Penang. I have fond memories of this place. I came to this little island several times during my childhood. I think thats why I like the place so much, its like travelling back in time for me. Travelling back to a time of innocence and peace. A time when I had no worries, no money, no bills to pay, no burden.
My aunts house is located just at the foothills of the Kek Lok Si Temple. Its like living outside the gates of Haw Par Villa in Singapore. I guess thats why I always felt that my aunts neighbourhood is somewhat magical. Its surrounded by shops leading up to the temple and the temple architecture is a mix of Siamese and Chinese style. Come to think of it, I've never seen a similar styled pagoda in Thailand, Vietnam or China.
As a kid running around here, it felt like a gigantic magical playground, where I can disappear into my own world of mystique and fantasies. Crap, that sounds like escapism.
My aunt has aged a lot in recent years, its funny, when I look at her, I still see her in her 80's face, still young and motherly pretty, I don't know why. She is a really nice person and always asking to forgive her for not bringing me out for a meal when, I, was the one that always springs the surprise visit on her. Infact, my last two trips were both unannounced and lasted less than an hour, this time round was no different, I passed her some snacks and photographs that my mom had prepared the day before I left, then I took some pictures of the house and said goodbye yet again. Before I left, I told her that I will visit her again this year with my Mom, so I look forward to that trip.
It was getting late, so we made our way to our next destination, Hatyai, Thailand. Along the way out from my Aunts house, I took pictures of old houses and shops of a bygone era. Not too long ago Singapore had such architecture too but due to rapid urbanisation all the history and familiar sights of a whole generation has been lost and now can only be found in Malaysia, which itself is going through rapid modernising as well.
I can't help but feel alienated in my own country and that I need to seek a familiar solace in my neighbouring towns.
Next stop, Thailand.
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