while I was out in the padi-field cum seaside area off Kuala Kedah a few hours after dawn this morning. A scene that surely make those wanting to travel north for the 'balik kampong' will want to do so soonest. Wishing all safety on the road.

BEST KEPT HERITAGE ARE AT HOMES

2011-08-21T01:47:00.089+08:00

A typical wooden window frame with movable shutters

A cannon ball which has other usage as well

ANTIQUES, FAMILY TREASURES AND HEIRLOOMS are found at homes. That is if the homes have been in existence for many decades. Or if the family have moved but have salvaged all if not some of the old artifacts,with them, then they are safe and sound. However the vagaries of nature may contribute to some damages.

An old Siamese clay offering bowl in its original design and hand painting.

Dinner Plates are favourite collection pieces. They come in varied design

A clay bowl in the shape of a duck used as a face powder container

I am thinking that as we prepare to tidy the house for Shawal or at any other time, why not have a good look in the corners or inside old containers or even under the house if it is the old Malay homes. You may be lucky or surprised to find items which the antique collectors will be glad to have their hands on. Now that antique markets have sprouted in most towns, surprising us with prices of items for sale, why not salvage any that may be around the homes. The items could be anything that our parents or grand parents have possessed and remained in the house for years without us knowing and realizing their values and significance.

You can find water- containers aplenty at Kuala Kangsar Perak but to come across an old one like this is a lucky opportunity. I believe it is referred to as 'Koja"

I am no great collector myself but thankfully I have long realized the uniqueness and the antiquity of many of the old collectibles and have saved or kept many items of beauty and significance. At least having the care and continuity to appreciate the old odd collections that have been either bought or owned by the families before me. Likewise hopefully our own children and later generation will know their significance and treasure them too.

Imagine choicest watches, cameras , hand phones, personal computers, type-writers and even clothing etc of your time being discarded and only to realize that they are of value because of their uniqueness or production. Jewelery pieces of your grand- mothers , mothers and wives in all their ornate designs are treasure pieces. Not suggesting that you take them away but cautioning that they are not traded or exchanged for modern items. Books too are collectibles.

An old valuable 'ketam'', an important tool to the carpenters and house builders before until electric tools take precedent

Perhaps it is easier to impress upon you the significance and inherent beauty and fascination of old items if you see some of my collections. None were purchased from antique shops etc but all inherited by virtue that I care and seek out for them even when I was in school before. Most fortunate we grew up and lived in the same house until the late 20th century. Even then the house was never abandoned. It lives on, reconstructed and reallocated.

Thus our home now carries on with that episode. Wishing that the children too will place the same values and significances.The decorative pieces on the walls and mantelshelves etc thus are not newly bought items but reminders of what our grand parents and parents found as luxuries of their time. They are priceless treasures now permitting us to live on sharing their antiquities.

May you find your search produced assets to your satisfaction and lead to more discoveries. One advice especially: " Have a keen eye "

Nevertheless,the mystery and the unanswered questions prevail. How did the pieces get to be in the home? Who bought or owned them? If you know that your parents too were in the dark about them, so did they belong to your grand-parents? Become more interesting as you may question where did they get them? All that makes the discovery a challenging episode as there are questions to be asked.

ATROCITIES IN OUR COUNTRY

2011-08-11T07:28:00.000+08:00

Atrocities ! YES it is puzzling and worrying. Scaring you and the families too. Bodies cut into pieces, placed in envelopes and plastic. An Indonesian woman and her five year old son were the cruel victims. Bangladesh nationals were 'involved'. A house broken into and a young lady just transferred from Sintok to Ipoh was bundled off to be disposed God knows where when a security guard confronted the assailants. - a postman, a soldier and two other friends.

Mind you all the assailants were neighbors of the victims.

Next day, the missing French girl is found. Dead and buried in a a hollow grave and in a dark cave. She was a foreign tourist visiting our country,because she was sure of its safety and charming friendship but Pulau Tioman was to be her last resting place less she is flown back to her family. Weeks before she had emailed her family recounting her experiences and suddenly there was silence.

The Banting murder trial is on. Newspapers sold like hot cakes when the murder was earlier reported. Now, the unsavory story does not attract that much attention when it is at the court.

Lust, greed, jealousy, 'hunger', crazy, impious, whatever their weakness we have to put a stop or attempt to address the shortcomings in our society. It can be cancerous if allowed to go unchecked. Foreign 'bachelors' in the country roaming unchecked with sights of women, natives or otherwise only tempt their spirits. Yet we let our borders or shores go 'unchecked' because ringgit was in the offer. Have we not learned what has happened to Britain for taking influx of foreigners? They came as students and workers but in the end what are the results.

Please, let's get to the roots for all these disadvantages and weakness.

Turn the pages of your newspaper today and you will be happily rewarded if there are no reports of similar cases. But surely there is a story of Britain in disarray. Hopefully Thursday in Malaysia is blessed without unsavored report.

RAMADAN EXTRAORDINARY

2011-08-06T03:19:00.085+08:00

The essence of time

WE are now in the month of RAMADAN. The day being FRIDAY and the date 5 Ramadan 1432H or 5 August 2011. August of course has its significance in Malaysia but Ramadan is extraordinary throughout the world. Especially to Muslim and Islam. Its the ninth month of Hijrah yet with all the extra significance attached to it.

Today it has been the fifth day that Muslims in Malaysia have observed the 'fasting'; an obligation that comes with the return of Ramadan. We are blessed that we can greet Ramadan again and able to perform or fulfill the obligations that Allah has enjoined upon Muslims during this special month. We have another twenty five days to complete before we meet Shawal. To Muslims it will be a sad departing when Ramadan comes to its end.

We recognized Allah has distinguished Ramadan from other months with many merits and virtues. Surah 2 'Al Baqarah' in the Koran verses 183, 184,185, 187 exemplifies.

" O you who believe! Observing AsSaum ( the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for for those before you, that you may become Al-Mutaqun ( the pious.)"

"Observing Saum (fasts) for a fixed number of days but if any of you is ill or on journey, the same number ( should be made up) from other days.. And as for those who can fast with difficulty (e.g an old man) they have ( a choice either to fast or ) to feed a 'Miskin' ( for every day) ..... but whoever does good of his own accord, it is better for him. And that your fast is better for you if only you know."

" The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Quran, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the Criterion ( between right or wrong) .So whoever of you sights ( the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan, i.e is present at his home) he must observe Saum (fasts) that month ....

" It is made lawful for you to have sexual relations with your wives on the night of As Saum ( the fasts)

Other pointers to the goodness of Ramadan included " the bad breath from the mouth of a fasting mouth is sweeter to Allah than the fragrance of mask ... "

"The angels ask forgiveness for those fasting until they break their fast. " " The devils are chained during this month. "
" The doors of Paradise are opened while those of Hell are locked. "
" The night, Laylatul al Qadr, which is better than a thousand months occurs in this month. Whoever is deprived of the good of this night has indeed been deprived of goodness altogether "

" Allah saves people from Hellfire during each night of Ramadan "

Abu Hurairah related that the Prophet said " If a person does not avoid false talk and false conduct during Siyam, then Allah does not care if he abstains from food and drink." and "If anyone forget that he is fasting and eats or drinks he should complete his Siyam for it is Allah who has fed him and given him drink ".( Bukhari Muslim)

Zaid Ibn Khalid related that the Prophet said " He who provides for breaking of the Siyam of another person earns the same merit as the one who was observing Siyam without diminishing in any way the reward of the latter (Tirmidhi)

The above plus the atmosphere of the nights at the mosques or 'surau' surely make Ramadan a special month of the year. The prayer of twenty or eight rakaat as a jemaah could only be done during the month of Ramadan. That ascertain the mosques and 'surau' are frequented by males and females every night during Ramadan. No you will never see such crowd during other months and feel the friendly and devout atmosphere.

