Street Arts at Campbell Shopping Complex

"The aim of art is to represent not the outward appearance of things, but their inward significance." - Aristotle

(Warung Labu & Labi)

During a stroll along the back streets of Jalan Tengku Abdul Rahman, it is hard to miss the mural adorning the rear wall of the Campbell Shopping Complex. Once a bustling retail hub since the 1970s, Campbell remains a landmark of Kuala Lumpur’s commercial history, and the addition of street art has given it a refreshing new layer of character.

(With a rickshaw peddler)

(Old colonial houses)

(The old KL Train Station)

(A satay street seller)

The mural is part of the city’s expanding street art movement, which transforms overlooked alleys and walls into vibrant canvases. Its imagery draws inspiration from Malaysia’s post-colonial years, reflecting everyday life and cultural identity. For many Malaysians, the artwork stirs a sense of nostalgia, reminding them of childhood memories, traditional trades, and the changing face of the city.

(Vibrant coloured stairs of a Melaka house)

(A Panggung Wayang Gambar or Pawagam)

(Nasi kandar seller)

(Scene from Do-Re-Mi)

Stray Cats at Masjid At-Taiyyibin

"When a cat adopts you, there is nothing to be done about it except to put up with it until the wind changes.” - T.S. Eliot

(A playful permanent resident of the mosque)

For quite some time now, Masjid At-Taiyyibin has become a place where many cats and kittens are abandoned. At one point, more than ten strays could be seen roaming the mosque grounds, searching for food and shelter.

Some of these cats are healthy and playful, but many are weak, sick, or injured. A few kind-hearted people have been feeding them daily, but the sick ones especially, need medical care and attention.

I am allergic to cats, otherwise I would have adopted a few.

(Cute playful kittens ready for adoption)

(Some of the stray cats having a treat)

Moments to cherish...

“Grandchildren remind us that the most important lessons cannot be taught, only shared...”

(All in the family - Lunch at Dolly Dim Sum)

School holidays always bring a special kind of joy.

Having the five grandkids around fills the apartment with laughter and energy. They don’t have any fixed plans for this short break, but I know they’ll enjoy being together - whether it’s swimming, going for little outings, karaoke sessions, or simply relaxing at our Putramas Apartment with movies and games. Their parents are also planning a theme park trip, which will surely be a highlight.

These little moments of laughter and togetherness are what make the holidays special.

(Our five grandkids)

(A day trip to the Luge)

(An evening at KLCC)

(Holiday staycation at our Putramas Apartment)

(Arif and Aira all set to swim)

(Having fun at the pool)

(Hana, Alia and Aira)

(Arif and Amir)

A Journey Across Yunnan’s Living Heritage...

 “The road is obstructed and long, but if you walk it, you will arrive...” - Chinese proverb

(Yak-riding at Napahai Lake, Shangri-la)

Date: 24 August - 01 September 2025

Route: Kunming - Dali - Lijiang - Shangri-la
Travel Agent: Kembara Sufi

This marks our fourth journey into China, each visit adding another layer to our tapestry of travel. My first encounter was in 2003, when I attended a Banknote and Security Printing Seminar and later took a brief holiday in the classical gardens of Suzhou. In 2009, the two of us explored the imperial grandeur of Beijing for a week. Then, in 2013, we embarked on an epic adventure along the Silk Route, tracing the legendary path from Guangzhou through Xi’an, Dunhuang, Hami, Turpan, and Urumqi, all the way to Kashgar.

Now, more than a decade later, we set off on a new chapter: a 9-day journey into Yunnan. From the vibrant city of Kunming to the serene beauty of Dali, the old-world charm of Lijiang, and finally the mystical landscapes of Shangri-la, this trip promises a blend of history, culture, and breathtaking natural scenery.

