Awards Season 2013 (Episode IV) : Vintage Aristocracy Of Burberry, Anne Hathaway @ BAFTA Awards 2013.

The British Academy of Film & Television Arts (BAFTA) is a United Kingdom-based organization that is equivalent to the American Academy of The Oscar. Every year, it also acknowledges and recognizes stand-out performers in films and arts masterpieces.

BAFTA trophies.

Well, Best Film and Best Director go to “Argo”, so I guess Ben Affleck is getting all the possible accolades he could get to compensate his non-nomination in the upcoming Oscar. It’s just sad for him, isn’t it? Other predictable winners included :

Daniel Day-Lewis as Abraham Lincoln.

• Daniel Day-Lewis – Best Actor in Leading Role
• Anne Hathaway – Best Actress in Supporting Role

Jessica Chastain, Amy Adams & Marion Cotillard.

Emilia Fox & Gemma Artenton.

Jennifer Garner

Paloma Faith (who?) and… what IS THAT??????!

Helen Mirren. Reminiscing kiddish fantasy???

The unpredictable winners are :-

• Emmanuelle Riva – Best Actress in Leading Role
• Christopher Waltz – Best Actor in Supporting Role

Anne Hathaway channels the English via stunning creation of studded bodice Burberry gown and Rona Pfeiffer bangles. She looks nice in pixie hair, don’t you think? Definitely the new Julia Roberts. (,”) I love Burberry. Very classic and elegant brand; love the trench coat & “The Beat” perfume. (,”)

On whole, it was all palpitations for the The Oscar 2013 y’all!

A Malay Movie Review : “Hantu Kak Limah 2 : Husin, Mon & Jin Pakai Toncit” @ Alamanda, Putrajaya – With Rifqi Naufal & Abang Zam.

I guess at this juncture, the name “Hantu Kak Limah” or loosely translated as The Ghost of Kak Limah must be a familiar household name among the Malays in Malaysia; especially those who are of the Middle Class and Lower and the “typical” cliques. Malays who confess themselves of not knowing the name probably are self-professed elitists who see the idea of watching-a-Malay-movie-is-low-class or perhaps they simply don’t like watching corny soap-opera/slapstick comedy usually affiliated with Malay dramas/movies. Either way, it’s their prerogatives. I am no one to judge but hey, it wouldn’t hurt to highlight the scenario in such painful truth, no? Hahaha!

The second installment.

Anyway, the first time I heard about the name was like in 2011 when the original “Hantu Kak Limah” film was released. The first film which was “Hantu Kak Limah Balik Rumah” (The Ghost of Kak Limah Comes Back Home) was an instant hit in the local cinemas and considered as box-office! Dialogues and characters from the film became sort of like a cult and repeatedly uttered and said; either as pun of comedic jargon or simply as personal taglines.

The popular comical “ghost”, Kak Limah.

Actress Delimawati played the titular role. I think it’s a high time that she’s been given recognition for portrayal as Kak Limah. Effortless yet very etching in the hearts of Malaysians. She is far more versatile than the other ‘wooden’ pretty faces ‘heroine’ Malaysian actresses (some were elected to act just because they had the commercial faces. Sigh)

I had to say that I didn’t see the film until I heard so many rave reviews from people around me about the film! I had my nephew and sister kept saying about the film; colleagues kept making jokes about the films; I had pupils wanted to name their groups as “Hantu Kak Limah” and kept singing songs from the film, and many more. Ultimately, I decided to watch the film via online (since it was already quite several months after the cinema premieres). I had to say that it was quite funny and entertaining! Hhahahaa!

Awie as Husin, the protagonist of the second installment.

So now in 2013, the second installment entitled “Hantu Kak Limah 2 : Husin, Mon & Jin Pakai Toncit” is released. My nephew, Rifqi Naufal got so excited about the film (he is merely 7 years old!). So, I guess as a bonding time – and since he already has a new baby brother (just wanna make him feel pampered), we brought him to watch the flick at GSC Alamanda, Putrajaya.

The villagers of Kampung Pisang; with the late Allahyarham Zami Ismail.

Basically, the story is about Kampung Pisang now being attacked by another supernatural force. A few ‘virgin’ males were reported went missing. When Husin, the protagonist played by Awie came back to the village after being declared bankruptcy, scenario worsen as he went missing; be led astray by spirit of Mon, a beautiful enchantress. Turned out that the evil force was a satyr-like who savour sacrifices and he devours on the souls of ‘untainted’ males  of purebred Kampung Pisang origin.

Ezlynn as the spirit enchantress, Mon.

So, what’s the verdict? I would say that the movie is quite disappointing as opposed to the first one. Of course, there were a few hilarious catchy comic-relieves punchlines that really tickling; but many of them were forgettable and quite slapstick. Awie’s charismatic enigma as an actor was not fully exploited as per the first installment; in this second one, his scenes were quite restricted and limited. I don’t know; perhaps in the first one, his scenes were even smaller; but he managed to steal the limelight with his presence! And then suddenly there was this musical scene between Husin (Awie) and spirit enchantress Mon (Ezlyn)!! Although their voices are great to the ears but seeing a ‘spirit enchantress’ singing ala rock style expression as if she was performing on stage and doing video clip – that’s totally NAY! Delimawati as Kak Limah also was not included in the main storyline; she as the accessory! I just think it’s such a waste to not including her as she was the energy from the first installment!

Rashidi Ishak as Dr Shamsuddin, the new antagonist.

Above all, I felt that the casts were alright; they have the energy and presence; but unfortunately, director Mamat Khalid did not exploit their talents as much as the first one. It’s disheartening if were to be compared with the first one; but hey, if you are looking for a movie for family especially kids, this is an OK film to watch (I see a lot of families brought in their children to watch this) although there is one particular scene where a scantily-clad girl in video was dancing in a very sexually-suggestive manner ala Indonesian “Goyang Gerudi” dangdut (which I think isn’t APPROPRIATE for kids!); still on whole, it is OK.

Syed as the famous Usop Wilcha; a localized pronunciation for “wheelchair”. Hahaha! Famous hand-waving, no?

I give 2.5 stars outta 5. (,”)

Awards Season 2013 (Episode III) : The Muse Of Valentino Is The New Julia Roberts @ The Directors Guild Of America Awards 2013.

The awards season for 2103 continues with Directors Guild of America Awards 2013. Of course, this one is catered to recognize the directors who are obviously the main men behind the visionaries. But it wouldn’t hurt that much to review what the beautiful creatures are wearing, isn’t it? (,”) 

Famke Janssen, Jennifer Garner, Berenice Bejo, Lena Dunham & Helen Hunt.

