The Loss of 2008

Several of my friends, relatives and others left this short lived world to meet the Creator in the year 2008. To record their departure, and as a remembrance, I would list them below.


Alfatihah.


1) 3rd. January 2008: Tuan Haji Ghazali Adam. He passed away at 0245 hours due to heart attack. I came to know Ghazali Adam when he was just an Executive in Ben Line Port Klang in 1969. He later became the General Manager of MISC Panocean. He was the first batch of RIDA College (now UITM) student. When I was transferred to Port Klang in 1977, I called him and he helped me to find the suitable bungalow to stay. I normally called him King Ghaz.

2) 7th January 2008: Tuan Haji Salleh Abdul Hamid, one of my elder brothers. He passed away at 2345 hours due to heart attack. He had his last breath on his wife’s lap. He was educated in Malay College Kuala Kangsar and served Telekom Malaysia. One fond memory when he took me to Bukit Kledang Transmitting Station in Ipoh. He showed me the live transmission of horse racing which was only telecast live to Race Courses in Malaysia and Singapore.


3) 14th. February 2008: Cik Amnah Ramli, my cousin sister on my mother’s side. She too passed away due to heart attack. The beautiful part, she just finished her maghrib prayer and while waiting for the Isyakh prayer, she went back to meet the Creator. The sad part, she was still a spinster and no husband or children to mourn for her departure. I performed an umrah for her when I visited the Holy Land during last Ramadhan.


4) 8th May 2008: Kak Yah, the wife of my wife’s cousin. She passed away at 1400 hours and buried after the maghrib prayer. Tolerant and a very patient lady, did not talked much. She just smiled when we talked to her. During those days before the Plus Highway, we normally stopped by at Balai Polis Trolak when my wife’s cousin was the Station Officer in Charge.


5) 6th August 2008: Encik Ishak, my neighbor’s brother. He was already on dialysis for the past several years. Never failed to say hello and stopped for a chat whenever we met. I was glad that Baitulmal assisted him on the dialysis fees. He was only a Driver with one of the Chemical Company in Shah Alam.


6) 30th August 2008: Raja Adam Jalaludin. He was the youngest brother of my friend Raja Rosedin. I know Raja Adam since he was a small boy. When he was growing up, I did not know for what reason, he became slightly retarded and reserved. It was a pity that someone found him sprawling by the roadside and already gone. His demise happened when I was in the Holy Land and I only came to know later when I came back to Malaysia.


7) 04th September 2008: Tuan Haji Mohd Zan an ex Penolong Pengarah Kastam Selangor, my mosque buddy. I got the sad news when I was in Mecca. He passed away due to leukemia. Very nice buddy and we often jokingly greeted each other with “good morning” no matter what time it was. Hailed from Melaka but studied in Ipoh Perak. He carried the Perak slang and very well accustomed to my way of speaking. F1 driver on the highway. So fast that the speed trap camera could not record his number plate, he claimed.


8) 27th September 2008: Puan Noriah Manan. She was a Stenographer at Esso Refinery Port Dickson, that’s where we became acquainted. She later married Tenaga Malaysia Bhd Engineer who is the brother in law of my colleague in Guthrie. Small world. When her husband, became Kapar Power Station Superintendent, she invited me for tea at their residence. The last time I met Noriah was at my colleague daughter’s wedding at Bukit Jelutong.


9) 29th September 2008: Datin Hajjah Zainab the wife of late Dato Haji Ghazali Abdullah, the former Mufti of Selangor and Perak. The Mufti was my late father’s cousin. When I got married at Telok Panglima Garang, in 1973 the Datin was the Head of the women delegation. The entourage gathered at the Mufti’s residence in Klang before proceeding to attack Telok Panglima Garang. Datin Zainab passed away due to long illness. I picked up my eldest brother and we went all the way to Ipoh to attend the funeral.

10) 27th December 2008: In memory of 205 Gazan Palestinians, my Muslim brothers, sisters and children killed by the Zionist Regime. Due to several crazy Hamas Freedom Fighters who launched home made rockets to the illegally occupied Zionist settlement, the arrogant Zionist retaliated with air strike. I wonder when this eye for an eye will end. Only the American Presidency and his Cabinet can solve the problem. Will they do it? I don’t think so because they are still thirsty of Muslim’s blood. When a Jew being killed by the Palestinian Hamas, it would create a world headline and the Americans would condemn the killing as if the world had lost a Statesman. On the other hand, the Americans Administration would just fold their arm when 205 Palestinians including babies were massacred by the Jews. God damn it! What the hell is happening to this world? To them it doesn’t matter, the more dead the better. That’s my perspective of the American Administration attitude towards the handling of the Palestinian/ Israelis conflict. Can the Organization of Islamic Countries (OIC) do something? I afraid not, for reasons best known to them. For that matter, I respect Dr Mahathir who was daring enough to speak out. I can only sit and pray for miracles to happen so that the Palestinians can live in peace and some to return home to their homeland.


11) 27th December 2008: Last but not least, he was neither my friend, nor my relatives. At 1145 hours, my 10th King, His Royal Highness Yam Tuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, Tuanku Jaafar ibni Almarhum Tuanku Abdul Rahman, 86 passed away at Seremban Hospital.


To all those who had gone back to meet the Creator ,…. Alfatihah.
May your soul rest in peace and may Allah bless you..

Golden Jubilee.

It is not often you get invited to a Golden Jubilee function. I attended one yesterday to commemorate the 50th anniversary wedding of Tuan Haji Fahruddin and Puan Hajjah Rogayah at Kampong Changkat in Gombak. Even though I was fully engaged with some other functions, I make sure I attended this one. I got to know this couple when they were my neighbor in Mecca during the Ramadan umrah. Haji Fahruddin, a prominent Imam in his community, is a very nice old man, humble, father like and knowledgeable. He speaks fluent Arabic but he never show off. I came to know when he spoke Arabic to the Flight Attendant on the Saudi Airline flight back from Jeddah.

Hajjah Rogayah invited my family for the function but my son could not make it. We were just in time for the “doa selamat” but missed the “tahlil” due to the traffic jam at the outer ring road. I jokingly apologized to them that we were 50 years late to attend their wedding. I was glad to see the couple in their jovial mood surrounded by their three children and several grandchildren. I was just wondering whether I could see my Golden Jubilee in fifteen years time. Insyaalah (God willing).

The crowd was moderate and there were familiar faces. I met Tuan Haji Hassan Yatim and his wife Puan Hajjah Noriah. Haji Hassan was the Tour Proprietor during the Ramadan umrah. Haji Hassan inquired about my plan for 2009 Ramadan umrah. I plainly told him that I am willing to join his entourage provided one “idiot” does not exist in the same group. He suggested different flight and Hotel with the idiot but I still said, no way, Jose. I told Haji Hassan, my mission for umrah is to seek peace and confide with Allah in the company of humble and down to earth people. Lesson taught that I just could not be in a company of a cocky and snobbish Division One Government Officer who thinks that he is next to God. The gentleman besides me was curious and I related the idiot’s behaviors in Mecca. You have this type of people in Mecca? I told him, Haji Hassan can testify. Astrafilallahalazim.

I am glad that Haji Fahruddin and Hajjah Rogayah would be leaving for umrah, coming 17th January 2009. She was sickly during the last Ramadan umrah and now she hope when Mecca is not as crowded as in the month of Ramadan she is able to perform all the umrah rituals in a more peaceful and better perspectives.

We had to say farewell to the couple at 1230 hours as we had another wedding to attend to. One just wed and the other wedded 50 years ago.

To Haji Fahruddin and Hajjah Rogayah, the family wishes you Long Live and may Allah Bless you both. Congratulation.

63 - SIXTY THREE.

17th December 2008, I reached the 63rd milestone and still kicking. I had a hiccup in September 2003 when I was hospitalized for five days in 2003. Insyaalah (God willing), I get to see the next and next birthdays.

I got a pleasant surprised on the eve of my birthday when a long lost friend, my batch mate at Technical Institute Penang, Encik Osman Awang sent me an email. He gave me his handfone number and I immediately called him. I was curious how he got my email address and to my astonishment from “google” when he was searching for another friend Zayid Zakaria. I had mentioned in my earlier blog that Zayid Zakaria my batch mate had passed away. We talked about half an hour discussing about who is where and who had kicked the bucket and what not. I last met Osman Awang probably thirty years ago in Kajang. We promised to get together at a later date.

Besides the well wishes from my children and friends, I had a surprise sms and email from London. The sms was from my former Stenographer who is now in London to be with her husband for Christmas and New Year Holiday. The email is definitely a very pleasant surprise and at this point of time remains classified.

After the Maghrib prayer, with four other friends, we went for a drink at the nearest warong. My friend Ali Termizi recited the doa selamat for me. The place was not important but the intention was noble and appreciated. Raja Sahar commented that the Holy Prophet (pbuh) passed away at the age of 63, therefore I am now living on subsidies age. They had roti canai and teh tarik and I just had iced coffee. I had something on after the Isyakh prayer.

After the Isyakh prayer, my daughter sponsored a seafood dinner ala Thai. While we were having dinner, my neighbor, Haji Adenan with his wife and daughter walked in. They were surprised to see us eating out late and my wife told them of the occasion. They joined us and I did not get to see the tab.

No candles to blow,
I hope and pray my life glow,
Be nice to all,
Hope, there will be the sixty four.
I n s y a a l l a h.

My Aidiladha 2008.

Allah hu akbar, Allah hu akbar, Allah hu akbar, Walillah hil ham.

Today is the fourth day of Aidiladha. My friends who are in Mina will now make their entrance to Mecca to complete their final ritual before I can address them as Tuan Haji. They will go back to the Grand Mosque, circle the Kaabah, seven rounds and perform the sai. Once they complete those two rituals, the Haj is completed. For those who went straight to Mecca during their arrival at Saudi Arabia, they will now have to make the journey to Medina to visit the Holy Tomb of the Holy Prophet (pbuh). If possible, they are to stay in Medina for at least eight days. It is sunat (not compulsory) to perform forty fardhu (compulsory) prayers without missing one at Nabawi Mosque.

My Aidiladha started on the eve of Aidiladha. After the Isyakh prayer, about thirty of the mosque congregation came to my house for tahlil and the recitation of takbir. On Aidiladha day, I performed my Aidiladha prayer at the kampong Mosque. It was drizzling, yet the Mosque was crowded. After the prayers the Mosque organized to slaughter twenty cows. I participated by joining two shares at cow number 13. Each cow is divided by seven shares. I did not participate on the slaughtering and cutting off the meat as the job was contracted and moreover the rain started pouring. I was glued to the television to follow the latest update of the landslide at Bukit Antarabangsa. I was sad to their misfortunes and to the affected Muslims who would not be able to celebrate Aidiladha. After the zohor prayer I collected my share, six kilos of fresh beef and few rib bones. My friend, Zaaba all the way from Mina send a short message that he was now in Mina and had completed the first stoning of the devil. Later my sister and her children visited me and we had a small Aidiladha feast. Since she would be visiting my mother in Ipoh, I packed some beef for my folks, back home. The rain finally stopped late in the evening. My fear worsened that another landslide would occur and I just prayed for the best.

