The Lady Who Shouted Idiot at The Cops at Times of Covid-19

This morning, I woke up to this surprising news. There are people who still don't know the magnitude of the situation? We hear news about staying home daily and countless explainations on how the virus spreads for 2 months now. And yet, there are people from the supposedly educated area driving from Kota Damansara to Taman Megah. What's worse, she actually has zero respect for frontliners calling them idiots! The police have been tirelessly honoring their role to main order and putting themselves out of shelter to help the nation battle against the invisible enemy. The thought of complaining about roadblocks is uncalled for. Let alone shout foul words at them.

Picture from The Star

This ungrateful human obviously does not have a grain of concern for anyone else other than herself. I can only imagine how absurd her frustration is at times like this! Not to mention, the amount of shame she brought her family with such manners. If my daughter was like this, I'd smack the conscience out of her thick skull.

What saddens me even more is that there are a group of people defending this lady in The Star Instagram comments saying that it was merely shouting and the police have taken it too far by arresting her. Unbelievably, there is not only one of her in existance. Some of them could possibly be parents. If so, my heart goes out to their children for having such parents as examples. Some of the comments audaciously stated that the police should have expected such response and tolerated it. I cannot help feeling sorry for Malaysia for having people with such mentality. These are the people who set fire to the stack of hay gathered by others.

Click on the link below to read more:
https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2020/04/01/motorist-who-shouted-at--cops-during-roadblock-held
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#covid19 #begrateful #dudukrumah #dudukdirumah #respect #ewensopinion #stayhome #stayathome #playourpart #dontbefoolishandrude

Sandakan Food and Agriculture Fest 2019 in Sandakan, Sabah

The wind below the land of Sabah has been blowing quite strongly lately. So much so that it made me fly all the way from Kuala Lumpur for the Sandakan Food and Agriculture Festival! Sandakan may not be the first thought that comes to Malaysian minds when it comes to food but Sandakan have decided to change that. Since last year, Sandakan has been loud in its F&B department with its annual Sandakan Food Festival. We not only found food during the festival but we were also well entertained with a line-up of events that included cooking demonstration, food race and eating contest. 

Having food that is available in Borneo only like the bambangan, tarap and tuhau, Sandakan is ready to compete with the rest of the states in Malaysia as a foodie's destination. Sandakan people showed off their culinary skills and homegrown products during the fair. UFO tarts, for example, which is synonymous to Sabah is believed to originate from this very town. Sandakan is also ready to steal some attention when it comes to birds nest with its own harvest from Gua Gomantong, Sandakan.

Scroll down as I bring you from stall to stall. Worry not if you have missed this year's Sandakan Food Festival at Bandar Kim Fung. The third installation is already in planning. From what I heard from the grapevines, it will be in September again. With the success of the second festival, we hope that more vendors will emerge to revive ethnic heritage food and Sandakan's hidden specialties!

At the Sandakan Food and Agriculture Fest 2019

At Sandakan airport. We flew in all the way from Kuala Lumpur for this festival!

State Director of Tourism Sabah, Pn Jamilah Abd Halim (right) and President of Sandakan Tourism Association (centre) officiate the new Sabah travel brochure at the festival

Friendly faces of Sandakan people

A cooking demonstration featuring the bambangan, a mango-like fruit endemic to Borneo

New in this 2nd installation of the festival is space for agricultural produce. Harvests of organic vegetables and fruits from the Bornean rainforest were also available.

Sandakan's famous coffeeshop, San Da Gen Kopitiam, with their unique creations.
From left (named according to what I saw): Soft shell crab roll, croquette and honey chicken sandwiched with waffles

The croquette I had that evening made an enjoyable snack

From left: Cream puffs, UFO tarts and salted egg croissants

This ginger beer is the new pride and joy of the state in the F&B scene. It is locally produced using the spiciest Sabahan ginger but is still soothing to the throat. Instead, the spiciness gave the drink its fragrance. With no artificial colouring, flavouring and naturally fermented, it can be drunk as a probiotic supplement. This festival is a wonderful platform to showcase creations like this to install more confidence in the local people do the same.

Spot me!

At the festival, there was also theUFO tart eating contest which yours truely participated in.
That was how I got acquainted with UFO tarts.
It is a vanila based cake with a dollop of egg custard that is circled with soft meringue. To be honest, I could only taste soreness in the throat in the contest. I then gave it a second chance by savouring it at San Da Gen Kopitiam.
Goes great with coffee or tea.
Photo credit: Meira Nadhira

Casual snacks like stuffed crab and sausages will definitely be waiting for you

Some food like fried chicken, makes a universal favourite.
Malaysian Chinese cakes like cintoi has also been uniting people of Sandakan

A Sandakan vendor happily turning Takoyaki balls

Sushi for those who has an appetite for Japanese food

Being the capital of the state when British North Borneo Charted Company ruled Sabah, Western food is not foreign in Sandakan

Pandan rice

Some homemade kaya 

Locally planted coconuts

The flames that made all the slabs of meat yummy

BBQed pork

Pork buns and dim sum

Some call it tapai, some call it lihing, in Sarawak it is famously called tuak and commonly known in English as rice wine.