Kathryn Bigelow.

Sure! Another feathers to his cap although he has been denied the Oscar-nomination! Ben Affleck for Best Director via “Argo”. He never looks so good as now he is an award-winning director. J-Lo must be reminiscing those “Bennifer” days when she sees him now, ain’t she? I thought Affleck purposely acknowledged “his love to wifey, Jennifer Garner” in Golden Globes loud and clear just to make J-Lo jealous! Just a theory. Hahhaa! But he did look so enticingly GOOD here. (,”)

Sure, Ben Affleck won the accolade; but this time around, Anne Hathaway wins the fashion parade. With Valentino colourful frock and quiffed hairdo and rich navy vegan heels from Casadei, she looks like a stunning fresh and stunning stars. She’s the new Julia Roberts with her big stretchy smiles. Melting! (,”)

A Blood-Splattering Weekend With The Old Boys : Stallone (“Bullet To The Head”) & Schwarzenegger (“The Last Stand”).

It is a blood-splattering weekend today! I rarely watch two films within one day but today I did; so it’s another new thing I just did. Pushed off out early to settle a personal matter in Taman Maluri and still deliberating it; and then off to weekend rendezvous in the heart of Kuala Lumpur after a day-cooped in Serendah yesterday due to the scorching HEAT!

I just love weekend mornings in Pavillion shopping mall! Why? Because there are not so many people and very relaxing. Besides, everyone who comes in the morning dons simple and casual wear. Nevertheless as it progresses to noon, atmosphere starts getting busier and all those stuck-up people began crowding the mall.

Anyway, managed to catch a Slyvester Stallone’s film called “Bullet To The Head”. Overall, it was just an OK piece and obviously the main attraction is to see Stallone kicking some asses in the movie. Apparently as I read in Wikipedia, it is said that the film is based on a French novel called “Du Plomb Dans La Tete”. Stallone was just OK and the Asian actor who played the cop-who-tagged-along-with-Stallone; Sung Kang (???) was just an accessory. The only thing that I felt stood out in the film was Jason Momoa as the blood-thirsty antagonist! The fighting scene was good but it just ended in a very disappointing scene; the director had just spoiled the climax! How Jason Momoa has mature far from his beef-cake days as lifeguards in “Baywatch”, no? He got the intensity in the eyes and seemingly like a good match with Stallone in the scene! More of Momoa, please! Hahaha. The verdict is merely 3 outta 5 stars!

What is he? 67 years old? And still looking THIS great? Shit, right? LOL!

CRAZY finale; but what an anti-climax! Frustrating end. Director gone bonkers.

Jason Momoa in his pin-up “Baywatch” days.

And now as the serious actor. Bulkier and has a lot to offer as character actor; rather than just a beef-cake.

Then, we went to Balakong and then had the crazy idea to catch another flick of action genre. I am not really an ardent fan of this genre like the other party but as a universal film lover, I can blend with any types of films! So, we watched Arnold Schwarzenegger’s film called “The Last Stand”. It is basically story about a small-town sheriff who had to defend the place for being demolished by a world-class prisoner escapee. Well, Schwarzenegger certainly not a good expressionist but the ex-California Governor certainly had his aura kept intact.

Ready to rumble with ex-California Governor? (,”)

I am not a K-pop fan but there were few recognizable actors I knew and I couldn’t help noticing that a popular Korean actor was in the film; later I discovered in Wikipedia that he is Daniel Henney (I guess K-Pop fans must know and crazy about him!). Well, he just played this role as the cop sidekick to Forest Whitaker. I was wondering how he could get that role? Later, it was revealed that this film is directed by a KOREAN director named Kim Ji-Woon. Oh, well… no wonder. *Yawn*. Apart from the comic relieves by Johny Knoxville (seems like he’s also getting old), the film was a bit mundane; except every now and then seeing Schwarzenegger’s expressionless dialogues! Hahaha! The verdict : 3 stars outta 5, too.

Any K-pop aficionado will recognize this, won’t you? Sorry. I am not a K-pop fan. But this is a familiar face and according to Wikipedia, it happens to be Daniel Henney. So, K-pop frenzy fans must be gone wild.

On whole, a nice quality time for cinematic rendezvous watching the old honcho ‘dawgs’ proving their guns; great weekend with mentioned and unmentioned tentative in the blog. (,”) Howdy, y’all.

Awards Season 2013 (Episode II) : The Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards – Sex Appeals & Dress Malfunctions!

As the Awards season continues approaching The Oscars, it is time for Screen Actors Guild Awards or affectionately known as SAG Awards. It is a recognition by the union to the SAG members to their members’ best performances for the year. In other words, it is the event where ONLY actors voting for the best performances of their peers/colleagues which they view as the best among the rest. The members have an ID cards of their own!

The Screen Actors Guild cardmember!

Like any other actors across the world, Hollywood primadonnas and leading men were exploited by the big studios in the contracts that could possibly forced them to work with limited time and schedules. Hence to avoid these manipulations, Screen Actors Guild was formed 1933 and has now merge with AFTRA (American Federation of Television & Radio Artists) beginning 2012.

SAG Awards for Best Supporting Actress!

Alright, enough with the history. For this year, the winners echoed what The Golden Globes usually etched. This time around, Anne Hathaway again has successfully nailing Best Supporting Actress via “Les Miserables” although all of us agreed that her scenes were merely like 20 minutes out of the nearly 3 hours-long masterpiece!

Did Anne Hathaway trying to channel Black Swan ballerina aspiration here? Hahahha. Donning Giambattista Valli couture dress, custom vegan Jimmy Choo shoes, Kwiat jewels, and an Eddie Parker clutch.

Hugh Jackman unfortunately did not make it as he was toppled by Daniel Day-Lewis who totally deserved the accolade! He is known as a “method actor” who go extra-mile and excessive-destructive approach just to blend with the characters. Seemingly still amazing although years has caught on him. Hmmmm (,”). I remembered I read somewhere that a fan claimed to be impregnated just by seeing his grooves in “The Last Mohicans”! Eeeekkk! Weird and creepy but…enticing! (,”) Hahahaa!

Daniel Day-Lewis! He just looked so good. Making Abraham Lincoln looked so handsome and charismatic (well Lincoln was charismatic in his own accord, for sure!). Uuuuu… (,”)

In 1992’s “The Last Mohicans”. I guess this was the sex appeal oozed that make the woman said she could get impregnated just by watching Lewis in the movie. Ouch! LOL!