The second day of Aidiladha – PAS in my kampong slaughtered three cows. I joined them late at 1100 hours and most work had already completed. Instead, I helped them to prepare the afternoon lunch. We cooked some fresh beef and fried salted fish. After the zohor prayer, the Imam came, said the doa and we had a simple lunch. Since it was very informal, the food seems to be very tasty and we really enjoyed it. I was to come later in the afternoon to help them to prepare for the night function but I was so tired and I skipped. After the Isyakh prayer we invited a Guest Speaker to deliver a sermon on the concept of Aidiladha. We then had a grand feast, beef soup and curry. The crowd was overwhelming. The function was considered a success and we went home late at night satisfied.

The third day of Aidiladha – I was back to my normal self, so as the kampong folks. Everybody got back to their routine except my friends who are still in Mina.



Insyaalah (Allah willing), I hope to be around for 2009 Aidiladha. Who knows? Maybe, I would be in Mina myself.

Aidiladha 2008.

Tomorrow 8 December 2008 is Aidiladha and at this very moment all Muslims who are performing the Haj is gathering in the Desert of Arafah. It was at this place, the Holy Prophet (pbuh) delivered his last sermon and also at this place up on a hill of Jabal Rahmah, Adam met his Eve after they were thrown to Earth from Heaven. This place is very symbolic to me and I would climb Jabal Rahmah every trip I made to the Holy Land.

Aidiladha is a grand affair in Mecca especially at Mina. About three million pilgrims would be camping at this site for the devil stoning rituals and the sacrifice of goats, sheep and camel. I seek the Almighty blessings that all my friends who are there now would be able to overcome all obstacles and able to perform all the rituals.

Back home in Malaysia, this year Aidiladha would be rather gloomy. The east coast of Malaysia is flooded and at the edge of the City of Kuala Lumpur there was a major landslide. Twenty bungalows swept away by the mud. Few lives succumbed and few injured. About 3000 to 5000 people had to be evacuated. There would be no Aidiladha for them, surely. The Prime Minister had issued a statement that there would be no more development on hill side. I welcome that but I think it was only political talk. Fifteen years ago when a condominium collapsed about two kilometer away, the same statement was issued. Something is definitely not right at the ground level. Year in and year out, the east coast is always flooded. Why don’t they do something? I remember when I was a small kid, every month a team of Drainage and Irrigation Department (DID) workers would come down to clean the kampong river. I never heard or seen this thing is being done now. No wonder we get flood because the river is clog. Simple logic. The Administrators are happily sitting in their air condition office without bothering the plight of the poor people who live by the river. Come election, they would promise the moon and the stars.

There are also several deaths on the road on the eve of Aidiladha. Malaysian roads are the best in the world, so they claim. At the same time, Malaysia recorded the highest traffic accidents in the world. The reason is simple, Malaysian drivers are not afraid of the law. They can speed away, if they are caught, it can be settled out of court. Again, there is no problem and it is simple as that.

The gist of Aidiladha is sacrifice. From now on, I am going to sacrifice. I am going all out for justice.

Nostalgic Journey.

29th. November 2008, at 1600 hrs, I left for Port Dickson. I took the Kesas Highway and headed for KLIA. Before KLIA, I turned left and stopped at the beautiful and under utilized Mosque for my Asar prayer. I passed the F1 circuit and headed for the Selangor border town of Sepang. This town was my normal route in the 80s and 90s when I was still working. Surprisingly, the town smelt better now. Pig farming had been scaled down or had been transferred elsewhere.

Water at Sugai Sepang is much clearer, compared to those time it was blackish. As I was driving toward Lukut, all the Guthrie signboard at the former Guthrie Estates had now been changed to Sime Darby Plantations. As I was passing Tanah Merah Estate office complex, I was so sad to see it was so gloomy and quiet. The tennis court was empty and the Club House closed. The oil palm nursery in front of the Club House is no more there. During my Guthrie days, there was lot of activities around this area. The water sprinkler was watering the seedlings and the Assistants and the Managers were either at the tennis Court or at the billiard table. Some like me, who often dropped by became the member of the Bar Council. I was so sad to see the place now was almost deserted.

Nearing Lukut town, I passed by the rubbish dumpsite. I smiled to myself because at this place I burnt all the rejected rubber toys and the fire was so big even an Assemblyman stopped by to inquire what was happening. I was posted to Guthrie Bendy Toys Port Dickson to do an audit of the rejected toys and to witness the disposal. During the 80s, Jabatan Alam Sekitar was not heard off.

The main reason to Port Dickson was to attend a Reunion Dinner of Esso Port Dickson Refinery at Glory Beach Resort. I told Sharo, my PD colleague to book me a single room at Glory Beach. Unfortunately, there is no single room there and he got me a room at Beach Front Hotel, a kilometer away. Found the Hotel and it was located just opposite where I was staying during my bachelor days in Port Dickson. My car used to breakdown at the wall by the beach front and it normally happened late at night. I smiled and thank Allah, right where I was standing 40 years ago and breathing and I am still breathing 40 years later now.

The gathering started at 1930 hrs and stream of old boys walked in. Some don’t even recognize me anymore. I do not wear spectacles anymore and I have a white beard. Complete contrast of Mustapa of those days. To name a few of familiar specimes were Sabudin, Ali Karim, Chin Fun Chee, Kadir Mamak, Teoh Hui Seng, Kan See Mun, John Jew Wong, Ricky Tajudin, Chan On Wai, Harith Takiman, Ng Tiong Seng, Chelvam, Maheswaran, Osman, Sharo, Malik Yasin, Kang Lin Tong, Yeo Yan Teng and many others. The Guest of Honour was the Refiney Manager, Encik Bakar. During my time in the 60s and 70s, I never dreamt that a Malay guy to be the Esso Refinery Manager. It was only for the Americans and I recalled, Bushacker, J J Desmond and H B Canavan.

It was nice to meet plenty of old buddies again. We talked about the good and bad times when we worked together. I defended the late Mah Ah Chong, the Unit Day Superintendent who was exceptionally nice to me. To some, he was a tyrant. Actually, late Mah Ah Chong was a very nice man, he looked serious all right but he had a golden heart. Immediately he came back from Greece, he came to the Refinery one Sunday and pulled me to his Office. We had a pep talk and he told me he wanted to have questions and answer sessions with me. He caught me by surprise and I answered all the questions he asked. After the session he smilingly told me, he superseded all my immediate reporting Superintendents and he did not understand what was going on while he was away in Greece. My perception of Mah Ah Chong took a complete turn.

Some of us retired from Esso and some left to join other establishments. I left in April 1973. However, we still maintain the comrade at arm during the Esso days. We also talked about those who we were unable to attend. Those who have gone back to meet the Creator, migrated, those in hospitals and also those who did not want to fork RM 50 for the function. I came to know, Ng Koy Bee in ICU suffering from an acute stroke, Yap Chee Meang is nearly blinded, ZA (full name withheld) is in hibernation and many other interesting updates about our colleagues. Of course those migrated was mostly Chinaman. I wanted badly to meet Mazlan Chico and Ho Kok Lim, unfortunately they did not attend. I remember Ho Kok Lin who always blamed Oh Chin Weng for every little thing.

After the lucky draw, the reunion dinner ended at about 2300 hrs. However, about 12 of us adjourned to the nearest Mamak shop and we continued our chit chat until about 0130 hours. More laughter followed and more nostalgic stories were shared. Who dated whom and who married whose daughter and what not. The jokes and stories what happened in the Control Room was shared. Sabudin was telling how the late Hassan Cowboy and me played a prank on ZA tin of lychee.

The reunion ended at last and we promised to meet again in 2010. Insyaalah, if I am still around, I will make the trip again to Port Dickson.

Gall Bladder and Post Natal.

Wak Salim arrived at appointed time 1000 hours. Our destination was Pusrawi (Pusat Rawatan Islam), Jalan Tun Razak, Kuala Lumpur. I had to take the North Klang Valley Express (NKVE) Highway as my Touch and Go card needed refilled. Smooth drive all the way to Kuala Lumpur and after the Istana Budaya, I turned left and parked the car at Hotel Putra basement.

Entered the Pusrawi Lobby and inquired at the Information Counter where my friend Raja Sahar was recuperating. I was informed to proceed to 6th. Floor to An Nur Floor and headed for the post natal ward. I was taken aback as Raja Sahar was warded at Pusrawi to have his gall bladder operated to remove some stones. The Receptionist smiled and told me, it was a special case that they allocated Raja Sahar to Room 10, the suite available on the floor. Walking to the elevator, it came to my senses that Raja Sahar’s wife, Doctor Norkaedah is the Maternity Specialist at Pusrawi.

I knocked on the door and I saw Raja Sahar lying comfortably on the bed after the four hour operation, the previous day. Dr Norkaedah was there too and now I understand why Raja Sahar was at the post natal floor. Dr Norkaedah could easily attend to her patients at the same floor and she could be summoned to the Labour Room at anytime. Very convenient for Dr Norkaedah, attending to her husband as well as the ladies in waiting to deliver. I had a good laugh with Raja Sahar, being at the wrong ward. Anyway the suite was very spacious, equipped with dining table and a lounge. Raja Sahar showed me the five small stones removed from his gall bladder. It was good that he removed them early, otherwise one fine day he would have problem urinating. Looking at the stones, it scared me too.

Raja Sahar picked up a phone call and it was from Captain Fauzi asking for Raja Sahar well being. Raja Sahar told Captain Fauzi that he was in good shape with the presence of Dr Wak Salim and Dr Haji Mustapa who had just arrived. We had a good laugh and the phone was handed to me. Captain Fauzi was disappointed that I did not offer to take him along to Pusrawi. I told him that since it was a school holidays, I expected that he did not want to be disturbed as his wife was in the house.

As Raja Sahar’s family was arriving, we excused ourselves and I jokingly told Raja Sahar for being absent more than three days, I would tear his Punch Card at the Mosque. I told Raja Sahar, I expected him to be back in a week time and we could have our normal coffee at Warong Mak Jan.

I am truly glad to see my friend had a successful gall bladder operation and recuperating comfortably at the post natal ward. Weird but true.

All the best, my friend.

Tuesday, 4th November 2008, just before lunch, I called my friend Zaaba over the hand phone to inquire the status of his trip to perform the Haj. I was glad to hear that he was on his way to Nilai to finalise his impending trip schedule tentatively on 30th November. We agreed to meet after lunch at his Office.

