Badrul Hisham Abdullah resigned from PKR today but remained as Independent Assemblyman supporting BN. The 1330 hours TV3 Bulletin, Khalid Ibrahim, my former Boss and Menteri Besar of Selangor asked Badrul Hisham to vacate his seat. I don’t think Badrul would, it would be stupid of him. Stay still until the next election, at least he can withdraw pension. TV3 night bulletin confirmed that he resigned from PKR and holding on to his seat. That’s being smart.
I know Badrul Hisham personally but not too much to know his private life. He was kicking ball at the adjacent field when I was already on my way to the Mosque for Maghreb. He was born and bred at the kampong where I currently reside. I know where he worked before. On the eve of the last general election I was surprised that Badrul would be standing for election on PKR ticket against late Dato Zek daughter in law. PAS was very interested with the seat and someone came running to me asking for Khalid Ibrahim phone number. I had to get it from my colleague as I had already retired long time ago. What transpired after that, I don’t bother to know.
Early morning of the Election Day, I met Badrul fully clad with “baju melayu” and “songkok” having “nasi lemak” breakfast at the warung. We exchanged greetings and wished him luck but I don’t give him a chance that he would be returned. Surprisingly, when I came back from a wedding in KL and after the counting that night, someone called me that Badrul Hisham won. The news shocked me as the news that I received two nights later that Dato Zek had passed away.
Badrul Hisham is an Assemblyman of N46 but he resides in N47. He has a house several blocks away from mine. The last time I met him, we had supper at Pappa Kopitiam for some private discussion. He did hint his frustrations but I was not interested on political talks. I just heard that he had already closed his community centre. I never asked why. I did asked why he did not move and stay within his constituency where he could serve the people better.
Badrul Hisham would only be remembered by the kampong folks as the one who asked the Nazir to terminate the Nazir speech prior to the solat sunat Aidilfitri 2009. The speech had become a personal attack and a character assassination. The Jemaah started booing the Nazir. As an Assemblyman he managed to cool and control the situation. On that respect, I thanked Badrul Hisham otherwise it would be a history in Malaysia that solat sunat Aidilfitri is being called off due to difference of political ideologies.
Badrul Hisham…….whether you are Independent, PKR, BN or whatever, you have decided to be an Assemblyman and the people have chosen you, you better do your job. If you are good, the people do not care which political party you belong to. One Cikgu from Batu Laut was holding to his seats several years on Independent ticket.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Monday, October 26, 2009
D'Cengkok exploded.
Yesterday after Isyakh, Ali Termizi invited close friends for a small khenduri in his house to kick start the wedding celebration that he is going to hold during the coming weekend. He ensures that that I would be present at all ceremonies and I alerted him that there is one ceremony missing. The “sudah potong” ceremony. If he isn’t then we can do for him.
After the khenduri, everybody hurried to go to Anfield to watch Liverpool vs Manchester United game. I went home but I could not access Astro as they were busy upgrading my Astro subscription. A member of the family is kind enough to convert my subscription under staff account. Thank you.
The best alternative was to go to the D’Cengkok Warong opposite my house where the youngsters and old gathered to watch the game. Few friends were already comfortably sitting with the best view. I had no choice even though the Television set is small. There were cries of frustrations and jubilant at every failed attempt at goals at both Liverpool and MU sides. There were two camps at the warong both Liverpool and MU. Cengkok and I are MU fans. The first half was 0 – 0. I had very high hope during the second half, MU would finish off Liverpool.
The second half started and the game was even. The moment Murad ( very staunch Liverpool supporter) came, Torres of Liverpool scored from an acute angle. The warong exploded with agitating Murad celebrated. I told Murad to go home or else I would puncture his motorbike tires. I still had hope that during the last ten minutes MU would score twice and strong feeling that MU would end up with only ten men. My hope did not materialize but the ten men, yes. Backline, Vidic was sent off and during the last few minutes, Liverpool added one more. Again the warong exploded and chapter closed for MU. I made Murad to pay for my iced kopi O and went home. Final score: Liverpool 2 MU 0. My only consolation, the game was played at Anfield.
It was nice to be at the warong watching the game. Even my wife was asking what was the shouting was about. It was a frustrating night for me and I refused to watch the other EPL games live on air. By this time, my Astro transmission was back to normal. Now I have access to all Astro channels and I can watch “kung fu” from the Chinese Movie channels.
After the khenduri, everybody hurried to go to Anfield to watch Liverpool vs Manchester United game. I went home but I could not access Astro as they were busy upgrading my Astro subscription. A member of the family is kind enough to convert my subscription under staff account. Thank you.
The best alternative was to go to the D’Cengkok Warong opposite my house where the youngsters and old gathered to watch the game. Few friends were already comfortably sitting with the best view. I had no choice even though the Television set is small. There were cries of frustrations and jubilant at every failed attempt at goals at both Liverpool and MU sides. There were two camps at the warong both Liverpool and MU. Cengkok and I are MU fans. The first half was 0 – 0. I had very high hope during the second half, MU would finish off Liverpool.
The second half started and the game was even. The moment Murad ( very staunch Liverpool supporter) came, Torres of Liverpool scored from an acute angle. The warong exploded with agitating Murad celebrated. I told Murad to go home or else I would puncture his motorbike tires. I still had hope that during the last ten minutes MU would score twice and strong feeling that MU would end up with only ten men. My hope did not materialize but the ten men, yes. Backline, Vidic was sent off and during the last few minutes, Liverpool added one more. Again the warong exploded and chapter closed for MU. I made Murad to pay for my iced kopi O and went home. Final score: Liverpool 2 MU 0. My only consolation, the game was played at Anfield.
It was nice to be at the warong watching the game. Even my wife was asking what was the shouting was about. It was a frustrating night for me and I refused to watch the other EPL games live on air. By this time, my Astro transmission was back to normal. Now I have access to all Astro channels and I can watch “kung fu” from the Chinese Movie channels.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Saturday Meeting.
Late Friday evening, my sister law delivered a few durians to the house from the tree that we planted some years ago at my late father in law vacant land along the Klang Banting road. The day was the day the Thomas Cup was brought back to the Sidek house in Banting. I can now taste the fruit of my green hands. I once roamed under durian trees of my late grandfather’s dusun and I was the errand boy picking up the fruits after it hit the ground. It only remain nostalgic now as sooner the same dusun is going to transfer hand and only the beautiful memories remain between my late grandfather and me.
Saturday morning my wife ordered two kilos of “roti jala” and prepared “kuah durian”. Around noon my cousins, Dato Malek and Datin, Jeffrul and his lady and Nurul Izmi came to the house as we were on the way to another cousin house for his son wedding reception. Hari Raya was over but the leftover Raya cookies still around and supplemented with dates and zam zam water from the Holy Land. Datin Zawiyah love the kuah durian but we have nasi briyani to address later in the afternoon. We proceed to Taman Sri Andalas for the wedding reception and cousin Ismail and wife Sally was in hand to receive us and allocated special table. We met the other relatives some of whom I don’t even know their names. They came as far as our paternal kampong in Padang Tenggala. My cousins and me made a point to attend this wedding as Ismail and Sally personally hand delivered the invitation card to my house. It was a simple grand wedding and I bumped into several familiar faces. They were surprised that Ismail is my second cousin.
I took a good rest as at night I have another wedding invitation by Tamby Omar all the way at Putrajaya.
I called up Haji Roslan Yusoff, the former Chief Internal Auditor, my colleague in Guthrie inquiring about dress code and he told me “batik” to make it simple. He then suggested we could go together and asked me to meet him at his house at Bukit Jelutong. I happily accepted as I don’t have to drive all the way to Putrajaya.
We left Bukit Jelutong at 1930 hours and took the simplest route vide Elite Highway, final destination, Dewan Puspanita Sri Hendon at Persint 10. I co piloted Haji Roslan as he is not familiar with Putrajaya. Arriving at the Hall we met several familiar faces from Guthrie. Haji Mahmud was well attired in Baju Melayu like YB. I sat at the same table with Nageeb Wahab, Haji Roslan and Aziz. Tamby Omar reserved about ten tables for his colleagues from Guthrie. It was like Guthrie reunion. To name a few, Ahmad Alwi, Mac Miceal, Aziz Bakar, Zainuddin, Wahab Suboh, Mohd Mahfar, Harchan, Singam, Thayaparakananthan, Ong Tat Thim, Wong Kin Lian, Abu Hanipah, Juanita Khir Johari (Puan Sri), Chin Poh Peng, Arvind, Azhaza, Capt Tong Lye Heng and some I have forgotten their names. Few asked for my handicap and they were surprised I laid my clubs in the store room since 2003. From a distance I saw “Tongkat Ali” and I wished he did not cross my path. I also saw someone who was my former good friend and my Assistant but he was avoiding me. Who cares??
The ladies were busy among themselves catching up with the latest news (gossips). Eton (Nageeb’s wife) was as usual had plenty of stories to tell and many questions to ask. How is Darling and when is she getting married?? We wanted to go to your house but Pak Haji said it was Friday night and he wanted to go to the Mosque blah blah blah. I did not know that Eton was with Esso before she married Nageeb and Wahab Suboh said that he knew Eton before he knew Nageeb when they were together in Esso. Eton was surprised that I was with Esso before. When Harchan came to join the table, old nostalgic stories came out and the poor victim was Thabit.
By the time the food was served it was 2130 hours and everyone was hungry. By 2300 hours, the function was all over and we bid each other farewell hoping to meet at someone else wedding reception (provide invited).
On the way back Haji Roslan missed an exit and we got to back tracked. Along the way we were talking about the good old days of Guthrie and I told Haji Roslan wife that I am one of the few that can befriend Haji Roslan because I was clean all the way. As Chief Internal Auditor he was strictly on his job and we were laughing that he could only queried me about the five gallons loss of diesel fuel within a span of one year. I answered the Auditor’s query by telling that the five gallon loss was taken by the bright sunlight due to the open air storage. We were at Harvard Suasana Hotel in Kedah (Guthrie Hotel) having dinner when Aziz who was the Hotel Manager then, was standing beside us dare not even sat down because the Chief Internal Auditor was at the table. Tonight, Aziz was sitting comfortably beside the once Chief Internal Auditor. I was unsure whether it was the same Aziz and Haji Roslan replied that it was him. After both of us had retired, Haji Roslan used to come down to Port Klang for seafood or “tauhu bakar” by the water front. Now he is a single handicapper and makes Subang Golf Club as his second home.
I picked up my car at Bukit Jelutong and cruised home to Port Klang. I touched base at midnight and ample time to watch Chelsea trashed Blackburn 5 - 0.