“Argo” which is Ben Affleck direction has won the Best Picture while Jennifer Lawrence proved she is a force to be reckoned with by winning Best Actress via “Silver Linings Playbook”. She nearly had dress malfunction when she took her award.

Opppps! But she indeed looked a million sexy bunny in Christian Dior Haute Couture dress!

More awards updates to come prior to Oscar y’all!

Although she didn’t win anything that night, but Amanda Seyfried stole the show. She looked so gorgeous and sexy and hot. Smithereens of Angelina Jolie can be seen from her aura, I can sense. (,”)

The Finale & The Filmography : Honouring Farewell Of Ex-Headmaster, Encik Zakaria Bin Ismail @ PULAPOL, Bukit Sentosa & Bewitching “Hansel & Gretel : The Witch Hunters”!

The recap was a week late due to the absence of pictures. Well, at least there was a good Samaritan who was kind enough to upload the pictures; so the entry could be written. The event which was coined as “Majlis Sanjungan Budi, Lambaian Kasih” which was to commemorate farewell for our ex-Headmaster & welcoming the new Headmaster took place on the 19th January 2013 at Pusat Latihan Polis (PULAPOL), Bukit Sentosa; with me entrusted as the Emcee for that day (“Saya Menurut Perintah”). After a few dramas swirled the event prior to the day (too complex to decipher; too sensitive to fathom), the event finally managed to be executed successfully albeit few hiccups along the way.

One for the nostalgia – courtesy of Puan Norazian, GPK1.

The headmaster for SK Serendah for the past 10 years, Encik Zakaria bin Ismail has called the service off this year as he is now transferred to SK Ulu Bernam. It was really an event full with mixture of emotion. Happy to meet him back; melancholy for the farewell get-together. As a headmaster, Encik Zakaria was indeed a man who tried his best to be a good leader; that was to please everyone under his wings. He liked to use friendly approach and did not like to use harsh words to criticize subordinates. Of course, nobody is perfect but it was apparent that he tried his best. The friendliness and charismatic aura emanated via speeches and outer facade.

Me as the Emcee. Actually, I was kinda hate this picture as the sided-parting hair make me looked so geeky (well, I am anyway!) & un-photogenic. But, hey….whatever. Haha! -Courtesy of Puan Norazian, GPK1.

Wanted to take picture with him but he was not concentrating; and Cikgu Khairul interframed??? Hahaha! lol! -Courtesy of Puan Norazian, GPK1.

As the Emcee for the day, it was indeed hard to inject exuberance as the whole emotion for the event was somber and melancholic; especially when our GPK Kurikulum, Puan Norazian stopped half-way during her speech because she was too overwhelmed recalling the nostalgic days when she worked under our dear ex-Headmaster. The whole room was deeply moved affected by that. Our eyes watered and we tried to retain our feelings as we know “Life Goes On”.

Kak Rosnormala & I. -Courtesy of Puan Norazian, GPK1.

As a subordinate who had the experience of working under his wings for the past 3 years (my first year was in 2010), I could sum up that he was one of the most tolerant leader ever. Of course like any other human, he is no exempted from flaws (like I am, as well) BUT I know he tried to please everyone under his wings. He was an understanding leader & fatherly figure (in a way). I remembered him especially in 3 controversies involving me (almost every year from 2010-2012) :

1. Parents came banging my door because they were not satisfied on the way I penalized their daughter as well as the whole class due to improper behaviour/noise in class. The father threatened to box and grabbed my collar; Headmaster sent Ustaz Kamaruzzaman to accompany to report to police for my safety and gave encouraging words – Year 2010;
2. Alleged controversies with “other Headmistress” due to the comments I wrote about Choral Speaking Competition; Headmaster after being talked into sense by GPKs was nonchalant about it and even able to laugh about it & defended my act which I was moved – Year 2011;
3. Parents persistent and urged Headmaster & GPKs (for almost a week!) to take severe action to me because they were not satisfied the way their son was penalized due to negligence in doing homework; Headmaster paid no heed and refused to bow to the parents’ trivial shenanigan – Year 2012.

Bidding farewell. Goodbye En. Zakaria bin Ismail! – Courtesy of Puan Norazian, GPK1.

It maybe small but for a teacher who worked under his wings, I felt that he was a good leader. I don’t know; different people might have different perceptions but for me, he stood by me, he was there when I needed protection of a leader. May ALLAH SWT bless my ex-Headmaster, Encik Zakaria bin Ismail with prosperous life ahead, Insya ALLAH. Amin.

On the 25th January, which was an interval day between the holiday of ‘Maulidur Rasul’ and the weekend, we had “Merentas Desa” event for 2013. Attendances were meager and as expected, Yellow House emerged as the last house due to a lot of absentees (Yellow House are always the passive ones!). And I had to do the emceeing alone reading all the 60++ pupils with a hailer. Still, no complaints although I felt like fainted as I also did the patrolling for Year 4 pupils. It’s “Saya Menurut Perintah.”

Gemma Artenton & Jeremy Renner as both titular characters.

As for my social calendar; after a day touring The KL Golden Triangle from Low Yatt Plaza to Bukit Bintang Plaza/Sungei Wang Plaza to Berjaya Times Square (been ages as lately I always frequent Pavillion & The Mines), went to Alamanda, Putrajaya & managed to catch the film “Hansel & Gretel : The Witch Hunters” with Kod as he bunks at his brother-in-law’s house in Puchong. What can I say about the film? Overall, it was merely an OK film; don’t expect Oscar-kinda movie as this film is produced by MTV Films. I can say that for a light enjoyment, this film will do well.

Sure, Gemma Artenton is sexy but she as the spunky Gretel? Nay! Sorry.

I think that Famke Janssen did well as Muriel, the Dark Witch who was the antagonist for the film. She was scary and evil! She brought the evilness well-fleshed out! Nevertheless, Gemma Arterton as the spunky Gretel? Nay, sorry. I thought it was a bad decision. Artenton isn’t believable as the tough chick Gretel. What about Jeremy Renner as Hansel? Just OK but too bad they didn’t conquer the sequences in the film. This time around, Famke Janssen played her cards well! Good for her! It’s been ages since we last seen her in movies!

Now you see her as the seductive Muriel, The Dark Witch…..