When I arrived at his Office, he was back from Nilai and another friend, Shauib was there too. I congratulated Zaaba and by the look of his face he is very excited and looking forward to 30th November. Incidentally, I first met Zaaba in Mecca during 2006 Ramadhan. From there on, we became friend and sometimes in 2007, we went to Hong Kong and Shenzen China together. This trip will be his first Haj and he will be going with his other half. We continued our informal discussion at Sate Kajang Shop for tea. I gave him several tips and what to expect and do during his Haj. Most important is to be humble and he must set his intention (nawaitu) right. Forget about shopping because he is a frequent flyer to Shenzen China. Majority of the goods in the Holy Land are from China. He had performed the umrah before and he should know better.

We adjourned to Bukit Tinggi Mosque for the Asar prayer. Back at the Office, we were glad that Ustaz Helmi was on the way to the Office. It was our opportunity to discuss with Ustaz Helmi on religious and Haj matter. Ustaz Helmi is a Mutawif of Tabung Haji and it was rather unfortunate that due to medical reason, he had to decline 2008 Haj. He was relating his experiences being a Mutawif and I was not surprise the various human behaviours he encountered and had to be handled delicately. I related to him my recent experience and it was not a surprise to him either. Zaaba meanwhile was listening attentively and we told him about the various difficulties and how to overcome during his stay at Arafah and Mina.

As Maghrib was approaching, I had to excuse myself and Ustaz Helmi and Zaaba adjourned to Bukit Tinngi Flat Surau for Maghrib and Ustaz Helmi is going to give a lecture on akidah.

To my friend Zaaba, all the best to you and your wife. If you are in doubht, refer to the Ustaz. I wish you well and able to perform all the rituals. May Allah protect you and your wife. One last thing.....be nice to your roommates. In the Holy Land, remember..... all are equal. Allah do not recognise Malaysians as Tan Sri, Dato or First Division Government Officer. You are to completely surrendering yourself to Allah.

Busy after Isyakh.

Immediately after the Isyakh prayer at 2030 hours, I went to Haji Hilal residence as he and his wife is leaving for Tabung Haji Kelana Jaya enroute to the Holy Land to perform his Haj. All my mosque colleague were there. After that I attended a feast (kenduri) at the Ketua Kampong house for the recite of tahlil of the late Hajjah Zainab, the Ketua Kampong sister. At 2210 hours we adjourned to Annuar Tanda house as he and his wife is also leaving for Tabung Haji Kelana Jaya enroute to the Holy Land. Both he and Haji Hilal would be on the same flight to Medina on 31st October. Annuar would be going for Haj for the first time and Haji Hilal his second Haj. I wish both of them with their respective wife good health and to come back with haji mabrur.

Since I was in the Holy Land approximately a month ago, I gave them several tips especially to Annuar Tanda what to and what not to do in the Holy Land. Most important is to practise patience and tolerant. Study your roomates, stay away if he finds the stranger is incompatible. If he is in doubht of any rituals, consult the Ustaz, not his roomates. I told Annuar, his roomate can become a Mufti and sometimes can be misleading. I also told Annuar that since Haji Hilal is around and an aquaintance, he can always refer to Haji Hilal for guidance. I know Haji Hilal for a long time and am sure he can be relied upon. He is clean and can be trusted by all means otherwise the Mosque would not ask him to count the Friday collections.

The two calls of Azan bidding farewell to my two friends, make me feel touched. I silently doa for both of them safe journey and succesfully accompolish their mission as the Guests of Allah.

The Tenth Trip.

Bismil lah hir rahman nir rahim.

In the name of Allah the merciful and Prophet Mohamed (pbuh) as His Messenger, thou shall write the truth, nothing but the truth about my Tenth Trip to the Holy Land. It was Allah who invited me to the Holy Land; it was He that directed my destiny to the Holy Land. No matter who, no sane human being could wish that I did not show up in the Holy Land. For Allah knows best. If Allah did not wish me so, all sort of obstacles would be laid upon me that my trip would be impossible. With Allah gracious, I successfully performed the Ramadan umrah with sound mind and plenty of patience. I ignored specimen that hindered my rituals and ibadah. Only Allah can decide whether He accept with bless or otherwise of my rituals and ibadah. Again, no sane human being can comment about someone ibadah for he himself cannot guarantee that Allah accept his. In the Holy Land, anything can happen if one intention (nawaitu) went astray from the complete surrender to Allah the compassionate. One could become violent like animal, one could become egoistic, one could be exhibitionism and one could declare himself as somebody when he is not. If one intention (nawaitu) to go to the Holy Land to do shopping and bringing back luggages likes the Nigerian balik kampong, then all ibadah would go off focus and insensible negative characters would protrude.

27th August: I left for Jeddah by Saudi Airline at 1530 hours seated at 69F. The seat was at the last row of the 747 jetliner. Naturally, I was one of the few to disembark upon arrival. Arriving at the Luggage Claim Area, there was no trolley to be seen as the front seat passengers who disembarked earlier had taken all the trolleys. When I was at the same Airport Terminal in April 2008, I had to go out from the Arrival Hall to collect the trolley. I thought it was going to be similar but I was asked to wait, by this guy whom I am going to refer as X. Yes, I waited and it took me about nearly half an hour before the Airport Porter pushed in several trolleys. I was glad to claim one and I quickly retrieved my two (2) bags. I was late and urgently need a good smoke after eight hours of non smoking flight. Smokers would know this very well. I had to clear Custom before adjourning to the smoking zone. Two Arab boys were blocking my way and I signaled to give way. They were adamant and laughing away. I had no choice but to gatecrash. After all, it was between trolley and trolley. No one got hurt except the pride of the two Arab youngsters. I did not know my action upset X. I wonder why he bothered so much. He is neither my elder brother nor my Guardian so to speak. In fact he is very much younger than me. He did not expense the 9K that I paid for the trip. What he did was only recommended to me this particular Travel Agency which he said was very competent and reliable in handling Pilgrims during Ramadan umrah. I decided to join as I was not happy with my 2005/ 2006 and 2007 Ramadan Umrah Travel Agency. During the 2007 Ramadan umrah, I had to pack my bags home on the 26th Ramadan.

We left Jeddah for Medina with only ten Pilgrims, a Guide (Mutawif) and the Bus Driver. In total twelve of us in a forty passenger bus. I took the last long seat to my pleasure and I could lie down to sleep or a puff as I wished. Even the Bus driver upfront was smoking. The journey took about five hours with a stopover for dinner. The Restaurant was familiar as it was the same Restaurant that I stopped during my April trip. I told X that I had dined at this Restaurant before. He disputed me by telling that there are several Restaurants along the Jeddah/ Medina Highway of similar look. I told him politely, I remembered this particular Restaurant vividly and I even had a photograph and a video taken when I was here last.

28th August: Arrived in Medina at 0315 hours and checked into Munazil Muhajeerin Hotel Room 519. The stay in Medina was short, only two (2) days and I had to grab every opportunity to pray in the Nabawi Mosque especially at Raudah, visit the Prophet Mohamed (pbuh) Tomb and pray at Quba Mosque. Quba Mosque was the first Mosque that the Holy Prophet built upon his arrival in Medina during the Hijra. It is said so that a blessing of an umrah is given to the Visitor if one performs the abolution (wuduk) at his or her residence, go to Quba Mosque and perform the two rakaat sunat prayer. I went to this Mosque twice during the two days I stayed at Medina.

29th August: At 1530 hours, we left for Mecca, stopping at Bir Ali Mosque for the miqat. Miqat is to solemnize my intention of performing the umrah when I arrived at the Grand Mosque in Mecca. Arrived Mecca at 2130 hours and checked into Zahrat Kamil Hotel Room 302. I immediately found my way to the Grand Mosque and said my doa of thanks to Allah that His humble servant had come to submit and surrender himself to the Almighty. I performed the Maghrib and Isyakh prayer as a Musafir and started to perform the tawaf and saie. After cutting my hair, I completed my first umrah. Once again, I knelt in front of the Kaabah and said my thanks to the Almighty that thou are now in your House again after a span of five months. I was so glad to see the Kaabah right in front of my eyes again and tears started rolling. I was thinking of the millions that wish to be here but either they cannot afford it or Allah has not yet permitted their presence. I said to Him, you are so kind to me in spite of my past wrongdoings and sins. I began to recall, my relatives who had passed away, especially my late father who probably knelt in front of the Kaabah at the same spot where I was. I recited the fatihah for them.

After completion of the umrah, I went back to the Hotel Room, tired and called home to inform my wife my location. I told my wife the distance from the Hotel to the Grand Mosque is about 600 meters, situated behind Hilton Hotel and it is about twice the distance of Hotel Hijaz where we used to stay before. The room at Zahrat Kamil is very small for four beds and the Hotel look like a back lane Hotel. I was merely describing the truth to my wife. Again, my action displeased X who unfortunately was my roommate. I did not mean to offend anybody and I did not complain that I did not like the Hotel. I was trying to give my wife an indication how the Hotel look like and its location. I could not tell lies to my wife especially when I was in the Holy Land. X overheard the telephone conversation and he got offended. I did not understand why. If he was the Proprietor of the Travel Agency, I could understand why. Was this guy, weird? I think he is. Surely weird, because when a man does not wear an under pant, he is weird. This guy does not wear one. His balls must be sagging, that’s why he acted abnormal at odd time. I shared the Room 302 with another old man, Haji Razali Shaarani, an Imam of Surau Tabung Haji Kelana Jaya. He is a Diploma holder of Kolej Islam. X occupied the bed directly under the air condition, I was to the left of the air con and Haji Razali directly opposite the air con..

30th August: After the Asar prayer, I went to Safwah Tower to look for my friend, Abdillah who operated a Date & Sweets Shop at the basement floor. We were glad to meet each other again, since the last Ramadan. Number of pilgrims in Mecca, were still small, and I took the opportunity to perform the Isyakh prayer at the roof top. I had a clear view of the Kaabah down below. After Isyakh, all were quiet, no further activity. That indicated fasting did not commence the following day.

31st August: Normal routine, sending jubah and ihram to a Laundry, went shopping to purchase personal necessary items. For contingency, I bought a bottle of cough syrup and a box of panadol. I stuffed them in the refrigerator for me as well as for my roommate to consume when needed.

Since the next day, fasting would commence, the terawikh prayer started after the Isyakh prayer.

1st September: 1st day of fasting in Mecca. Two occupant of Room 302 was instructed to transfer to Room 202 and one to Room104 after Asar. Two new Pilgrims joined me at Room 202. Haji Wan Ahmad a Retired Director of Kastam Wilayah and Haji Karim from University Malaya. X was also involved in the transfer to Room 202. Again X wanted the bed directly under the air con even though Haji Karim who came earlier had put his bag on that bed. Haji Karim was not too please but he obliged as he would only be staying for two nights and would be leaving for Yemen on 3rd September. I told Haji Karim there is nothing wrong by giving way especially when you are in the Holy Land. Just acquainted with Haji Karim for a few hours, X asked Haji Karim to take down his cup to the Dining Room. Haji Karim was rather surprised and mad but I pacify him. The word Haji Karim said, “Who does he think he is?” I took Haji Karim to the Dining Room to cool him off. He told me if he stayed longer in Room 202, one fine day he would surely have a confrontation with X. Haji Karim never took the cup down.