(Kembara Sufi group photo at KLIA)

The 9-day Yunnan itinerary:

Day 01: Jurassic Welcome At Kunming Airport...
Day 02: A Traditional Yunnan Dining Experience...
Day 03: A Joyful Mawlid Celebration At Nanmen Mosque...
Day 04: A Dragon Lying In The Clouds Of Snow Mountain...
Day 05: Double Rainbow at A Tibetan Town...
Day 06: Healing The Body, Balancing The Mind...
Day 07: From Tea Treasures to Trendy Streets...
Day 08: Lost Among A Maze of Rocks...
Day 09: End Of The Journey...

Travel is never just about the places we visit, but also about the people we meet, the cultures we encounter, and the stories we carry home.

Next Trip: Jejak Wali Songo, Indonesia

My Travel Blog: munmus.blogspot.com

Hatyai - The gang 55-year Anniversary Reunion...

 "With old friends, you can pick up right where you left off, no matter how much time has passed..."

(Big Five: 1970 - 2025)

Date: 24 - 26 July 2025

Activity: Big 5 and the gang Reunion

Hotel: The Regency Hotel, Hat Yai

When they invited me to join our 55-year comradeship reunion in Hat Yai, I hesitated. We’d barely been back from our Central American trip for two weeks, and I was still recovering from both the jet lag and the mountain of laundry. My Muslimah classes had just resumed, and I was determined to catch up. But then I thought, fifty-five years! That’s not just a reunion, that’s a historic summit. Who knows if we’d all still be able to make it to the 60th? My sensible side told me to stay home; my heart and maybe my curiosity told me to go.

 

(The gang from Kota Bharu)

(Big Five - 55 years of comradeship)

So hubby and I packed our bags, tucked in a packet of panadols and a bottle of yoko-yoko for emergencies, and drove to Hat Yai via Bukit Kayu Hitam. The rest of the gang came in a van from Kota Bharu via Tak Bai. When we reached the Regency Hotel Hat Yai, the rest had already checked-in.

(Breakfast at Chabura Dimsum Restaurant)

The hotel is situated very near Lee Garden Night Market. The moment we stepped off, the air hit us, a heady mix of sizzling satay smoke, sweet mangoes, and the occasional waft of grilled squid. Street vendors called out cheerfully, motorbikes zipped past, and the whole area hummed with energy.

When the gang met at the lobby, it was like stepping into a time machine. The young faces I remembered had been replaced with older, wiser ones though the mischievous smiles were exactly the same. We swapped stories, compared medical prescriptions, and laughed until our sides hurt.

 

(Kayson Souvenir Shop - One Stop Centre)

(Leather goods and souvenirs at Nora Plaza)

(A stop for fresh honey and delicious ice-cream)

We thronged the crowd in the markets and plazas, pretending not to be tempted by the fried chicken stalls and roadside souvenir shops. And later wandered through the night bazaar under strings of glowing lights. The years melted away in between the jokes, the food, and the shared silences only old friends can enjoy. We had a whole day to ourselves, wondering in and out of eateries and shopped till we drop!

(Khlong Hae Buffet Seafood Restaurant)

(BBQ and Shabu2 style buffet, eat as much as you can!)

(A visit at the Khlong Hae Floating Market)

I came home tired, but my heart felt light. Sometimes, catching up with friends is worth pausing the rest of life for. Even if it means a recurring backaches and an extra pile of laundry waiting when we get back.

Next Trip: Kembara Wilayah Yunnan

My Travel Blog: munmus.blogspot.com

Central America Summer Adventure...

"An adventure is only an inconvenience rightly considered. An inconvenience is only an adventure wrongly considered..." - G.K. Chesterton

(Chichen Itza, Cancun, Mexico)

I’m in for a treat—an unforgettable adventure through Central America! 

This vibrant land calls with the roar of waterfalls, the sway of palm trees, and the colors of bustling markets spilling onto cobblestone streets. Our route will carry us from the mighty Panama Canal to Costa Rica’s misty rainforests alive with birdcalls, the vibrant heart of Mexico with its spices and melodies, and the timeless rhythm of Cuba where music drifts through the warm night air. Even the return journey promises surprise detours—Caracas and Istanbul—reminding me that the spirit of adventure is found not just in the destinations, but in every twist along the way.