And now her REAL FACE! Hahaha! Famke Janssen is cool as Muriel, The Dark Witch. She stole the show!

But I can give credit to the MTV-style of the cinematography (very chique and cool) as well the always-excellent music score by the maestro Hans Zimmer. I was captivated by the overture music and then I saw Zimmer’s name on it and I was like -“OK, no wonder!” Above all, 3 stars outta 5! (,”) If you want to see how witches ride broomsticks like motorcycles (Hahahhaa!, Kod and I laughed so much! So hilarious!), watch the film! Hahaha!

Awards Season 2013 (Episode I) : The Golden Globes – Anne Hathaway, From A Princess To A Prostitute.

I am a Tinseltown’s freak. I love Hollywood, the old and the new. But I am not one of those stupid stuck-up wannabes who are so obsess with the stars that they would do anything like what the stars do! 

Her Golden Globe!

So, the event that has been touted as the pre-cursor to the Oscar has finally unveiled its verdicts. This year’s Golden Globes has proved to be the year for Les Miserables! Anne Hathaway bagged Best Actress In Supporting Role while Hugh Jackman nailed Best Actor; both were from musical/comedy category. Other than them, I have also vouched on Best Original Score by Mychael Danna from “Life Of Pi” and good that he won because I thought the film has beautiful music.

White Chanel.

But the main focus is on Oscar; although strings of award events are coming up on the way. It’s good to see Anne Hathaway proven herself from Disney’s Princess Diaries ….. to Victor Hugo’s Fantine in Les Miserables! I think she’s the new Julia Roberts. I am rooting for her. Unfortunately this year, there isn’t any glimpse of Angie and her clans. They don’t usually turn up when they are not being nominated. Always, the cool angel Angie!

From princess in “Princess Diaries”;

To single-mother prostitute in “Les Miserables”.

Tip-toeing The Old Dark Agonies @ Victor Hugo’s 2012 “Les Miserables” : “I Dream That God Would Be Forgiving”.

Yes, I am a proud Middle-Class born. But by mastering English and the passion to read and yearn for knowledge has brought me out from the Middle Class cocoon. It may sound corny yet it’s the naked truth. With English and passion for books, I manage to have intellectual conversations and even liaising with people of the same interests; which are usually those who are born with silver spoons, well-to-do aristocrats and self-confessed elitists; and they were exposed to these kind of elements since they were young; perhaps through their parents. But for my case, none of them are inherited from my parents as we are of Middle Class – it’s the passion for books and English that really catapult my horizon to what I am today and still in the process of fathoming more knowledge.

The movie poster depicting the illegitimate child, Cosette.

Anyway like I said in my previous entry, one of my resolutions for 2013 is to immerse myself in classical literature and writing masterpieces. All these while, I am more into the current and up-to-date novels but I learn to find that actually, old celebrated literature pieces are as the matter of fact very GOOD, although the language is a little bit hard to decipher and “too flowery”. For example, I am in the process of completing “Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain which was hailed as one of the American Greatest Novels. I admit that I am having hard time to concentrate on the novel because the novel used Midwestern dialogue as the narration language to tell the whole story. The problem with this is that you won’t understand the meaning if you were to read it LITERALLY; instead you have to READ OUT THE sentences in order for you to understand; for instances, from “Huckleberry Finn”, page 196 :-

“What makes me feel so bad dis time ‘uz bekase I hear sumpn over yonder on de bank like a whack, er a slam, while ago, en it mine me er de time I treat my ‘Lizabeth. She warn’t on’y ’bout fo’ year ole en she tuck de sk’yarlet fever…..”

Now, WHAT ONE EARTH IS THIS???? It doesn’t make sense if you read it literally! BUT, if you read out and utter one by one, you more or less could get the meaning :-

“What makes me feel so bad this time is because I hear something over yonder on the bank like a whack or a slam, while ago, and it reminds me of the time I treat my Elizabeth. She weren’t only about for years old and she tuck the scarlet fever….”

In process. Coming soon, Insya ALLAH. Hahhahaa…..!

It’s crazy right? But I think it’s kinda fun to venture in this type of evergreen reading. Nevertheless, I am putting this on halt as I want to focus more on the 3rd installment of Millenium trilogy, penned by late Stieg Larsson which is “The Girl Who Kicked The Hornet’s Nest” (watch out for it later!).

Victor Hugo, the french author behind “Les Miserables” & “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”.

Subtle sexual gestures and innuendos in Disney’s version. That’s where I learned that Victor Hugo wrote “The Hunchback Of Notre Dame”.

Anyway, back to the gist of the story. I have known the writing of the French Victor Hugo since I was 12 years old; thanks to Disney’s adaptation of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame”. I was thrilled with the subtle sexuality introduced in the movie via Esmeralda and being a fanatic Disney freak, I tried to find what inspired this film and later I learned that it was actually an adaptation from the novel penned by Victor Hugo. Now, apart from “Notre Dame”, there is another celebrated writing by Victor Hugo and that is “Les Miserables”. The name is very familiar and once a while crept into the papparazis’ blogs on Hollywood stars who do some Broadway performances. I know the name “Les Miserables” and I know that it is a celebrated musical play BUT I never bother to fathom the storyline; until NOW.

Russell Crowe, Anne Hathaway, Hugh Jackman & Amanda Seyfried at “Les Miserables” premiere.

As a Hollywood aficionado (just at my fingertips! LOL!), new movies are what I look for every year. And so happened that this year, Working Title Films together with Universal Pictures had decided to produce “Les Miserables” in the Hollywood silver screen adaptation albeit there were countless of adaptations done prior to this. What really attract the people to see this film was the all-star studded ensemble of the Hollywood casts and the excitement to see them singing LIVE ala Broadway style while illustrating their expressions for their characters respectively! You know, being a Hollywood silverscreen actor is one thing where you just act in blockbuster movies BUT being a Broadway actor is another thing where the dialogues are actually SONGS! So, apart from having ability to act, the actors must also have commendable strong voices!

Hugh Jackman as Jean Valjean. Spectacular performance!

The novel was written by Victor Hugo in 1862 and strongly revolves around patriotism, social castes and sexuality. The protagonist of the story is Jean Valjean, a man who was imprisoned for nearly 19 years just because he stole bread to feed his sister’s child. He was released by an Inspector named Javert who happened to be a man full of dedication to his work. Valjean had somehow violated the parole and was on the hunting mission by Javert. Valjean flee and built himself a new image. Several years later he became a mayor of a town. A woman named Fantine who worked in the factory owned by Valjean was falsely accused as being a promiscuous for having an illegitimate child named Cosette. Fantine was forced to find money for Cosette and resort into prostitution. In one encounter, Valjean saved Fantine from being framed by her customer because she refused to have sex with him. To cut the story short, Fantine died and Valjean promised to take care of Cosette as long as he lived because he felt ashamed for not investigating Fantine’s case when she was working with him that she was forced to resort to prostitution.

