At this juncture, the blog garners 100,000 views after it’s official commencement since 27th May 2008 (prior to this, I used Friendster Blog since 2005)! I know the statistical number is SO MINISCULE in comparison to other celebrated and hit blogs; but it always puzzle me that people do come and visit my blog – perhaps from my Facebook acquaintances or friends; or maybe some tomcat peeps who browse through and steal some of my honestly-worded-from-my-mind-and-heart and copy them and put in their blogs and claim that those my words are theirs; or perhaps people who stumbled across the blog because it contains some facts or information they were looking for!
Andy Warhol-inspired cover album. At first I was like – WHAT? But yeah, I guess she follows international style.
Anyway looking back for the past 4 years, this blog recorded so many memories and adventures I have encountered. Getting and quitting jobs; losing fickle loves and getting authentic love; knowing new friends and losing merry-weather friends; exploring new worlds, etc. So far, I am grateful to ALLAH SWT for everything and I’ve been very fortunate so far in threading my life especially this recent 1 year. I have all I’ve ever dreamt of having and I couldn’t be so greedy to ask for more. ALLAH SWT has blessed me with graces in my personal and professional lives and all I can say; ALHAMDULILLAH!
I used to be Siti Nurhaliza’s hardcore fan. It means that I used to be very defensive and when people criticize Siti, I got irritated and started defending her. Hahahha, eww and erkkk, right? Well, that was prior to her marriage. Now, I still like her but the degree is merely mediocre in “so-so” way. Nonetheless, her momentum to challenge and improve herself as well as retaliating subtly by proving to others that whatever they are badmouthing are wrong – are what really mesmerized me! Siti Nurhaliza always comes with something new to please her fans and always has plans to upgrade herself. Amazing! I like to emulate that in my life.
I guess by now, Malaysians now all know that Siti Nurhaliza already launched her debut English album entitled “All Your Love.” Well, I am not going to highlight and review each of the songs because I am sure you can find TONNES of reviews from her fanatic fans in their respective blogs; but what I wanna say is that her debut English album is VERY IMPRESSIVE! She really put her efforts in making this record – the album contains 10 catchy and superb songs (I can say it has international flavours); albeit all the songs were written by the same person; but the creativity varied in each of the songs and once you played the record; you will be agitated to listen to the whole album!
All the songs are radio-friendly but I can easily say that my favourites are “All Your Love” – a sensual yet smooth song; lyrically besotting. Siti Nurhaliza used the introduction of the song in her SimplySiti advertisement; “Stand Up” – a female empowerment ala Diane Warren-penned and a great motivational song for someone who has fallen down into the abyss and finding the way to bounce back; and “Remember Me” which features Sean Kingston! Yeah, I know! She rocks this song and I hope it can catapult her to the international scene; or at least Asia because the song is so good!
Sometimes, we just need to do things NOT to please others but to make ourselves satisfy with our achievement, don’t you think?I was so ever proud that with my OWN money, I was able to bring myself to set footsteps in Melbourne and witnessing all the enchanting world of Phillip Island & 12 Apostles! People will say it’s money-wasting; but for me, I need to do it for myself- so that my horizon will be broaden, and to be able to do that with your OWN MONEY, it’s an accomplishment I am so proud of! Alhamdulillah(,”)
Melbourne, Australia is the capital state of Victoria is famously known for its extremely-fluctuating weather due to the fact that it is situated in Port Phillips area. Melbourne is situated at the southernmost part of Australia and I can say it is a densely populated with multi-racial people! It is the city that has the hybrids of both historical classics elements and modern contemporary lifestyles – pretty much like Malaysia’s Malacca; I guess that’s why I can imagine myself staying longer or working in Melbourne; wouldn’t be an awkward thing in my mind, I say. Victoria is known as The Garden State; and musics, literature, arts & philosophy play major part of the city’s vibrant lifestyles! Out of nowhere, people would dress up fancily and do their “artsy” creativities on the street! And generally, the people are approachable & friendly if you are asking for directions – hospitality is what the Melburnians best etched in my memory (,”).
In front of the Melbourne’s iconic building – Flinders Street Station.
The Famous Yarra River & Princess Bridge.
Melbourne night scenery. From Princess Bridge.