Saturday morning my wife ordered two kilos of “roti jala” and prepared “kuah durian”. Around noon my cousins, Dato Malek and Datin, Jeffrul and his lady and Nurul Izmi came to the house as we were on the way to another cousin house for his son wedding reception. Hari Raya was over but the leftover Raya cookies still around and supplemented with dates and zam zam water from the Holy Land. Datin Zawiyah love the kuah durian but we have nasi briyani to address later in the afternoon. We proceed to Taman Sri Andalas for the wedding reception and cousin Ismail and wife Sally was in hand to receive us and allocated special table. We met the other relatives some of whom I don’t even know their names. They came as far as our paternal kampong in Padang Tenggala. My cousins and me made a point to attend this wedding as Ismail and Sally personally hand delivered the invitation card to my house. It was a simple grand wedding and I bumped into several familiar faces. They were surprised that Ismail is my second cousin.
I took a good rest as at night I have another wedding invitation by Tamby Omar all the way at Putrajaya.
I called up Haji Roslan Yusoff, the former Chief Internal Auditor, my colleague in Guthrie inquiring about dress code and he told me “batik” to make it simple. He then suggested we could go together and asked me to meet him at his house at Bukit Jelutong. I happily accepted as I don’t have to drive all the way to Putrajaya.
We left Bukit Jelutong at 1930 hours and took the simplest route vide Elite Highway, final destination, Dewan Puspanita Sri Hendon at Persint 10. I co piloted Haji Roslan as he is not familiar with Putrajaya. Arriving at the Hall we met several familiar faces from Guthrie. Haji Mahmud was well attired in Baju Melayu like YB. I sat at the same table with Nageeb Wahab, Haji Roslan and Aziz. Tamby Omar reserved about ten tables for his colleagues from Guthrie. It was like Guthrie reunion. To name a few, Ahmad Alwi, Mac Miceal, Aziz Bakar, Zainuddin, Wahab Suboh, Mohd Mahfar, Harchan, Singam, Thayaparakananthan, Ong Tat Thim, Wong Kin Lian, Abu Hanipah, Juanita Khir Johari (Puan Sri), Chin Poh Peng, Arvind, Azhaza, Capt Tong Lye Heng and some I have forgotten their names. Few asked for my handicap and they were surprised I laid my clubs in the store room since 2003. From a distance I saw “Tongkat Ali” and I wished he did not cross my path. I also saw someone who was my former good friend and my Assistant but he was avoiding me. Who cares??
The ladies were busy among themselves catching up with the latest news (gossips). Eton (Nageeb’s wife) was as usual had plenty of stories to tell and many questions to ask. How is Darling and when is she getting married?? We wanted to go to your house but Pak Haji said it was Friday night and he wanted to go to the Mosque blah blah blah. I did not know that Eton was with Esso before she married Nageeb and Wahab Suboh said that he knew Eton before he knew Nageeb when they were together in Esso. Eton was surprised that I was with Esso before. When Harchan came to join the table, old nostalgic stories came out and the poor victim was Thabit.
By the time the food was served it was 2130 hours and everyone was hungry. By 2300 hours, the function was all over and we bid each other farewell hoping to meet at someone else wedding reception (provide invited).
On the way back Haji Roslan missed an exit and we got to back tracked. Along the way we were talking about the good old days of Guthrie and I told Haji Roslan wife that I am one of the few that can befriend Haji Roslan because I was clean all the way. As Chief Internal Auditor he was strictly on his job and we were laughing that he could only queried me about the five gallons loss of diesel fuel within a span of one year. I answered the Auditor’s query by telling that the five gallon loss was taken by the bright sunlight due to the open air storage. We were at Harvard Suasana Hotel in Kedah (Guthrie Hotel) having dinner when Aziz who was the Hotel Manager then, was standing beside us dare not even sat down because the Chief Internal Auditor was at the table. Tonight, Aziz was sitting comfortably beside the once Chief Internal Auditor. I was unsure whether it was the same Aziz and Haji Roslan replied that it was him. After both of us had retired, Haji Roslan used to come down to Port Klang for seafood or “tauhu bakar” by the water front. Now he is a single handicapper and makes Subang Golf Club as his second home.
I picked up my car at Bukit Jelutong and cruised home to Port Klang. I touched base at midnight and ample time to watch Chelsea trashed Blackburn 5 - 0.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
In memory of Chico.
Haji Sabuddin Bidol, all the way from Bintulu sent me a short message that Mazlan bin Baba @ Chico passed away peacefully this morning at Telok Kemang 20 October 2009. I forward the message to Ali Karim but he was in Chengmai Thailand. To Haris Takiman, he was in Kajang and to Kadir Mamak he was in Shah Alam. I called Shariff @ Sharo in Port Dickson and he was on the way to the Market. I told him the sad news and told him to proceed to Telok Kemang and let me know the latest.
I was thinking how to go to PD. I could not drive without being accompanied. I managed to get Pak Long Mustapa who was keen to visit Port Dickson as the last time he went to PD was in 2003. I called Sharo who had already arrived at Telok Kemang and he told me the funeral would be after Zohor. I left Port Klang at 1130 hours vide the Kesas Highway, Elite Highway, KL/Seremban Plus Highway and finally Seremban/ Telok Kemang Highway. Sharo would be waiting for me at the Mamak Restaurant opposite the Telok Kemang Muslim Graveyard. I abided the speed limit and arrived at the appointed Restaurant at 1315 hours. Chico’s body had been taken for the last rite at the Mosque. We decided to wait at the Muslim Graveyard.
I was glad that I had the opportunity to send off my friend, good old Chico. I witnessed his body laid to rest and according to Sharo, Chico passed away due to cancer of the colon but I rather regret that only Sharo and I were the only two ex colleague of Esso PD Refinery attended the funeral service. Where were the rest of his Muslim or non Muslim colleagues?? If someone in Bintulu Sarawak could get the news, I wonder why the PD ex and present Esso employees did not get.
Mazlan bin Baba, born and bred in Telok Kemang, a Malay Kampong just before the famous Si Rusa Inn. He was educated at Port Dickson English School and joined Esso Refiney PD in early 1966 as a process Assistant. He was short, a little less than 5 feet tall and stout. The American Expatriate nicknamed him Chico and that name tagged with him all through his Esso carreer and until to the last day of his life. He would be forever known as Chico. The other two Esso PD Refinery resided at Telok Kemang had also gone before Chico, Ishak Ibrahim and Abu Bakar Aman. That makes all my three acquaintances of Esso and of Telok Kemang had gone back to the Creator.
I first met Chico when I joined Esso Refinery in May 1966 and at that time I was squatting at my Aunty’s place at Telok Kemang. Since we were on the same shift, we cycled together from Telok Kemang to Port Dickson 2nd.Milestone. There was no night bus service then. At night we carried a stick along with us to ward off the dogs. There was no such thing as road lighting and the road were in darkness. Cars on the road could be counted. Sometimes we were stopped by the Military Police as confrontation with Indonesia was not completely over. We were suspected as Indonesian insurgents. The most eerie spot was the Hindu Temple at 5th. Miles.
As years went by, Chico bought a car and I moved to Port Dickson town. The three memories with Chico: Sometimes in 1967, after the 4 – 12 shifts we decided to drive up to Cameron Highland. We left after midnight and arrived at Tanah Rata early morning. At Tanah Rata, Chico completely lost his voice. This guy was always at sea level since birth and for once in his life he was up in the mountain. Due to the sudden height differential, he lost his voice. One night we attended Yaakob Hussein (now, Dato) akad nikah ceremony at Bukit Pelandok. Chico was driving a Vauxhall Viva and when he reversed the car in between the rubber trees, the gear stick completely came off. We struggled to put back the gear stick into its socket in the dark. We laughed together as we related Yaakob’s gear stick came out too soon. Chico was a good company to be with, never smoke, drink or partying. Between him and me it was like the sky and the deep blue sea but we got along fine both at workplace and outside. I will always remember, Chico gave me a telephone number that changed my life. It remains a secret between us until his death. Thank you, Chico and that’s the reason why I must attend your funeral. I would feel guilty if I did not.
Since I left Esso PD Refinery in 1974, I long to meet my good old friend Chico but he never joined the Esso Employees Reunion Gathering and I never got to meet him. Perhaps he was hiding from us that he was sickly and terminal.
May Allah take care of Mazlan bin Baba and let his soul rest in peace with all the “mukminin”.
AL FATHIHAH.
I was thinking how to go to PD. I could not drive without being accompanied. I managed to get Pak Long Mustapa who was keen to visit Port Dickson as the last time he went to PD was in 2003. I called Sharo who had already arrived at Telok Kemang and he told me the funeral would be after Zohor. I left Port Klang at 1130 hours vide the Kesas Highway, Elite Highway, KL/Seremban Plus Highway and finally Seremban/ Telok Kemang Highway. Sharo would be waiting for me at the Mamak Restaurant opposite the Telok Kemang Muslim Graveyard. I abided the speed limit and arrived at the appointed Restaurant at 1315 hours. Chico’s body had been taken for the last rite at the Mosque. We decided to wait at the Muslim Graveyard.
I was glad that I had the opportunity to send off my friend, good old Chico. I witnessed his body laid to rest and according to Sharo, Chico passed away due to cancer of the colon but I rather regret that only Sharo and I were the only two ex colleague of Esso PD Refinery attended the funeral service. Where were the rest of his Muslim or non Muslim colleagues?? If someone in Bintulu Sarawak could get the news, I wonder why the PD ex and present Esso employees did not get.
Mazlan bin Baba, born and bred in Telok Kemang, a Malay Kampong just before the famous Si Rusa Inn. He was educated at Port Dickson English School and joined Esso Refiney PD in early 1966 as a process Assistant. He was short, a little less than 5 feet tall and stout. The American Expatriate nicknamed him Chico and that name tagged with him all through his Esso carreer and until to the last day of his life. He would be forever known as Chico. The other two Esso PD Refinery resided at Telok Kemang had also gone before Chico, Ishak Ibrahim and Abu Bakar Aman. That makes all my three acquaintances of Esso and of Telok Kemang had gone back to the Creator.
I first met Chico when I joined Esso Refinery in May 1966 and at that time I was squatting at my Aunty’s place at Telok Kemang. Since we were on the same shift, we cycled together from Telok Kemang to Port Dickson 2nd.Milestone. There was no night bus service then. At night we carried a stick along with us to ward off the dogs. There was no such thing as road lighting and the road were in darkness. Cars on the road could be counted. Sometimes we were stopped by the Military Police as confrontation with Indonesia was not completely over. We were suspected as Indonesian insurgents. The most eerie spot was the Hindu Temple at 5th. Miles.