Russell Crowe as Inspector Javert. Very persistent! Well, he used to be a singer. Wow, actors are very multi-talented people, no?

The novel and the film actually contain several sections, acts and subplots but the main essence is about the conflict between Valjean and Javert.  As for the 2012 film version, Valjean is played by Hugh Jackman while Javert is played by Russel Crowe. I can vouch that Hugh Jackman is so perfect as Valjean!!!! He embodies the soul and the agony of an ex-convict who was trying to find light in his life. His expressions were priceless, he cried while he sang. Amazing! Who would have thought that the macho gungho Wolverine is actually Jean Valjean in “Les Miserables”?? But for Hollywood aficionado, we already know that he is capable because Hugh Jackman has the background in live performances ala Broadway and he even hosted the Tony Awards (Broadway awards equivalent to Oscars)!!!

And who would have thought that both the protagonist and antagonist are played by Aussies??? But they deserved the roles!

Anne Hathaway as Fantine, single mother who was forced to become prostitute to support her illegitimate daughter, Cosette after being duped by her lover.

Apart from Hugh Jackman, another show-stealer would be Anne Hathaway who played the role Fantine. Although she just appeared in several scenes, but the perfectionist lass (yeps, she admitted that!) nailed the part and even successfully sang the epic haunting song that often affiliated to “Les Miserables”, which is “I Dreamed A Dream”. With effortless strong and beautiful voice, she injected emotions in the rendition – she cried and she gasped while singing the song. It was not spectacular ala Beyonce, but it touches the soul. You could feel the agony of Fantine through her voice; the emotion of being duped by a man she trusted and ultimately resort to prostitution, a way of getting money that is not respectable but it keeps bread on the tables. No wonder, she is getting nomination nods for Best Supporting Actress in the upcoming Golden Globe Awards! Yeay!

Amanda Seyfried as childlike and cute Cosette. She has beautiful voice. I hope she can have a lot of meatier roles after these and showcase her talents.

As the matter of fact, the whole ensemble casts of  2012 film depiction of “Les Miserables” is AWESOME! I mean Amanda Seyfried as the innocent and childlike Cosette (she is beautiful with high-toned beautiful voice! I just hope that she will have more box-offices and roles that could showcase her talents! She has climbed so far from the “Mean Girls” day and she will be starring in the biopic of legendary porn star Linda Lovelace; I hope she can get some recognition for her talents!); Sacha Baron Cohen & Helena Bonham Carter provide the comic relieves as The Thenardiers; and last but not least, Samantha Barks the girl who played Eponine!!!! I never knew who she was until now. Apparently according to Wikipedia, she is from Isle Of Man (Manx) and she has been playing Eponine for several performances. I thought her voice was beautiful and she captured the street-wise facade of Eponine, a girl who loved Marius Pontmercy (who love Cosette) but no love in return.

Samantha Barks as Eponine. I think she nailed the part. Good job!

All the actors were singing LIVE during the filming where a small earphone was attached so that they could hear the sound of piano music being played and they sang it all lungs screeched out in that very moment. In that sense, the fragility and rawness were captured on the camera. Amazing! I think Tom Hooper as the director did a great job ALTHOUGH I have to admit that watching Bill Condon’s “Dreamgirls” was a lot more satisfying and enigmatic. Still, it’s a good film adaptation. I rate this movie as 4 stars out of 5 but thousand applause for Anne Hathaway, Hugh Jackman & Samantha Barks.

Aaron Tveit as Enjolras.

Sometimes I envy the Westerners. They can do a film based on patriotism – infused with love of course and and it turns into box office. Malaysians have the literature masterpieces as well but unfortunately we don’t appreciate what we have. I do feel sad about that.

I am definitely will try to read the novel version of “Les Miserables” as well as other celebrated classic novels although more or less I have known the stories like “Jane Austen”, “Bride & Prejudices” and et cetera. It’s fun to have intelligent and artistic conversation with other people out there. English and my passion to read certainly bridge me out from my Middle-Class world and broaden the horizon. But I am still a proud Middle-Class who never forget the roots!

The famous novel cover of “Les Miserables” by Emille Bayard in 1862 edition – The Portrait of Cosette and has been used to depict “Les Miserables” plays and performances ever since, until now.

I dreamed a dream in time gone by
When hope was high
And life worth living
I dreamed that love would never die
I dreamed that God would be forgiving
Then I was young and unafraid
And dreams were made and used and wasted
There was no ransom to be paid
No song unsung, no wine untasted

But the tigers come at night
With their voices soft as thunder
As they tear your hope apart
As they turn your dream to shame

Anne Hathaway singing the song of a regret and where innocence and pure love was shattered by a scum who took her as only an amuse. I think we all can relate to this. In life, we crossed our paths with such people and we experienced the same agonies and melancholy. Alhamdulillah, we have moved on and met someone new who is better and worth-living, but the scars remain as reminder in life. And we never forget.

The Colours Of Malaysian Creoles & Hollywood’s Cinemas : Portuguese Settlement & Princess Hang Li Po’s Well @ Melaka / Premieres Of “Jack Reacher” & “Life Of Pi.”

I love history and the heart of Malaysian history is in Malacca or Melaka. Hence, that explains my affinity to Melaka. And with all the Strait States element (infused with all the colonial ambiance and the sea) and also the rapid urban development taking place, I am definitely loving Melaka as it caters both my sides of preferences; the historical part as well as the modern one. I guess growing up in Penang and mingled with friends who were predominantly Chinese & Indians has made me somewhat very tolerant in having various ethnics of friends and are opened into witnessing or experiencing new cultures to broaden my horizon as a citizen of the world. First and foremost, I refuse to bow to typical orthodox comments that besmirched the idea; though I hold tightly to my piety, I’d like to demonstrate what my religion preaches on the peace and harmony AND REFUSED to being continuously abused by the fools “taklid” (blindly follow) followers – to RESPECT other people’s faith!

I love Melaka!