2nd September: I went to Hilton Shopping Complex to find a hand phone charger which I accidentally broke. I normally broke my fast at the basement area in the Grand Mosque as the place was spacious, cooling and an easy exit.

3rd September: Haji Karim left for Yemen. Now only three of us left in Room 202. Pak Wan, X and myself. I did my second umrah for my late father, Haji Abdul Hamid bin Abdullah. During Isyakh and terawikh prayer, Pak Wan followed me to the roof top. After Isyakh, I saw a beautiful sight from the roof top, a streak of lightning and I was praying for the rain. To my disappointment, it did not happen.

4th September: I washed my own ihram today to save 10 Riyal if I sent it to the Laundry. I performed the 3rd umrah today for my late maternal grandfather, Shaari bin Salam. I bought the first can of zam zam water for the room consumption and Pak Wan bought a grilled chicken for dinner.

5th September: Haji Yunus, checked in into Room 202 at 0215 hours. After the Asar prayer, I had my first personal encounter with X. He was nursing a small cut on his leg and I was just watching him from my bed. He suddenly asked me what we call this small cut in English. He said after looking at my face he suddenly went blank. I stood up and asked him, “Is my face really that bad that you even forgotten the word blister?” I told him off that the problem with him he lack the human relation. He countered by relating the incident at the Airport that I knocked the two Arab boys trolley. To him my action was like a major criminal offence. I did not want to prolong the rubbish conversation which subject matter was not even related; I walked off from the room. I think X was just purposely instigating me to stir up my anger so that he had the opportunity to reprimand me on the trolley crashing incident or the telephone conversation I had with my wife. This was not the first time he insulted my look. Sometimes earlier, I showed him a wall paper photo at my hand phone of a small girl, my neighbor’s daughter and I told him that this little girl often drop by my house and we fond of each other. He commented and wonder with my look, how come the little girl fond of me. I just kept quiet but my brain and heart was recording. Perhaps he failed to agitate me during that instance. Sometimes, I wonder he must be thinking that he is as handsome as Rock Hudson. I think he is. If he insult my look, then at the same time he is insulting Allah creation. He never thought of this. From the “blister” incident, I noticed the relationship became sour and he was beginning to find fault with me. He even disputed the short message by my brother back home about the Malaysian political scene and RPK detained under ISA. I told him that Pak Wan received the same message. How could my brother be wrong? This guy is really a nut and weird. I kept my distance, talked less and communicated with him only on relevant matter and instances. Later, Haji Razali told me, X had told him that he does not like to be reprimanded or rather to be told off. Therefore, he is always right.

Disturbing news from home: Captain Fauzi, my Mosque buddy, sent a short message that our colleague, Haji Mat Zan admitted to the Hospital for leukemia.

6th September: I performed the 4th umrah today with Pak Wan. This time was for my maternal grandmother, Hajjah Robimah binti Hanapiah.

Sad news received from home after umrah. I received four short messages and a telephone call that Haji Mat Zan ex Senior Custom Director had just passed away. Late Haji Mat Zan was a good buddy and at anytime of the day we met we greeted each other jokingly with “good morning”. Incidentally, Pak Wan also received the same message from his colleagues as Haji Mat Zan was once Pak Wan subordinate. As an obituary to Haji Mat Zan, Pak Wan and me bought the Holy Koraan and donated (sedekah) it to the Grand Mosque under Haji Mat Zan. Other than the normal doa, that’s the best we could do for Allahyarham Haji Mat Zan. After terawikh prayer, X bought a grilled chicken and invited Pak Wan and me to join him for dinner. I reluctantly joined, my heart was still swollen.

7th September: The Travel Agency took us to the visit of Arafah and Mina. I just followed the entourage but I did not perform the miqat at Jairanah. By the time I got back to the Hotel it would be too hot for me to perform the umrah. I need to check my health as I have three more weeks to go. At Arafah, while gazing at Jabal Rahmah, Fitrisah, the little girl, I mentioned earlier, was in my house back home and my wife put her on the line to speak to me. Her little and cheeky voice cheered me up.

After the zohor prayer, while Pak Wan, X and me, was about to retire for the afternoon nap, X said that his wife who is still young, prefer him to sleep right under the air con so that his body would not be affected by the direct air con breeze. Unlike you two, referring to Pak Wan and me, your wives are already old and do not make any difference. I know what he actually meant. I looked at Pak Wan and Pak wan face changed. It was indeed an insulting statement who does not bother about the feeling of others. Again, I see it as lacking in human relation. In the first instance, who is he to comment about our wives? Is his wife as young as Siti Nurhaliza? I look at my wife much too often. She look younger than 60, her face is perfect, no deformity and her lips is perfect. I just ignored the stupid statement and hit the pillow. Perhaps he failed to agitate me.

8th September: I performed the 5th umrah for my late father in law, Abdul Rahman bin Ali, Regimental No: 59. I went with Pak Wan. We also prayed the Isyakh and terawikh together at the roof top. It was nice to pray at the roof top, very spacious and the cool breeze up there really comforting. Later, we went to Abdillah’s Date & Sweet shop for Pak Wan wanted to replenish his stock. On the way back to the Hotel, we stopped by at Wafa Palace Hotel to meet my friend, Haji Bakir who had just checked in from Medina. Haji Bakir was my roommate when we performed the Haj together in 1999. Ramadan umrah, in 2007 Haji Bakir was my roommate. We remained close buddy. We respect each other and we never insult each other. Maybe both of us are not as handsome as Rock Hudson. Haji Bakir Hotel was about 150 meter away from mine.

9th September: I performed my 6th umrah alone and this time for my late mother in law, Mariam binti Haji Tahir. Since Pak Wan was leaving home the next day, as a token of friendship, he presented me with a praying mat (sejadah). Now I had Haji Bakir around, a new partner, we went together to break our fast and performed most prayers together. It was during terawikh prayer at the roof top that a small fire occurred at Safwah Tower Building. I could see it clearly and the sirens of the Fire Engine were blaring. The fire was distinguished within minutes and all hell back to normal. On the way back to the Hotel, I reciprocated Pak Wan by presenting him with a Khasmiri shawl for him to wear during his prayers back home. That’s what friendship is all about. Thank you, Pak Wan. Even though you were once a very high ranking Government Officer, a JUSA, yet you remain humble and friendly. We are competitor in business but we never discuss anything whatsoever about our business in the Holy Land. Strictly business with Allah and overcoming the temptations of satans. (syaitan laknatullah).

10th September: Pak Wan bade farewell, en route home via Baharain. I have my new buddy Haji Bakir as company from now on. After terawikh, we had tea at Hilton and we walked down memory lane. During Haj in 1999, we stayed at Hilton Tower 5, on the 17th Floor.

11th September: I performed my 7th umrah with Haji Bakir and this time was for my late step mother in law, Gayah binti Tahir. For the first time, I went by bus. It was cheaper, 4 Riyals to and fro but I had to struggle boarding the bus with the Indians and the Pakis. There is no such thing as queuing system. The fittest win the day. Really chaotic and I don’t like it especially for a small size man like me. The Arabs were taking advantage, each passenger in a Van to Tanaim was charged with 10 Riyals. After terawikh, we searched for the exact location of Felda Restaurant at Safwah Tower. We found the place and we ordered fried meehoon and teh tarik.

Pak Wan sent a short message that he arrived home safely and he gave me the latest political scenario back home in Malaysia. This time I just shared it with Haji Bakir.

12th September: I found out the hand carry bag given by the Travel Agency had a tear and it would be wasteful just to dispose it. I bought a needle and thread to patch the problem. I quietly sew up the tear and X commented that the similar bag given to him, he passed it to his kampong folks to collect rambai fruits. I said to myself, what a statement. Here I am, am taking the bag all the way to Mecca, to the Holy Land but to his standard, the bag only deserve to collect rambai. It was an egoistic statement, said in the Holy Land. I just kept quiet fearing that if I opened up my mouth, irrelevant subject would again be repeated. Once finished, I left the room. It reminded me that even the Holy Prophet Mohamed (pbuh) himself patched up his own clothing or robes. Does he ever think before he speaks? Sometimes, I wonder.

13th September: I performed the 8th umrah with Haji Bakir and his wife. We went by van and this umrah was for my paternal grandfather, Abdullah bin Kanda Abdul Rahman. After zohor, I collected my laundry without a receipt. I lost it. Fortunately, I was a regular customer of this Laundry outlet and the Operator recognizes and remembers me. So, there was no problem. In Arabic, its mafi muskhil. During terawikh prayer, I was so sleepy and I took a break at 16 instead of 20.

14th September: I performed the 9th umrah with Haji Bakir and his wife. This time was for my paternal grandmother, Teh Non binti Busu Latiff. I was late for my Asar prayer and I just joined the crowd at the fringe of the Grand Mosque. After completion, I realized my kiblah was wrong and I had to repeat my Asar prayer alone. That’s the penance for being late. After the terawikh prayer, I went to the Pharmacy and bought the diabetic testing needles. I brought my own kit and I usually monitor my own sugar level.

15th September: I performed the 10th umrah and this time was for my late cousin sister who passed away in May 2008, Amnah binti Ramli. After terawikh, Haji Bakir came to my Hotel to take my cough syrup and panadol. He was developing a bad cough. My stock became handy. It was funny though, I smoke but I did not develop acute coughing. Some people who even hate Smokers, they were the one who coughed badly and barking away through the night. I thanked (syukur) Allah for giving me good health while performing my Ramadan umrah.

16th September: I performed the 11th umrah and this time for my paternal aunty, Nyah Doyah binti Mohd Tasir. The bus was terribly packed and I could not tolerate the jostling and rushing. I took the van instead and I was charged 10 Riyal for a trip. Never mind, I was too small among the Pakis and Indians. If I joined the crowd I might hurt somebody or I might get hurt myself. In the Holy Land the sin is 100,000 if we hurt someone. After terawikh, I went with Haji Bakir to Felda Restaurant and we yearned for nasi lemak. We ordered nasi lemak with chicken rendang and we were charged 20 Riyal per plate. We laughingly enjoyed the nasi lemak.

17th September: I performed the 12th umrah and this time for my maternal grand aunty, Itam Rahimah binti Hanapiah. After Asar, I was so pleased to see the arrival of Haji Adnan, my neighbour back home and whose daughter, I fond of. He checked into my room and so as Haji Salehudin, the former Director for Education of Jakim. Now, four of us were occupying Room 202.

Knowing Haji Adnan had arrived, Haji Bakir came to my Room to greet Haji Adnan and later the three of us went to break our fast together at the Grand Mosque. Haji Adnan and Haji Bakir knew each other from the 2007 umrah when we were in the same entourage.

After the maghrib prayer Haji Adnan left us to perform his arrival umrah and Haji Bakir and I continued with our normal isyakh and terawikh prayer.