Anyway, thanks to Air Asia X, we boarded the flight on 10.30 P.M. on the night of 15th September 2011 and reached Melbourne around 8.30 A.M. The almost 8 hours flight took a toll (I barely rest after invigilating the You-Know-What exam!) but I guess the excitement to experience new things injected strength in me! The just-ended winter wind was so cold that I was grateful for having my short trench-coat! My sister and I went to a nearest counter in the airport and decided to use Gray Line for our 2 tours in Melbourne – The Phillip Island tour & Great Ocean Road tour. We then boarded a pick-up van which graciously sent us right at the front of the motel we were about to stay throughout our Aussie trip, The City Square Motel.
Our Aussie motel! AUD80 per nights. Very comfortable and friendly staffs especially Mr. Cameron. Thanks for the hospitality Mr. Cameron – directions and all. (,”)
City Square Motel is situated in Swanston Street; which by the way IS at the heart of Melbourne; just a walking distance to the iconic Flinders Street Station! I guess Kakak had done tremendous job in selecting a strategic motel; with affordable price. The attendant, Mr Cameron was a helpful lad and we were very thankful for his help throughout the 5 days staying. The room was very comfortable and for us, having a room charged AUD80 dollars per night in the heart of Melbourne was a heaven-sent! Alhamdulillah! For those who might think of visiting Melbourne, do not hesitate to browse the website at http://www.citysquaremotel.com.au/ . Pretty awesome, aite? Anyway, we just roamed around Melbourne by walking on the streets (Flinders Street Station, Federation Square & Yarra Riverbanks) and savoured the halal Indonesian cuisines in “Nelayan” & “Es Teler”Restaurants as well as Halal Kebabs.
Vegemite, Aussie’s proud bread paste-spread! I am not a fan, sorry!
St. Paul Cathedral from Flinders Street Station.
Tram – one of the important public transportation. Melbourne houses the largest tram network in the world!
Federation Square.
On 2nd day, we loafed around at Federation Square; had lunch and then got ready for the anticipating Phillip Island tour. The checkpoint was at Federation Square itself; in front of Australian Centre Of The Moving Image. Off we went! From Melbourne, we headed to the south-east passing the towns like Dandenong and then a small town called Kooweerup. The name derived from the Aboriginal phrase meaning “Black Fishes” (so said by the tourist guide). You could see clearly that it is a typical small town with little suburban houses and all! I remembered the name because it is kinda unique, don’t you think? We then passed Grantville,Bass and also a small town called San Remo. This small town is named such as that because there were so many Italian families migrated there; it also has the bridge called ‘The Narrows Bridge’ that links the mainland and Phillip Island.
Lush greeneries and grasses in Churchill Island.
Once we got into Phillip Island, we proceeded to a smaller island on the north-west called Churchill Island. Now, this was amazing! With its lush untainted greeneries and grasses and sea breeze blew your faces, it was ethereally tranquil! I just can’t believe that I’ve witnessed it with my own eyes; Alhamdulillah for the opportunity because before this, I merely watched that kind of sceneries IN THE MOVIES; but getting a chance to witness it with my own barenaked eyes- it’s just fulfilling, Alhamdulillah! We were given a tour on the life on the ranch – with sheep shaving/shearing, boomerang and lasso lessons and of course, tour around the English country-side lifestyle! It has always been our (my sister and I) dreams to be in that kind of ranch savouring the country-side life of the English. And to have the ranch on a hill facing the sea, it was magical! Words are not enough to describe how grateful I was. Alhamdulillah! I could have lived there forever!
Sheep shearing process.
Australian ranch lifestyle in Churchill Island Heritage Farm.
Then, we headed for The Koala Conservation Centre to see the Koala sanctuary and a few wild wallabies. It was fun seeing the koalas lazily resting on the branches. They are pretty much immobile & inactive like the sloth! On the way heading to The Penguin Parade at Summerland Bay, we passed through the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit. The tour guide proudly told us that on the tomorrow, there would be a racing held at the circuit and the roads would be congested with audiences thronging the sides of the roads! We also took a few stops at the cliffs heading towards Summerland Bay. The sceneries were breathtaking! I felt as if like I was in Scotland or Scandinavian region! Alhamdulillah to ALLAH for the chance to witness them with my own eyes; so ethereal!
Koala Conservation Centre.
The panoramic view on the way to Summerland Bay. Subhanallah, right?
It was around dusk when we arrived at The Penguin Parade in Summerland Bay. Unfortunately, we were NOT ALLOWED to take photographs of the penguins once they come back from the sea heading towards the shore and the beach. It was magical seeing the penguins emerged from the sea and the scenery in Summerland Bay was quite enchanting. There was visibly a thunderstorm coming from the horizon and the clouds were murky. Suddenly in that moment, I felt as if like I was in Harry Potter movie – the Slytherin Cavern! Subhanallah! We called the day off around 7.45 P.M. and reached Melbourne nearing 9 P.M. Exhausting but very exciting, I would say!