Anyway, we pushed off to Melaka around 2.30 p.m. and only reached there around 6.00 p.m. due to the IMMENSE traffic jam in the town! Well what do you expect? It was the eve of public holidays and Melaka as tourist destination will be definitely packed, aite? Walked to the restaurant arcades in front of the Melaka River Cruise as our budget motel (definitely!) isn’t that far – we did this Westerners’ style! Hahahah! Initially I thought of having seafood at the Portuguese Settlement in Ujong Pasir but later I learned I had to abort that idea because of piety-taboo-pertaining-food. So, I resorted to this stall and quite satisfied with the deep-fried calamari (“sotong goreng tepung”)! (,”)

The Portuguese Settlement in Ujong Pasir, Melaka! A must-visit for variety of culture.

Around 8.30 p.m., the journey to Portuguese Settlement began. Finding signboards to Ujong Pasir were easy but sometimes you overlook them because it was dark and the glares from car beams make it worse. Irregardless, found the place and my, it was congested with cars and people thronging along the D’Albuquerque Street from the entrance of the Portuguese Settlement to the shore of Portuguese Square! The atmosphere was joyous with people from all races thronging! It was so congested that few traffic policemen were asked to monitor the traffic! You could see beautifully-decorated houses with neon and LED lights; the Christmas songs were played audibly. There was a gigantic Christmas tree and Santa and stalls were erected at the sides of the road, selling red hats and toys related to Christmas.

At the seaside area, we could see seafood restaurants with few bands playing Portuguese music. People were also trying to let the lanterns flew, blown by the sea breeze. It was magical! I felt like it was a scene from Disney’s “Tangled” although not as majestic as the Disney’s depiction. People wrote their wishes on the lantern and let them blown by the wind. Ethereal.

Scene at the seafood arcade.

In the inner-side area of Lisbon Hotel. I guess it was opened to public for Christmas. Nice place.

A little bit brief on the historical element (because I am such a historical freak!) : The Portuguese in Melaka are the creole (interracial marriages descents) ethnic of Portuguese settlers when they colonized Melaka back in 1511 (the downfall of Melaka Sultanate), and the native women. The name coined for these descendants is “Kristang”, derived from the colloquial version of ‘Christ-Tongue’, so they said. You know,  the very existence of Creoles around the world are the symbols of interracial integration and I am very curious and fascinated with that. Beyonce Knowles for example is a French-Creole although she is known generally as Black American; but her ancestors hailed from France and her name was inspired by that of her French-speaking grandmother, Agnez Beyince! Amazing to read about the integration footprints, no?

Along the pier. People were trying to let go their lanterns; blown away by the sea breeze. Astonishing!

I felt like I was in Disney’s “Tangled” when “I See The Light” was serenaded! Not as majestic as the animation scene but it was surreal. Malaysia is indeed beautiful with different cultures, no? A melt-pot of various cultures need to be preserved!

I googled and found in Wikipedia that actually the Viceroy of India, Alfonso D’Alburquerque endorsed a policy to encourage the Portuguese settlers to marry the native women so that they can raise their own Oriental community that would be loyal to the Portuguese Government! Wow, talk about the tactics of colonialism! And there are around 300 Portuguese words that were “Malaynized” and incorporated into Bahasa Malaysia. All these are remnants of Creole, no doubt! Their most known dance would be the song of “Jinkling Nona” and the energetic dance are somewhat very European culture! Too bad they were busy celebrating Christmas when we went there. Perhaps some other weekends in non-festive days!

 

Anyway, enough with the history. Initially I was planning to savour seafood but since I have my own principle pertaining food and the crowd was immense, we decided to have dinner in front of River Cruise spot. The night felt so young that a taste of Hollywood would be nice (movies and I, you can’t separate us!) so went to GSC Cinema in Melaka Megamall to watch “Jack Reacher”, starring Tom Cruise.

Rosamund Pike as Helen Rodin. The beautiful damsel in distress.

Jai Courtney. The show-stealer. 

Werner Herzog. The man of the movie. His portrayal somewhat emanated chill.

Well, what can I say about the movie that is a loose adaptation from a novel which I don’t read? I guess more or less it’s just OK but Tom Cruise is so predictable as the hero who-knows-it-all. Well, hero always wins and remain unscathed throughout the film, no? Hahahha. Rosamund Pike’s facial expression were somewhat quite convincing although her role was merely as damsel-in-distress. She’s really beautiful indeed and I guess the film director really used that. Well, after all it’s a SkyDance Production film – produced by Tom Cruise; nevertheless, I would say that the one that really steal the show was Jai Courtney who played the assassin Charlie and Werner Herzog as The Zec. Uncouth and brutal. On whole, I give 3 stars out of 5!

Soong Ai Ling as Princess Hang Li Po in “Hang Li Po” theater.

The next morning; more like afternoon, went to Bukit Cina (Chinese Hill) which is just actually around the corner as we stayed in Banda Kaba! That’s what I love about Melaka; it’s small and cute. Unfortunately, the signboards were not helping much because the writing was a bit miniscule but either way, we found our way after asking a friendly Melakan-thick-accent “Ah Soh” who told us that the well was just right front of the Sam Poh Teng Temple. The well was actually one of the 7 Dragon Wells of Admiral Zheng He (Cheng Ho).

Sam Poh Teng Temple in Chinese Hill (Bukit Cina), Melaka.

The Royal Well or Princess Hang Li Po’s Well.

The very existence of Hang Li Po received many collisions of opinions especially in the year 2008 where Malaysian politics were a bit shaken due to vigorous tactics by both parties and histories were one that were questioned as well in order to manifest their support for votes; and also some eye-brows question from the historians themselves. But whatever. Anyway, it was said that Princess Hang Li Po (or Han Li Bao) is a princess from Ming Dynasty, sent to Melaka to be wedded off as Sultan Mansur Syah’s fourth/fifith wife. She brought around 500 servants, handmaiden and guards led by Admiral Zheng He. After the marriage happened, a palace was erected at Chinese Hill for the princess and the Chinese entourage. It is said that the “Baba & Nyonya”, another creole formed from interracial liaison between Chinese people & the natives. Amazing!

The interior design of the well compound.

The information board.

The exterior design of the Sam Poh Teng Temple.

The paintings on the wall of the temple.

But one thing that stunned me was that I learned that Admiral Zheng He was actually an eunuch! He was castrated when he was 11 years old. So sad…. I wonder how life must have been during those time… Anyway, although it was just a remnant of history, a well to be exact; but I was quite satisfied because at least I’ve been there. Oh, I just love Melaka!