As years went by, Chico bought a car and I moved to Port Dickson town. The three memories with Chico: Sometimes in 1967, after the 4 – 12 shifts we decided to drive up to Cameron Highland. We left after midnight and arrived at Tanah Rata early morning. At Tanah Rata, Chico completely lost his voice. This guy was always at sea level since birth and for once in his life he was up in the mountain. Due to the sudden height differential, he lost his voice. One night we attended Yaakob Hussein (now, Dato) akad nikah ceremony at Bukit Pelandok. Chico was driving a Vauxhall Viva and when he reversed the car in between the rubber trees, the gear stick completely came off. We struggled to put back the gear stick into its socket in the dark. We laughed together as we related Yaakob’s gear stick came out too soon. Chico was a good company to be with, never smoke, drink or partying. Between him and me it was like the sky and the deep blue sea but we got along fine both at workplace and outside. I will always remember, Chico gave me a telephone number that changed my life. It remains a secret between us until his death. Thank you, Chico and that’s the reason why I must attend your funeral. I would feel guilty if I did not.
Since I left Esso PD Refinery in 1974, I long to meet my good old friend Chico but he never joined the Esso Employees Reunion Gathering and I never got to meet him. Perhaps he was hiding from us that he was sickly and terminal.
May Allah take care of Mazlan bin Baba and let his soul rest in peace with all the “mukminin”.
AL FATHIHAH.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Sunday, that was.
A very beautiful Sunday 18 October 2009, the weather was good. It kicked off by attending Berry’s wedding, the son of Capt (Rtd) Haji Fawzi. Haji Adenan and I decided to go early and we went around noon. Little Shasha and Darwis tagged along and apparently they behaved themselves well. Shasha was in her Baju Kurung and Darwis with his Baju Melayu of the same color as his father.
After Asar, Haji Adenan sends Shasha to the house and he left for Kuantan on official assignment. We took Shasha to Jaya Jusco as there was a Grand Sale at JJ. I took Shasha to the playing area while the Nenek and the Aunty was busy browsing for cheap deal. It was about two months ago, before Ramadan that we last took Shasha for an outing at the Shopping Complex and this time around she really had a gala time.
After my daughter had collected a few items we adjourned for drinks and Shasha did not mind as there is another children playground around the Food Court. I had pepper steak for an early dinner while Shasha was busy playing with the other children. We just ensure that she did not get hurt as it is someone’s little kid. She made friends very easily and at most occasions children love to pull her around to play with them. I had problem pestering her to go home and I had to carry her off. It reminded me thirty years ago when I had to address the same problem with my two kids.
This time around it was all right for Shasha to be drop at her house as she knew her father was outstation. Shasha is more talkative and she can relate stories. This little kid has smart strategies. Passing at Petronas Station she insists on packet Milo drink, but actual fact what she really want is the toys. Shasha take me on as his real Atok and she knows I would melt when she turns to me. Her presence cheers up my life. I cannot be missing from the house when she is around. The Nenek use to caution me not to spoil the kid.
I was yet to perform my Maghreb prayer. After Isyakh, I dozed off as I was damn tired chasing around after Shasha.
After Asar, Haji Adenan sends Shasha to the house and he left for Kuantan on official assignment. We took Shasha to Jaya Jusco as there was a Grand Sale at JJ. I took Shasha to the playing area while the Nenek and the Aunty was busy browsing for cheap deal. It was about two months ago, before Ramadan that we last took Shasha for an outing at the Shopping Complex and this time around she really had a gala time.
After my daughter had collected a few items we adjourned for drinks and Shasha did not mind as there is another children playground around the Food Court. I had pepper steak for an early dinner while Shasha was busy playing with the other children. We just ensure that she did not get hurt as it is someone’s little kid. She made friends very easily and at most occasions children love to pull her around to play with them. I had problem pestering her to go home and I had to carry her off. It reminded me thirty years ago when I had to address the same problem with my two kids.
This time around it was all right for Shasha to be drop at her house as she knew her father was outstation. Shasha is more talkative and she can relate stories. This little kid has smart strategies. Passing at Petronas Station she insists on packet Milo drink, but actual fact what she really want is the toys. Shasha take me on as his real Atok and she knows I would melt when she turns to me. Her presence cheers up my life. I cannot be missing from the house when she is around. The Nenek use to caution me not to spoil the kid.
I was yet to perform my Maghreb prayer. After Isyakh, I dozed off as I was damn tired chasing around after Shasha.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Happy Deepavali.
To all my Indian friends where ever they may be, Wanakam and Happy Deepavali. I have lost contact with most of them. Retired and some of them had migrated.
I had a late breakfast and watched TV. After zohor we decided to take a drive out of Port Klang. There was no specific plan except my daughter got to pick up the pre ordered pineapple tarts at her Auntie’s place later in the evening. We took the Kesas Highway and into Elite Highway to Putrajaya. The plan was to solat asar at the new Sultan Mizan Mosque at Putrajaya. Unfortunately it rained so very heavily until we got to stop at the bye way. The rain and the gusty wind deterred us from driving through the thick blizzard.
We came out from Putrajaya and headed for LCCT, Sepang F1 Circuit and final destination at Bagan Lalang. Along the road the familiar Guthrie signboard at the Estates had now being replaced by Sime Darby Plantations signboard. That’s the result of a political maneuvering by Political Entrepreneurs. Sungai Pelek town is up and coming and during the 70s and 80s the shops were mostly wooden but now all are modern shop lots. Where it used to be Palm Oil Estate is now a Housing Estate.
I was surprised Bagan Lalang beach was crowded and I saw the under construction Bagan Lalang Gold Coast Resort. A new international class Resort in the making where all the chalets are built out at the Straits of Melaka. It is going to be Malaysia new tourist attraction but it would not fancy me. If tsunami or tidal waves strike, it is going to be a disaster. No way, I would stay there.
We stopped at the fresh fish bazaar and bought a one month ration of seafood. The fishes and the crabs were just landed and we don’t mind the little bit expensive price as it was fresh. We sat down for seafood lunch cum dinner but the taste was not as good as Port Klang standard.
We took the coastal road back and it was ages that I drove on this road. I was amazed with the development along the coast. Morib now have a multi storey beach Hotels and the Morib Golf Club had been extended to a Hotel cum Resort. The nine holes golf course turned eighteen. It was about six years ago I last played golf at this course.
We arrived at Telok Panglima Garang and my daughter picked up the pineapple tarts from her auntie. On the way back, my friend Raja Sahar called that he would pay me a visit about 2200 hours after a Hari Raya Open house.
Raja Sahar came with another three friends and stayed until midnight. I even missed the live telecast of Manchester United versus Bolton. When I watched the Final score on ESPN, I was glad MU won 2 – 1 and both Chelsea and Liverpool lost to their opponents. MU now heads the EPL table and I slept soundly.
I had a late breakfast and watched TV. After zohor we decided to take a drive out of Port Klang. There was no specific plan except my daughter got to pick up the pre ordered pineapple tarts at her Auntie’s place later in the evening. We took the Kesas Highway and into Elite Highway to Putrajaya. The plan was to solat asar at the new Sultan Mizan Mosque at Putrajaya. Unfortunately it rained so very heavily until we got to stop at the bye way. The rain and the gusty wind deterred us from driving through the thick blizzard.
We came out from Putrajaya and headed for LCCT, Sepang F1 Circuit and final destination at Bagan Lalang. Along the road the familiar Guthrie signboard at the Estates had now being replaced by Sime Darby Plantations signboard. That’s the result of a political maneuvering by Political Entrepreneurs. Sungai Pelek town is up and coming and during the 70s and 80s the shops were mostly wooden but now all are modern shop lots. Where it used to be Palm Oil Estate is now a Housing Estate.
I was surprised Bagan Lalang beach was crowded and I saw the under construction Bagan Lalang Gold Coast Resort. A new international class Resort in the making where all the chalets are built out at the Straits of Melaka. It is going to be Malaysia new tourist attraction but it would not fancy me. If tsunami or tidal waves strike, it is going to be a disaster. No way, I would stay there.
We stopped at the fresh fish bazaar and bought a one month ration of seafood. The fishes and the crabs were just landed and we don’t mind the little bit expensive price as it was fresh. We sat down for seafood lunch cum dinner but the taste was not as good as Port Klang standard.
We took the coastal road back and it was ages that I drove on this road. I was amazed with the development along the coast. Morib now have a multi storey beach Hotels and the Morib Golf Club had been extended to a Hotel cum Resort. The nine holes golf course turned eighteen. It was about six years ago I last played golf at this course.
We arrived at Telok Panglima Garang and my daughter picked up the pineapple tarts from her auntie. On the way back, my friend Raja Sahar called that he would pay me a visit about 2200 hours after a Hari Raya Open house.
Raja Sahar came with another three friends and stayed until midnight. I even missed the live telecast of Manchester United versus Bolton. When I watched the Final score on ESPN, I was glad MU won 2 – 1 and both Chelsea and Liverpool lost to their opponents. MU now heads the EPL table and I slept soundly.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Puchong.
Situated at the outskirt of KL, the tin mine fields where the Satans were once kicking each other. Not anymore, a very big township, elite and middle class residential area is mushrooming everywhere. The mining pool had vanished. Soon the several townships would connect KLIA. No wonder, the houses are selling like “goring pisang”. Highways and viaducts had to be built to cater the new townships for the residents communicating to workplaces. Puchong is centrally located now, in between of KL, Subang, Putrajaya and KLIA.
I only had been through Puchong on my way to Putrajaya from Subang but I never realized the sprawling of residential areas. My nephew Azri Amran invited me for a “doa selamat” at his newly bought RM 330,000 a double storey terrace house at Taman Nusaputra in Puchong after Asar on Friday 16 October 2009. Where the hell is this place?
I started my journey with my sis in law as Navigator and we took off from Subang Jaya and headed for Puchong. We lost our way as we exit at two wrong junctions. We passed IOI Mall twice and we could not find Malaysian Tractor. The hand phone became handy and we finally got the right exit. That exit would lead us to the main road to KLIA but the final part is still under construction. Taman Nusaputra is parallel to the KLIA Highway and once the exit is completed the best access to Taman Nusaputra is through the KLIA Highway. I found the Taman and it is only about 10% occupied. All the houses were just completed and one corner lot terrace house of 2½ storey fetched RM 900,000. To me it’s crazy but to some, there is a valid intention, KLIA is very near and for those Businessmen who often fly it is most convenient. This Taman has definitely a potential. Across the Highway are Putrajaya and Cyberjaya.
As for my nephew, the choice is because he flies in and out, at every month and his wife is serving Sunway Medical Center. Soon when the exit at the KLIA Highway is completed they do not have to go through the hustle and bustle of Puchong traffic nightmare. I see his point and I think he made a right choice. He told me about the vacant neighbor lot but I honestly declined. I am comfortable enough where I am now where the Mosque is only a few steps away from my present house.