The famous Penguin Parade entrance and the stands we sat to see the penguins paraded out from the sea in the dusk. Unfortunately, NO CAMERAS WERE ALLOWED. *Sigh* Breathtaking, anyway.
On the 3rd day, we decided to stroll and roam around the famous Queen Victoria Market in Elizabeth Street, Melbourne City itself. We boarded the tram and since it was on Sunday, we all get to travel free as every Sundays, Melbournians are given privilege to board trams, buses or any public transportation FREE OF CHARGE – provided one will have to buy the Sunday Saver Metcard (which you easily can purchase in various 7 Eleven outlets!). Melbourne people generally are very hospitable once you approach them for directions.The elder generations particularly are VERY GENEROUS in helping you out and it was amazing attitude, I would say – provided YOU have to approach them first. Kudos!
Queen Victoria Market – a must if you ever visit Melbourne! Accessible via tram from Swanston Street/Bourke Street.
Queen Victoria Marketboasts various kind of laymen merchandises and paraphernalia at reasonable bargained prices! Fruits were fresh and came with flamboyant colours; gifts and souvenirs shops were abundant and you could see a lot of lively commotions in the market itself – so happened that when we went there, a Spanish/Mexican/Latin group who was to perform a flamenco/meringue dance & Latin music sang in the market with their guitars strumming and hoarse Latino Spaniard’s voice crooning a few Latin songs. The crowd was captivated by that and a few people danced merrily to the music! Amazing!
Scene at Queen Victoria Market on Sunday! Lovely and lively. I missed that…..
Since it was Sunday, Melbourne was so vibrant that when we strolled along the Bourke Street fancying a lovely statuesque-woman-who-painted-herself-in-silver-colours and a Chinese/Japanese Ninja magician, an entourage of people dressing up as PIRATES coming in and make a scene and hollering there “Pirate-ish” chants and yelling! Hahahhaa, they even jokingly wanting to ‘attack’ the statuesque silver woman and the ninja! It was hilarious and seemed like a festival! I did asked an Australian on why did these people are dressing up as pirates – Well, he had no idea as well. It was indeed a city full of spontaneities and lives!
The artsy people of Melbourne!
On the evening, we decided to go to St. Kilda, a town in a beach of Port Phillip; reachable from the Central Business District (CBD) via tram. The first impression I had on St. Kilda; it was a serene suburb-by-the-sea. Sea breeze blew the hair, majestic sun view across the horizon, seagulls flying, countless of boats parked in Port Phillip – basically, it’s the typical classic beach style. As a Penangite, sea has been a strong affinity; so St. Kilda is just a place I felt at ease instantaneously. The wind from the sea was so cold that I need to really hold on to my short-trench coat for comfort! But hey, I braved myself nearing the sea because it was simply a chance in a lifetime! I might never get back there again, so better savour the moment! We stayed there nearly till the sunset; and off back to Melbourne CBD.
Spectacular sunset view in St. Kilda’s beach.
On the 4th day, we got ready as early as from 6.00 A.M. as our next adventure which was The Great Ocean Road would be gearing up at 7.40 A.M.! We waited at Federation Square and there were a lot of people opting for the tour as well; we had double decker buses, so figure out! So, from Melbourne we went to South-West passing the city of Geelong, and then the beautiful-by-the-sea Torquay. I swear that my sister and I saw a “Sate Malaya” restaurant while passing the street in idyllic Torquay. The place reminds me of San Francisco (in TV of course! The hill-ish housing estate by the sea). The Great Ocean Road was indeed a FAR JOURNEY; almost taking the whole day!
Bells Beach (Surf Coast!) – The waves and the wind were SO strong!
The spot where sea tragedy Of The W.B. Godfrey wreck.
We reached Bells Beach, Anglesea (famous for its Surf Coast), Lorne and finally around 12 P.M. in the afternoon, we arrived at Apollo Bay for a 1 hour break a.k.a. lunch. That was like merely half of the journey but we were grateful for the stop because most of us were feeling NAUSEOUS from the winding and bending Great Ocean Road!! Apollo Bay is a small location fill with serenity and idyllic! It has the Grecian feeling; with the small town facing the sea; the wind blew the hair ferociously! But I kinda liked it. Peaceful…… So happened that it was actually the time for Zohor prayer; obviously no room was provided for us to perform prayer; so we decided to go this little Italian motel/cafe called “Iluka” and decided to just use it for about half an hour for prayer. The Ma’am of the Motel was a bit flabbergasted by that but then agreed; they had to charge us AUD40 dollars though, for the room service and everything, but hey, it’s Allah’s calls that we prioritize more, aite? We were thankful to the Italian Ma’am!