This 20-day journey is more than just ticking places off a list—it’s a chance to soak in new experiences and stories along the way. Since some of the destinations we’re heading to have limited internet coverage, I may not be able to update the blog daily. But rest assured, the adventures will find their way here, even if a little later.

Central America Itinerary:

(19 June - 09 July 2025)

Day 01: Istanbul: Love is in the air...

Day 02: Turkey/Panama: Spanish Colonial Influences...

Day 03: Panama: Sailing from Ocean to Ocean...

Day 04: Panama: Embera Indigenous Village Experience...

Day 05: Panama/Costa Rica: Going back to the past...

Day 06: Costa Rica: Bites and Sights City Tour...

Day 07: Costa Rica: Hunting Volcanos and Waterfalls...

Day 08: Costa Rica/Mexico: Cancun Free and Easy...

Day 09: Mexico: Chichen Itza - One of the Seven Wonders...

Day 10: Mexico: Cancun City Tour...

Day 11: Mexico: Xochimilco and Coyoacan Tour...

Day 12: Mexico: Teotihuacan and Basilica Amigo Tours...

Day 13: Mexico: Free and Easy in Mexico City...

Day 14: Mexico/Cuba: Monterrey City Tour on a rainy day...

Day 15: Cuba: Havana City Tour - a fascinating blend of old and new...

Day 16: Cuba: Vinales Valley - the land of tobacco, caves and Karst Landscape...

Day 17: Cuba/Venezuela/Turkey: Goodbye! Half of my heart is in Havana...

Day 18: Turkey: Istanbul Walking Tour on a Hot Summer afternoon...

Day 19: Turkey/K Lumpur: The overbooked Turkish Air ...

Day 20: Kuala Lumpur: The end of the journey...

Next Trip: Hatyai - A 55-year reunion with the the gang

My Travel Blog: munmus.blogspot.com

Nasi Lemak Burung Hantu - Lives up to the hype?

"If you have a good experience in a restaurant, you tell 2 people. If you have a bad experience, you tell 10 people..." - Anthony Bourdain

(Nasi lemak with sambal sotong)

If you’re ever in Hartamas and your tummy starts grumbling, there’s one place that almost everyone will point you to – Nasi Lemak Burung Hantu (NLBH). Open 24/7, it’s basically the go-to spot for early morning or late-night nasi lemak cravings.

The restaurant is not fancy or cozy, but it’s lively, and that’s half the charm. The basmati rice. Light, fluffy, and fragrant, it makes the whole plate feel a little extra special compared to your everyday nasi lemak. Then there’s the sambal and the side dishes with crispy ikan bilis, peanuts, cucumber, and extras like begedil – complete the meal perfectly.

The price? Here’s the catch – prices start at around RM10 for the basic nasi lemak with egg and can go up to nearly RM20 if you go for the side dishes. It’s pricier than your neighborhood makcik’s stall, but you’re also paying for basmati rice, variety, and that 24-hour convenience.

(No crowd on weekdays)

(Mouth-watering side dishes)

(Sara is in town for a few days)

Eid Family Get Together...

“Eid is a time for joy, a time for togetherness, a time to remember Allah’s blessings. May Allah bless us and our loved ones. Eid Mubarak!”

(Eid get together for AliSom family)

Eid is a time to spread happiness and for family to get together and celebrate.

It is the family tradition for one of the siblings to host an open house on the first day of Eid. Unfortunately, this year none has offered to arrange for one because of other commitments. It was then decided for the siblings to just meet for lunch at Memang Meow Restaurant in Melawati Mall on the second day of Eidul-Adha.

We later went to Zin's place to visit Ita who is recovering from a broken femur after a bad fall. 

(A heavy lunch at Memang Meow Restaurant)

(Having assorted cakes for dessert)

Brunch with the SMKB/SIC sisters...

“When faced with illness, remember that your true strength lies in your ability to maintain a positive mindset.”