We recited the “doa selamat” and followed with solat Maghreb. The call of the azan in the house is to commemorate that this house is occupied by a faithful Muslim. Therefore, the Satans who were once roaming and kicking around this area please keep their distance.
We were feasted with satay and fried meehoon. Even the satay seller could not deliver the satay because Taman Nusaputra is alien to him. My niece had to go and collect them.
I bulldozed my way back to Port Klang with the road signboard as my Navigator.
I only had been through Puchong on my way to Putrajaya from Subang but I never realized the sprawling of residential areas. My nephew Azri Amran invited me for a “doa selamat” at his newly bought RM 330,000 a double storey terrace house at Taman Nusaputra in Puchong after Asar on Friday 16 October 2009. Where the hell is this place?
I started my journey with my sis in law as Navigator and we took off from Subang Jaya and headed for Puchong. We lost our way as we exit at two wrong junctions. We passed IOI Mall twice and we could not find Malaysian Tractor. The hand phone became handy and we finally got the right exit. That exit would lead us to the main road to KLIA but the final part is still under construction. Taman Nusaputra is parallel to the KLIA Highway and once the exit is completed the best access to Taman Nusaputra is through the KLIA Highway. I found the Taman and it is only about 10% occupied. All the houses were just completed and one corner lot terrace house of 2½ storey fetched RM 900,000. To me it’s crazy but to some, there is a valid intention, KLIA is very near and for those Businessmen who often fly it is most convenient. This Taman has definitely a potential. Across the Highway are Putrajaya and Cyberjaya.
As for my nephew, the choice is because he flies in and out, at every month and his wife is serving Sunway Medical Center. Soon when the exit at the KLIA Highway is completed they do not have to go through the hustle and bustle of Puchong traffic nightmare. I see his point and I think he made a right choice. He told me about the vacant neighbor lot but I honestly declined. I am comfortable enough where I am now where the Mosque is only a few steps away from my present house.
We recited the “doa selamat” and followed with solat Maghreb. The call of the azan in the house is to commemorate that this house is occupied by a faithful Muslim. Therefore, the Satans who were once roaming and kicking around this area please keep their distance.
We were feasted with satay and fried meehoon. Even the satay seller could not deliver the satay because Taman Nusaputra is alien to him. My niece had to go and collect them.
I bulldozed my way back to Port Klang with the road signboard as my Navigator.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Nothing much but busy.
Nothing much to blog these couple of days.
BN swept Bagan Pinang with a double majority and PAS bit the dust. It was bad and good about the BN victory. The good thing, BN gave PAS a jolt. Of late PAS had been too arrogant and the bad thing, BN returned someone who had been found guilty of money politics. Indirectly the people who voted for BN sanctioned someone who had misused his standing as public representative.
I had been receiving plenty of wedding cards and invitation for khenduris. The Haj season is around the corner. An invitation for khenduri came as far as Nibong Tebal and Alor Gajah. My former Distribution Executive is leaving on 21 October 2009 and Fisol Ahmad whom I met during my third Umrah in the Holy Land in 2002 is leaving on 23 October 2009 ex Bayan Lepas Airport. A young Police Officer who had recently back from UN peacekeeping mission in Timor Leste. For the local kampong residents several would be going and khenduri after khenduri would be held. The Mosque Imam 1 and the Bilal is going. Talking about Haj, the sight of Masjidil Haram freshens up my mind. It was only about a month ago I was there.
There are four wedding invitations in hand and all are close acquaintance, either hand delivered or they called over the phone. I have since retired nine years ago and I still received invitation card from ex colleague in Guthrie. Sometimes it is good to think that there is someone out there still remember me and recognize my co existence in this world. A second paternal cousin, Chinese looking came to the house personally to hand several cards and delegates me as “Wakil” to invite the other relatives. Initially I thought it was an “Along” looking for me as I have not met him for several years. I felt honored as the juniors still have respect for the elders even though his late mother and my late father were only cousins.
Kampong Raja Uda Mosque – remain status quo. The Nazir refused to resign even though the residents requested him to do so. Signatures and photocopy of identity cards had been taken to submit a formal petition to the Authority. What happen next is any one guess? I remain as the ordinary Jemaah and I only submit to the right wing. I only condone the right and I used my eyes and brain to decide.
With the Khenduris and the weddings, I must also check my diet. At this age, everything must be moderate for the machines are slowly wearing out and if I overdo, it can get jammed. Sometimes the presence is important and the invitee would be honored that you come to the function. Ali Termizi requested me that I must come for the “akad nikah”, “marhaban”, “khatam koraan” and the wedding proper. At night stayed back and we play “terup keeling”. I told him he must be crazy!! I told him I can stay back provided he bring along the Perak Rebana all the way from his kampong, Malim Nawar. I yearn to hear the Perakians hitting the Rebana.
I must not miss my medication schedule.
BN swept Bagan Pinang with a double majority and PAS bit the dust. It was bad and good about the BN victory. The good thing, BN gave PAS a jolt. Of late PAS had been too arrogant and the bad thing, BN returned someone who had been found guilty of money politics. Indirectly the people who voted for BN sanctioned someone who had misused his standing as public representative.
I had been receiving plenty of wedding cards and invitation for khenduris. The Haj season is around the corner. An invitation for khenduri came as far as Nibong Tebal and Alor Gajah. My former Distribution Executive is leaving on 21 October 2009 and Fisol Ahmad whom I met during my third Umrah in the Holy Land in 2002 is leaving on 23 October 2009 ex Bayan Lepas Airport. A young Police Officer who had recently back from UN peacekeeping mission in Timor Leste. For the local kampong residents several would be going and khenduri after khenduri would be held. The Mosque Imam 1 and the Bilal is going. Talking about Haj, the sight of Masjidil Haram freshens up my mind. It was only about a month ago I was there.
There are four wedding invitations in hand and all are close acquaintance, either hand delivered or they called over the phone. I have since retired nine years ago and I still received invitation card from ex colleague in Guthrie. Sometimes it is good to think that there is someone out there still remember me and recognize my co existence in this world. A second paternal cousin, Chinese looking came to the house personally to hand several cards and delegates me as “Wakil” to invite the other relatives. Initially I thought it was an “Along” looking for me as I have not met him for several years. I felt honored as the juniors still have respect for the elders even though his late mother and my late father were only cousins.
Kampong Raja Uda Mosque – remain status quo. The Nazir refused to resign even though the residents requested him to do so. Signatures and photocopy of identity cards had been taken to submit a formal petition to the Authority. What happen next is any one guess? I remain as the ordinary Jemaah and I only submit to the right wing. I only condone the right and I used my eyes and brain to decide.
With the Khenduris and the weddings, I must also check my diet. At this age, everything must be moderate for the machines are slowly wearing out and if I overdo, it can get jammed. Sometimes the presence is important and the invitee would be honored that you come to the function. Ali Termizi requested me that I must come for the “akad nikah”, “marhaban”, “khatam koraan” and the wedding proper. At night stayed back and we play “terup keeling”. I told him he must be crazy!! I told him I can stay back provided he bring along the Perak Rebana all the way from his kampong, Malim Nawar. I yearn to hear the Perakians hitting the Rebana.
I must not miss my medication schedule.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Still in the mood.
Sunday October 11, 2009, the open house and the visiting tradition were still on. I planned a quiet Sunday, stayed home and watched TV. It was not so, as several impromptu program came up.
Sabirin invited to his open house at 1400 hours. We had “nasi briyani” for lunch and Imam Khairuddin read the doa selamat. Only among very close friends were invited.
After Asar, my son came back as his aunty Datin Maimunah made a prior arrangement to meet him in my house. I don’t know what transpired between them. My wife was short of menu and I suggested noodle soup. Later, my brother in law and his wife, the Dato and Datin came after visiting the kampong folks and we had a mini family gathering and a noodle soup to address.
They left just before Maghreb.
Suddenly Haji Mat Saleh Jani, my Haj roommate 1999 called and he wanted to drop by at my house for Hari Raya. He would be bringing along five of his six kids. When Haji Mat Saleh arrived the family was so excited to meet the five kids. They were so cute and up and about. I had only met one of the five and the rest was new arrivals since Haji Mat Saleh brought his family to my house. I enjoyed watching the kids enjoying the noodle soup and it was a good decision to have that as the day menu.
They left before Isyakh.
My mood changed.
The phone rang and the news transmitted - Haji Mustapa Mohamed 59 the elder brother of the Ketua Kampong passed away just before Maghreb. Haji Mustapa was married to a Kelantanese but he never tasted and disliked “budu”. When we were in Kota Baharu Kelantan about two years ago, during lunch, I added “budu” to my plate of rice and Haji Mustapa followed suit. Later I asked him whether he knew what he was eating and to his surprise I told him it was “budu”. We had a good laugh.
Monday October 12, 2009 I bid farewell to Haji Mustapa right to the grave. Al fatihah to Ustaz Mustapa Mohamed.
When I visited the house where Haji Mustapa was lying in state, my friends were eager to meet me to shake my hands. Most of them thought, it was me that had the heart attack because of the name similiraity and the demise Haji Mustapa, though he was originally from the kampong but he resides somewhere else. Most of them double checked to ensure the right Haji Mustapa. When the "talkin" was read they looked at me and smiled.
My time will come, surely.
Sabirin invited to his open house at 1400 hours. We had “nasi briyani” for lunch and Imam Khairuddin read the doa selamat. Only among very close friends were invited.
After Asar, my son came back as his aunty Datin Maimunah made a prior arrangement to meet him in my house. I don’t know what transpired between them. My wife was short of menu and I suggested noodle soup. Later, my brother in law and his wife, the Dato and Datin came after visiting the kampong folks and we had a mini family gathering and a noodle soup to address.
They left just before Maghreb.
Suddenly Haji Mat Saleh Jani, my Haj roommate 1999 called and he wanted to drop by at my house for Hari Raya. He would be bringing along five of his six kids. When Haji Mat Saleh arrived the family was so excited to meet the five kids. They were so cute and up and about. I had only met one of the five and the rest was new arrivals since Haji Mat Saleh brought his family to my house. I enjoyed watching the kids enjoying the noodle soup and it was a good decision to have that as the day menu.
They left before Isyakh.
My mood changed.
The phone rang and the news transmitted - Haji Mustapa Mohamed 59 the elder brother of the Ketua Kampong passed away just before Maghreb. Haji Mustapa was married to a Kelantanese but he never tasted and disliked “budu”. When we were in Kota Baharu Kelantan about two years ago, during lunch, I added “budu” to my plate of rice and Haji Mustapa followed suit. Later I asked him whether he knew what he was eating and to his surprise I told him it was “budu”. We had a good laugh.