The idyllic and peaceful Apollo Bay – the half journey stop of The Great Ocean Road towards 12 Apostles!
“Iluka” Cafe – the place where we rented for like 40 minutes just to perform our prayers. Not sure either it’s Italian or Russian.
Then around 3.30 P.M. we arrived at Gibson’s Steps – that’s the first spot to view one of the 12 Apostles! Subhanallah, mesmerizing! And of course, to the popular 12 Apostles!!!! OH MY GOD, SUBHANALLAH!!! I can’t describe how beautiful the masterpieces created by Allah SWT! It was as if in a Hollywood movie ala Avatar! With the tall cliffs and we were on the top of them and the sun shone piercing the glistening ocean, it was ethereal! Indescribable!
The picturesque view of 12 Apostles. Subhanallah!
We spent there around an hour and after that proceeded to the nearby scenic place called Loch Ard Gorge. Apparently, it was named that because a ship sunk at the area from a journey of a ship sailed from England to Melbourne. It was another majestically-ethereal landscape that Nature had to offer. Subhanallah! Seeing the waves splashing against the limestones, I would have to say, I pictured Harry Potter scene – The Slytherin Cavern! Lame, but yeah, I am being honest! The sea was so crystal-clearly blue and the sea breeze was so refreshing!
Lord Ard Gorge. The place that caused a shipwreck for a ship sailed from London to Melbourne.
Our last destination was the idyllic Port Campbell. It was a fishing village (but modern in comparison to ours) – but a typical small-and-secluded town. I can’t believe that in the middle of nowhere, there was this one small quite town near the sea. You know it’s very lay-back because the weather was sombre and murky and not many people there except tourists (our bus that is!). But there were few locals who passed by and waved to us bidding us farewell when we departed. This taught me something. We are not the only being in the world. There are lotsa people out there residing in nooks & crannies we never imagined! Subhanallah!
The secluded but peaceful Port Campbell. Who would have thought that in this secluded place, there are people residing in it? So far away from Malaysia! Amazing. I wish I could stay longer… so tranquil!
Around 6.00 P.M., we pushed off back to Melbourne. The journey took us around 3 hours as we used another route, passing the town of Colac. Along the way, I could see vast canvas of Australian greeneries and grasses. It was an “International Velvet” moment for me, I have to admit!
My “International Velvet” moment! Ahhh…. on the way back to Melbourne via Colac.
On the final day which was the 5th day, we planned to put our energy to the fullest throttle, savouring the last bits of our days in Down Under. All this while, we’ve been hearing about that Tutankhamun Golden Age Exhibition held in Melbourne Museum. So, as a historical freak, you know I was SO AGITATED TO GO and was trying so hard to persuade Kakak who initially wanting to go to Zoos or Melbourne Aquarium so that Rifqi, my nephew would have chance to enjoy animals. I felt it would be such a waste if I let this chance go – I mean, there would NOT BE THIS KIND OF EXHIBITION IN MALAYSIA, wouldn’t it???? So, I decided to give treat to Kakak who claimed that she was running out of Aussie Dollars.
In front of Melbourne Museum & Royal Exhibition Building/ Carlton Gardens – A Heritage Building.
Melbourne Museum is located in Carlton Gardens which so happen to house the Royal Exhibition Building as well. The entry charge for adults to the Tutankhamun Golden Age Exhibition is quite expensive- that is AUD32 Dollars. So, I paid for 3 adults and Rifqi was given free entrance. I know for some people they wouldn’t want to spend such amount on seeing dead people; but hey, I am historical nerd; so, whatever, mate!
Wicked! I LOVE Egypt artefacts & histories! Felt so LUCKY since Malaysia don’t have this kind of exhibition. Quite expensive but I am a history freak! So… (,”)
The exhibition was phenomenal! We’ve got to see a lot of cool informations,replicas and artefacts on Tutankhamun and his ancestral lineage from his forefathers to his sudden death at the tender age of 18 years old as well as the discovery of his tomb by an Englishman called Mr. Carter. From the exhibition, we now know that Tutankhamun was actually the son of incestuous marriage between Akhnaten & Queen Tiya, who happened to be the secondary wife. And guess who was the Chief wife? The famous QUEEN NEFERTITI! Amazing fact, eh? Bought some mugs and souvenirs from that exhibition. I heart Egyptology!