18th September: This morning, the three of us went shopping. We went to the Market and bought beef, cooking oil and all other cooking ingredients. Haji Adnan is a good cook and we planned to have home cook food instead. I bought the cooking utensils and the Hotel provided the Heater Stove. While we were away, Haji Salehudin left the room and his bed was taken over by Haji Hassan, the Proprietor of the Travel Agency. I saw X was not too happy with Haji Hassan checking in into Room 202. He was contented with only three occupants as he could put his bags on the spare bed. As far as I was concern, I don’t really care. I am very easily adapted to any body as long as the person is nice to me. I don’t know for what reasons all the four occupants of Room 202 missed the Asar prayer. All overslept.

19th September: It was Friday and the Grand Mosque was overcrowded. It’s a weekend in Saudi Arabia and most people surrounding Mecca will start to congengrate the Grand Mosque since Thursday afternoon. The three of us went to the Mosque at 1030 hours for the 1330 hours Friday Prayer. If we were late, there would no place to sit. After terawikh, Haji Adnan prepared mee curry and we all enjoyed something different. We even gave some to other Pilgrims to taste. During the fasting month, it is encourage to be generous and giving (sedekah).

20th September: Tahajud started, but I didn’t attend. Sometimes after mid night, my sister sent a short message informing me, there would not be a Hari Raya celebration at our ancestral home as my mother decided to spend the Hari Raya at my brother’s place instead. She asked for my advice and I promised to persuade my mum to cancel her plan.
I performed the 13th umrah with Haji Adnan and this time was for my late brother in law, Samad bin Abdul Rahman.

21st September: Attended tahajud. I performed the 14th umrah and this time I went alone. The umrah was for my late paternal great grandfather, Kanda Abdul Rahman bin Imam Todek. After the Asar prayer I assisted Haji Adnan to prepare tomyam noodle soup and we all enjoyed the dishes after the terawikh prayer.

22nd September: I missed the tahajud. I performed the 15th umrah for my late Koraan teacher, Tok Adam bin Mat Jawa. He taught me how to read the jahama and upgraded to Koraan. I felt gratitude and I always remember the small rattan cane in his right hand which frightened the hell out of me.

I sent four jubah to the Laundry. I would only wash my ihram, underpants and T shirts. For dinner after terawikh, Haji Adnan cooked beef kurma curry. I brought to Mecca a few packets of instant kurma curry and Haji Adnan manipulated with few other ingredients to make it more tastier.

23rd September: I performed 6 rakaat of tahajud. Performed the 16th umrah and this time for my late uncle, Ramli bin Mat Serah. For Isyakh and terawikh, I went with Haji Adnan. The Grand Mosque was overcrowded and we were directed by the Security to pray at the basement. Gosh! The place was so warm that we had to abandon the basement after the 4th rakaat of terawikh. The ceiling fans were circulating the same warm air. We were sweating profusely. After terawikh, we went to Safwah Tower, and I bought sweets and chocolates for Haji Adnan’s daughter.

24th September: I did not go for the tahajud. I performed the 17th umrah with Haji Bakir. This time was for my late cousin sister, Intan Hanizan binti Ramli. Since the bus was crowded and by van was getting expensive, we walked to the Babul Fatah area to take the van. At Babul Fatah the charges to Tanaim was only 3 Riyals. Haji Adnan could not join us as he was getting sick, coughing and fever. After Asar, I saw Haji Adnan lying in bed and I got him some drinks, White Horse, similar to Red Bull in Malaysia. This was an energy drink. Haji Adnan struggled to perform the terawikh. His fever took for the worse and he did only 10 rakaat. Back at the Hotel, he managed to prepare meehoon tomyam soup and we ate together after terawikh. After the tomyam feast, to my astonishment I saw X cleaning the cooking pot. I pulled his leg by saying that it would be a heavy rain in Mecca tonight; someone is washing the cooking pot. If he could insults and make joke out of me, all these while, I don’t see any reason why I couldn’t throw one at him? It was a surprise to me as most housekeeping in Room 202 was done by me. No other person ever cleaned the washing sink filter. There were instances that after eating from a plate, without throwing the remnant and unwashed, he deliberately asked me to take his plate on my way to the Dining Room. I had to clean his plate and take it down. He must be still thinking he was still an Army Officer and I was his designated “bed man”. Shit! As a friend, I did a favour but he never appreciates.

That night, since Haji Adnan was sickly, I offered him to sleep at my bed instead where the air condition would not be directed to him. I hanged my two ihram to partition him. I took over his bed and I had to wrap myself with the blanket in order to sleep. The air con control was under the jurisdiction of X.

25th September: For the first time, I completed ten rakaat of tahajud. After Subuh, Haji Adnan and Haji Hasan went to bed and I was sitting in the dark on Haji Adnan’s bed sending some short messages back home. No plan to perform umrah as it was Thursday morning and there were a lot of weekend Pilgrims. X walked in sometimes at 0700 hours after his normal rituals at the Grand Mosque. He walked in and put on the light, unconcerned that two other guys were sleeping. I just kept quite and continue my business. I could do my business without light and the light from the window was bright enough. X took his shower and he prepared to hit the pillow. As he laid down, he increased the speed of the air condition, unconcerned that Haji Adnan was very sick and occupying my bed now. I got upset as this guy was getting too much, only thinking for himself. I stood up from the bed, went to the air condition, leaned over his body reaching the air con control switch and lower the speed. At the same time I told him, Haji Adnan was dying, please be tolerant. He got agitated and he started repeating the same old story of my actions at Jeddah Airport hitting the two Arab boy trolleys and my telephone conversation with my wife. He even said, he wished I did not show up in the Holy Land. He said he was a Division One Government Officer and he was not to take orders from me or rather he was not my labourer, “kuli batak”. In my heart, I said, when he ordered me to take down his unwashed plate, was I not his “kuli batak?’ I said my stand and I said, our friend is very sick, just be tolerant and reduce the air condition speed, that’s all. He was furious, jumped from the bed, with his both fist clenched and his feet thumping the floor about to attack me. I sat still on the bed, my hands rose to repel his approach and asked him, what’s all these about? Somehow, he realized his untoward behaviors, he extended his hand to apologies, grabbed me with his two arms, kissed my both cheeks and said sorry. It was rather too late. Damaged done. I just kept quiet. I don’t understand why he could behave to such an extent. He repeatedly used to tell me during casual conversation, he was trained to kill. I wonder, how many terrorists he had killed during his service. If he wanted to kill a harmless man like me, I think the Arm Forces Training Manual got to be completely revamped. I related and discussed the incident with Haji Hassan, and he asked me to be patience and in the Holy Land, it pays to be patience. Haji Hassan said, he is very well versed with X characters and there are certain Pilgrims who changed Travel Agency with X presence in his group. I asked to change room but Haji Hassan advised me to think about it and not to be very obvious of the situation. Allah may want to test the degree of my patience.

During breaking of fast, the three of us, Haji Adnan, Haji Bakir and me broke fast in my Room 202. Haji Adnan was physically sick, I was mentally sick and Haji Bakir was a good buddy, keeping us company. Haji Bakir and I went for isyakh and terawikh early and we left Haji Adnan resting in the room. In the Holy Land when you are alone, you only rely on friends.

After terawikh, I found the Heater Stove missing, someone hijacked it. The Hotel Bangladeshi worker gladly found a replacement for me. I could get things done easily from them, as I was nice and friendly with them. I normally offered my greetings and offered them cigarettes whenever I bumped into them. I could get the towels replaced regularly and the toilet cleaned.

It was Friday night tonight and to the Muslims is a good and holy night. Before mid night I went in front of the Kaabah and confided with Allah. I read the yasin hajat and prayed the solat hajat. I left it to the Almighty, for He had seen and witnessed all. “Ih dinas siro thal mustakim”. Guide me and guide those concerned to the right path. From now on, I decided to put aside X existence and be presence in the room only during extreme necessity.

While I was away at the Mosque, Haji Adnan told me, he consumed my mee maggi cup and after that he wrapped himself with a blanket. He sweated and his fever slowly recuperating.

26th September: Tahajud – by the time, I arrived at the Grand Mosque, the prayers had started and the Mosque was already full. Pilgrims were overflowing praying on the road or at any available space. I prayed beside an open space beside Hilton Hotel. I only did four rakaat.

Haji Adnan was recovering and we went for the Subuh prayer together. At 0800 hours, Haji Adnan left for Jeddah and home. I even gave him my jacket to wear as he was still not 100% fit. He left his sejadah to me to be given (sedekah) to someone deserved. I gave it to Haji Razali Shaarani.

It was Friday and I went early to the Grand Mosque with Haji Bakir. Luckily we found a place by the wall, and while waiting for the sermon to begin, I doze off.

In the afternoon, Haji Hassan also left Room 202 and he moved back with his wife to his normal room, Room 901. It was now leaving X and me occupying Room 202. After consultation with Haji Hassan, he suggested that Haji Razali from Room 104 to move up to Room 202. Haji Razali agreed as Room 104 was bit too crowded with four occupants.

Tonight was the Night of 27th Ramadan, the highlight at the Grand Mosque. The Arabs believe, the Night of LailatulQadar. The Nights of 1000 Months. All good deeds would be blessed by the deeds of 1000 months blessings. Naturally the Mosque was crowded. Haji Bakir and me went very early for the isyakh and terawikh prayer and we got a very comfortable place at 1st Floor Babul Umrah. It was estimated there were three million pilgrims praying at and around the Grand Mosque that night.

27th September: I did not do tahajud or umrah. Somehow, I felt I need a good break, the past week was rather eventful, crowded and busy. The shoulders could get tired as while walking among the crowd, the brushing of shoulder to shoulder was very tiring. After terawikh, I went with Haji Bakir to do some shopping. I bought some vcd and books.

28th September: I performed the 18th umrah today and it was for my late stepmother, Cik Bee binti Adam. The terawikh would be the completion (hatam) of the Koraan. The Grand Mosque was again over crowded and we overlooked. Haji Bakir and I went a little bit late and we could not enter the Mosque proper. We prayed the Isyakh and terawikh at the fringe of the Mosque. After terawikh I went to Abeer Garden Hotel to meet my friend Haji Malik Khalil. The previous night he sent me a short message telling me his where about and wish for a get together. Haji Malik was with me during the April 2008 Umrah and Cairo trip. Haji Malik is a Pensioner, a JUSA served in the Ministry. Incidentally he was studying together with my cousin Dato Malek Ahmad at University Malaya in the late 60s. My cousin opted to be in Pos Malaysia and finally became its CEO. These people all remain humble and they never declared that they were once a Division One Government Officer. In fact, I have two Retired Army Captains as my Kampong Mosque buddy. Captain Fauzi serves as Deputy Secretary of the Mosque and Captain Raja Nazri drives the Hearse (Kereta Jenazah). These two retired Captains are down to earth people. My Hostel mate, Daud Ariffin finally became Datuk Daud Ariffin, Brigadier General and Chief of the Commando Unit. He is now retired and residing at Terendak. Once in a while he called me inviting me to Terendak and catch up with up with Haji Bakir at the golf course. I met Haji Malik, at his Hotel, invited me for tea and we had bubur pisang with sagu.