Monday October 12, 2009 I bid farewell to Haji Mustapa right to the grave. Al fatihah to Ustaz Mustapa Mohamed.
When I visited the house where Haji Mustapa was lying in state, my friends were eager to meet me to shake my hands. Most of them thought, it was me that had the heart attack because of the name similiraity and the demise Haji Mustapa, though he was originally from the kampong but he resides somewhere else. Most of them double checked to ensure the right Haji Mustapa. When the "talkin" was read they looked at me and smiled.
My time will come, surely.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Aidilfitri, still on.
Saturday 10 October 2009, the third weekend of Aidilfitri, most Muslims still celebrate the Aidilfitri. Open houses and weddings filled up the weekend program. This Aidilfitri is different to me and am not going anywhere except to Kuantan during the last weekend to attend a wedding and to try out the Karak Kuantan Highway. My obligation to visit my late father’s shrine was done way before Ramadan.
This particular Saturday I had a wedding invitation by Encik Adny my old friend as well as my wife’s office mate. The other function was a family member gathering luncheon organized by Azzah Said at Tropicana Damansara. Regret I had to turn down both as I had a VIP coming to my house.
Azhar called that he was somewhere at Carefour Klang. I told him to drive straight to Bandar Sultan Sulaiman Mosque and I would meet him there. It would be a mess if I asked him to find his way to my house as he had deviated from the normal route. I met Azhar family and his parent Haji Faharuddin and Hajah Rogayah at the Mosque Complex and I lead the way to my house. The Chief Imam of Gombak was paying me a visit and the family surely honored. My wife had prepared something special for the guest and I know what Hajah Rogayah favourite is. Both these old folks were my acquaintance at the Holy Land for the past two Ramadans and they are grateful that I took concern of their welfare when we were together in the Holy Land. We had a good gathering and they enjoyed the special “mee kuah” my wife and daughter had specially prepared.
After zohor, we adjourned to Haji Adenan’s house, my neighbor who is also a Ramadan umrah acquaintance of Haji Faharuddin and Hajah Rogayah. We stayed for about ten minutes and Haji Faharuddin and family had to excuse themselves as they had three more open houses in Kuala Lumpur to go to. They took priority to my house in Port Klang over Dato Hasan Ali, Professor Ali Hasan and their daughter’s house. Thank you, Pak Haji and Mak Haji. Hajah Rogayah was proud that the table spread was the one that she bought for my wife in Mekah.
I had planned for “Doa Selamat” among close friends after Isyakh. Imam Khairuddin and my Marhaban group friends came. It was a very informal gathering and after the “mee kuah”, we sat down for coffee and an open dialogue. Top on the list was about the Mosque Nazir. Someone commented that he is a Robot. Only Robot has no feeling and sentiment. Haji Mahmud (Mr. Mehmud, to me) was the loudest spokesman among all. My two close friends Raja Sahar and Sabirin were absent. Raja went to Tanjong Malim and Sabirin was at work. However, Raja showed up immediately after arriving from Tanjong Malim and my last guest was Sabirin who came past midnight.
Before retire, I watched Ukraine beat England 1 – 0.
This particular Saturday I had a wedding invitation by Encik Adny my old friend as well as my wife’s office mate. The other function was a family member gathering luncheon organized by Azzah Said at Tropicana Damansara. Regret I had to turn down both as I had a VIP coming to my house.
Azhar called that he was somewhere at Carefour Klang. I told him to drive straight to Bandar Sultan Sulaiman Mosque and I would meet him there. It would be a mess if I asked him to find his way to my house as he had deviated from the normal route. I met Azhar family and his parent Haji Faharuddin and Hajah Rogayah at the Mosque Complex and I lead the way to my house. The Chief Imam of Gombak was paying me a visit and the family surely honored. My wife had prepared something special for the guest and I know what Hajah Rogayah favourite is. Both these old folks were my acquaintance at the Holy Land for the past two Ramadans and they are grateful that I took concern of their welfare when we were together in the Holy Land. We had a good gathering and they enjoyed the special “mee kuah” my wife and daughter had specially prepared.
After zohor, we adjourned to Haji Adenan’s house, my neighbor who is also a Ramadan umrah acquaintance of Haji Faharuddin and Hajah Rogayah. We stayed for about ten minutes and Haji Faharuddin and family had to excuse themselves as they had three more open houses in Kuala Lumpur to go to. They took priority to my house in Port Klang over Dato Hasan Ali, Professor Ali Hasan and their daughter’s house. Thank you, Pak Haji and Mak Haji. Hajah Rogayah was proud that the table spread was the one that she bought for my wife in Mekah.
I had planned for “Doa Selamat” among close friends after Isyakh. Imam Khairuddin and my Marhaban group friends came. It was a very informal gathering and after the “mee kuah”, we sat down for coffee and an open dialogue. Top on the list was about the Mosque Nazir. Someone commented that he is a Robot. Only Robot has no feeling and sentiment. Haji Mahmud (Mr. Mehmud, to me) was the loudest spokesman among all. My two close friends Raja Sahar and Sabirin were absent. Raja went to Tanjong Malim and Sabirin was at work. However, Raja showed up immediately after arriving from Tanjong Malim and my last guest was Sabirin who came past midnight.
Before retire, I watched Ukraine beat England 1 – 0.
Saturday, October 10, 2009
A bitter experience.
Life is never a plain sailing, sometimes you are up and sometimes you are down. Today you are the pride of the family, the pillar but watch out the sky is not always blue. When the dark cloud comes, the bright blue sky is no bluer. Today you are the Boss but when you retire no one cares about you anymore. They don’t even remember the good things you did for them, but they remember the bad things even though that was of their own doings. Retire means to some; you are poorer so you are of no good use to them.
In life when we do good for someone, don’t expect the good deed would be reciprocate. After sometimes as years go by, the people that we render assistance become rich or successful in life they would not look back to reminisce the good deed that we have done for them. When you come to that situation, stay cool and confide with Allah. Allah knows what you did yesterday, last month, last year and many many years ago. Allah would bless you in return; you never realize it, a good health or a harmonious family life.
Humans are like that. They tend to easily forget, especially when they are comfortable monetarily. People always choose to associate in comfort zone where the surroundings are advantageous to them. Anyway, who wants to befriend a poor people, a retiree, the pensioner non contributory to their well beings? Just leave these people alone for one fine day they would come to the day of your day.
There are times when the same people that you help would turn around and bite you back. These are the ungrateful and often happen at workplace or even among family members. At workplace they even aim for your position. They badmouth and slander so that they can climb on to the ladder and on doing so they drown you.
When you are down, not to worry, think of the good times and the good deeds. Perhaps Almighty Allah is testing your patience or perhaps Allah penalizes you for the bad things (with intention or otherwise) you have done. After all we are all humans. When we were young we tend to be crazy, arrogant, hard headed or rebellious. Never regret, you can never undo what you regretted of. Just take it as milestone guidance for you to proceed with life. Don’t blame anyone for you are responsible for your own doing. It was a destiny that Allah had set for you. Whatever setback in life there is a “hikmah” behind it.
Life must go on. The world is a stage where you have to play your part. However there is another world after death and do not forget to prepare for that stage.
(Written in memory of 2009 Aidilfitri after meeting someone who was once my Boss).
In life when we do good for someone, don’t expect the good deed would be reciprocate. After sometimes as years go by, the people that we render assistance become rich or successful in life they would not look back to reminisce the good deed that we have done for them. When you come to that situation, stay cool and confide with Allah. Allah knows what you did yesterday, last month, last year and many many years ago. Allah would bless you in return; you never realize it, a good health or a harmonious family life.
Humans are like that. They tend to easily forget, especially when they are comfortable monetarily. People always choose to associate in comfort zone where the surroundings are advantageous to them. Anyway, who wants to befriend a poor people, a retiree, the pensioner non contributory to their well beings? Just leave these people alone for one fine day they would come to the day of your day.
There are times when the same people that you help would turn around and bite you back. These are the ungrateful and often happen at workplace or even among family members. At workplace they even aim for your position. They badmouth and slander so that they can climb on to the ladder and on doing so they drown you.
When you are down, not to worry, think of the good times and the good deeds. Perhaps Almighty Allah is testing your patience or perhaps Allah penalizes you for the bad things (with intention or otherwise) you have done. After all we are all humans. When we were young we tend to be crazy, arrogant, hard headed or rebellious. Never regret, you can never undo what you regretted of. Just take it as milestone guidance for you to proceed with life. Don’t blame anyone for you are responsible for your own doing. It was a destiny that Allah had set for you. Whatever setback in life there is a “hikmah” behind it.
Life must go on. The world is a stage where you have to play your part. However there is another world after death and do not forget to prepare for that stage.
(Written in memory of 2009 Aidilfitri after meeting someone who was once my Boss).
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Why??
Question: Why do you always go to Mekah during Ramadan?
Answer: I can find peace in myself. Moreover when I am there alone, nobody bothers me. I can find new acquaintance and develop “siratulrahim” among Muslim brothers. I totally devote myself to Allah - pray, umrah, fasting, reading the “Alkoraan” and “sedekah”. I have to manage my own life, no wife or children to depend on. I must learn to be alone for in the grave, no one accompanies me except the good and the bad deed I have done during the span of my life. In Mekah, I forget about TV, newspapers, politics, EPL, blogs and the whole world. Every deed is for the sake of Allah and avoiding what is forbidden. I control the usage of the tongue and avoid unnecessary conversation.
Question: You can also devote yourself to Allah even you are in Malaysia?
Answer: Agree…….., but you cannot perform the umrah in Malaysia. Do you know that while fasting and performing the umrah, Allah would bless you an equivalent of performing a Haj? Every time I pray at Masjidil Haram Allah blesses it with 100,000 times and at Masjid Nabawi it is 1,000 times. In Malaysia, if you pray at the mosque with other Jemaah, Allah only blesses you with 27 times. In Malaysia you tend to miss the terawikh but in Mekah it is a big loss if you miss and if you spot on with “Lailatulqadar”, Allah blesses you with 1,000 months of “ibadah”. There is no valid reason you should miss the terawikh in Mekah unless you are sick.
Question: Given the chance what would you change to facilitate Pilgrims to Mekah?
Answer: First of all, the Saudi Immigration formalities must be made simple. During the Visa application at the home country, the Saudi Embassy should thoroughly screen the potential Pilgrims. Details of potential Pilgrims is to be on line with Jeddah Airport Immigration. Upon arrival at Jeddah Airport, the Immigration Officials just browse through the details, comparison check and therefore a smooth and quick clearance.