As the days and nights passed by, we can only hope Ramadan in 1433 will greet us again. InsyaAllah . May we all be blessed during Ramadan al Mubarak.

PUTRAJAYA O! PUTRAJAYA

2011-07-26T22:26:00.002+08:00

Take a ride to the southern tip of this city and you will discover a vista opened wide as you stand in the 'Taman Ampangan Utama'. Two magnificent buildings stand as sentinels across the lake with 'Jambatan Seri Gemilang' and its features near by.

A panoramic scene for certain and you will be presented with this view as you sit for lunch/ dinner or just a glass of cool iced tea when you stop at this restaurant which has just been opened.

The PICC ( Putrajaya International Conference Centre ) sits on a hill overlooking the city.

An intriguing position where ever you are because you will be presented with varied angle for the shot of this scene.

Since we have been in this capital city of Malaysia , we would like to share some scenic spots and features that have surely made it a great city yet hardly known by many. Possibly there are few advertisements or documentaries regarding the city. Nevertheless it offers surprises and it will be a great adventure indeed for photographers and visitors alike. There are treasures in terms of architectural and national identities to be discovered.

Stones and steel steal the show when you enter this sector of the food court.

PICC through the branches

Yet another beautiful angle of the view from one corner of the lake.

Myriads of pathways at this park and a treasure house for children and their parents as they can play to their content

Besides,close by you can still see glimpses of the country- side

IS YOUR DAUGHTER AVAILABLE?

2011-07-24T22:53:00.002+08:00

The representatives performed their duties on behalf of the two families.

Now, that is interesting! Who at this stage of life would go about on such a mission? Are you that timid or shake your head in disbelief when given the task ? Interestingly, age would not halt a person on a mission of the heart. Would that be true? In fact the elders are always sought for. Maybe their wisdom and experience help.

The mother of the bridegroom to be met the young woman who would be her daughter- in- law. Here she is placing an engagement ring on the woman's finger.

I am of course referring to our Malay and Muslim 'adat' of 'masuk meminang'. Meaning of course ' the trials of visitation of a family home in respect of finding the availability of a maiden for marriage'. Wow that sounded complexity at its extreme. No wonder they would prefer an elderly person to perform that given task. Nevertheless the whole issue or practice has been modified concurrent with time. Not that you are rushing or entering into a home without due knowledge of the availability of the maiden in question.

Of late I have seen requests for advice in respect of boyfriends to enter into 'meminang' since many seems to shy away and as such the fairer sex question the delay of their engagement and marriage. "Meminang" translates mean ' an appointment to visit a home in respect of asking for a hand in marriage beginning with solemnizing an 'engagement'. No,It is not done by just placing a ring on a finger and declaring that 'we are engaged and let's get married'.

It is true that back in the 1950's or earlier when dating was not in style and the male youth hardly meet or know a female partner and vice verse, getting married or forming a family has to find an alternative. Therefore the visitation to a family home with the prospect of finding whether the lady in question is available to be taken as a partner for life.Now who would dare call at a home to perform such a duty?

A group photograph as a finale to the visit that helped to bind the two families together. By September 2011 we would be making another visit to Pasir Putih for the wedding ceremony. Notice the trays of gifts given in return,

Understanding and prior detective works of course come to the fore.No one would just blindly make an uncalled for visit. Surely all have changed now. Recently I embarked on a similar task and mind you crossing the Banjaran Titi Wangsa and on to Pasir Putih in Kelantan to visit a family home for that very purpose; representing my brother- in-law. Of course, there has been prior discussion between the two families concerned. Yet we do not come alone or empty handed. It has all the rigmarole of traditions and religious implications still. The date, day and time are set. We arrived as expected. Welcomed with traditions.

A spokesman on behalf of the family welcomed us. In turn, we thanked them and explained our 'intention' for the visit. We seek to know if the 'maiden' in the house, of course naming her less we may bark the wrong tree, is 'unattached' simply said 'still single' and if so we will be thankful to know and hopefully proceed with our earnest intention. Of course all that are said in the most colorful language and condor. Before that mind you we have not come empty handed as said earlier. We brought 'token' gifts in respect of our visit to the home. The 'bekas sirih' ((beetle nut tray / container) is offered first. Its acceptance meant that we may proceed. Graciously we handed too the rest of the gifts.It could be five or seven trays as token of goodwill and our sincere purpose. In modern lingo it may mean 'line clear' or 'ok' you may proceed.

The talk or discussion began in the most polite way of course. We would name the 'suitor' in question who of course has known the lady and both have agreed that their parents meet and discuss the whole arrangement. For that reason we were there at Pasir Putih. Given the nod, we proceeded by getting answers to the following questions.

1. How much is the 'dowry' and 'mas kawin'? Other gift as required?
2. How many 'gift' trays would we receive in return on the wedding day?
3. Could we have a date for the wedding day on the bride's side?
4. Others relevant to the wedding arrangement.

The answers to the above questions would help in the ensuing arrangement and planning for the wedding day in question. On the bridegroom side he has to provide the items as requested on the actual wedding day. Likewise the number of gift trays expected would also determined the number the bridegroom should bring. For example if the answer was nine, then we would bring seven. The number would be in the odd figure and less than what we would receive back. As for the dowry, it seems to go with current demand. Maybe RM 7000 to RM 8000.00 . No surprise, if the dowry and special gifts go beyond the unimaginable. When both parties have come to an understanding regarding the requirements and arrangements the the date for the wedding day is then fixed. Of course it will normally be two special dates. One for the bride's side and the other for the bridegroom's ,taking into consideration school holiday period, flooding and other circumstances. A brief ceremony followed with the solemnizing of the engagement when a ring is placed on the finger of the bride to be. Normally the bridegroom to be mother would do the honour. That done it is considered that the young man and girl are now engaged and await their wedding ceremony. In the meantime both have to attend classes in respect of marriage procedures and responsibilities and obtain the required certificates and clearance.

On our part, as forerunner to the wedding ceremonies and traditions we have completed the initial task of visitation and arranging for one would politely say as 'asking for the hand of a young lady for engagement and marriage to a young man invariably already known to each other. It may also happen otherwise where both may have not met or know each other. Then procedures and directions may take other alternatives. Still nothing to stop the adventures of the hearts.

That done, the entourage and the host closed the discussion with thanks. A prayer was offered. Lunch or refreshment was served before the party took leave. A relationship has been linked and will grow in future years,

Ceremonies of such nature of course may vary from locality to locality and more so with standings of both parties concerned. While some may go for plain and simple others may call for all the traditions and color not minding the expenditure.

