Indonesia 2025: Tracing The Footsteps of Wali Songo

"Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school..." - Albert Einstein

(The nine Wali Songo)

My husband and I have always loved discovering new places, but this time our travels took on a much deeper meaning. We joined Morza Travel with a group of fellow travelers on a six-day journey across Java to trace the history of the Wali Songo, the nine revered Muslim scholars whose dakwah shaped the spread of Islam in Indonesia.

Starting in Surabaya, we set out along the Pantai Utara Road toward Jakarta, stopping at the tombs of the wali along the way. Each visit felt like more than just sightseeing; it was a spiritual reminder of faith, history, and the sacrifices made centuries ago. Each tomb carrying not just history, but a quiet presence that stirred something within the heart.

It was more than just a trip. At every stop, between the prayers, the stories, and the shared silences, I felt a deep reminder of faith, humility, and the legacy of those who came before us. The long drives gave us time to reflect, while the companionship of others made the journey even more memorable.

Each visit to the tombs was physically and mentally challenging - a journey that called for stamina, patience and perseverance. It humbled me, inside and out.

(Jejak Wali Songo routing)

The 6-day Jejak Wali Songo itinerary:
(08 - 13 October 2025)
Day 01: KL - Surabaya
Day 02: Surabaya - Gresik - Tuban
Day 03: Tuban - Kudus - Demak - Semarang
Day 04: Semarang - Cirebon
Day 05: Cirebon - Jakarta
Day 06: Jakarta - KL

My Travel Blog: munmus.blogspot.com

Next Trip: 2025 Thailand JJCM

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)

(The girls - Hana, Alia and Aira)

(The boys - Arif and Amir)

Our 46th Anniversary...

"Forty-six years together, marked not by candles or cake, but by gratitude..."

(The Stone Forest in Kunming)

A silent prayer at midnight, amid the hustle bustle of the departure hall. A lifetime milestone for our 46th Anniversary at Kunming International Airport.

Some anniversaries are celebrated in grand settings; others pass quietly in transit. This one will always remain special. Not for where we were, but for who we were with, and the life we have been privileged to build together, mile by mile.

Happy Anniversary Yang...

(You and I...)