Melbourne Aquarium!
Around 5 P.M., we headed to Melbourne Aquarium which is situated at the riverbank of Yarra River. It takes around 20 minutes to walk along the long-stretched Flinders Street. The first section was the Penguin Section; we could see lots of penguin swimming and diving in the tank and it was a marvellous thing ever! Trailing along the lane in Melbourne Aquarium, we saw a lot of exquisite and to certain extend, some exotic aquatic animals such as long-necked turtle, giant squids, sharks, coral reefs, and many more!
The final night in Melbourne certainly is something that I would always remember. I can’t believe I’ve set footstep there. I know, a lot of friends or acquaintances have been travelling all over the world; either because they are born-rich; or their studies or works bring them there; or they are working as air-cabin crews – but for me as neither all the three, getting myself there with MY OWN MONEY, is an accomplishment for myself. I am grateful to ALLAH SWT for this opportunity, to at least having the experience that I’ve been fantasized since I was a little kid (Yeah, I ain’t going to lie or sugar-coat; I guess everyone does have that; only they are ashamed to admit!).
The clocks at Flinders Street Station. Popular saying amongst Melburnians; “Let’s meet under the clock!”
As early as 6.20 A.M. on Wednesday 21st September 2011, we ready at the front of our motel; the morning sun as early as 6.15 A.M. so people were already busied hurrying to work or leisure. Waiting for the pick-up van and we actually did took picture with Mr. Cameron, the helpful staff & counter service of City Square Motel. Thanks for the hospitality, Mr. Cameron! On the way back, I’ve to say I had mixed feeling – missing Malaysia and my school but I will be missing Melbourne, too! I don’t know when can I ever returned there; probably in the next 10 years! Our flight scheduled for 9.20 A.M at Tullmarine (It was Eric Bana’s childhood place, you know!) Airport; but only around 10.30 A.M. that we departed, flying back to Malaysia.
I will miss Melbourne. Brief but deeply-etched.
This journey has opened to a lot of new experiences for me; and also built confidence for me to interact with outsiders. I’ve made moves to interact with new people and got to know new people as well throughout this journey : Angela from Sydney; Monica from Taiwan; Crystal from Hong Kong and also an Iranian man who now resides in Sydney (I sat beside him for 8 hours journey to Malaysia).
The last gazing of Melbourne. The Tullmarine Airport.
Ahhh, Australia – an island home rich with cultures and heritages. Oy!Oy!Oy! Aussie! G’day mate! Anyway, the song below entitled ” I Am, You Are, We Are Australian” was aired during the journey headed back to Melbourne from Phillip Island. I was fascinated by the honest lyrics depicting about the ancestral and historical lineage of Australian. The song records historical sequences and you can tell that Aussies are proud with it. Enjoy! (,”)
I came from the dream-time, From the dusty red-soil plains. I am the ancient heart, The keeper of the flame. I stood upon the rocky shores, I watched the tall ships come, For forty thousand years I’ve been The first Australian.
I came upon the prison ship, Bowed down by iron chains, I fought the land, endured the lash, And waited for the rains. I’m a settler, I’m a farmer’s wife On a dry and barren run, A convict, then a free man, I became Australian.
I’m the daughter of a digger Who sought the mother lode. The girl became a woman On the long and dusty road. I’m a child of the Depression, I saw the good times come, I’m a bushie, I’m a battler, I am Australian.
We are one, but we are many, And from all the lands on earth we come. We’ll share a dream and sing with one voice, “I am, you are, we are Australian”
I’m a teller of stories, I’m a singer of songs, I am Albert Namatjira And I paint the ghostly gums. I’m Clancy on his horse, I’m Ned Kelly on the run, I’m the one who waltzed Matilda, I am Australian.
I’m the hot wind from the desert, I’m the black soil of the plains, I’m the mountains and the valleys, I’m the drought and flooding rains. I am the rock, I am the sky, The rivers when they run, The spirit of this great land, I am Australian.
We are one, but we are many, And from all the lands on earth we come. We’ll share a dream and sing with one voice, “I am, you are, we are Australian.”
Prior to my anticipating Aussie trip this coming 16th September to 21st September, my personal and professional calendars are quite hectic with red-letter events! This year, I’ve been selected as one of the prefects of I-can’t-say-much-due-to-clauses-stipulated-in-Akujanji. I guess it will be an exciting thing to experience new thing; but I am quite disturbed that I was actually selected as the “accompanying prefect” – which means I have to wake up really early! Nonetheless, it will definitely something that adds to the colour of my professional life; and GOOD LUCK to all pupils who will be sitting for the UPSR exam in this 13th-15 September 2011!