As for the spokesmen from both parties, they performed their roles in the best of traditions keeping alive religious, and ethical norms, successfully carrying a duty for the community and the families.

WE HAVE ARRIVED AT PUTRAJAYA

2011-07-16T19:21:00.000+08:00

SINCE my last episode, it has seen movement up and down from north to south and even eastward in the peninsular. It has involved moving house too and therefore our arrival at the national capital - PUTRAJAYA, after vacating the home at Subang Jaya where we have lived. At least where the children stayed and we frequented. An end-lot double-storey terrace house bought in 1994 paid handsomely for a new acquisition at the capital city plus all the advantages and infrastructures provided. Any other purchases including automobile whatever its make would only depreciate in value but not landed property.With the zooming price in housing property especially, it has put its acquisition beyond the reach of average wage earners and recent announcements for first time home earners to acquire homes in Putrajaya would certainly be a big attraction more so with loan approved at 110%. Without doubt there are huge advantages having a home here. Now and especially in the coming years.

2. Kirkby College Alumni has moved to make its formation felt with the cooperation of Film Negara Malaysia via a production and screening of the 'Kirkby College A Heritage ' over the national TV1 network recently. The story of its beginning in 1952 and its contribution to teacher education for ten years in Kirkby Liverpool England marked the extra ordinary venture by the government of Malaya to open a teacher training college abroad. Its graduates no less than 1500 in number served with distinction when the country approached Merdeka and the period following. Kirkby College trained teachers with their colleagues from the other Teacher Training Colleges in Malaysia performed their tasks satisfactorily when the country achieved Independence and on the transition of changing from English to Malay medium and contributed to the intakes of students to the universities of the time. Kirkby College Alumni Association Malaysia held a function at Film Negara Malaysia Petaling Jaya Selangor on 23 June 2011 to thank the latter for highlighting Kirkby's role especially in conjunction with Hari Guru Celebration 2011. Members together with Tan Sri Yahya the President of the Association continue to enhance the contribution of the College though the College has been closed since 1962. Yet its members all senior citizens continue to participate in respect of their love for education and memories of the past. It is to be acknowledged that a new college at Cyberjaya has taken the name Kirkby to perpetuate its contribution to education and teacher training.

3. In the same week I found myself at Badan Warisan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur on a Friday afternoon to attend an official opening of an exhibition of P.Ramlee's Photographs by Tun Ahmad Sarji. Besides the function also saw the relaunching of two books . They were i. P. Ramlee Erti Yang Sakti written bt Ahmad Sarji ii,P.Ramlee The Bright Star written by James Harding and Ahmad Sarji. It is not widely known that the former Ketua Setiausaha Negara is an ardent admirer of P,Ramlee, the singer, actor , director or the sensation of the Malay Film Industry. The photographs exhibited were his personal collections and probably would not be found anywhere else. It was a fortunate afternoon as I was able to get Tun Ahmad Sarji to sign his autobiography which I happened to purchase that very morning. " Giving In Trust " documented the writer's story of seventy years.from childhood till his recent stature.

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4. Students do remember their teachers and on the occasion of one who was on a return visit to Malaysia from Canberra Australia, several got together for a dinner at Selangor Club Kuala Lumpur on 1 July 2011. Sdr Hashim Abdul Rahman who has settled down in Canberra once taught at Sekolah Menengah Sultan Abdul Halim Jitra Kedah. Sdr Dato Ghazi Sheikh Ramli and I were invited with several students of the pioneering years of the school as hosts for the evening. Sdr Razali, Abu Bakar Omar, Omar Abdullah, Dr Solihin, Zaharah and others attended lending a rousing meeting with remembrance of old time. Sdr Hashim sadly lost his wife Hajjah Zaiton Jamil also a former teacher at the school in February 2011 over cancer.

On the street where we live. It's none gated and also none fencing. It's peaceful and quiet and wishing it will continue to be so.

Several former students of SMSAH honor their teachers to a dinner at the Selangor Club. Hashim Abd Rahman,Ghazi Sheik Ramli,my wife and I were guests.Actor Abu Bakar Omar and Omar Abdullah attended too.

One of many portraits if P. Ramlee that were on display at the Photo Exhibition held at Badan Warisan Malaysia Kuala Lumpur

They attended the function at Film Negara Malaysia Petaling Jaya.

A souvenir befitting the film industry as present to the Kirkby Alumni

Tun Ahmad Sarji President of Badan Warisan Malaysia at the official opening of the P.Ramle Photo Show

The activities did not take a rest,since we saw ourselves at Pasir Putih for a 'meminang session' on Friday 8 July 2011.

IT'S TIME WE MEET AGAIN CLASSMATES OF THE FIFTY'S

2011-06-20T01:26:00.001+08:00

SELAMAT DATANG KEPADA SEMUA RAKAN SC SAHC TAHUN 1954/1955

Getting to know progress of their colleagues and health wise too

A slide show throwing back the earlier periods of our school days. Everyone engrossed at the pictures .

A group photo of all that attended.

June is past its half way and soon July marks the beginning of the second half of the year. A few days back friends must have stayed up in the night to observe the eclipse of the moon, exceptional being a full eclipse. Muslim had special prayers offered in the mosques too earlier in the evening. The month of May also saw Teachers' day celebration and a screening of the Kirkby College documentary by Film Negara plus off course the school holiday and many invitations to wedding ceremonies. That of course put a halt to my writing on this blog.

Yet besides all that busyness we had planned to arrange for a get together at home. It is wonderful if you could round up old friends of your school days to come together. This being our classmates of the then Cambridge School Certificate of 1954 / 1955 or the fifth formers of modern time. Schooling back in 1954/ 55? That would be 57 and 58 years ago. If they we were 18 years old then they would be seniors of 75 now. Many however were above 18 as the earlier war years had contributed to their late graduation. So the last evening's gathering of thirty odd friends with their wives and children was a pleasant and eventful meeting especially we had them at our home.What can you say but THANK YOU to all who honored us by accepting our invitation and especially to those who traveled from Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Perlis to attend the get- together. It would have been wonderful if more could attend. The warm-hearted feelings of knowing that the old classmates still think of one another and look forward to cordial meetings is a source of pride and satisfaction.

Circumstances of driving themselves in the night over a long distance would be a factor and we understood their apologies for not being able to attend. Still we would like all to keep in contact in the evenings of our lives. Friends that sat for the Cambridge School Certificate and then went on their separate directions of their lives not only knew each other in that year but had lived and played together since they first met upon entering the secondary school i.e College Sultan Abdul Hamid Alor Setar in 1948 upon passing their Standard 1V Malay School. So a friendship that was built over such a period naturally could not be forgotten easily.

WOULD YOU SKIP LUNCHEON OR THE VENUE?

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A journey by train on the 6th of May 2011 saw us arriving in Singapore for a short visit arranged by Badan Warisan Malaysia. We have been interested in its activities but being far from the Kuala Lumpur, never got close to knowing about it except from newspaper reports or its web page. Mid last year we registered as member and therefore the privilege to join its activities and the first being the trip to Singapore.

As reported earlier it was to see the Tg Pagar Railway Station on the first day soon after arrival. On the second and third day we had other programs specific to observe historical and heritage buildings, understanding and recognizing their influence to the country and directions taken to conserve for posterity and future generations besides being a pull factor in the tourism industry.