Saudi Government is filthy rich and they should make a bigger and well equipped with modern facilities Airport. Planes arriving can park direct at the Airport Main Terminal instead of Passengers arriving transported by bus to the Main Airport Terminal. Since the influx of Pilgrims is by the minutes arriving at the Airport, the Immigration Bays should be increased and adequate replacement when the Immigration Officials performing their prayers or taking a break. Do not just abandon the Bay without replacement. The Pilgrims are coming to Saudi Arabia to contribute to the economic well being of the country and they should be treated as VIP.
Saudi Muassah Officials should man the arrival exit and collect the Pilgrims Passport upon arrival. The Passport is immediately scanned, printed and return to the Holder so that the Holder can proceed with their journey either to Medina or straight to Mekah. There would be no unnecessary hold back at the Airport.
Trolleys at the Airport should be easily available for the incoming and outgoing Pilgrims. It should not be in the custody of Airport Porters who charge for a fee for the trolley.
Question: What sadden you most when you are in Mekah?
Answer: I am sorry to see Pilgrims, other than from Malaysia who lacks the knowledge of an umrah. Ihram is a two piece cloth unstitched. Some even have buttons. They even expose their aurat and the belly button could be seen. The “aurat” for a man is from the belly button to the knee. This area should be well covered. If the “aurat” is exposed it is considered as “haram”.
It is sad to see the Pilgrims break all the laws about performing an umrah, the effort and the money spent all goes to the drain. All Pilgrims should equip themselves with the do and don’t about umrah. They must study the minute details. The position of the shoulders, the right place to “istilam” etc etc.
The poor ethics of certain Pilgrims that just cross to the Kaabah knocking off Pilgrims while performing the tawaf.
The mad rush, pushing and elbowing is a norm of certain Pilgrims to kiss the Hijaratul Aswad when the action is only sunat. They hurt other Pilgrims and even get themselves hurt while shoving their way to touch or to kiss the Holy Black stone.
Pilgrims take in their dirty slippers into the Mosque. It should be wrapping in a small bag or plastic.
Some Pilgrims enter the Mosque immediately after a prayer sessions which cause unnecessary blockage at the door. They should give at least fifteen minutes when all have exit.
Sleeping in the Mosque and during the day in Ramadan, the Mosque looks like a war zone, bodies everywhere. This prevents other pilgrims to perform the sunat prayers. The Mosque security should chase them away to their respective dwellings. While sleeping on the carpet with their mouth open, they tend to soil the carpet and this carpet is for praying. Islam is about cleanliness.
Mother taking babies into the Mosque that often cries. That distracts the concentration of a prayer. A Nursery for babies should be built somewhere near the Mosque.
Praying should not be allowed at staircase landings. Once the Pilgrims filled up the landings other Pilgrims cannot proceed to find an empty space to pray. The Security should ensure the landing is not occupied prior to prayer session.
Question: Would you go to Mekah again?
Answer: Are you crazy? Only stupid Muslims do not want to go to Mekah. I don’t care with all the Immigration problems at Jeddah Airport; I will still go through it. That’s the destiny Allah have decides. If Allah wants to make my journey smooth so be it, if not then Allah is testing my patience. The moment I step out from the house for the Holy Land, I surrender myself to the Almighty Allah. My “nawaitu” must just be one. Insyaalah, if the “nawaitu” is sincere, Allah would take care of me.
Question: Can I follow you next year Ramadan?
Answer: Insyaalah, if I am still alive. BUT, I have my own sets of rules that you have to abide. With good health, except Friday we have to perform the umrah. The “nawaitu” is Ramadan umrah, not Ramadan sleeping. Remember…..you can only perform an umrah only in Mekah, not anywhere else in the world, not even in Medina.
Don’t think much about shopping in Mekah. All those items in Mekah are all from China. You can get them at Mydin back home. Only dates and “zam zam” water are Mekah copyrights reserved. Even the dates are from Medina.
If you are missing from the room, I expect you to be in Masjidilharam, 100% devotion and concentration to “ibadah”.
Never mind, it’s your money and it’s up to you how to spend your well earned money. I just give you a guideline. Allah knows what you are doing and the Almighty is always fair.
Answer: I can find peace in myself. Moreover when I am there alone, nobody bothers me. I can find new acquaintance and develop “siratulrahim” among Muslim brothers. I totally devote myself to Allah - pray, umrah, fasting, reading the “Alkoraan” and “sedekah”. I have to manage my own life, no wife or children to depend on. I must learn to be alone for in the grave, no one accompanies me except the good and the bad deed I have done during the span of my life. In Mekah, I forget about TV, newspapers, politics, EPL, blogs and the whole world. Every deed is for the sake of Allah and avoiding what is forbidden. I control the usage of the tongue and avoid unnecessary conversation.
Question: You can also devote yourself to Allah even you are in Malaysia?
Answer: Agree…….., but you cannot perform the umrah in Malaysia. Do you know that while fasting and performing the umrah, Allah would bless you an equivalent of performing a Haj? Every time I pray at Masjidil Haram Allah blesses it with 100,000 times and at Masjid Nabawi it is 1,000 times. In Malaysia, if you pray at the mosque with other Jemaah, Allah only blesses you with 27 times. In Malaysia you tend to miss the terawikh but in Mekah it is a big loss if you miss and if you spot on with “Lailatulqadar”, Allah blesses you with 1,000 months of “ibadah”. There is no valid reason you should miss the terawikh in Mekah unless you are sick.
Question: Given the chance what would you change to facilitate Pilgrims to Mekah?
Answer: First of all, the Saudi Immigration formalities must be made simple. During the Visa application at the home country, the Saudi Embassy should thoroughly screen the potential Pilgrims. Details of potential Pilgrims is to be on line with Jeddah Airport Immigration. Upon arrival at Jeddah Airport, the Immigration Officials just browse through the details, comparison check and therefore a smooth and quick clearance.
Saudi Government is filthy rich and they should make a bigger and well equipped with modern facilities Airport. Planes arriving can park direct at the Airport Main Terminal instead of Passengers arriving transported by bus to the Main Airport Terminal. Since the influx of Pilgrims is by the minutes arriving at the Airport, the Immigration Bays should be increased and adequate replacement when the Immigration Officials performing their prayers or taking a break. Do not just abandon the Bay without replacement. The Pilgrims are coming to Saudi Arabia to contribute to the economic well being of the country and they should be treated as VIP.
Saudi Muassah Officials should man the arrival exit and collect the Pilgrims Passport upon arrival. The Passport is immediately scanned, printed and return to the Holder so that the Holder can proceed with their journey either to Medina or straight to Mekah. There would be no unnecessary hold back at the Airport.
Trolleys at the Airport should be easily available for the incoming and outgoing Pilgrims. It should not be in the custody of Airport Porters who charge for a fee for the trolley.
Question: What sadden you most when you are in Mekah?
Answer: I am sorry to see Pilgrims, other than from Malaysia who lacks the knowledge of an umrah. Ihram is a two piece cloth unstitched. Some even have buttons. They even expose their aurat and the belly button could be seen. The “aurat” for a man is from the belly button to the knee. This area should be well covered. If the “aurat” is exposed it is considered as “haram”.
It is sad to see the Pilgrims break all the laws about performing an umrah, the effort and the money spent all goes to the drain. All Pilgrims should equip themselves with the do and don’t about umrah. They must study the minute details. The position of the shoulders, the right place to “istilam” etc etc.
The poor ethics of certain Pilgrims that just cross to the Kaabah knocking off Pilgrims while performing the tawaf.
The mad rush, pushing and elbowing is a norm of certain Pilgrims to kiss the Hijaratul Aswad when the action is only sunat. They hurt other Pilgrims and even get themselves hurt while shoving their way to touch or to kiss the Holy Black stone.
Pilgrims take in their dirty slippers into the Mosque. It should be wrapping in a small bag or plastic.
Some Pilgrims enter the Mosque immediately after a prayer sessions which cause unnecessary blockage at the door. They should give at least fifteen minutes when all have exit.
Sleeping in the Mosque and during the day in Ramadan, the Mosque looks like a war zone, bodies everywhere. This prevents other pilgrims to perform the sunat prayers. The Mosque security should chase them away to their respective dwellings. While sleeping on the carpet with their mouth open, they tend to soil the carpet and this carpet is for praying. Islam is about cleanliness.
Mother taking babies into the Mosque that often cries. That distracts the concentration of a prayer. A Nursery for babies should be built somewhere near the Mosque.
Praying should not be allowed at staircase landings. Once the Pilgrims filled up the landings other Pilgrims cannot proceed to find an empty space to pray. The Security should ensure the landing is not occupied prior to prayer session.
Question: Would you go to Mekah again?
Answer: Are you crazy? Only stupid Muslims do not want to go to Mekah. I don’t care with all the Immigration problems at Jeddah Airport; I will still go through it. That’s the destiny Allah have decides. If Allah wants to make my journey smooth so be it, if not then Allah is testing my patience. The moment I step out from the house for the Holy Land, I surrender myself to the Almighty Allah. My “nawaitu” must just be one. Insyaalah, if the “nawaitu” is sincere, Allah would take care of me.
Question: Can I follow you next year Ramadan?
Answer: Insyaalah, if I am still alive. BUT, I have my own sets of rules that you have to abide. With good health, except Friday we have to perform the umrah. The “nawaitu” is Ramadan umrah, not Ramadan sleeping. Remember…..you can only perform an umrah only in Mekah, not anywhere else in the world, not even in Medina.
Don’t think much about shopping in Mekah. All those items in Mekah are all from China. You can get them at Mydin back home. Only dates and “zam zam” water are Mekah copyrights reserved. Even the dates are from Medina.
If you are missing from the room, I expect you to be in Masjidilharam, 100% devotion and concentration to “ibadah”.
Never mind, it’s your money and it’s up to you how to spend your well earned money. I just give you a guideline. Allah knows what you are doing and the Almighty is always fair.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Kampong Raja Uda Mosque AGM.
Date: 30 September 2009.
Time & Location: 2030 hours KRU Mosque.
The Meeting Hall could not accommodate the attendees and it was shifted to the lean to covered area adjacent to the Mosque and we had to sit cross legged for the Meeting. Originally the Nazir decided to hold it in the Mosque Prayer Hall but was objected strongly by the attendees.
The Imam started with the doa and followed with the opening speech by the Chairman, the Nazir. He was proud of the overwhelming attendees. However he did not realized that the attendees who came for the AGM was for the sole purpose to target him. (The reason: During the solat sunat Aidilfitri he warned the former Nazir not to be “bongkak” and “angkuh” during his speech in the Mosque prior to the solat sunat).