Sweet buns from China freshly made at the stall

The dumplings were snapped up so quick that this was all when I arrived

Zhejiang seafood noodles which was slurpingly delicious

The Indonesian food, bakso, is commonly found in Sandakan

Try the uncanny combination of cheese and banana

Food trucks also contributed to the gastronomic merriment

The Sandakan Food & Agriculture Festival 2019 was organized by Sandakan Tourism Association and is supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Environment Sabah, Majlis Perbandaran Sandakan, Tourism Malaysia, Sabah Tourism Board, Malindo Air, Maswings and GrabCar.

For more information, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/sandakanfoodfest/

The Sabah Series
Sandakan Food and Agriculture Fest 2019 in Sandakan, Sabah
Tabin Wildlife Reserve and Resort in Lahad Datu, Sabah
Myne Resort by the Kinabatangan River in Sandakan, Sabah
Orang Utan Rehabilitation and Sun Bear Conservation Centres in Sepilok, Sabah
Sepilok Nature Resort in Sandakan, Sabah
Where to Go and Attractions in Sandakan Town, Sabah
Seafood at Restoran Pasir Putih Baru in Sandakan, Sabah
San Da Gen Kopitiam in Sandakan, Sabah
I Left My Heart in Sabah

Search for these hashtags to see more of the event on social media:

#VisitMalaysia2020 #VM2020 #MalaysiaTrulyAsia #CutiCutiMalaysia
#SyiokOSabah #SabahOKbah #visitsandakan #makansandakan
#experiencesandakan
#theWILD #theSAVOURY #theSTORIES #sandakanfoodfest #foodieSandakan
#TourismMalaysia #MalaysianHospitality #maswingmates

Dear Tun M-My Thoughts on GE-14

Dear Tun Dr. Mahathir, I would like to think that we are alike in many ways. Apart from having big noses, I would like to see myself as…a patriot, just like yourself! While you stifle your coughs during your speeches, I was battling with my bladder at the grounds to make sure I stay till the end of it. Very fundamentally, we both struggle in our own ways all because of our love for Malaysia.

Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad
Source: Instagram @tunmahathir 

I knew that this general election would be extraordinary from the moment I found out that this 93 year-old man is using his remaining strength to champion for the future of his country. At an age where many of us cannot even dream of reaching, this nanogenarian is a figure that I am glad to be in the same lifetime with. Admitting his past doings as possible mistakes does not vindicate him of his actions when he was premier. But, to witness this legend tear like a normal rakyat thinking of the fate his country is something that I cannot have the heart to say is fake. Tun, can you stay alive longer?

Rakyat Malaysia at ceramah 

This elections is not about whether Tun M can be the prime minister at seven years short of a century years old or whether he is being a hypocrite emerging on the other side of BN now. Let’s just say, he played his cards well during his time. If even sage politicians like him apparently woke up from retirement looking at the national situation, to me, this elections is about saving Malaysia. I am not a political researcher but here are my thoughts as an ordinary citizen:

1. First of all, I want to be able to carry the ‘Malaysian’ label with pride among other nationalities. Even if I were to adopt PR in another country, my genesis as a Malaysian first prevails in my biodata. To be known as a nation famed for being in a cloud of scandals in BBC instead of being top notch in education is not what I have in mind for my country. The last I want to hear is my children and their children blaming me for making them Malaysians too.

Anak Malaysia
Source: https://leaderonomics.com/leadership/what-makes-malaysia 

2. It is very unfortunate to have encountered disappointing cases of friends and family who admit defeat because of the recent redelineation of constituency or being too confident of a certain party’s victory. “My vote will not make a difference” mindset is more poisonous than the damage that has been done to the country. We rob ourselves of our country’s future more than anybody else by thinking that way. Those perceiving along that line, you first have to know what has been done to our dearest nation (make your Google useful). Your vote, like how Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz puts it, is your agreement on whether to renew or terminate the contract of the ‘management’ that handles your country. If you do nothing, you truly have no right to complain about what happens in the next 5 years. It tantamounts to saying yes to whatever comes. The result of redelineation is not up to us voters to predict. To you, your vote counts.

What does it take to save my country? 