Anyway on Saturday 10th September, the school organized a Latihan Dalam Perkhidmatan (LADAP) which was a lengthy meeting to discuss about the betterment of the school’s staffs and management; and later we were lavished with Briyani & Satay – rumor has it that the dishes were prepared to assuage the tension amongst teachers as the course was held in the midst Hari Raya. Nonetheless, the degree of truth is still unverified. But for me, it was a nice thing to be together with my colleagues. Nice thing to do.
Courtesy of Google Image.
I am a spontaneous person. I do things according to the instinct and what the heart tells. A spur-of-the-moment idea flickered – I wanted to experience the seafood at the famous Umbai, Melaka! So, make a pack and off went to Umbai, Melaka to experience the famous place. All I can say, the food was not a disappointment; in fact I was quite satisfied – BUT, the price charged WAS EXPENSIVE in comparison to Bagan Lalang!
The food in Umbai was not THAT spectacular but they still filled up the tummies nicely – same like in Bagan Lalang; only that Bagan Lalang’s are more affordable. So, I guess Bagan Lalang is still No.1 spot in my seafood diary! However, the Umbai’s fried-with-flour calamari, roasted ray, chilli-cooked prawns and steamed cockles were are finger-licking GOOD! And with strategic restaurant placed at a pier with mangroves planted at the nearby shore, the feeling of “seafood” was eminent! I just LOVE Melaka!
Tonight is actually 11th September – it has already been 10 years since the infamous September 11th Attack to The World Trade Center in New York. It was now a known fact that the culprits behind the attack were the members of militant Al-Qaeda. Since then, the term “terrorists” were so famously used and Islamophobia grew rapidly amongst the Non-Moslems; especially in America. It was indeed a sad thing to have all those innocent lives claimed by the terrorists; but the world is so ever blind that Palestinians are being killed everyday. Concerts, prayers and tribute speeches were given to commemorate the victims of 9/11 (which they deserved by the way; don’t get me wrong!) BUT for the Palestinians innocent souls, they are being terrorized everyday and yet the lives don’t even get any recognition! It’s sad to see this injustice; but that’s how the world works…..
I remembered when the attack happened 10 years ago in 2001; I was in Form 5 at that time, I had discussion with Zhafry about it via the house telephone (handphones were not THAT abundant at that time just yet; only a year after!). Whatever it was, it was a nightmare for the humanities as well as for the Moslem communities. Let us all pray for the innocent lives….. Amin!
As at 2nd September 2011, a Malaysian reporter from BERNAMA TV was fatally shot by the Somalian rebel group, the African Union Peacekeepers. The Malaysian convoy was there to assuage the famine catastrophe in Somalia which attracts countless of humanitarians & reporters in order to alleviate the plight. The late Noramfaizul Mohd Nor aged 39; was the father of two children and the only son amongst the 6 siblings.
Your heart sank when you see the parents reacted so calm and poised – they embrace Islam teaching firmly as you know they let “the bygones rest with Allah SWT forever.” Who would not be sadden by the lost of their loved ones? But you see the composed manner of the parents, you know; they have strong faith to God SWT; Subhanallah. They don’t screamed or yelled out screeching their lungs out!I admire that courage.
Allahyarham(late) Noramfaizul Mohd Nor is indeed the Malaysian hero. He is amongst countless of reporters slain by terrorists. Remember Daniel Pearl, the American journalist who was killed by the Al-Qaeda and his memoirs was turned into film starring Angie in “A Mighty Heart?” What about Rachel Corrie, the American activist who was killed by the Israeli Defence Force when she acted as a human shield pleading the Israeli to stop bulldozing a Palestinian house? These are tragic stories; but they inspire the humanitarians to do more good things to change the facade of the world.
The late Daniel Pearl.
The late Rachel Corrie.
Al-Fatihah to the Malaysian Hero and a Moslem martyr – Allahyarham Noramfaizul Mohd Nor.
The school-holiday week is finally over! I am all back to Serendah, Hulu Selangor today after driving from Jitra, Kedah for 4 hours and a half. I pushed off after Subuh approximately 6.15 A.M. because it is expected that today, the traffic will be CONGESTED with vehicles coming back to KL; I guess I made a brilliant decision as the traffic was all smooth-flowing; and I used the old road from Gopeng to Serendah just to avoid any traffic fiasco. It was cool.