29th September: I performed the 19th umrah with Haji Bakir. This time was for my paternal aunty, Jepah binti Abdullah. With Haji Bakir, I went for the isyakh and terawih prayer and tonight I would know whether Aidilfitri would be tomorrow or 1st October. After the terawikh prayer, there was the normal solat jenazah and we waited whether there was terawikh. After about 15 minutes there was no call of terawikh prayer and automatically the following day would be Aidilfitri. Most pilgrims stood up and greeted each other with Eid Mubarak, in Malaysia is Selamat Hari Raya. We met up with Hajjah Ani, Haji Bakir’s wife and we went to Safwah Tower as she wanted to buy dates at Abdillah’s shop and do some last minute shopping at Safwah Shopping Complex. Since it was Hari Raya night, Hajah Ani decided to give us a treat and we went to Hilton Food Court and we had Turkish cuisine. It was late around midnight we went back to our respective Hotels.

30th September: AIDILFITRI IN MECCA. I caught up with Haji Bakir early morning and we went for subuh prayer together. After Subuh, we stayed on in the Mosque to wait for the Aidilfitri prayer. If we went out of the mosque there was possibility we could not re enter the Grand Mosque for Aidilfitri prayer. After the Aidilfitri prayer, I had an invitation by Abdillah to join him for Hari Raya feast and drink. Haji Bakir joined his wife and back to his Hotel. Later I went back to the Hotel and headed for the Dining Room. There was a small feast hosted by the Travel Agency at the Dining Room. It was at tail end when I arrived and I took what ever remained at the buffet table. I purposely wanted to be late because I wanted to avoid the Rock Hudson. Haji Hassan asked why I was late and I jokingly told him I had hookah with the Grand Mosque Imam. On hearing this, I saw Rock Hudson left the Dining Hall and I could now enjoy the lontong among other Pilgrims. After that, I went for roadside shopping. Things were sold very cheap and at reasonable price at the jumble sale by the roadside. Beautiful cushion cover sold at only 5 Riyal a piece. At Hilton, the same was 30 Riyals. However, I came to Mecca not to do shopping and I bought reasonable quantity just as a remembrance for 2008 umrah. I had learnt a lesson that in 2006 umrah, I had to pay RM 1000 excess baggage. It was Rock Hudson who said that the MAS Airport Manager was his acquaintance and excess baggage would be taken care. I would never forget that night that I had to use my credit card to pay RM 1000 on my behalf and upfront another RM 2000 for other two poor old women Pilgrims.

At night, I had plenty of time. I took a stroll down the street alone to watch human behaviors and sight seeing. Later, I went to the Grand Mosque and in front of the Kaabah, I confided with Allah and read the yasin hajat. I asked Allah to grant all that I wish for and most of all I pleaded for long live and be invited again for Ramadan 2009.

I don’t like to be in the room, anyway. Therefore, I spent most of my nights at the Grand Mosque.

I came back to the Hotel and I sat in the Dining Hall with Idris, the Indonesian who served our food. He prepared tea for me and we had light snack. He related to me an incident where one Pilgrim of my group nearly broke his hand phone. Idris played the selawat badar hymn from the hand phone and placed it on the dining table. This guy came and he said the song was noisy and he pushed Idris’s hand phone to the wall. Idris told him politely that the song is a religious hymn, not a pop song. Luckily the hand phone did not break. I asked Idris to describe the guy and as I expected the guess hit the bull’s eye. He later apologized to Idris. What’s the point? Sometimes we got to think before we act or before we speak. Once we acted or we spoke, it is now belong to the recipients or people who heard and witnessed. In the Holy Land, in the eyes of Allah, all are equal. You cannot put yourself above the others. In Malay, we term it as bongkak. We have to avoid this attitude. My father, was a Penghulu and my Mother a Housewife. My parental guidance played an important role on character building. Above that, during my young age, my grandparents took care of me. They taught me the essence of life and how to respect people especially the elders. I was guided by typical Malay cultures bred in a kampong. My characters are molded by good parental guidance and the six years of Hostel life that I underwent. It doesn’t cost you a cent to respect people, my late father used to say.

1st October: I tried to sleep, somehow I just couldn’t and to my surprise, X switched off the air condition. I don’t know whether he did it on purpose or he felt very cold. If he was sleeping directly under the air condition could feel the coldness, he should understand how other people felt sleeping directly off the air condition. I got fed up, getting warmer, put on my attire and off I went to the Grand Mosque. I sat in front of the Kaabah and did my normal routine, prayed, read the Koraan and recite the yasin hajat. The best person to talk to now, was Allah. After subuh, I prepared my own breakfast.

From today onward, most Pilgrims started the 6 Syawal fasting. I have my own reasons for not starting and it can be completed within the whole month of Syawal anyway. Since I was not fasting, I have to find my own breakfast and lunch. Mafi muskhil. There was no crowd in Mecca and I decided to perform the 20th umrah. This time was for my paternal aunty, Mahyan binti Abdullah.

After the Isyakh prayer, I went to Safwah Tower to buy dates and sweets from Abdillah Shop as I would be heading home in a few days time. Moreover, I had discounted price from Abdillah whom I had befriended since Ramadan 2005. Later I went with Haji Bakir to several Pharmacies as I had to replenish my medical stocks. I was interested with prolong expiry date and finally we found one down the street. I bought my Adalat 30 for high blood pressure, Avandia for sugar control and Panadol Extra for pain killer. The last stock was bought in Medina in April 2008. I normally buy my medicines from the Holy Land as the prices are much cheaper in Saudi Arabia compared to the Pharmacy in Malaysia.

2nd October: I performed my 21st umrah and my grand finale was with Haji Razali. This time was for my late brother, Saleh bin Abdul Hamid who passed away on 7th January 2008. We had a comfortable journey to Tanaim by bus. There was no crowd at all. After the umrah I washed my ihram for the last time and put to dry. I met Haji Bakir during Isyakh prayer and sometimes after midnight he would be leaving for Jeddah en route Amman Jordan for home. I went back to the Hotel after bidding farewell to Haji Bakir and headed straight to the Dining Room. All the occupants of Room 104, Haji Hamid, Haji Nasir and Haji Mat Baki joined me. We had tea and we chit chat until late in the morning. I could not sleep anyway and actually disliked to be in the room.

3rd October: After zohor, I went to Ben Daud Supermarket at Hilton Hotel to buy something that my daughter requested. After Asar, while strolling at Safwah Tower, I bumped into Haji Mat Khas, the Business Development Manager of the Orchid Hotel chain which manages few apartment blocks at Safwah Tower. He was looking for bargain able Nokia hand phones and asked me to join him. We finally found a shop and he bought two. As Maghrib was approaching, he invited me to the Hotel to take my wuduk. I later went to the Grand Mosque alone for my maghrib. After maghrib, I rushed back to my room as I wanted to do my packing. As I was busy packing, X somehow came back to the room. I abandoned my task, left the room and headed for my Isyakh prayer. After Isyakh, I quickly completed the packing. Haji Hamid and Idris waited for me at the Dining Room and we went out to the street just window shopping. We did not find anything interesting and we came back for tea. Later I went back to the room and took all my three bags and two cans of zam zam water to the Lobby. I also helped Haji Fahruddin an old man in the 80s to transfer his bags to the Lobby.

4th October: I was excited to go home and I spent the night sleepless. Very early in the morning, before subuh prayer, I joined Haji Razali and his wife at the Restaurant across the road for curry rice. I went for subuh prayer earlier than usual as I wanted to pray right in front of the Kaabah. Immediately after the subuh prayer, I had to do my farewell tawaf (widak). I started my widak soon after the subuh prayer and completed at 0630 hours. Before saying farewell to the Kaabah, I begged Allah for forgiveness as well as for all my family back home. I raised my both hands seeking for long live and be invited for the 2009 Ramadan. I leave it to the Almighty.

Back at the Hotel, the bus was waiting and we loaded our bags. I had to render assistance to all the aging Pilgrims. There were twenty eight of us in the bus, eighteen to board the Gulf Air and ten by Saudi Air. The bus arrived at Jeddah Saudi Air Terminal at 0930 hours and Saudi Air Flight No SV 0830 was to take off at 2250 hours. It was a long wait. The bus continued its journey to drop the eighteen Pilgrims at Jeddah International Terminal to catch the Gulf Air for Baharain at 1130 hours. We sat idle at the Airport with our trolleys at the corner. I had a call from Haji Nasir that his hand carry bag was accidentally brought down at Saudi Air Airport. I identified the bag and promised to be responsible and I asked him to wait for me at KLIA upon my arrival the following day. His flight from Baharain would touch down earlier.

At 1400 hours, we were allowed to line up our trolleys for checking in. Sometimes before that we had our boarding passes and thank Allah, X got his seat changed to a different seating from the rest nine of us. If he did not do it, I would have done so. Finally just before 1800 hours we got all our luggages and zam zam water cleared. According to Haji Razali an amount of 350 Riyals was paid in term of baksis to the Counter staff. I heard X supplemented 100 Riyals and I solemnly declared that he should, because his bag could even carry the Hijril Aswad home. This time around, I played smart and my three bags total weight was only 34 kilograms. Only 4 kilograms overweight. If I had to pay excess baggage, I could pull one bag out as hand carry and I would be way below the 30 kilograms weight limitation. I had already declared to Haji Razali, the Chief de Mission that I would refuse to pay for any excess baggage fees imposed unto me.

When all was cleared and done, I had my dinner with Haji Razali and wife at the Airport Cafeteria. I went into the Departure Lounge and headed for the bathroom. Had a shower, changed to new clothing and headed to the Surau to perform my maghrib and isyakh prayer. I adjourned to the smoking area, enjoyed my cigarettes and mind my own business. Once in a while, I walked into the Duty Free Shop and gazed around.

At 2150 hours we boarded the plane and the flight was on scheduled. After a short meal, I dozed off and when awakened the plane had landed in Riyadh. I did not know when the plane took off and only awakened at mid air and already daylight. It was over India when I switched on the flight monitor.


5th October: Landed safely at KLIA at 1420 hours, retrieved all my bags including Haji Nasir and was met by my family, Haji Nasir and Haji Adnan with his cute little girl, Nurul Fitrisah.

Home Sweet Home.