3. I don’t want to feel helpless and scared anymore. In recent years, I have a feeling that things implemented don’t make Malaysians’ lives easier anymore. We cannot question and do anything about it other than vote every 5 years. Simple activities like having lunch and travelling in town becomes more and more of a financial struggle because of the instability of prices and fares, what more to own the most minuscule of diamonds to decorate my stubby fingers. We can be intoxicated by our own rubbish because of improper waste treatment but at the same time be drowned in towers and towers of empty office spaces. Why do I sometimes feel like a citizen of an impoverished country? Will I have to bring my engineering certificate to render my service as a domestic helper, relying on currency exchange for a better life?

#tanahairku
Source: www.petronasofficial.com 

4. Essentially, the government is there to serve the rakyat. Just like in business, competition is essential to avoid monopoly. Having other parties on standby for the coveted opportunity will ensure that the people is heard and results are priority. If not, to the next contender please!

We are Malaysians first
Source: www.smule.com 

Seeing Tun M, Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz and other comrades sacrificing their time, giving up life-time opportunities and risking their privileges for a better Malaysia, I feel the need to do my part. Leaving my countrymen to do all the work is not a trait of mine.

So on polling day, give no chance for your vote to be spoilt by:

1. wearing no indecent clothes (no sleeveless, shorts, slippers)
2. wearing no nail polish
3. bringing your identification card
4. arriving early and anticipate traffic, road blocks and weather
5. crossing on the right place on the paper
6. putting my votes in the CORRECT ballot boxes (parliament and state)

Read up more on how to vote. Google ‘voter education Malaysia'.

On the last 2 days before polling day take the opportunity to infuse yourselves with more information through ceramahs or via internet. Make an informed decision.

Happy Voting!

Pulau Langkawi 2015

It seemed impossible for 17 years. Well, not exactly impossible but the idea lingered long enough for me to watch a baby complete his or her SPM. I last visited Langkawi when I was 14 years old. Whenever I hear of Langkawi, reminiscence of my first unchaperoned teenage trip replays. It was sweet fun but I did not step foot there again. Then one day, my traveller’s star decided to align with the moon of Ramadhan and twinkled north at Langkawi. Chose a free-spirited friend and off we went to the Jewel of Kedah.

Trips always make me elated

The ferry ride takes 2 hours at RM23 per person from Kuala Kedah jetty. The ferry can be a freezer. So remember to bundle up even though you know very well it is a sun, sea and sand affair. The 2 hour journey bought me time to wonder how much Langkawi has changed compared to my distant memory of it or alternatively, I could have just slept! Sleep...it will serve you well in the activities ahead.

Langkawi Vegetarian Restaurant

When we reached Langkawi it was time for lunch. If you are up for something out of the ordinary to build the momentum of the trip, search for Langkawi Vegetarian Restaurant. This Buddhist Society funded restaurant serves like the normal ‘chap fan’ (mixed rice) restaurants.  The best part is that there is no price for the food taken. Patrons pay back as donation put in a box. Tableware used has to be washed by us, the users. The vegetarian food comes in the form of fried rice, fried mee hoon, porridge, vegetarian meat and of course vegetables. Scoop your soup from a big pot using a huge ladle. Chinese desserts like bubur cha cha and longan drinks are also available. We found the yummy and charitable meal fun, especially the part when we did our own dishes. The restaurant is bedecked with words of wisdom and Buddhist quotes. There were two Malay ladies running the restaurant. Religious harmony right before our eyes!

A Buddhist society funded restaurant

Langkawi Vegetarian Restaurant

72, Jalan Pandak Mayah 7, 07000, Pusat Bandar Kuah, Pulau Langkawi, Kedah

After all were fed and watered, we took out our free copy of Langkawi map which we picked up from the jetty. In Langkawi, it is best to go around the island with a car. Therefore, we got our own KV plated automobile and of course whipped out our shades. (All Langkawi vehicles are registered as KV) There are 36 attractions suggested in the map. If you ask me, the best place to strike out most attractions is at the Machinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park at the north east of the island. Head towards the Langkawi Cable Car in The Oriental Village at Burau Bay for a cluster of attractions and activities.

Ready? Go!

Langkawi Art in Paradise

Langkawi Art in Paradise 3D Museum, hailed the largest 3D art museum in Malaysia and second largest in the world. Indulge yourself in the literally superficial world here. All you need is a camera and lots of imagination. If you like 3D art, this three storey-ful of hand painted scenes will satisfy your fetish. Talented local artists collaborated with 23 leading Korean painters to produce over 200 make-believe artworks.