(Brunch at Shah Alam Club)

The seniors and juniors of SMKB/SIC had a small get together for brunch at Shah Alam Club. It was an opportunity to meet with the SIC hostelite seniors, Kak Sar, Datin Jon and Datin Sri Dah and my former SMKB schoolmates YB Ubai, Sidah and Datin Ma. I have not met with the seniors for a long time since Kak Sar was diagnosed with Colon cancer. Kak Sar has undergone a few operations and chemo sessions and is recovering quite well.

Amidst the challenges of illness, Kak Sar perseverance becomes a beacon of inspiration for all of us.

(The juniors, Nong, Sidah and YB Ubai)

(YB Ubai and Kak Sar)

Through this journey of healing, may Allah give Kak Sar inner strength and embrace the power of self-care to get well soonest, InsyaAllah...

Iza's son wedding...

"There are some people you meet where it's never awkward, no matter how much time has passed. The friendship is so deep that time makes no difference..."

(The old friends of La Salle Brickfield)

This event is a time of unparalleled joy for Iza and Azian. It was also a mini reunion of childhood friends.

The time has come to stand side by side
The Groom in his glory, his beautiful Bride.
They've waited so long for this moment in time
To take their vows and say, "Will you be mine?"

Congratulations to Shafri and Hidayah...

(A gathering of childhood friends)

(Congratulations to the lovely couple)

Migratory birds in Taman Metropolitan...

"The migratory bird's life, a sight to behold,

A journey of freedom, forever told..."

(Burung Botak Kecil)

I saw a photographer deligently taking pictures of birds and this triggered my curiousity. I tried snapping a few but most flew away.

The Lesser Adjutants (Leptoptilos javanicus), also known as burung botak kecil because of their bare heads and necks.They are wading birds in the stork family found in wetlands in Malaysia. They are migratory birds.

They face the storms, and winds so bold,

Their tales untold, a story to hold.

A message whispered, on the breeze,

Of resilience, and nature's decrees.

Masjid Jamek Cina Muslim Klang - 2024

"An inch of time is worth an inch of gold, but an inch of gold may not buy an inch of time..." - Chinese proverb

(Masjid Jamek Cina Muslim Klang)

After our lunch at Restoran Mohd Chan we drove to Masjid Jamek Cina Muslim located in Bandar Botanik, Klang.

(The signage from the main road)

(The gate into the mosque's compound)

This mosque is the only mosque characterized by Chinese architecture in Selangor. Loaded with traditional Chinese elements, the Masjid Jamek Cina Muslim was built based on the architecture of the Xi'an Great Mosque in Shaanxi province, China. The mosque can accommodate up to 1,000 worshipers. The mosque was opened to public in August 2024 and inaugerated in December 2024 by DYMM Sultan Selangor Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah.

 

(A unique Chinese architecture minaret)

(The main courtyard leading to the prayer hall)

(Beautiful garden in the courtyard)

(Partitions dividing the different courtyards)

The concept of this mosque is based on a central axis with a clear division of spaces with the use of a 'courtyard'. It has a unique mosque tower characterized by Chinese architecture and there is a prayer hall where the roof is made of traditional Chinese tiles. The garden can be used as an additional prayer area during eid or Jumaat prayers. Wooden elements are used in the main prayer room and Chinese-style calligraphy adorns the mihrab space. There are library facilities, lecture rooms, management offices, imam rooms, lounge rooms, talaqi corners, souvenir shops and restaurants.

(The use of wooden elements in the main prayer hall)

(Calligraphy writing of Asmaul Husna)

(The external ablution area for men)

(One of the cozy corners for religious classes)

There are several architectural similarities between this mosque and the Great Mosque of Xi’an, including the position of the main entrance to the open space facing the main prayer hall. The design of the handrails made of natural granite in the Masjid Jamek Cina Muslim is also almost the same as the Xi’an Great Mosque. Even the furniture there also adopts traditional Chinese designs.

(Menara Cahaya Bulan)

(I was in Xi'an in 2013 during the China Silk Road trip)

My Travel Blog: munmus.blogspot.com