It was a learning experience while being perhaps the most intensive tour of Singapore as previous visits had been casual and fleeting.

'Bumbu' at Kg Gelam in Singapore

However this is not a report of what we saw during the scheduled programs but more of two places that we halted for lunch. Can't guess which is the better of the two , either the food served or the richness, authenticity and ambiance of the place.

Firstly we stopped at the 'Bumbu'.

It was a two storey building, one of many in the area, and no different from the others except for its main door and the name above it. It was still nothing to shout about. However once inside you are made welcome and notice that the tables are occupied or reserved for their customers. Two tables were designated for our group. It has its customers for lunch time and meaning you would have to make reservation otherwise it is waiting time.

A pumpkin dish served with sago . Yum yum

A restaurant or a heritage home? The owner is a collector and we dine amidst such richness and one would tempt to know where he gets them.

Naturally you could not sit with such treasures in a museum, not with great dishes being served too. Here they are at your closeness and touch.

Imagine the beautiful 'almari' as a divider to the servery behind

Old lamp shades and mirrors with designed frames

This caught my eye. I have seen such assemble before. Then it dawn upon me we had such a glass design in our old home but with its missing parts one could not imagine that this was the way it had to be put in place. Imagine my surprise to find a similar piece in an antique shop later with an offer price of S$4000.00

Members of the group, made up of many nationalities but Malaysian generally as they have settled in the country and all desiring to know more of history and heritage.

The equally tempting spread served for lunch

Sorry no 'Ais Kacang' served here but you are brought back to times when such a machine would prepare you the hot favorite at a cost of 20 cents.

We are sure there are many restaurants of such a nature in Malaysia as well as across the Causeway but here the ambiance as well as the menu was pleasing and naturally it compliments our reason for being in Singapore. It is no wonder that antiques are sought after and period furniture particularly.

The view from the club house. As once remarked ' mad English men in the hot sun batting .... away '

here club members are at it on Sunday and with a vista especially like you see above who wouldn't like to be on the field. Soccer, rugby, hockey, tennis are also played here.

The next day 8th May we visited the Singapore Cricket Club, standing its its prestigious place right in the center of the city fronting the 'Padang' literally true in its sense as such open space where you would have played football or kite in your youthful days are gone. It is magnificent to see such vista preserved and functioning . First established in 1832 it has a story of its own.

caught a picture of two ladies bowling by the side of the tennis court and we were reminded that the Club allowed women as members only in 1938.

The Singapore 'Noah's Ark' is visible from the Club House. Below the 'Padang' as seen from the veranda of the club house. As a point of interest the wrought iron and the verandah are dated as far back as 1907.

On the upper deck where one would have a panoramic view of the city

Lunch in the Club Restaurant.

0n the upper deck of the Club with part of the Club House in the background

Would this be watering hole ? Wooden panelling and flooring added lustre to this part of the Club. Timber as used in other parts of the Club added to its richness and of course dated back to days during the Colony/ Straits Settlement period.

Our serving ... dory dish

Another part of the Club

The old trees and the Court House become part of the Club scenery continuing its age old position in modern Singapore. It has also served as a hospital in 1942, a restaurant and bar for the Japanese officers during the Occupancy Years.

For the privilege to have a guided tour of the Cricket Club, a member of BWM presented a souvenir to the representative of the Club

Two smiling ladies grateful that they had a peek at two wonderful sites both managing to keep the endearment of old time which quite easily would be erased and forgotten. We would remember that even in the early years after Merdeka, there were many Club and Rest Houses in Malaysia. Even in smaller towns like Baling, Kulim, Mentakab and Alor Setar there were club houses with facilities for their members but sadly all died a natural death taking away some traditional buildings.

Hoping this trends towards conservation as seen here and particularly in Penang and Malacca would help in the long run to keep what are dear to our hearts intact and surviving and a sure way educate person to care for their heritage.

OUR RAILWAY STATION TILL 30 JUNE 2011

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IF YOU CARE TO SEE KTM'S ( Kerate Api Tanah Melayu) LAST POST BEFORE THAT DATE THEN TAKE THE MALAYAN RAILWAY EXPRESS TO TANJUNG PAGAR IN SINGAPORE SOON.

Because from 1st July 2011, the southern most station on the north south railway system that has been running since the early 20th century will cease to function. It will be closed down though the station building and hopefully all other features will continue to stand with the hope that preservation and heritage consideration will take the upper hand. The Malaysian and Singapore government have come to an agreement to settle the long standing issue of properties and rights through the meeting of both Prime Ministers late last year. Meaning that the station and all the land that stretches alongside the track from Singapore side of the Straits of Johore till the station at Tanjung Pagar will be transferred to Singapore no doubt with agreement for development and concession etc.

We were on a visit specifically to view the station and discover its features recently as members of Badan Warisan Malaysia. No doubt we have seen the station several times during our visits to Singapore before but frankly never had a closer look or bothered to understand its historical, economic, tourism, political etc contributions to the country. This opportunity comes however at its closing end.

There is no doubt a feeling of nostalgia and regret but then seeing the existing conditions of the station building and its abandoning features it is like fate accomplished as though we have expected that mission.

In one respect we go all out to convince UNESCO for the support and upholding of Malacca and Penang as heritage cities or centres, here we forget the treasures that exists within. Political exigencies and long standing agreements no doubt clouded the issues, but not maximizing the existence of an outstanding and fully featured building like the Tanjung Pagar Railway Station is an injustice. It would have attracted tourists many folds as our first base to Malaysia. Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh Railway Stations remain two other historical buildings which must not be left to suffer the same fate. Existing but without functions and care would only deteriorate their conditions.

The full agreement of the transfer of the station and the land stretching from the Singapore side of the Johore Causeway till Tanjung Pagar has yet to be disclosed but already there is an agreement to develop the properties by both government.

Be that as it may, what can you see at this railway station built with inputs from overseas and locally and declared opened on 3/3/1932? Two marble based reliefs at the entrance and in the hall designed by an Italian architect Rudolfo Nolli depicting Agriculture, Industry, Commerce and Transport stand out plus several panels reliefs. Two long station platforms gave allowance for long KTM coaches to halt there for the convenience of passengers. Once there was a hotel at the station just as there were at Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh. It has been closed down. Cafeterias and a surau added to the existing features found at the station.

The long platforms on both side of the tracks, able to take the longest coaches that KTM train can organized with protection for the passengers from sun and rain.

A section of the railway building that you see as you disembarked from the train and walked towards the exit.

Don't know what the pail is used for but the 'stopper' with its red marker was once used to halt the locomotive should it moved forward even after halting.

Notice the wording F M S R on the marble based relief in the high pitched foyer of the station. The Malay hut is a recent addition as a promotional piece. Never realizing that the mural earlier on commissioned and done by an Italian architect have depicted Malayan

( Malaysia's) early and even current activities

Rubber industry Padi planting

I would not like to guess how much such a drawing would cost if they are so desired knowing that they are one of a kind.

The frontage of the Tanjung Pagar Railway Station as it is today.

Come 1st July KTM coaches will halt at Woodlands where all passengers will disembark and the custom as well as immigration inspection will be carried out. Later KTM trains will not cross into Singapore and will halt at the Johore Bharu station only.