The free sample of 3D art

Attractions at the Geopark

Sky is the limit to imagination

Telaga Tujuh (Seven Wells) Waterfall

Do not overlook the island’s waterfalls while frolicking in its beaches. The best waterfall is apparently the Seven Wells Waterfall just 5 minutes’ drive from the Langkawi Art in Paradise. To get to the waterfall, we had to ascend a prominently steep road by foot. Legend has it that the waterfall here is so beautiful that even fairies come to bathe in it. However, I find the waterfall’s beauty itself more enchanting. Like the name suggests there are seven intertwined natural pools fed by seven separate waterfalls from Mount Matchincang. Dip in the invigorating waters to wash away stress or just be there and let the breeze cleanse your soul. Do be careful of pick pockets and thieves as we witnessed a distressed tourist losing his unattended bag. The nearest police station is down south at Padang Matsirat.

Geared with an ice cream and great determination to reach the waterfall

The beautiful Telaga Tujuh Waterfall

Relaxing

Be more adventurous and climb higher

Durian Perangin Waterfall

One waterfall did not do justice to our enslaved life in the city. Langkawi offers plenty of waterfall opportunities. So we decided to go for another one and this time one at the west of the island. Durian Perangin Waterfall is called so because of its abundant of durians in its surrounding. The site is equipped with barbeque pits and little gazebos making it perfect for picnic. The green canopy shields the sunlight making the place cooling sans air-conditioning. (pardon the urbanite) The lower falls are great for kids to waddle in while the upper tier proffers deeper waters and stronger currents. This is a 14 tier waterfall. You will find your lungs infused with nothing but fresh air. Bring a bucket to enjoy water fights with family and friends.

Gazebos for picnic by the waterfall

Careful of durian falling

Remember to bring a bucket to boost the water fight

Wat Koh Wanararm (Langkawi Lucky Temple)

On the way out, we stopped by Wat Koh Wanararm. We had the opportunity to admire the prowess of craftsmen who carved the marble Guan Yin statue out of a cliff. It makes the Guan Yin statue all the more divine.

Guan Yin statue carved from a cliff

Dataran Lang (Eagle Square)

We wasted no time and we made our way to Dataran Lang. This is where the iconic Eagle perches while looking out at the sea. Langkawi itself means reddish brown eagle in Malay. In Malay literature Hikayat Merong Maha Wangsa, the Garuda (a mythological giant eagle) rested on these islands. Photographs back dropped by the Eagle is indeed picturesque.

Pantai Chenang

The sun was setting and what better activity to do than a romantic stroll at the beach? If you like it happening, head to Pantai Chenang, the most developed beach in Langkawi. I have long heard of it and when we finally met, I understand why she is popular. The beach is level for quite a distance while the Andaman Sea caresses the white beach. The seaside is very wide allowing it to accommodate multiple beach activities. Quaint shops, hotels and F&B are aplenty. My feet had the sand therapy they deserved, ploughing the fine sand while we strolled. We planted the tripod into the sand and had a ball time with the camera too! Enjoy sips at the Yellow Café or visit the Rice Garden Museum and Sea Aquarium which is along Pantai Chenang. If you like it quieter, try the Tanjung Rhu beach.

Duty calls for Duty Free

There are many reasons tourists fly in to Langkawi and one major reason which makes this island special is that things here are DUTY FREE and GST FREE! I took the opportunity to stock up on my beauty essentials and chocolates. What makes a party rock even more, duty free alcohol of course! In Langkawi also, do not forget to squeeze a few packets of ikan bilis (anchovies) and dried sea products into your luggage. My mother made sure I import some back to Kuala Lumpur as they are very fresh and cheap. I got mine from Kedai Guan Thong. Call me for more discounts from Kedai Guan Thong so that you can make more ikan bilis soup or sambal ikan bilis. Pile up on the calcium babeh!

Only RM3.50 woo hoo!

Make sure to stock up on ikan bilis to make soup back home

In Langkawi, do not miss out island hopping which is usually to the three popular islets Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Singa Besar and Pulau Beras Basah. Due to the weather, we had to make this the highlight of our next trip. Pulau Dayang Bunting (Pregnant Maiden Island) is known to potently help conceiving when dipped in to the water. Mortally speaking, I look forward to submerging into the fresh water lake in the middle of the Andaman Sea. Nature never fails to bedazzle me.

Other activities that we missed, which could add value to your trip:

Skytrex Adventure Park

Makam Mahsuri (Mahsuri Tomb) Learn the amazing legend behind this tomb

Langkawi Permata Kedah word sign at Pantai Chenang

There will certainly be another visit to Langkawi, especially to fulfill the other undone activities. Hopefully I do not have to wait till the same baby finishes degree to step on to Langkawi again. Wait for me Reddish Brown Eagle!