This year’s Baju Raya – Peach & Violet stripe! Initially I thought of using the last year’s Baju Raya, but since I’ve never had any stripes-Baju, I thought “Hey, why not?”
Congratulations, Syafiq!
Anyway, on Aidilfitri night, my bestfriend Syafiq Ghause is officially a FATHER to a baby girl! Wow! It’s amazing, right? I appreciate Syafiq for calling me; he is a good friend who never forget and I appreciate those who appreciate me, do I not? WOW, all I can say is that CONGRATULATIONS to him and after the first miscarriage (REFER TO MY ENTRY LAST YEAR) circa Ramadhan 2010, Allah SWT has bestowed a gift for them. Hahahaha, honestly I was kinda envy him but I couldn’t ask for more than what I have now. I’ve been blessed with people who love me so much now and I’d hope it would never last, Insya ALLAH. Congratulations, Syafiq!
My Fairy Godmother, Teacher Noraini – teacher in SK Sultanah Asma. Lots of things can be learnt from senior player in the field like her!
This year, the Aidilftri is filled with the usual get-together. For the 1st Raya, we performed Aidilfitri prayer at Surau Al-Falah near my housing estate and then whisked to Kampung Padang to fetch Tok to go to Wan’s grave. For me, it was a first opportunity to visit grave in the morning of Aidilfitri and it was a moment of “Death Intervention” that really humbled me. Reciting Yassin and imagining what would it be like for Wan’s soul when we recited the Holy Verses was something that I guess an essential experience to have; especially in the morning of Aidilfitri. Miss Tina came to my house and it was nice to updates what’s-hot-and-not. Like usual, my 1st Raya usually bleak and mediocre. More like lazing around the house.
For 2nd Raya, I started the day by visiting my Fairy Godmother, Teacher Noraini; a mentor-teacher when I was doing my practical in SK Sultanah Asma. It was fun and letting-hair-down to catch up with her; sharing about the lives of being a teacher and how to manage/cope with the students and protocol bureaucracies! Since SK Sultanah Asma is trying to make itself viable as one of the candidate for “Sekolah Berprestasi Tinggi”, there are so much things to do and Teacher Noraini did share some tips and the documentation-hassles that she is preparing when the “Nazir” entourage comes down to the school after Raya. She also shared that SK Sultanah Asma did get the New Deal incentive last year. Cool, right? Talking to seniors is good because you can tap their experiences and knowledge for your own betterment!
Anyway, right after that; the entourage from Aloq Staq – Mak Caq’s entourage (Kak Yati & Abg Jie; Kak Liza & Abg Din; Kak Ana) came to our house and had the ritual “makan-makan” Aidilfitri. Like usual, Mak was the main cook and lavished us with all the typical Northern dishes! Alhamdulillah, it went well. It felt nice to reconnect with relatives that you hardly meet for a year and update each other’s lives. And I like hearing all the live experiences and how they slithered their ways out from problems – being Kak Yati as an ex-teacher who then opted to resign because Abg Jie who was an ex-navy-now-turned-into-contractor is more than could afford the family; Kak Liza, a teacher in MINDEF because Abang Din is a military engineer in MINDEF; etc.
The dishes for the Aloq Staq entourage!
The house was actually thronged by relatives and acquaintances from morning till night!My Godsister/Next-Next Cousin (weird term, right? That’s because our cousins married each other! Haha), Darweena Al-Idrus and the family came to visit too because they were on the way back from Perlis. It was nice of Uncle, Auntie, Syam, Watih, Feesya, Farra & my sis to drop by! Miss her rantings and all the comic jokes – she’s a joker, Hahaha! Around 7.30 P.M.; Pak Long Mie & Mak Long Yati (Ayah’s cousin) visited us. Mak Long Yati is a loquacious lady and you would feel at ease when you talk to her and Pak Long Mie!
Godsis/Next-Next Cousin, Darweena Al-Idrus and family. Thank you for coming, Sis! Muah2x!
It was really a tiring day but you felt happy and exhilarating because you get to reconnect and bonding with your relatives. Like they said in Islamic Maxim, “Guests coming to the house bring prosperities.”
Mak Ngah Nah & I.