Conclusion: 2008 Ramadan Umrah was my 4th consecutive years of spending Ramadan in the Holy Land. Only the 2005 was smooth sailing. For 2006, I had to pay RM 1000 excess baggage, 2007 I had to evacuate the Holy Land on 26th Ramadan and in 2008 it was marred with the presence of a Red Indian Chief cum Rock Hudson. Luckily I had Pak Wan, Haji Bakir, Haji Razali, Haji Hamid, Idris and Haji Adnan who kept me company and we discussed intelligently to overcome the various problems and insults I encountered with X. Most other Pilgrims who came to know about the 25th September episode were astonished that such incident could happen in the Holy Land. I don’t understand why he wanted to attack me physically and uttered statement that he wished I did not show up in the Holy Land. What was he talking about? What happened to his akidah? He wanted to play GOD? He hates me, because I smoke? Well…I did not ask for his money to buy my cigarettes. I don’t smoke in the room. I found a quiet corner by myself at the staircase landing outside the room. I don’t blow smoke to his handsome face. It is my money and my lungs. What the hell, he bothers? If he paid for my trip, then he could play big brother or Red Chief No Smoke. Smoking and performing the ibadah are two different things entirely. Surely I did not smoke while praying or performing the umrah simultaneously. It was a fasting month and I only smoke from dusk to dawn. I did my fasting and performed the umrah and only Allah can take me for granted. Smokers or non smokers no human being can take the part of Allah and commented the type of ibadah I underwent. Allah even promised Heaven to a Prostitute when she quenched a thirsty dog from her shoe. Allah is the ultimate Judge.

Incidentally, I first met X on 25th September 2006, when he was left out from his normal Travel Agency and he joined the Travel Agency that I went with. In 2006, he had shown his color and I had minor confrontation with him but I was willing to put that behind. Back from 2006 umrah, I invited him and his family to my Hari Raya open house, and he obliged. Since then he had come to my house several times and we went out together for lunch or to buy fishes from the Fishermen Wharf. We even attended my aunty funeral together, so happen he is well acquainted with my uncle. I never yet step in his house. From my association with him, I observed X tried to be dominant, mention any topics, he knows all and he insisted on paying all expenses when lunching together. His words and comments were insulting and though I am much older than him, he lacks the typical Malay culture of respecting the young and old. Sometimes I took it as a joke and tolerated. He uses his money as a controlling factor to act superior to his acquaintance. He is suffering from an acute superiority complex syndrome. Incidentally the unfortunate incident in Mecca happened on 25th September 2008, exactly two solid years from the first time I met him. I believe, Allah destined a reason behind it. (hikmah).

That’s it. From now on, I want nothing to do with him anymore. Who needs friend like him? For all the nasty actions and words towards me in Mecca, I would not forget and forgive him till the rest of my life. I despise even his shadow. Don’t blame me for being nasty as his remarks was so bloody painful for me to absorb. As far as I am concern, he can go to Hell. Who cares? However, I leave it to Allah to be the best Judge and He alone can decide the Right and the Wrong.

As of the Travel Agency that I went with, I was quite happy with their service, could not bargain for more as there were a lot of Hotels in Mecca being demolished for development. I witnessed the initial demolition during my April 2008 umrah. I anticipated worse than that. For next year, Haji Hassan is trying to identify Hotels that are reasonable and nearer to the Grand Mosque. For comfort, easy access and for people who have plenty of money, I suggest they should stay at Hilton or Inter Continental. They can have the air con to themselves and they don’t need to share room with anybody. When one has plenty of money and stay in Hotel with average people, one definitely tend to show off and dominant. I think Allah despise this (murka). It was troubling to see Haji Hassan with plenty of problems in his hands. There were Pilgrims who stayed longer and some stayed shorter. There was a Retired Colonel in the group that had to leave early and this Colonel was cool and a perfect gentleman. All were determined by flight schedule availability anyway. Human planned but Allah destined. As for me, it was one day earlier but on the other hand I had to to wait at the Airport nearly a day before departure. Though very tiring, it was okay for me and I fully understood why Haji Hassan had to transport all the 28 of us, of different flight schedules in a single bus. What was important, my intention (nawaitu) of fasting, prayed and performed the Ramadan umrah and I successfully triumphant. The side kick that happened was when one allowed satan (syaitan) to dominate. Satan can easily manipulate the inner soul (rohaniah) if your heart is not sincere or clean.

Back home, Pak Wan invited me and Haji Adnan to his Open House Hari Raya celebration on 12th October at his beautiful Bungalow in Bangi. Both families went and Pak Wan was very please to introduce me to his friends, that I was his room mate in Mecca and Haji Adnan was the gentleman that took over his bed when he left Mecca. Pak Wan was also surprised that some of his friends are also my acquaintances. His business partner is a close friend of mine and his associate are my wife’s friend. Allah destined me to meet Pak Wan in Mecca and he turned out to be a perfect gentleman. Once a very high ranking Government Officer surpassed even the Division One and he definitely value the terminology of friendship. On other instance, I met Captain Fauzi at the Mosque and I asked him whether he knew that as a Captain, he was a Division One Government Officer. He replied, “Not that I know off”. That answered my question. We had a good laugh.

The day to day epilog in the Holy Land would remind me of human characters, human relations, what friendship mean and rituals programming. In the Holy Land, your intention (nawaitu) is utmost important. Allah knows what best of you and He alone can decide to bless or making you show your true colors. You don’t have to show off to human being your rituals and ibadah for human being cannot bless you. Do your rituals quietly, unseen by human beings but Allah certainly can. One may know all the hadiths in the world but if one does not put it into practice, Allah would be more furious (murka). I was happy that I could complete a total of twenty one (21) umrah, never missed a single terawikh and my fasting was full. While there, I helped anyone that required my assistance and I did not have any intention of hitting anyone physically. Yes, I did hit a trolley but it was with a trolley.

My parents left no wealth to me but the parental guidance and education are the greatest and priceless wealth they rendered and prevented me from being overboard in all respects. To love Allah is to love human beings. For human beings is His creation. Love and respect human beings, you automatically love and respect Allah. If a Muslim lacks that feeling, forget about going to the Holy Land. Hibernate in Batu Cave and meditate.


Syukur Alhamdulillah. (Thank you, Allah).


“The good come from Allah and the bad was from your humble servant”.

THAT WAS A TRUE STORY.

The Tenth Pilgrimage.

The coming Ramadhan this September 2008 would be my tenth trip to the Holy Land,

First - In late 1995, I was striking the half century and it was about time I did something spiritually to my soul. I packed my wife, a son and daughter and off we went to the Holy Land to perform the umrah. The first time I saw the Kaabah and I wonder, millions of Muslim is facing the Kaabah and I was right in front of it, millions behind me. What a wonderful feeling. I felt I was so small among the crowd. Allah had permitted me to visit his House and I promised to the Almighty that this would not be the first and the last. I also paid my respect to the Holy Tomb of the Prophet (pbuh) in Nabawi Mosque in Medina and I felt I was very close to Him. He was the Messenger of Allah, the chosen one, not just any ordinary man. He was the last Prophet to all mankind.

Second – My wife and I performed the Haj on, 21st.February to 5th.April 1999. After I came back from the first umrah, I decided I must perform the fifth pillar of Islam. It is obligated for every Muslim to perform the Haj provided he/she can afford it monetarily, healthy and of mentally sound. The Haj went well. I managed to do the 80 prayers at Nabawi Mosque in Medina, the night stay at the Desert of Arafah, the stoning of the Devils at Mina and other compulsory rituals. One pilgrim passed away in my tent in the Desert of Arafah and one passed away on the same flight home to KLIA.

Third – I retired beginning of 2001 and my wife retired in mid 2002. We decided the payoff we received might as well be utilized for some good deed. I went to the Holy Land for umrah with my wife on 13th August to 27th. August 2002. We were lucky that our Hotel in Medina was very close to the Nabawi Mosque. In this Mosque, the most sought place to perform your sunat prayer is at Raudah. It is so said that the Raudah is one of the Garden in Paradise. A white carpeted area beside the Tomb of the Holy Prophet (pbuh). The décor and lightings at this place would fascinate any one. On most occasions I never missed this place and I usually find a space when I go after midnight.

Fourth – I went to the holy Land to perform the umrah again on 25th.June to 8th.July 2003 but this time I went alone. During this trip, one pilgrim was found missing in Medina from Friday morning until Saturday afternoon. I went for night search and I mostly covered all corners of the Mosque looking for him. This time the Hotel in Mekah was just at the fringe of the Holy Mosque. From the Hotel I just had to cross the road and I was already in the Mosque. However, the lift was frightening, a 1948 manually closed door.

Fifth – I had a mild stroke on 9th.October 2003 and I was slowly recovering. In 2004, my wife decided that we should perform the umrah to seek and pray in front of the Holy Kaabah to the Almighty Allah for my speedy recovery. I was not really steady but my wife was beside to me incase I hit the ground. We went there on 3rd June to 9th.June 2004. We took the opportunity to tour Istanbul before we performed the umrah. It was wonderful to see the Blue Mosque in Istanbul but the journey was very tiring. We had to do several stoppages and transits. Flight to Singapore, stopover in Bangkok and flew to Istanbul. Istanbul to Jeddah then flew to Medina. From Medina, flew to Jeddah then by road to Mekah. The return trip was by road to Jeddah and flew back to Istanbul. From Istanbul flew to Bangkok, stopover then onward to Singapore, then finally to KLIA. I had to pay excess baggage on the leftover baggage in Istanbul. Our baggage was final checked in at Jeddah. On all perspective, the Holy Land was more important than the side tour. I stood and kneel in front of the Kaabah seeking forgiveness and blessings from the Almighty. I came to your House to surrender myself for thou only human. I played back the negative slides of my life and I submit to the Almighty that thou only human and I leave it to the Almighty to decide. I thank the Almighty for giving me the time and the strength to find my way to the Holy Land. I came home from the Holy Land and the Land of Constantinople satisfied.


Sixth – I wanted to spend Ramadahan in the Holy Land, to feel the fasting in the desert. I went on 5th.October to 5th.November 2005. During Ramadhan, especially in the Holy City of Mekah, the City would be packed by pilgrims from all over the world. Two to three million of pilgrims prayed and packed the Mosque. It was said that if you fast and perform the umrah in Ramadhan it is equivalent of performing the Haj with the Holy Prophet (pbuh). The pilgrims spend the whole night praying the terawikh and tahajud. The peak of Ramadhan in Mekah is on the 27th.night of Ramadhan. It is believed that if Allah accepted your prayers on this night, it is equivalent of 1000 years of prayers. One of my room mates was knocked by a taxi on his way back from subuh prayer and he had a bad sprained ankle. We collected money and bought him a wheelchair. It is good that while we are in the Holy Land to do as many good deed as possible to another human beings. Giving alms to the poor is also encouraged but not a necessity. The month of Ramadhan is the month of giving.