At Tiong Baru our walkabout took us to the prewar terrace houses which as seen afford space then and now. No wonder the area is much sought for.

The tug boat moves on the Singapore River by the side of the former Post Office which has become a Fullerton Hotel

Our visit to Singapore took in also some of the historical and heritage sites and certainly Singapore Heritage Society and the government have not spared to make the island worth a visit for those who wished to walk back into the past while helping to escalate property and land cost. Many public buildings too have been converted into commercial centers with added features and beautification.

FROM LAGENDARY LANGKAWI TO CAPITAL CITY PUTRAJAYA

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Several hotels on the island of Langkawi offer choicest accommodations. One here, wooden chalets right in the sea will give you traditional as well exclusiveness. Imagine throwing your fishing line from your veranda. while seeping tea and being surprised by your catch. You will be surprised to see how old Malay houses have been restored on the island and have become 'luxury' homes especially for foreigners and visitors.

White pristine beach exclusive to the hotel complex gives the guests the relaxation and rest they look for plus peace and quiet with the closeness of nature close by.

BEAUTY IN ALL ITS SPLENDOR

Back in 2007 I posted a story of Putrajaya with several photos of the capital city. Since then we have visited the place quite frequently and never tire of seeing the development on going. It has also become an icon, a touristic center with busloads of local as well as foreigners arriving daily. Happily you see them clicking their cameras or framing their best frames as reminders of their visit to the city, naturally with the background of their choice. The Putra Mosque and the Prime Minister's office complex seems to be the focus right now with the panoramic view of the lakeside added in. Thanks to the tourist guides or the bus drivers who prefer to halt near the Putra Mosque area. Maybe the food kiosks nearby would allow the visitors to have their lunch or tea break. Last week I was surprised to see a group of tourists from China celebrating their stop here and at the 'Nasi Kandar' stall especially having a whale of a time enjoying size-able plates of oven fresh succulent crabs and king prawns. Perhaps our tourist industry people need to observe the culinary choice of our visitors and as such offer the best in this direction. Whereas the other food kiosks at the mall begged to be visited the 'Nasi Kandar' server was kept busy dishing out the favorites of the visitors.

I believe observation of the visitors especially the foreign tourists at favorite spots would help the industry in many ways. Firstly where would they like to be photographed? What became their favorite background? Did they linger there much longer than usual? Souvenirs? What are their choices? Did they have enough time, besides the food break to take in the offers at sight. e,g a boat cruise on the lake? brief walk to other spots around the area where they had stopped earlier? At Putrajaya, the show case of the nation there's plenty to see, to know and admire.

As a regular visitor to the capital city, due to the exigency of work routine surprisingly there are many that still escape my eyes. Firstly due to its size and secondly the constant growth and development. Nevertheless let me share, several that hit me during the recent visit.

There are more visitor friendly and like-able places to visit at Putrajaya. One would be the new 'iron' mosque and since named as 'Masjid Tunku Mizan Zainal Abidin' since it was officially opened by the Yang Di Pertuan Agong himself 11 June 2010. The mosque and the other touristic locations at Putrajaya guarantee that it will continue to be a tourist hub.

We were here earlier when the international hot air - balloon was on show or when the landscaping fraternity turned one corner into a garden. I believe the residents at Putrajaya and the nearby Cyberjaya will never be short of activities planned in the twin cities through out the year.

The imposing Perbadanan Putra Jaya office that undertakes control and development of the city with an arch that extended the view from the east to the west i.e from Istana Kehakiman ( Palace of Justice) to the Tunku Mizan Mosque at its western end encapsulate the thoughts,planning and strategy that has gone into the planning of Putrajaya as our capital city. Added to that several other Ministry buildings close by deserve scrutiny and attention too. Even if you are no artist, architect, planner, developer or engineer whose work naturally called for such review the existing development deserve a close look and our pride for the nation.

Three flag posts stand as sentinels. From the frontage of Istana Kehakiman you focus the view right through the arch and on to the Masjid Tunku Mizan at the western end.

It can accommodate 25,000 jemaah or more. No fans, no air conditioning points or conduits to be seen.Yet it is cooling. Many factors and strategies have gone into the building of the "Iron Mosque" Your view is extended to the outside as no walls blocked the frontage.

You make like to refer to http://en.wikipedia. org/w/Tuanku_Mizan_Zainal_Abidin_Mosque.

We were here on Friday and being early thus the empty hall. It had its share of full jemaah at prayer time however. The two, 13 meter high imposing glass walls on each side of the mihrab have scribes from the Koran: one quote from Surah 2 Al Baqarah and the other from Surah 14 Ibrahim

The exceptional exposure of the Surah on the glass frame as photographed. You may refer to Al Baqarah (ayat) 148 - 153 for the choice and meaning whereas the other side of the mighrab refers to Surah Ibrahim (ayat) 40 - 47.

"Istana Kehakiman' Palace of Justice which stands at the eastern side of the extended mall to the Tunku Mizan Zainal Abidin Mosque at the western end. Yet another architectural structure that make up the complex.

We move from one corner to another. One moment at the legendary island of Langkawi and the next at the capital city. Like many others due to the exigencies and nature of our work giving service in consultancy we have moments to observe and share. The contrast of nature as to design and development each makes an impact. The off- shore fishing boats basking in the twilight at Pantai Kok in Langkawi and a bowl of 'ulam' salad as you prefer with 'sambal belacan' closes with a reminder that tradition die hard.

DISCOVERING TOURISM POTENTIALS

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COME VISITING KUALA KEDAH

The fishermen and their boats returned in the early morning after a night out in the open sea.Their single outboard engine confined them off-shores. They are ready to transfer their catches to those waiting.

A good catch for the night and now the waiting crowd can make their collections. Grab any and weigh them for the price you have to pay. At this corner it is fishes; at another you can get prawns, crabs or cuttle-fish

Or you can buy from these ladies with your choice already weighed . Imagine a kilo of good sized 'ikan temenung' for RM 2.00

Having come home with their catches, they would be getting ready to go out again in the evening subject to the weather and tide.

Why do we need to think of tourism only when we refer to places and attractions around us? There are countless places, activities and happenings which color our lives and not necessary those focused in brochures, magazines or in the news.Maybe the desire to share and attract make us want to reveal the hidden secrets. Business ventures, marketing and opportunities creep in with the hope some economic ventures would flow when people gather in large numbers. With influx of visitors from overseas, foreign to our culture and way of lives, wanting to see those inherent here unfamiliar, strange and opposite to their life styles, almost everything become major attractions. Similarly when we visit countries or even districts outside our country and home, we too seek to find such attractions.

A visit to Kelantan, at any time would propel you go for the 'batik' culture or its culinary delicacies; in Malacca its historical site and a boat trip on the restored Malacca River, while of course the tea plantation and the greens of Cameron Highland when you are in Pahang.

Come to Alor Setar Kedah, many would ask for Pekan Rabu and make a beeline to the shopping centre which open all days of the year of course, once a training ground for Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in his younger days as a trader.