Admiral Zheng He, China’s greatest Moslem admiral who explored half of the world. But I sympathized and felt sad to learn that he was an eunuch. Life in China must be pretty hard back then. So sad.

Initially planned to go back straight to KL due to unwanted potential traffic jam (it was Christmas!) but then just dropped by at Melaka Mall which is at Ayer Keroh. It was OK but not too crowded; so there was a cineplex, so watched another the delayed “The Life Of Pi” which I was like wanted for ages but somehow did not make it.

 

OK, I’ve read the novel (Refer to https://undomiel84.wordpress.com/2012/08/12/lavishing-life-strong-survival-iftar-degrees-pan-pacific-klia-hotel-at-sepang-reviews-of-life-of-pi-novel/) and I put the novel as quite overrated. The theme was strong but the plot was fragile. And now what about the film? As a someone who has read the novel, I would say Ang Lee did tremendous job in translating what Yann Martel wrote into the silver screen; I don’t think anyone could ever surpass him. The visual were extraordinary, fueled with rich bioluminiscence ala Avatar and artistic sequences that really captivated the rich culture of India; the musical composition was great by Mychael Danna featuring Tamil singer, Bombay Jayashri.

Suraj Sharma as Piscine or Pi. Not bad for a 19 years old beginner! He brought the character to life!

Tabu as Pi’s mother. I am glad she did it – it’s been ages since I last heard about her. Sterling performances in Bollywood (Hindi) and Kollywood (Tamil)  movies.

Adil Hussain as Pi’s father. He is good in his character albeit minimal scenes. Stern, open-minded New Indian but devoted father.

BUT the film was quite monotonous at the part of where Pi was confronting Richard Parker, the Bengal Tiger. Of course, that was the best way on how to flesh out the sequence and Ang Lee did his best but if we were to look from neutral point of view (shed off the fanaticism or obsession or bias of favouritism), it was quite boring for people who don’t read the book to fathom why the duration of 20 minutes were spent merely on that emotional confrontation because movie-goers don’t give a damn about philosophies; they just want their bucks to be worthy one very minutes of the film! Like the plot of the novel, the climax ain’t that big except if you counted the encounter with the carnivorous island, but on whole, it’s just a bit yawning. But the essence is strong, which is about a mother’s love and I guess Tabu played it well.

Absolutely beautiful CGIs. This movie is artistically done and Oscar accolades are expected to be on the way. BUT, not exactly a perfecto enjoyable flick as the conflict between Pi & Richard Parker are somewhat draggy and monotonous. But a positive far cry from the over-rated novel.

I rate this movie as 4 stars outta 5 although it is nominated as Best Picture in Golden Globe; I mean not all Golden Globe/Oscar nominated flicks are ‘of good quality in terms of casual watch, no? It doesn’t mean you have to concur with the critics. Be your own man of preferences. BUT if Ang Lee won the Best Director, I would concur with that! He’s good. And I also think that Suraj Sharma who played Pi and Aidil Hussain as the father did so well in their characters respectively. Ang Lee did create extra scene of Anandi, Pi’s love interest although it didn’t appear in the novel. Perhaps as minor sub-plot to refresh the audience (and she’s beautiful!)

So, that was it about my Melaka short trip. Historical and urbanized intertwining. I love Melaka. I do!

The Diary Of A Salt-Water People : Embracing My Island Home, Penang.

YES!! I managed to crystallize my ambition to set footsteps in Penang, my birthplace this year! I have make a ritual tradition for myself that I will be visiting the island at least once a year; just to taste the sun, sea and food of Penang. Once a Penangite, you just can’t take the Penang outta you. It’s in the blood – it’s the island home, a pride to all Penangites all over the world.

My Island Home, Penang. The Pearl of The Orient. 

This time around, tried Penang Tune Hotel as we were in tight budget. As economical as the tagline, Tune Hotel in Penang provided quite a good price; unfortunately if were to be compared to Tune Hotel in Johor Bahru, the latter was much better as it provided television in each rooms whereas in the former, no television at all! But well, still; it suited the idea of just having hotel to sleep because you wanted to venture the island, aite? Anyway, Penang has abundant of budget hotels but I resorted to Tune Hotel as it has carpark space albeit limited.

The delicious “Nasi Kandar” with the must-have Squid Eggs or “telur sotong”! Not all stalls sell these. One of them is at KOMTAR carpark!

The first destination was to get a good “Nasi Kandar”! The cuisine is synonymous to Penang and the affiliation is tightly binding. The special part that I like about “Nasi Kandar” will be the squid eggs or “telur sotong”. I have written that piece in the recent USM Alumni Magazine “The Leader” (check it out!). Anyway, not all “nasi kandar” stalls sell these “squid eggs”; only selected stalls – and the one I know is at the old KOMTAR car park opposite “Popular Book Store”. Delicious!

My article on “Nasi Kandar”; published in USM Alumni Magazine “The Leader” -September 2012 Volume 7 No.3 issue. Check it out though I guess the editor missed my point on “telur sotong” that he/she heavily edited it with the wrong description. Oh, well.

The second destination was to materialize my yearn; to climb up the Penang Hill! Imagine, living at FRU Flats circa Boundary Road for almost 19 years; I’ve only climbed up merely TWICE! And what’s more with the recent news I heard that the train has now being changed from the older white-red coloured ones; to the new ala monorail-like; that really ignited the flame to re-climb Penang Hill! So arrived there around 5.00 o’clock and to my good surprise, I found out that there was a new entrance leading to the counter! The place had somehow being renovated; both the interior and exterior; more of a tourist-friendly atmosphere. The similarities to Hong Kong’s The Peak Tram is uncanny! I had an inkling that Penang Hill somehow took some models from The Peak; but whatever it is, it’s a good innovation for the future!

It was misty! So cool. I LOVE it!

It was drizzling when we boarded and up to the hill. Once reached at the summit, it was misty and so cool! Ahhhhh! I loved the atmosphere. It felt instantaneously as if like in Genting Highlands and Hong Kong at the same time! You know, Penang Hill has got their own Sky Terrace, just like Hong Kong’s The Peak Tram! And there were quite few newly-renovated places on the summit such as the stalls now are placed in conducive and ala exclusive-like dining places and there happened to be an Owl Museum! On an elevated place accessible by walking distance via staircases provided, there is a Hindu mosque (Murugan Temple) and not far from there, situated a Flagstaff Hill (Penang Hill) Mosque.  Now, up from the mosque, lies a government bungalow built by the British called Bel Retiro – which happened to be a retreat place for governors, et cetera.