Seventh – Satisfied with the previous Ramadhan fasting, I went again on 25th September to 25th.October 2006. It was all about the same, same Agent and same Hotels. On the 27th of Ramadhan after the noon prayer there was a thunderstorm in Mekah. Heavy downpour and billboards came crashing down. Traffic came to standstill as most vehicles had a malfunction screen wipers. Most Mekkans came out to enjoy the downpour as it was not often they see water dropping from the sky. I came out to take some photographs. The rituals during this time were merely routines as I had the experienced of the previous Ramadhan. On the first of Syawal, the end of Ramadhan, the City was so packed that there was no way for me to enter the Mosque for the Hari Raya prayer. I prayed in front of the Hotel where I stayed, joining the congregation. The only disappointment about this trip was about the RM 1000.00 I had to pay excess baggage fee at Jeddah Airport by Malaysian Airline. I promised myself, no more Malaysian Airline to Saudi Arabia. I blamed the Tour Agent for checking individually instead of group.

Eight – The urge of spending Ramadhan in the Holy Land was there and I went again on 12th.September to 10th.October 2007. I just had my cataracts removed and I had clearer visions now without my normal glasses. This time, I took Etihad Airline and transit at Abu Dhabi Airport. As agreed with the Tour Agent, I wanted to complete the fasting in Mekah and spend the Hari Raya there. I was so disappointed that I had to take the Etihad flight home on the 26th of Ramadhan. I even missed the peak and I managed to perform the 27th night terawikh at the Haj Airport Terminal on my way to Abu Dhabi. I was fortunate to be invited by the Airport Management to break fast with them. It was typical of Arab cuisine. Arrived at Abu Dhabi and I took the opportunity sightseeing Abu Dhabi city. It was a16 hour transit and the Airline provided a star Hotel to stay. I completed the balance of the fasting month at home. Disappointed but Almighty Allah had destined me that way.

Ninth – It was five years since my wife went to the Holy Land. She decided to go and we planned after the Holy Land we might as well tour Cairo. Moreover, I had not been to the African continent. We went to the Holy Land on 15th.April to 26th.April 2008. It was a bad beginning but a pleasant ending. The Saudi Airline 747 was delayed due to one engine malfunctioned. It was to take off at 1730 hr. The Airline checked us in at Adelphi Hotel in Seremban. When I was about to hit the pillow after the Nightline News at 0030 hr, I had a call to assemble in the Lobby at 0130 hr as the plane would take off at 0430 hr. On arrival at Jeddah, the Hotel in Medina which was to be our first destination was cancelled by the Agent. We now had to be diverted to Mekah instead and performed the miqat at Zulfah. We finally made it to Mekah and performed the arrival umrah. Mekah is in the process of knocking down old buildings for their 10 year plan to transform Mekah into a metropolitan city. The whole city was dusty even the Kaabah. Every other day they had to vacuum the black cloth that covered the Kaabah. After Mekah, we went to Medina and after three days in Medina we proceeded to the Land of the Pharaohs. My only interest was the pyramids, the sphinx and the Nile cruise. We also went to Alexandria, its beaches frontage the Mediterranean. We landed home after a three hour transit at Riyadh Airport after Cairo.

Tenth – Planning to leave KLIA on 27th.August 2008 by Saudi Airline for Jeddah at 1425 hr. I have now switched the different Travel Agent and God willing insyaalah I will be back in Malaysia on the 5th of Hari Raya.

To the Holy Land.

Today, before the Friday Prayer, I got the flight schedule of my impending pilgrimage to the Holy Land during the month of Ramadhan.

27 August 2008 SV 835 ETD KLIA 1455 ETA JED 1815

04 October 2008 SV 830 ETD JED 2250

05 October 2008 ETA KLIA 1450

Flight schedule on 27 August is from KLIA to Jeddah and on 04 October from Jeddah to KLIA. I would be spending the whole month of September 2008 in Saudi Arabia and would be celebrating the Hari Raya in the Holy City of Mekah. GOD willing, insyaallah, I would be back in Malaysia on the 5^th. Hari Raya.

To all my Muslim friends and readers, I am wishing you, Selamat Berpuasa and Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri. Maaf dzahir dan batin.

I performed my Friday prayer today at Kampong Raja Uda. The sermon touched on current status of Al Aqsa Mosque in Palestine. Al Aqsa is the third holiest Mosque to the Muslims and the Muslim original kiblat was towards this Mosque. The ascension of the Holy Prophet (pbuh) started from this Mosque. It is now under the strict control of the Israel regime, occupied 39 years ago and an insult to all Muslims. This was the case when Muslims or Arabs in particular in the region was not united. We, Malaysian Muslims are not able to visit and pray in this Holy Mosque of Al Aqsa because of non diplomatic relation with the Israeli regime. I seek to the Almighty Allah that one fine day I would be able to pray in the Al Aqsa Mosque. Insyaalah.

GESB & KGB

When I arrived at Guthrie Export Sdn Bhd, Port Klang the construction of the new Palm Oil Terminal was 75% completed. My function now was to oversee the construction according to the plan. Any deviation, I had to report to Guthrie Management Services and they would take it up with Kumpulan Guthrie. I had to submit weekly and monthly progress report. It was a difficult task in some way or other. I had to handle the Contractor and the Client, Kumpulan Guthrie. The Contractor as usual would try to cut corner but I had to serve my Employer as well as the client. Most instances, I had to refer and leave it to my Client’s Project Engineer discretion. The construction dragged on exceeding my contractual period and I was requested to stay put. It was completed in early 1978 and was commissioned.

There was not much teething problem as the capacity was only 11,800 metric ton and there were only 7 storage tanks. Staff and workers training made simpler as majority of them had experienced working in Terminal operations. However, there was no crude palm oil to store. Export of crude palm oil fell short due to local consumption and Palm Oil Refineries was mushrooming. Alternatively, we rented and stored palm kernel oil for outsiders. At time, we also utilize the storage tank for blending purposes before delivering to the Palm Oil Refineries. Off specification oil could be made on specification by blending proportionately with good oil. We called it cocktail and I was the Master Blender. The Buyer could not complain as the deliveries were on spec. It was an achievement if the blended spec fell just on the border line. Looking back, sometimes, I smiled. Was I cheating? Nope, I don’t think so because the deliveries specification was as per contract.

In April 1979, I was absorbed into Kumpulan Guthrie Sdn Bhd. There was one lady Executive in Personnel who initially objected to my recruitment. I was not an Engineer or a graduate. However, the Marketing Director and another Executive in Personnel overruled her. Later, in March 1985 with the recommendation of the Distribution Manager and approved by the Executive Director Admin & Personnel, my services was backdated to 1^st August 1977, the day I was seconded to Guthrie Export Sdn Bhd. I think I have proven of my capability and sincerity towards the Company.

I was appointed as Installation Executive, reporting to and assisting the Manager of GESB. In addition to the Palm Oil Installation, GESB also had a Latex Installation as well. Since latex operation was new to me, I had to understudy the operation. I was back on training ground, from the rubber tree, processing factories, transportation, storage and shipment. Latex operation was very much different from petroleum and crude palm oil. I was now, back to working at abnormal hours. Export shipment operation could be at any time and any day. I had to attend to this operation till completion.

One day after the King Birthday in 1981 both Latex and Palm Oil Installation suffered a complete shutdown. There was explosion in the Port area and metal splinters from oxyacetylene tanks broke through both Offices. Luckily it happened at 3 in the morning and the Port as well as the Installations was on port closed holiday. I was awakened by the Security Guard who cycled to my bungalow and shook my gate for my immediate attention. I had no house phone less hand phone then. Tuan, Tuan, Guthrie sudah habis. I was shocked when I arrived on site and more shocked when the daybreak, death occurred just at the fringe of the Palm Oil Installation. The town of Port Klang was in panic state like war zone, where rumors flying that the fire now closing to a Petroleum storage tank. As for GESB, the damage was only on the building and we resumed normal operation within 3 days.

On several occasions, I was the Acting Manager and finally on 1^st January 1990, I was promoted to Managerial status but not the Manager of GESB. Sound peculiar? Yes, it was. That’s how the system worked.

Finally on 1^st August 1990, I was transferred to the Head Office as Distribution Manager (Rubber & Latex) at the Marketing Division. The Distribution Manager, who was just retired was the last Mat Salleh in the Head Office. Initially, the position was for the Manager, GESB but he declined due to health reasons. There was no additional perk involved, as I was already on Managerial position. The advantages were, I now worked on 5 day week and able to rub shoulders with the higher hierarchy in the Head Office. I had to take up golf to entertain or to be entertained.

The Distribution Manager was the middleman between the Marketing personnel, Production personnel, Overseas Subsidiaries and Buyers. Marketing negotiated the sales and I have to plan with the processing factories, the quantity and grades of latex and rubber to produce for shipments or to the local Buyers. I have to coordinate with the Latex and Rubber Factories and once a month, I normally visit the Factory. I had 2 Executives and about 20 staff including the Penang Office. I was answerable to the Marketing Director. I commuted from Port Klang to the Head Office daily and I normally hit the road at 6.30 am to avoid the traffic jam. I finished work at 6 pm and while waiting for the traffic to clear, the Marketing chap normally got together for “short one” at the nearest joint. That was the time we met and socialize with other Traders from other plantation companies. From Monday to Friday, I normally did not see the sun in Port Klang. On Saturday was a golf day and Sunday was the only day for the family.

On 1^st. May 1996, I was designated as Manager Distribution & Installation. I had to cover both the Distribution Department at Head Office and GESB Port Klang. I covered Monday, Wednesday and Friday at Head Office and Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday at GESB Port Klang. It was an additional responsibilities, surely went with additional remuneration. My base was Port Klang and I could claim mileage for trips to the Head Office. However, 6^th January 1997, the Distribution Department changed hand to Controller Rubber Marketing and I was to solely responsible of GESB. I am now back to where I begun on 1^st August 1997.

On 1^st January 2000 I was promoted to Senior Manager. On 21^st November 2000, I was shocked to receive the Notice Letter to retire on 17^th December 2000. Normally the Notice of Retirement was 3 months. Since in October, I did not receive any notice, I presumed my service would be extended and moreover I had a verbal understanding with the Director Plantation, my Reporting Officer that my service would be extended for at least a year. My Assistant would then be capable enough to replace me. To my horror, he was sending an Estate Manager for my replacement. I wanted to retire earlier as I had my annual leave in lieu. My request was rejected and KGB was willing to pay me in lieu of the annual leave. I had to train the Estate Manager on the total aspect of operating both the Latex and Palm Oil Installation. It was a different ball game at all and was like putting a square peg in a round hole. I spent the whole month of December 2000 training him. Later, I found out that the Management wanted to penalize him but why I became the victim?

I could only officially retire from GESB on 31^st December 2000 but KGB was still paying me for January 2001 (That was my annual leave pay).

It was indeed a sad ending but never mind; all good things must come to an end. A gratitude to KGB however, I saw the WORLD.

Note: As at 2007 – GESB had closed shop. The Latex Installation was sold and the complex completely flattened. The Palm Oil Installation returned to Lembaga Pelabuhan Klang and now owned by Socfin. The sweet memories of John Duncan, Jack Mantell, Goh Kee Soon and me especially, now gone.