On the 3rd Raya, Kakak came back from Pahang (her in-laws’) and we went to visit our relatives in Penang (Ayah’s side). The round-up commenced from Mak Ngah Nah’s house in Lahar Kepar, Kepala Batas. It was nice seeing Mak Ngah, Kak Aida, Abang Nuar, Kak Hasni & Kak Alia who is now back to her old-personality (she was ‘sick’ last year; hence wasn’t really into guests)! Then, proceeded to Lahar Tabut, Penaga where Anjang & Mak Anjang live. It was actually my late grandfather’s house, Arwah Wan Ismail. Mak Anjang now is recovering from a ‘mystical illness’ – and also some kidney failures; it is kinda complicated to fathom.
Anjang & Mak Anjang at Lahar Tabut, Penaga!
We then moved to Pak Su ‘Id’s house. Hahahaha, meeting the talkative-and-friendly Mak Su Ton is cool; I like teasing her. Pak Su who is now the Chief Guard (I guess) at Carrefour is looking healthy as ever and Faiz, their youngest son (my cousin) who is now Form Five student is so tall and big! Whoa, people grow, aite? But I remained dainty! Hahahaha! Pija, was about to get engaged; so all of us were teasing her! After that, we went to Telok Air Tawar for Pak Long Wahab/Mat’s house. Apparently, only Pak Long was there because Mak Long Minah and all cousins went to Perlis for “Raya.” Nonetheless, we managed to catch-up with what’s-hot-and-not.
Pak Su I’d & I.
The last Raya destination was at Kak Nazirah‘s house (cousin of Abang Jie; happened to be cousin-in-law to us!) at Kepala Batas! My heart fell for her because for this Raya, she had lost two of her family members simultaneously; the late Arwah Cu Timah (the mother) & Kak Naja (the sister). My eyes watered when I heard the story that Kak Nazirah recalled – but Kak Nazirah is a strong lady; she joked around and being talkative as ever.
Kak Nazirah’s “Mee Hailam” (Yummy!) & some chocolate-golden-coated cookies. Fuadi, Kak Nazirah’s son & I. Big bloke, isn’t he? But he has a good heart. A very courteous and respect-the-olders lad!
It was around 7.30 P.M. and Kakak was agitated to visit Penang Island! So we boarded ferry and reminisced our nostalgic days to the island. Ahhh, how I missed the smell of the ocean and the sea breeze! Once a Penangite, always a one, aite? We savoured the food at Padang Brown (but Penangite affectionately address it as Padang Broom) – me with my Laksa Penang; Kakak with her Pasemboq; etc. But like usual, Penang was so congested. Ahhh, miss the life in Pearl Of The Orient.
Night scene at Padang Brown. Savouring the Penangite’s food!
On the 4th Raya, just lazed around Jitra.Mak made the sumptuous Mee Kuah (yummy!) and “udang tumis petai” (YUMMY!); and we gave some for Tok who was fasting “Puasa 6” (she always started that on the 2nd Syawal) for her Iftar. Ayah and I visited Pak Lang Lim & Mak Lang Misah at Kota Seputeh, Padang Sera. Kota Seputeh was said to be the place where the mythical Kedahan Princess named Puteri Zaleha was supposed to be married off to an Acheh prince but the Kedah Sultan exchanged Puteri Zaleha with her sister. Acheh Kingdom was enraged and attacked Kedah. Puteri Zaleha was hidden in a fort and died there. It was said that on the night of full moon, the fort where the Princess died is eclipsed from the moonbeam; hence the name of “Lindungan Bulan” (eclipsed from the moonbeam) nickname was coined!
Mee Kuah!
“Udang Tumis Petai” (Slurp!)
Pak Lang proudly showed me his dragon fruit tree! Wow, dragon fruit is a curious fruit,aite? With it’s vibrant fuchsia colour and black seeds, you will think it is a synthetic replica!
Pak Lang Lim & the wheelchair-bound Mak Lang Misah. The fuchsia-coloured Dragon Fruit; the colour of my Myvi!
On whole, the Aidilfitri 2011 in Northern Region was a great one. Some of the updates brought laughter to the eyes; but some were heart-wrenching that make our eyes jerked with tears. Aidilfitri, the month of forgiveness and apologizing amongst Moslems. For those who wronged me in the past, I’ve forgiven all the sins you committed to me; but I never forget. So, just live your life and seek forgiveness from ALLAH SWT; cleansed your heart from hatred and angst; as for me, I have no qualm in forgiving; but yes, I never forget. (,”)
Sunset view at the backyard of Tok’s house in Kampung Padang, Jitra, Kedah Darul Aman – The State Of Paddy Field Vista!
An Angel With Dirty Closet
How Many Countries Visited @ In The Mind Of A Childlike?
In The Mind Of A Childlike 