So we open up our country side, our homes and our attractions in pursuit of tourism potentials, no doubt pumping million of ringgit for the venture beforehand . The more diverse, the more unique and incomparable the better.Sarawak now offers native music festival; Johore kite flying and Penang usher in bird lovers who rejoice at the musical sound of birds' chirping and melodious tones while offering sale and reward too. Langkawi seeks you to cool in the 'Tasik Dayang Bunting' or dive and snorkel into the water of Pulau Payar, the former close at hearts for maidens wanting motherhood and the latter sights of corals and sea-creatures in clear sea waters.

The restless footloose person of course is propelled to move either singly or in group. His or their tour made much easier by numerous economy flight trips, travel discounts and good internal transportation.

It was a huge surprise when we came upon an activity recently; delightful to the eye as as well as pleasing the gastronomy. More so when it is near home. Kuala Kedah being the estuary of the Kedah River is a fishing harbour as well as the gate way to the island of Langkawi by a regular ferry service. For all the activities that you may want to discover at any fishing harbor plus the historical perspective, you would naturally look for the unique and most natural. What more when we came upon fishermen unloading their catches at a tributary of a river and a large crowd ready to buy what were for offers. The fishermen had just returned from their previous evening sea journey and were as anxious to get their rewards. A quick sale at the jetty specially built for the off-shore fishermen by LKIM would be preferable. It was by all means a beautiful sight seeing the colorful boats tied together alongside the narrow stretch of the tributary with mangrove palms on the sides; what more with the excitement of the crowd waiting to collect their choice of fishes ,prawns, cuttle-fish, crabs or other sea products as they were hauled up together with the nets that hours ago were plunged into the sea to reap the harvest. Either you wait for the products to be gathered by the fisherman or his assistant or you grabbed them as they fall off the net. Now isn't that exciting? Comparing buying them off the shelves or counters. Fresh and not iced. We had a good choice of 'ikan temenung' or 'ikan kembung' as known in the south for an extraordinary price of RM4.00 for two kilos.

The excitement of pricing, plus the variety of choice did not end there. As we walked away from the jetty, leaving other customers to make their choices, we halted at a cafe close by. Its speciality fresh cooked curry or fried ikan temenung' served with rice, 'salad' (ulam) and 'sambal'. Service is opened while fresh fishes is available from the jetty nearby. The aroma plus the excitement of customers at the cafe and the jetty made the morning an unforgettable experience.You had your breakfast here as well as a load of of fresh seafood at more than half the price you would pay at the local market. The excitement, the color and the tasteful hot breakfast dishes served here would make your visit deserving as well as knowledgeable.

Stray further up the road you would come to the old fort of Kuala Kedah once the fighting ground for the British, Siamese and the Selangor Sultanate in the earlier centuries. If you would care to go across the sea, then an hour and half later you would be on the holiday island of Langkawi.

ENTWINING NATURALLY

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Blazing through the rocks as the water from upstream flow through the park

A 'Book Village' in a park created by nature is one of a kind exceptional in our world

ENTWINING NATURALLY ON THE LEGENDARY ISLAND OF LANGKAWI

Nature helps to curve many features. These photos of roots and branches are striking. I suppose as a beholder it brings many ideas to mind.Do they initiate you to reflect of anything? For one they initially entice me instantly a word: reflective or a representation. Foremost I get a definite "entwining' or 'linkage'. Surprisingly you are reminded of such compliments or good relationship not while in the community at large but while thrashing in a park. You would of course see loving and dear couples strolling with arms twine between each other.Nature has its secrets too.

Langkawi being an island offers all the ingredients tourists or visitors look for.Yet there are many undiscovered treasures waiting. One is a park just outside the city of Kuah with a natural captivation of its own. Once it housed the international 'Book Village' since remained closed for upgrading. Locals and visitors however make a beeline here during weekends. Children especially having the best time of their lives.

We were here recently and such the discovery. We would vouched that the 'Book Village' or the reading facilities here as initiated earlier would be a treasure trove since it is located in the most beautiful natural park.No amount of money would be able to create such beauty.It is a loss and a crying shame if such beauty, peace and tranquility is not shared and enjoyed by many.

Hopefully the intention to revive and make this part of the island visitors' favored spot will be a reality soon.

Meantime we share the secrets with you.

Loops and circles yet they never get entangled.

Verdant treasures of Langkawi. The forest and the greenery will mesmerized you

Can a fish be above water? It takes many forms. Here the roots encircled to produce what it is.

There are many more of such creations if you care to walk right round the park

THE DEEDS OF A FATHER

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The large open space of a Malay home minus the furniture allows for a gathering of neighbors and guests for functions especially religious do. The windows open wide guarantee cool flow of air.

A gathering of guests especially friends and neighbors for a 'khenduri aruah' and reading of Surah Yassin at the home.

The ladies 'Marhaban' group came to add their participation.

The two staircases as always attracted guests to have their photos taken there. It was as such before and now still.

The greens and the river in front of the home lend a homely atmosphere

It has taken a year to rebuild this traditional home, taken from its original site piece by piece and reassembled as it is now. On site a friend lent his old motor-cycle to add to the age of the home.It is now known as "Teratak Warisan" ( A Heritage Home).

This young nephew gazes out, perhaps wondering what it is all about. The 'deeds of the father' he understands since he is lovingly cared by both parents. Hopefully he will continue to do so when he grows up.

REMINISCING THE YESTERYEAR AND GRATEFUL FOR IT ALL

Many years have passed by. Many an experience have been tested and involved. We too have had our share of our own breeds: sons, daughters, grand sons and grand daughters etc. Over the years, since we have ourselves touched the status of a sexagenarian or even an octogenarian maybe we want to focus and recollect what we have acquired since. Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad in his latest book, an autobiography 'The Doctor in the House' did not fail to have an account of his father detailing how much he benefited from him. Maybe that spurt this topic too.

My father Mohamed bin Abdul Raoff died when I was still a teenager; not having completed my Senior Cambridge Certificate or the Standard IX in the school ranking. Now of course the fifth form or the SPM examination. I mentioned the word "acquired' just now meaning in all senses a huge contribution in all its conglomeration and specifically dear to our hearts of course 'knowledge' .

The 'old man' a terminology quite often used in reference to our dad seems to relish his seniority even though the referrer himself maybe younger still. Yet it puts him already on a high pedestal. Recognizing him as a senior person, a doyen already. A sage. Of course learned in all his wisdom.

I am often distressed at disclosure such as " The sins of the father" which suggest the misdeeds leaving many to believe and yet never discovering the natural and grandeur contributions heaped by him. Could be our own failure too, never or least writing or mentioning the better sides. I would like to make amends and put on record my own story with the hope it will spark awakenings.

The 'Teratak Warisan' is a case in point referring to the heritage home we have managed to rebuild and on another piece of land. It has been sixty years and more when my father as a school clerk built a wooden home as a shelter for the family.Whereas many of his friends, then bought motor cars popularly known as Austin, he invested his money on a home; replacing the older one standing on the plot of land at 9 Jalan Sekerat off Jalan Baru ( Jalan Putra). Alor Setar. I remembered the two Malay carpenters or house-builders to be specific and especially Pak Said a former prison personnel who toiled days and months to build the house. It was no easy task lifting and erecting the heavy pillars and allocating the beams in their positions via brute strength. Mind you no machinery to assist. The chosen hard timber such as 'cengal' or 'tembusu' which father acquired from Baling and Changlun withstood the test of time and remained perfect till today. Even the 'meranti' boards for the floors and walls were perfect. Extraordinarily ninety percent of the timber were reassembled again to make the house that we rebuilt. Yes they succeeded in giving us a beautiful home. My father enjoyed his home for only a few years but my mother lived to her senior years comfortable in the home her husband and my father had built. We treasured the time we grew up there.

