Sashi's visit

It's such a long time since I last wrote this blog. Though much has happened, I have no mood to punch in the computer keys. But today at 3.00 am I woke up suddenly and remember that I have left my passport and some Euro money in my PD apartment. I am leaving for Spain and Portugal on 9 July, so passport is crucial. I must apologise to Sashi for not being able to take her to Pasar Seni. We may do Twin Towers at 9 am and then I drive back to PD.


It was a pleasure having Sashi with me. She arrived from Tokyo on 27 June and from then on it was hectic programs taking her to see the interesting sights in KL and Melaka like Batu Caves and Orchid Garden.


Yesterday we went to Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, my favourite place. The centre has been upgraded with new outlook, more attractive but still no entry charge, much to to Sashi's surprise that Malaysia provides so many free access, unlike in Japan and in many other countries. I think Malaysia is suffering from unplaced generoisity. It was fun day for both of us. I know riding the elephant bareback is an experience and thrilling for her. Bong and Siput didn't take part in the show. We arrived back in PJ just before the traffic rush.


On 29 and 30 June, we spent our time in Melaka, staying overnight at Malacca Straits Hotel, a boutique hotel just opposite my old school, High School Malacca. I took her visiting most of the historical sights but I had a very pleasant surprise cruising Malacca River, my first experience. I think Melaka is a beautiful city, befits the status of World Heritage city. Raised in Melaka, I was quite a stranger in finding my way around as the city now as it has changed tremendously since I was in school some 40 years ago.











One interesting place not many tourists or locals pay a visit is the 108 years old timber palace in Sri Menanti, Negeri Sembilan which was built without using a single nail. I took Sashi there. I just wish the workers there pay more attention in keeping the palace spick and span. I found curtains were loose from the hooks, not hang properly back, windows, wooden staircases are dusty, not dusted and many more corners that need cleaning. Instead I found them having good chat at the open ground floor. Seems like working there is just 'makan gaji' with little commitment. What a pity. The garden is very pretty especially looking down from the top level.


Sashi is leaving Malaysia on 7 July and I have to pack for my trip. I hope Sashi is happy visiting my beloved country even though it was hot. One thing she has learned for sure is eating some hot food and loving chilli sauce.


Thank you Sashi for paying me a visit and I hope you will come again.