The Kampung Way

Having not cycled across the causeway for quite some time, last Sunday's ride to Tanjung Piai was some sort of a comeback ride for me. The route was scenic, and we were blessed with good christmas weather. I was also fortunate to be riding with a friendly bunch of folks who cycled at a tolerable pace and made frequent stops to wait for the slower riders.

Being the youngest in the group, I was frequently referred to as 'the young man'. Yet the truth is most of them put me to shame easily as they were on mountain bikes and riding as fast as the roadies, including me the young man. It reminded me of the days when I, too, was using a mountain bike. I certainly still miss my old bike.

I was fully prepared to cycle in inclement weather for this trip. Not only did I bring a poncho, but I carried my windbreaker with me. After all, I have never enjoyed a dry overnight Malaysian ride. This being the north-east monsoon season, I was even dead certain that we have to brace ourselves for torrential rain.

It therefore came as a pleasant relief that I did not find myself rain-soaked in this trip. The sky on the second morning and the route we took were so lovely that I found myself frequently reaching for my camera. In the end, I was glad that I made the last minute decision to join this ride and spent a getaway Christmas.


Fishermen Turf


I have an endless fascination with overhead cables. I think they add so much character and rustic feel to the landscape. There's something very languorously charming about seeing these cables in a village or town.


How people travel in kampungs and villages


Kampung houses dotting the sides of the road.


Lalang Land: My all-time favourite