With the completion of the rebuilding of the old home recently, it struck upon me how fortunate and blissful we have been all these years. Yes the good deeds of our fathers hunt us; hitting hard our tepidity of never valuing their innate contributions. Our fathers left us treasures, heritage, peace of mind and above all a wonderful shelter. No we never realized their worth. maybe we were searching for something else. Never discovering yet it was there. They must know and endure hardship having lived through the depression years, the war and the emergency. Not us we live through years of rebuilding and comforts. They saw the urgency and need.

The good deeds of our father, speaking of course of the bread earner who has left us are many folds. As a public service person he left his pensions to the wife. Our mother in all her endearment used the financial assistance to bring up the family. The house standing where it was guaranteed shelter and safety for decades later. Wisely and passionately adjusted the property and whatever trusted upon us would remain lasting gifts. Grief and regret only when heritage goes with the wind; sold off, mortgaged and unredeemed.

Having rebuilt the old home, in all its originality excepting the roofings and the heights and positioned in a rural setting by the side of a river with several mature fruit trees on site, it could only mean success. We could imagine both father and mother smiling at the thought that their home lives on.

It was thus at the 'khenduri aruah' that we had recently on the occasion of moving into the 'new' home that I mentioned of the fortunate who were left with treasures but sadly failed to see its very existence and yet lamented over the lacks of things. Maybe they too have forgotten the education and training they have acquired; all the characteristic traits of a good man and woman and all the wisdom of growing up. Many of the elders at the 'khenduri' concurred. Much as they too have received 'treasures' from their parents they too have invested and dedicated many for their children. They are intangibles of course for the moment. Many would hope that their homes too would be cared as we have done for 'Teratak Warisan'.

It has taken us on a course of rebuilding and yet it has reshaped us to realize the magnanimity of our parents: father and mother. Truly they have given us richness beyond calculations. No ringgit but intangible assets in all their glories. Wishing that this outburst of sentimentality, regret or overjoy will make the reader wants to discover the treasures that he or she has acquired or would acquire later. InsyaAllah.

A KAMPONG HOME DEAR TO OUR HEARTS

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Spot turfing, two 'cempa' trees planted in the compound, smoke from burnt dried leaves and the morning freshness conjure the kampong scenery . There were evenings when smoke help to disperse the mosquitoes and lent a scent not to be forgotten.

PERHAPS it is one of those refreshing morning, one dreams of. After a late breakfast of 'nasi lemak' wrapped in banana leaf, not one but two 'bungkus' together with hot cups of tea we found myself at our new kampong home waiting for the contractor and his men to come and start work on the landscaping of the area around the house. You could possibly upgrade the house compound in your own time and pleasure but it would be a haphazard and unplanned sort of way not knowing really how it would look like in its finality. But with people who know what they are doing, you would see their craftsmanship maturing in no time. Then again, many decades back we could possibly toil away throughout the day but exercise of such nature shy away for the moment.

A comment read recently said the you could take a Malay out of his kampong but not necessarily the 'KAMPONG' out of him. I would agree to such dictum knowing the sentimentality and nostalgia that the kampong atmosphere built within a person. Much as modernity, high rise buildings, furnished homes in the cities and all the sophistication geared towards making live better and happier, it could not take away the nostalgia and the old world charm of yester-years. Those who have at one time or another lived there would begged to return to such natural splendor. Thus the 'balik-kampong' syndrome and the annual rush every year during the eve of Aidilfitri or long weekends.

The roominess and the richness of wood plus the unique structure of the Malay home, where ceremonies one after another have taken place, games we played as children inside and outside the home, memories of mum and dad, grand dad and grand ma in their characteristic ways help to conjure times when we grew up in the old home. Alas many of us have lost that touch practically since many of the old homes have disappeared: replaced by modern brick buildings or the old place have been sold off or the family have moved away from their roots.

No fence, no gate. Its openness and the mature fruits trees plus the bushes and tall trees with bird chirping away guarantee that the kampong home rebuilt will usher many more years of happiness for the family and the community around.

The games we used to play under the house! Never far from the caring eyes of the family. All kinds of games were indulged in. Bamboos from nearby bushes became shooters with paper bullets to scare the hoots of the gang members: 'Fighting" fishes were scouted, kept in glass jars, observed for their beauty and color and even combated for. It was healthy and safety as everyone was around the home. Alas it is not so now. Playing games would be away from home. 'Futsal' at special arena and never under the house with pillars as sentinels. Laughter , shrieks and all that bring identity and recognition to the 'kampong' scene have faded albeit disappeared now. Revived even temporarily it would be God sent.

How it brought back some semblance of the good years to see the grand children frolicking around the house and finding the heap of sand a hit with what they are discovering.

Here's hoping the brief conjures some flashbacks of times you were growing up in the kampong and hopefully the nostalgia can be retained where possible. It also sets on record that the old home that we set out to bring back to life is now completed.

12 RABIUL AWAL MAILADUL RASUL

2011-02-13T22:09:00.274+08:00

Madinah modern buildings with characteristic features of the old.

An example of 'khat specially with the word "Muhammad" saw. Islamic calligraphy as an ornamental writing would be the decorative features in mosques, suraus and homes.

The green dome of the Prophet's Mosque at Madinah is a familiar sight to those who have the privilege to visit the city and rewarded a thousand fold for having prayed there.

Pilgrims on completion of their 'Haj' would be presented with a copy of the 'Koran' each as they depart for home from the airports. The holy book is printed at a large factory in Madinah. We had the opportunity to visit the centre and besides the huge sparklingly clean floor area as from the above photo you marvelled at the well kept garden with thriving greenery and flowering plants.

MUHAMMAD RASUL or PROPHET his name emblazoned on one of the main doors of the mosque opened 24 hours of the day, seven days in the week and throughout the year.

Pilgrims and visitors find peace, solace and sanctity when at Madinah. Millions during the Haj season take shelter under the canopies that now surround the open courtyard outside the mosque. In the evening Koran classes are held and you will find children in groups with their teachers busy reading and reciting the verses from the Koran. Their readings vibrate in the huge hall alongside jumaah with their prayers.

THAT WOULD BE THIS 15th of FEBRUARY 2011. Next year it will fall on 2 February and in 2013 the celebration falls on 24th January. The occasion is none other than the birth date of Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam. Born on 12 Rabiul Awal, the third month succeeding Muharam and Safar in the Muslim Hijrah year and that being on 23 April 571 . The Muslim Hijrah year being a lunar system has 354 days in a year instead of the 365 days of the Gregorian year. Thus the different dates of the occasion.

Muslim countries will celebrate the occasion and in Malaysia it is also a public holiday with ceremonies at federal and state levels. Processions and 'ceramah' will surely be part of the celebration to honour his birth with talks of his live and activities as the prophet of Islam. The celebrating nature pervades throughout the country, with district,mukim and kampong levels having their own programs. Not forgetting homes with their own celebrations too. Right through Rabiul Awal and Rabiul Akhir 'Mailadul Rasul' or 'Maulud Nabi' will feel the Muslim community's calender and assure a greater sense of knowledge, attitude, love and respect for Islam and Muhammad s.a.w the last prophet and of Islam too.