The next agenda was passing the minutes of the previous AGM. One of the Committee members highlighted that the attendees of the previous AGM was only 33 and did not meet the quorum required. The Nazir commented that the previous AGM was null and void. The previous Nazir took the microphone and explained that it had been a standard phenomena that KRU Mosque AGM did not received a good response. It had to be conducted anyway and further emphasized that the overwhelming presence tonight was because the Qariah wanted an in depth explanations from the Nazir of several outstanding issues arising from the lack of poor management and misbehaved on the part of the Nazir since taking over the Mosque affairs for the past four months. Haji Bakar commented that not even one of the present Committee Members attended the 2008 AGM, including the present Nazir or the Secretary. If the Minutes of the previous AGM could not be passed the AGM could not proceed. I was presence at the 2008 AGM attendee recorded as number 24, therefore I proposed the Minutes to be passed and seconded by Haji Bakar. The Meeting proceeded as per Agenda.
Financial Account: Nazir brought up why the need to allocate RM200 each as souvenir to the previous Committee Members? It should be the present Committee Members to decide whether souvenirs should be given to the previous Committee Members. The former Nazir once again took the microphone and told the qariah that the matter was referred to the Ketua Kampong cum Advisor of the Mosque and that the Ketua Kampong proposed the RM200 allocation. Incidentally the Ketua Kampong who was sitting at the Committee row could not disagree more with the former Nazir. The qariah clapped their hands in jubilant as the Nazir was shot point blank by the former Nazir answer which substantiated by the Ketua Kampong statement. Another goal scored.
The presentation of the Financial Account during this AGM was rather unique. It was the operating financial year of the previous Committee but tabled by the present Committee.
Financial account of the Saham Wakaf account: No argument.
Financial account of the Saham Wakaf Van Jenazah account: This matter was regarding the Van jenazah and it was pointed that the Van Jenazah has nothing to do with the Mosque. However the Mosque Committee took away the Van Jenazah and handed over to the JKKK. The Chairman of the JKKK who happened to be the Ketua Kampong agreed for further discussion and would hand the Van Jenazah to the right custodian. It was requested to be minute and the qariah agreed to stop the matter there. During the topic heated discussion, OTK the Van Jenazah Driver ran out of the Meeting.
Budget forecast for forthcoming financial year: The qariah was not interested.
Other Matters / Issues discussed:
1. It was agreed consensually and with majority that the Nazir and the Secretary of the Mosque to resign from the Committee or to hold an EGM within 2 months from the date hereof. Failing which, a Memorandum with at least 40 signatories would be submitted. Both the Nazir and the Secretary refused to resign or refused to hold an EGM. During this topic in discussion, the Secretary lost his temper and shouted to the qariah that he was elected and authenticated by JAIS. His shouting gave a passport to the qariah and from thereon there was plenty of jeering and booing from the qariah every time the Nazir or Secretary opened their mouths. It was a clear indication that the qariah do not want the Nazir and the Secretary to pursue their positions and I wonder why they still wanted to stick on. If I were any one of them, since I know the qariah dislike me, I might as well pack off. What the heck!!
2. The two sujud sahwi was asked to the Nazir. During his answer he evaded the topic and crossed over about the New Mosque. This was what the qariah waited. The former Nazir referred the situation to Ustaz Farid, JAIS Representative. Ustaz Farid said that the Protem Committee can carry on until a final decision made by JAIS. The qariah received Ustaz Farid statement in jubilant and satisfaction. It was further requested that the Nazir to unlock the New Mosque Donation Safe and put back the Notice Board. The former Nazir pleaded sarcastically to the Committee not to go to Bank Muamalat and transfer the New Mosque account to the present Mosque account. The qariah laughed. A big thunderbird blow to the Nazir, Secretary and the Treasurer. Regret to mention here, as far as the Nazir as concern the Protem Committee is still illegal. In spite of the statement by Ustaz Farid the Nazir was still adamant. I fail to find a word to describe about this Nazir. I think he only listens to Nik Aziz or Hadi Awang instructions and clarification, and then only he understands.
3. It was brought up why Siak 2, Encik Osman bin Tanda was suspended and under which clause that he could be suspended just like that, without a warning or without anything in writing. The Nazir told the qariah that he requested Osman bin Tanda to go for urine test of which he refused. Osman bin Tanda took the microphone and told the qariah that the Nazir was bullshitting. The Nazir never approached him. Again the true color of the Nazir was seen. The niece of Osman bin Tanda stood up and told the Nazir that everyone in the Kampong recognizes who is Osman bin Tanda but it is unethical for the Nazir to run down her Uncle in the Mosque. A young lady has the brain to lecture the Nazir about Mosque ethics.
Other issues were brought up but I failed to hear the details as there were jeering and booing all round.
Before the Nazir could adjourn the AGM, the qariah already stood up and started walking off from the Meeting area.
During the Meeting in full sessions, the PA system was switched to general and it was audible miles away. My wife was at the house balcony hearing all the commotions and I was glad I don’t have to relate to her what was happening. It attracted a lot of people and they crowded the road to listen the heated debate between the present and the former. The other Committee Members dare not open their mouths as there were plenty of cats waiting for them. They sat at the front row like frightened mice. What I understand, prior to the AGM, there was no Committee Meeting held and everything decided by the Nazir and the Secretary. It’s a two man show managing the Mosque.
What the Nazir and the Secretary should do was to play a defensive game not an attacking playmaker. Most of all, the Nazir and the Secretary should learn to control their temper as it was a General Meeting not a warong discussion. A very big blunder was created by the Nazir during the solat sunat Aidilfitri and the Kampong folks were not happy about it. What the Nazir should do, immediately after the opening speech, walked up to the former Nazir shook his hands and apologize. I am sure the qariah sentiment would cool off. Every qariah I talked to doesn’t care who manage the Mosque but it must be manage properly and ethically. For as long as the Nazir and the Secretary remain to be cocky and “environmental unfriendly” the qariah, the Jemaah and the Kampong Residents would continue to go after them. During the last Committee election the qariah gave way to the present elected Committee hoping that it would be better than the previous Committee. Since majority of them are PAS sympathizers they would be more Islamic on their approach. Haji Ismail Arshad Yang DiPertua PAS Klang, the Kampong resident often quoted what they are doing is reflective of the new state government administration under Pakatan Rakyat. This is what the Kampong get?? To me it is more reflective towards vengeance and that is unislamic.
After all settled, some gathered their own opinion of the AGM, the Mosque Committee Members held a private Meeting among themselves at the Kampong Markas PAS. When BN was in power, the Mosque Committee Members never met at Bilek Gerakan UMNO to discuss about the Mosque affairs. The Mosque has been turn to a political arena and may I warn those concern, the Mosque is the House of Allah. All are facing the same kiblat unless of course to reflect the new state government they decide to change the kiblat.
I am anxious to see who has the last laugh.
Time & Location: 2030 hours KRU Mosque.
The Meeting Hall could not accommodate the attendees and it was shifted to the lean to covered area adjacent to the Mosque and we had to sit cross legged for the Meeting. Originally the Nazir decided to hold it in the Mosque Prayer Hall but was objected strongly by the attendees.
The Imam started with the doa and followed with the opening speech by the Chairman, the Nazir. He was proud of the overwhelming attendees. However he did not realized that the attendees who came for the AGM was for the sole purpose to target him. (The reason: During the solat sunat Aidilfitri he warned the former Nazir not to be “bongkak” and “angkuh” during his speech in the Mosque prior to the solat sunat).
The next agenda was passing the minutes of the previous AGM. One of the Committee members highlighted that the attendees of the previous AGM was only 33 and did not meet the quorum required. The Nazir commented that the previous AGM was null and void. The previous Nazir took the microphone and explained that it had been a standard phenomena that KRU Mosque AGM did not received a good response. It had to be conducted anyway and further emphasized that the overwhelming presence tonight was because the Qariah wanted an in depth explanations from the Nazir of several outstanding issues arising from the lack of poor management and misbehaved on the part of the Nazir since taking over the Mosque affairs for the past four months. Haji Bakar commented that not even one of the present Committee Members attended the 2008 AGM, including the present Nazir or the Secretary. If the Minutes of the previous AGM could not be passed the AGM could not proceed. I was presence at the 2008 AGM attendee recorded as number 24, therefore I proposed the Minutes to be passed and seconded by Haji Bakar. The Meeting proceeded as per Agenda.
Financial Account: Nazir brought up why the need to allocate RM200 each as souvenir to the previous Committee Members? It should be the present Committee Members to decide whether souvenirs should be given to the previous Committee Members. The former Nazir once again took the microphone and told the qariah that the matter was referred to the Ketua Kampong cum Advisor of the Mosque and that the Ketua Kampong proposed the RM200 allocation. Incidentally the Ketua Kampong who was sitting at the Committee row could not disagree more with the former Nazir. The qariah clapped their hands in jubilant as the Nazir was shot point blank by the former Nazir answer which substantiated by the Ketua Kampong statement. Another goal scored.
The presentation of the Financial Account during this AGM was rather unique. It was the operating financial year of the previous Committee but tabled by the present Committee.
Financial account of the Saham Wakaf account: No argument.
Financial account of the Saham Wakaf Van Jenazah account: This matter was regarding the Van jenazah and it was pointed that the Van Jenazah has nothing to do with the Mosque. However the Mosque Committee took away the Van Jenazah and handed over to the JKKK. The Chairman of the JKKK who happened to be the Ketua Kampong agreed for further discussion and would hand the Van Jenazah to the right custodian. It was requested to be minute and the qariah agreed to stop the matter there. During the topic heated discussion, OTK the Van Jenazah Driver ran out of the Meeting.
Budget forecast for forthcoming financial year: The qariah was not interested.
Other Matters / Issues discussed:
1. It was agreed consensually and with majority that the Nazir and the Secretary of the Mosque to resign from the Committee or to hold an EGM within 2 months from the date hereof. Failing which, a Memorandum with at least 40 signatories would be submitted. Both the Nazir and the Secretary refused to resign or refused to hold an EGM. During this topic in discussion, the Secretary lost his temper and shouted to the qariah that he was elected and authenticated by JAIS. His shouting gave a passport to the qariah and from thereon there was plenty of jeering and booing from the qariah every time the Nazir or Secretary opened their mouths. It was a clear indication that the qariah do not want the Nazir and the Secretary to pursue their positions and I wonder why they still wanted to stick on. If I were any one of them, since I know the qariah dislike me, I might as well pack off. What the heck!!