Hindu Temple for Lord Murugan.

The Penang Hill Mosque. Very cute!

Bel Retiro. The British-built bungalow for the British officers and now owned by the Government.

A bit of historical flashes (you know, since I LOVE history!) – Penang Hill is also known as “Bukit Bendera” or the Flagstaff Hill by the islanders; a named coined after the term used by the British during the colonization. It was said that flags or signs were erected/ignited on the summit to warn the Fort Cornwallis! Amazing, innit? Penang Hill consists several hills such as The Flagstaff Hill (the most developed peak), The Haliburton Hill, Strawberry Hill, Government Hill, Tiger Hill & Western Hill. Now, on the Haliburton Hill, there is this bungalow-now-turned-into-budget-hotel called Bellevue Hotel. It is said that Bellevue Hotel could be the first permanent building ever erected on the summit of Penang Hill! Amazing historical bit! I went to have a peek on the hotel and there is an aviary in front of it but only opened for the guests. The cool after-rain air added ethereal feeling to the place. I must sleep there, one day! For those who are interested, you can navigate this site : http://bellevuehotel.my/. According to the information plat erected, the hotel was a filming location/ place for a French movie which was nominated in the 1992 Oscar; garnering top sots including Best Actress for the leading lady, Catherine Deneuve in a film called “Indochine.”

Historical aspect of Halliburton Hill in Penang Hill, Malaysia. I am always fascinated with histories.

The Cliff Cafe.

You know, I felt lucky to experience the misty weather and after feasting “laksa” at Cliff Cafe, the weather turned all right. It was a mini tapestry of Hong Kong! I am glad that I went up there seeing Penang from bird’s view!

Gurney Drive at night. So lively. Folks coming out with families and loved ones savouring the sea breeze. Enchanting!

Boarded down and then straight went to Gurney Drive for authentic Penangite cuisine. It’s a no wonder why I’ve become fleshier and I am loving every minutes of it; savouring life and food! Feasted on “Laksa”, “Satay”, “steamed cockles”, and many more! The atmosphere was happening and lively with Hindi songs aired and people thronging. Ah, I’ve already begin to miss Penang! Seeing hawkers and people selling souvenirs at the side of the road facing the ocean (though it was dark) was somewhat an authentic nostalgia to be revitalized.

The stalls.

“Laksa”! Yummy, especially the ‘otak udang’ or prawn paste! Writing these make my mouth waters! Hmmmm!

The steamed cockles! Yummy!

Chicken satay! Yummy! Hhahahaa!

Yummy caramel! My favourite!

Since it was already night and had little place to venture, we just watch “Alex Cross” in Gurney Plaza starring Tyler Perry, Matthew Fox ( I couldn’t recognize him at first!) and Edward Burns a.k.a. Mr Christy Turlington. I thought Tyler Perry was good as Alex Cross, a departure from his usual comical alter-ego, Madea! He is so talented! The movie was somewhat merely OK… I give 3 stars for the movie but thumbs up to Tyler Perry & Matthew Fox! Edward Burns? Just a pretty face hunk; nothing more. Sorry. After a cup of delicious Coffee Bean’s Caramel in the Gurney Plaza boulevard, we called the night off.

“Alex Cross”. The film is just OK but thumbs up to Tyler Perry & Matthew Fox of ‘Lost’ fame!

This early morning, drove all the way to my old residence in Rifle Range Flats (I know!) just to reminisce the early-morning-breakfast-in-old-residence! I know, I am such a nostalgic freak, right? Walked along the Rifle Range bazaar and had typical Malaysian breakfast “roti canai” and “teh tarik”. So many changes. The crowd isn’t that hectic anymore; perhaps it is because school holidays; or perhaps because people are no more interested in having breakfast in lay-men stalls, I don’t know.

The Rifle Range bazaar arcade. This used to be very busy, thronged with people having breakfast. Now quite scarce. Had breakfast here, reminiscing those good old days. I miss my childhood! (.”)

Rifle Range flats – the oldest flats in Penang! This was my neighbourhood (Perhaps it’s like America’s Harlem; Ghetto style? LOL!) And I used to live inside the police barrack, FRU (federal Reserve Units). Ah, the postcode 11400 will always remain in my heart. “Nostalgic, I know*.

I went to see Pak Cik Salim’s bookstore which is situated at the very front of the bazaar arcade. Unfortunately, the shop was not opened and the name has been changed into KAFA Bookstore – but it was emblazoned there – formerly known as Salim Bookstore. I was quite disappointed that I couldn’t meet him. I even fantasized to take picture with him! He was the dearest books/magazines seller ever! I always bought tonnes of magazines (“Dewan Pelajar”, “Kuntum”, “Alam Perwira”, “Mutiara Naga”, et cetera) from him and he let me to take the books first and after that Ayah would pay him. I remembered that he presented me with free Dragon Ball & “Dik Cerdas” (Shin Chan) issues when I got 4 straight As in the UPSR circa 1996. I don’t know, I just hoped that I could meet him, you know. It’s just part and parcel of nostalgia…..

Wanted to meet the owner but unfortunately wasn’t opened yet. I hope one day I got to meet Pak Cik Salim….. 

My former primary school; SRK Padang Tembak (1990-1996). I miss my friends, my teachers and those days…..

The compound in front of the school. Used to be housing estate and my friends, Nicholas Chan & Kevin Ng used to stay here but then bulldozed and now is a parking and recreational lot.Time flies….

I also went to my former primary school, SRK Padang Tembak or now known as SK Padang Tembak. Ahh…so many memories of childhood. Could it be that one day I WILL BE TEACHING IN MY FORMER SCHOOL? And then round the Padang Tembak market. I also recognized few familiar faces of the fruit sellers and the Auntie of “Alisan Photostat” opposite the school. Time flies.

The beloved “Masjid Negeri Pulau Pinang” (Penang State Mosque). In a quite meager state. Kinda sad…..

The last destination was the State Mosque or “Masjid Negeri.” It was a bit frustrating seeing the mosque in such meager condition! The paints were already fading, et cetera. I just hoped few plans will be carried to revitalize our beloved mosque.

My island home, Penang. (,”)

On whole, I enjoyed my Island trip. Although it was one day but I am quite OK with the new experiences to fathom and uncover our beloved Malaysia. I shall make more efforts to explore the island in the next future years, maybe? Penang, my island home.