The celebration will renew and strengthen the faith and kinship of the Muslims in their religion while fostering greater friendly (ukwah) with everyone. Many would be enthralled by the singing and recitation of religious songs, nasyid including the rhythmic and melodious 'marhaban','qasidah' and 'berzanji' that would naturally ring out from mosques, 'surau'and homes.

Naturally enough we will recapitulate the past remembering the time and moments when we were part of the celebrations. Unnatural if you have never been touched by such celebrated nature before.

Right now we are transported back to Madinah al Munawarah or Madinat al Nabi with vivid memories of the city and especially with Masjid Nabi and the mausoleum of Prophet Muhammad itself. At this city too there is Masjid Quba the first mosque to be built in Islam. Fitting that we share some of the photos of this holy city with characteristics of its own which undoubtedly recall you to visit it again and again.

That the authorities have developed Madinah as it is now, turning a desert oasis into a beautiful city with Muslim characteristics remained a hallmark and pride for Prophet Muhammad s.a.w and in association with its name Madinat al Nabi. Anyone who has visited the city will notice its dominant softness and respectability oozing from the hearts and souls of its citizen. Then again it is the second holiest city of Islam.

Peace and quiet. Clean and neat throughout the day. Everything placed where they should be for the convenience of the devout. Zam-Zam water in its container, carpets spread out on the marble floor; air conditioned oozed from the bottom of the pillars and the holy Koran ready for everyone who wished to read the verses. This is what you will forever remember of Madinah.

Look above and you will discover the decorative treatments to the insides of the domes

In earlier years this would be the only canopy you would see in the courtyard of the mosque. Now it has multiplied giving respite to pilgrims and visitors against the noon day sun while adding a touch of uniqueness to the city itself.

While of course 12 R'Awal 1432 or 15 February 2011 remained marked in the diary, the calendar or the hand- phone as a date not to be forgotten and your attendance at the function on the occasion of Mailadul Rasul is called upon.

MAY PEACE BE UPON ALL

AWAKE TO A BLISSFUL DAY

2011-02-09T11:20:00.000+08:00

No doubt all of us got out of beds wishing for a fine day. It is indeed too. We have all rushed to do what we do likely the other day and yet have other chores charted out or ticked in the diary or whatever note form we used. Yet I cannot just skit off without feeling bad over things that continue to happen. You are peeved over the continuing road- accidents during festive seasons, senseless killing, robbery and drugs abuse etc.

Angry, furious, mad, hateful, ticked off, peeved, bad and call it whatever you want, it is ONE common basic emotions we have come to grasp. Go through a day without getting angry at someone or something? Probably not. Thankfully there are many levels of anger. " I am angry to have missed that visitation" rather than " I am angry that he has accosted off with my RM1000.00" are two levels of anger. Thankfully many of us have learn to depress our anger in many ways than one. Come to think of it "How do we effect it?"

It brings me to what I intended to say about in the first place; i.e to quote a few snippets for this fine day before it gets 'hot' if ever.

" Whenever books are burned, sooner or later men also are burned" Heinrich Heine

" A thought often makes us hotter than a fire" Henry Wordsworth Longfellow.

"I am glad I don't have to explain to a man from Mars why each day I set fire to dozens of little pieces and then put them in my mouth" Mignon Mclaughlin

" The difference between a violin and a viola is that a viola burns longer" Victor Borge

" There are worse crimes than burning books. One of them is not reading them" Ray Bradbury.

THE INTRICACIES OF THE MALAY HOMES AS THEY WERE

2011-02-03T16:58:00.097+08:00

An exciting find while on a drive at Jeneri Kedah

AS WE hit the Chinese Year of the Rabbit today and while the Chinese friends take their time off for several days with most shops and establishments closed, I find it a good time to search my photo archive and bring about a fitting account of Malay homes especially seeing that recently the blog had had a good following with hits on the 'kampong' home.

A window which opens at both levels with ballastrades

The Malay houses in the 'kampong' may have unexpectedly nestled in such a surrounding. Notice several homes partly hidden by coconut or large trees interspersed by padi fields. Naturally cooling enough even in the noon time hours when the sun is overhead. Being in the rice-field of Malaysia, these houses nestled amongst the peaceful greenery and at times changing to gold when the rice stalks ripen.There is space in between.Neighbors don't feel hemmed in.

In earlier times, when roads were the waterways , houses tend to be sited near rivers.Lucky for the owner of this home, he seems to have progressed satisfactorily. He has a road built in front of his home and it too has taken a new and modern feature. Yet he continues to enjoy space and greenery around him. The porch is large enough to accommodate two cars at least; allowing convenience for the larger family that comes home.

No this is not a long house but it was once a police barrack for the policemen and their families. Noticing the staircases, at least four families resided here at one time. Still it is located around greenery and even with a field right in front of the barrack. Sadly this airy and cool home near the former Alor Setar Airport has been demolished to make way for better accommodations.The large and extensive veranda plus the high roofs surely allow for excellent ventilation while the veranda offer closer relationship and rapport between families. Yes it is of a wooden entity excepting some necessary parts.

The above picture and the one below is one section of the Malay home which sadly but surely is disappearing. The carpenters or house makers do not have the skill to produce them or they have excuses of their own. Current architectural designs do not include such artistic portions as part of the house and further good quality timber for such pieces are hard to come by too. Those that are found sadly are on vacant homes, left to the severity of nature and yet the owners refused to be parted by such antiquity. I could only take photos though I would rather dismantle the pieces or even offer to buy the old home. Still the question of the right ownership hugs the issue. Maybe another day may come when the owner decides to part with his old home.

While driving in Trengganu, I stopped to see this house being rebuilt and the quantity of wood used as good as your guess and mine. Surely there are many intricate pieces and designs that make up this Trengganu home and to get the right timber and quantity now for such a house would be a disaster. Even the roofs are made from pieces of timber interlocking one with the other.

The following are recent attempts to build a pavilion, two homes and a decorative portion of a super market. Hopefully and gainfully these approaches will help towards reestablishing good timber construction skills and a definitive comeback of the Malay traditional homes though with modern characteristics.

Alas, though books and periodicals may give us clues, secrets and details of traditional Malay houses, nothing supersedes visitation to those houses still standing. But of course it has to take you on long trails, into out of the tracks zone and by accident you may come across one.There are no guides to available Malay traditional homes except for those at museums etc. For instance the quint pictures of a Malay house at the beginning frame of this article came into the scene when I was at a small town called Jeneri in Kedah. The owner and 'tukang kayu' himself is still alive and I marvelled at the hardworks and skill especially he has put in to build his home in 1957. Believe it or not he even carved the year '1957' which remained a lasting reminder of his passionate work which remained on top of one of his doors. Proud especially to be associated with that auspicuous year.

Perhaps we need to set up a 'Kumpulan Pencita Rumah-Rumah Melayu Tradisional' and those who discover one reports of its existence. You andI would have to scout through out Malaysia if I were to find several. Impossible.But if we have a referance point would'nt that be a starting point?