2. The two sujud sahwi was asked to the Nazir. During his answer he evaded the topic and crossed over about the New Mosque. This was what the qariah waited. The former Nazir referred the situation to Ustaz Farid, JAIS Representative. Ustaz Farid said that the Protem Committee can carry on until a final decision made by JAIS. The qariah received Ustaz Farid statement in jubilant and satisfaction. It was further requested that the Nazir to unlock the New Mosque Donation Safe and put back the Notice Board. The former Nazir pleaded sarcastically to the Committee not to go to Bank Muamalat and transfer the New Mosque account to the present Mosque account. The qariah laughed. A big thunderbird blow to the Nazir, Secretary and the Treasurer. Regret to mention here, as far as the Nazir as concern the Protem Committee is still illegal. In spite of the statement by Ustaz Farid the Nazir was still adamant. I fail to find a word to describe about this Nazir. I think he only listens to Nik Aziz or Hadi Awang instructions and clarification, and then only he understands.
3. It was brought up why Siak 2, Encik Osman bin Tanda was suspended and under which clause that he could be suspended just like that, without a warning or without anything in writing. The Nazir told the qariah that he requested Osman bin Tanda to go for urine test of which he refused. Osman bin Tanda took the microphone and told the qariah that the Nazir was bullshitting. The Nazir never approached him. Again the true color of the Nazir was seen. The niece of Osman bin Tanda stood up and told the Nazir that everyone in the Kampong recognizes who is Osman bin Tanda but it is unethical for the Nazir to run down her Uncle in the Mosque. A young lady has the brain to lecture the Nazir about Mosque ethics.
Other issues were brought up but I failed to hear the details as there were jeering and booing all round.
Before the Nazir could adjourn the AGM, the qariah already stood up and started walking off from the Meeting area.
During the Meeting in full sessions, the PA system was switched to general and it was audible miles away. My wife was at the house balcony hearing all the commotions and I was glad I don’t have to relate to her what was happening. It attracted a lot of people and they crowded the road to listen the heated debate between the present and the former. The other Committee Members dare not open their mouths as there were plenty of cats waiting for them. They sat at the front row like frightened mice. What I understand, prior to the AGM, there was no Committee Meeting held and everything decided by the Nazir and the Secretary. It’s a two man show managing the Mosque.
What the Nazir and the Secretary should do was to play a defensive game not an attacking playmaker. Most of all, the Nazir and the Secretary should learn to control their temper as it was a General Meeting not a warong discussion. A very big blunder was created by the Nazir during the solat sunat Aidilfitri and the Kampong folks were not happy about it. What the Nazir should do, immediately after the opening speech, walked up to the former Nazir shook his hands and apologize. I am sure the qariah sentiment would cool off. Every qariah I talked to doesn’t care who manage the Mosque but it must be manage properly and ethically. For as long as the Nazir and the Secretary remain to be cocky and “environmental unfriendly” the qariah, the Jemaah and the Kampong Residents would continue to go after them. During the last Committee election the qariah gave way to the present elected Committee hoping that it would be better than the previous Committee. Since majority of them are PAS sympathizers they would be more Islamic on their approach. Haji Ismail Arshad Yang DiPertua PAS Klang, the Kampong resident often quoted what they are doing is reflective of the new state government administration under Pakatan Rakyat. This is what the Kampong get?? To me it is more reflective towards vengeance and that is unislamic.
After all settled, some gathered their own opinion of the AGM, the Mosque Committee Members held a private Meeting among themselves at the Kampong Markas PAS. When BN was in power, the Mosque Committee Members never met at Bilek Gerakan UMNO to discuss about the Mosque affairs. The Mosque has been turn to a political arena and may I warn those concern, the Mosque is the House of Allah. All are facing the same kiblat unless of course to reflect the new state government they decide to change the kiblat.
I am anxious to see who has the last laugh.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Karak Kuantan Highway.
It was the best opportunity for me to try out this new Highway when I had a wedding invitation on 4 October 2009 at Beserah Kuantan. Hj Wan Ismail Embong an acquaintance of 2007 Ramadan umrah invited me to his daughter’s wedding at Kampong Balok Beserah Kuantan. An invitation card was delivered sometimes during Ramadan while I was away in Mekah.
We left for Kuantan mid morning Saturday. On the way we make a surprise visit at Hj Faharudin’s house for Hari Raya in Gombak. Hajah Rogayah insisted that we stayed for lunch but we begged to decline since we had a long way to go.
It was the first time that I took the Karak Kuantan Highway and my friend warned me that the Highway is a little bit bumpy. It is a good Highway but rather monotonous. Jungles and Felda scheme span along both sides. We stopped for lunch at Temerloh R&R and I enjoyed the “gulai tempoyak” and the bamboo shoot. It was ages since I tasted a well cooked “gulai tempoyak”. We exit at Gambang Kuantan and looking for car air condition service centre as my Perdana air condition piping was frozen and emitting warm air instead. The Kuantan Chinaman whacked me for RM 30 for gas refilling and defrosted the piping. We headed for Teluk Cempedak but Hyatt Hotel was fully booked. We settled for MS Garden Hotel which is adjacent to Parkson Grand. We were not familiar with Kuantan and we just bulldozed our way with the road sign as indicator.
Since it was early evening we decided to survey where Kampong Balok Beserah is and took a slow drive. I called up an ex Guthrie colleague, Hamzah Ibrahim and since he was somewhere around Kuantan he promised to meet me at the Hotel later at night. From the attached map at the wedding invitation I found Kampong Balok and Hj Wan Ismail address. I was surprised to see a huge beautiful two storey bungalow with tents all spread within the compound in ready for a wedding carnival. Hj Wan Ismail that I know in Mekah was a simple old man, soft spoken and acted like just an ordinary Kampong Imam. I wasn’t sure I was at the right house and stopped to inquire. I was spot on and Hj Wan Ismail who happened to be very busy at the frontage suddenly got a glimpse of me. He came running excited to greet me and invited the family into the house to meet his family. We were very happy to see each other again and Hj Wan Ismail least expected that I would come all the way. I inquired about his oversize son, Bob. Bob came in from nowhere but Bob was no more that oversized compared last seen at KLIA. I could hardly recognize him. We sat for a while as we had to back track to Kuantan for the night and would return to attend the wedding reception the next day. Hj Wan Ismail was upset that I did not forewarn him otherwise he could get me a Hotel or Chalet somewhere near Beserah. Swiss Garden Hotel is just nearby.
It was a grand wedding and I was given an exceptional reception. A special friend when he introduced me to his Kampong mates. I remember the last night in Mekah before we left for home, I saw him meticulously roping the various boxes very neatly. Jokingly I asked him what he wanted to do with all the rope back home and he told me he could use it to tie up the cows. He laughed when I told him it could also be used to hang someone.
We left after the Bersanding and hit back the Kuantan Karak Highway. The weather was fine all the way. We stopped at Temerloh R&R for tea and at Genting Sempah Petronas Station for refueling. Hj Adenan called from Kota Kinabalu whether we wanted anything in particular from KK. We told him only to bring back Sabah “udang kering”. We reached home before Isyakh.
It was a successful trip to Kuantan and Beserah. We picked a few salted “ikan tenggiri” and “keropok” but the most nostalgic was the “gulai tempoyak and rebung” at Temerloh R&R. When I was a small kid in the kampong, it was the regular dishes my Opah used to cook. No wonder, my cousin Dato Malek just fancy taking a drive to Temerloh just to enjoy “gulai tempoyak ikan patin”. I don’t fancy ikan patin, anyway.
I hit the sack early, least interested of the Chelsea/Liverpool clash. I was damn exhausted to the bones.
We left for Kuantan mid morning Saturday. On the way we make a surprise visit at Hj Faharudin’s house for Hari Raya in Gombak. Hajah Rogayah insisted that we stayed for lunch but we begged to decline since we had a long way to go.
It was the first time that I took the Karak Kuantan Highway and my friend warned me that the Highway is a little bit bumpy. It is a good Highway but rather monotonous. Jungles and Felda scheme span along both sides. We stopped for lunch at Temerloh R&R and I enjoyed the “gulai tempoyak” and the bamboo shoot. It was ages since I tasted a well cooked “gulai tempoyak”. We exit at Gambang Kuantan and looking for car air condition service centre as my Perdana air condition piping was frozen and emitting warm air instead. The Kuantan Chinaman whacked me for RM 30 for gas refilling and defrosted the piping. We headed for Teluk Cempedak but Hyatt Hotel was fully booked. We settled for MS Garden Hotel which is adjacent to Parkson Grand. We were not familiar with Kuantan and we just bulldozed our way with the road sign as indicator.
Since it was early evening we decided to survey where Kampong Balok Beserah is and took a slow drive. I called up an ex Guthrie colleague, Hamzah Ibrahim and since he was somewhere around Kuantan he promised to meet me at the Hotel later at night. From the attached map at the wedding invitation I found Kampong Balok and Hj Wan Ismail address. I was surprised to see a huge beautiful two storey bungalow with tents all spread within the compound in ready for a wedding carnival. Hj Wan Ismail that I know in Mekah was a simple old man, soft spoken and acted like just an ordinary Kampong Imam. I wasn’t sure I was at the right house and stopped to inquire. I was spot on and Hj Wan Ismail who happened to be very busy at the frontage suddenly got a glimpse of me. He came running excited to greet me and invited the family into the house to meet his family. We were very happy to see each other again and Hj Wan Ismail least expected that I would come all the way. I inquired about his oversize son, Bob. Bob came in from nowhere but Bob was no more that oversized compared last seen at KLIA. I could hardly recognize him. We sat for a while as we had to back track to Kuantan for the night and would return to attend the wedding reception the next day. Hj Wan Ismail was upset that I did not forewarn him otherwise he could get me a Hotel or Chalet somewhere near Beserah. Swiss Garden Hotel is just nearby.
It was a grand wedding and I was given an exceptional reception. A special friend when he introduced me to his Kampong mates. I remember the last night in Mekah before we left for home, I saw him meticulously roping the various boxes very neatly. Jokingly I asked him what he wanted to do with all the rope back home and he told me he could use it to tie up the cows. He laughed when I told him it could also be used to hang someone.
We left after the Bersanding and hit back the Kuantan Karak Highway. The weather was fine all the way. We stopped at Temerloh R&R for tea and at Genting Sempah Petronas Station for refueling. Hj Adenan called from Kota Kinabalu whether we wanted anything in particular from KK. We told him only to bring back Sabah “udang kering”. We reached home before Isyakh.
It was a successful trip to Kuantan and Beserah. We picked a few salted “ikan tenggiri” and “keropok” but the most nostalgic was the “gulai tempoyak and rebung” at Temerloh R&R. When I was a small kid in the kampong, it was the regular dishes my Opah used to cook. No wonder, my cousin Dato Malek just fancy taking a drive to Temerloh just to enjoy “gulai tempoyak ikan patin”. I don’t fancy ikan patin, anyway.
I hit the sack early, least interested of the Chelsea/Liverpool clash. I was damn exhausted to the bones.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)