Kajang Town, Selangor, Malaysia

Gong Xi Fatt Chai

2010-02-14T13:44:00.006+08:00

Wishing everyone Gong Xi Fatt Chai, Have Fun, Success and Happiness and with

LOTS of PROSPERITY.

1st Kajang Old Boys (Scout) is organising
"Campfire Reunion"
for all scouters for past and present members of
Kajang High School.
For more information you can click on this
facebook link

Once a Scout
Always a Scout!

For more information email to Komputer Chin at kopi0ais@yahoo.com

Carnival PKIK 2009

2009-04-22T09:43:00.015+08:00

On Sunday 19th April 2009, a fund raising activities held in Padang S.J.K. (C) Yu Hua which was organized by PKIK (Persatuan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Kajang Selangor) which was attended by Malaysians from all walks of life depicting the coming together for a good caused of helping the special people. Jamie Sim who was one of the volunteers informed us about participating in the fund raising and immediately accepted on behalf of Kajang Buddhist Centre (KBC or BMSM - Buddhist Missionary Society of Malaysia Kajang Branch).

Extract from their flyers

What is PKIK (Persatuan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Kajang Selangor)?
Is a welfare-based organisation serving the needs of children/persons with learning disabilities. It runs training programmes to help them in their overall development, learn independent living skills to enable them to lead as meaningful a life as possible. PKIK is dependent on donations from organisations and members of the public to help it run services for these people with special needs.

They are currently on a Building Fund Raising Drive to meet the cost of purchase of a piece of land and construction of its building complex.

They are currently serving 104 special clients in 5 shoplots. They are grateful and appreciative of your continous support and contributions. For Donations here are the particulars.

Persatuan Kanak-Kanak Istimewa Kajang Selangor
Add: No. 17, Jalan Seksyen 2/14, Taman Kajang Utama.
43000 Kajang. Selangor
Tel: +603-8736 6385
Fax: +603-8733 5012
Email : pkik@myjaring.net

Contact Person: Chairman Mr. Augustine Benedict
Secretary Kong Lan Lee.

The carnival started at 11.00 am and ended at 4.00 pm. Needless to say the crowd came in much earlier as everyone wanted their favorite dish. There are all kinds of food served here ranging from Sarawak Mee to Portugese Food (Malacca). Almost any kind of local food you can think of is here. And there is one particular item that caught my attention is the Vietnamese Popiah.

The weather was very unforgiving but everyone spirits were high expecting good sales as every sale is 100% contribution to PKIK fund raising.

Later it rain heavily and luckily it was towards 4.00pm and most of the stores had sold out and started packing. If you would like to donate to a good cause contact the above PKIK and be bless with bountiful happiness.

Click on play below to view photos

Broga Hill

2009-04-19T18:36:00.014+08:00

We first trek Broga Hill in the early 2000's and the trail was not well marked or clear but it was during a hash run that we cross over the Broga Hill top. And at that moment about 60 hashers just stop at the 1st Stop (Broga Hill shapes like the back of a camel) and enjoyed the panaromic scenery, Broga Town below towards East and Semenyih Town towards West. It was windy and everyone sort of just relax. Off course the Broga Town locals and orang asli frequent this place often.

It used to be popular for the locals and orang asli as this place has many wild board hideouts, so they would come out here to hunt or trap them and on the fringe of this hill (secondary forest) many wild boar traps are laid. I have personally come across a few while trekking there. Usually a shallow hole is dug, then a steel snarl or loop trap is laid in the hole and covered (camouflage) with twigs, the steel wire is then tired to a strong bended branch or strong shaft. When bended and once trip or released it has a powerful springing action. Once the wild board steps into the trap it triggers the trap snarling one of its leg. Once in while you might find other kinds of wild animals trapped.

As people are aware of the benefits of exercise especially with nature (i personally don't like to exercise within four walls) Broga Hill has become a popular trek on weekends as seen by the number of cars park from inside the oil palm estate (private land). The owner so far have not complain publicly, good for us. So in return it is hope that every visitor keeps the place clean.

"Take nothing but photographs!. Leave nothing but footsteps!"

There are 2 standard trails, if you a 'first timer' here, come on Sundays (before 6.45am) there will a regular group headed by Mr. Szeto, a middle age chinese trekker. He will be happy to show you the way. Normally he takes the back route going on the right through oil palm estate and then slowly snaking to the top through rubber estate route. For the normally fit this will take about 35 to 45 mins. And at the top along a ridge towards the left another 5 mins and viola! into a open area onto a big boulder to view the left side (Broga Town) and right side (Nottingham University Campus view ). From here onwards there are many view points for photography. The other route is on the left and straight up to Broga Hill view point 1, 2 and 3. This takes about 25 to 35 mins (normally fit). This other route especially if you need to view sunrise the trek should start around 5.30 am and only on clear skies.

After your climb there a few things you can do. Visit the rabbit farm just on the opposite side. Visit Broga Town for local breakfast at the coffee shop. Visit the Broga Rock Temple (Sek Dato). Visit Happy Fruit Land Farm. Well take your pick. Durian season is around May to July. There are many varieties from the numbered one to the Jungle types. Broga Town is a closely knitted community of around 500 families. Life here is what you expect of a small town, practically everyone knows everyone and a nice place to relax.

Click on the play button to view a slide show of Broga Hill

Registration at the Taman Negara office

Group photo - 5 members

Wong with big tummy, Micheal with cap and YK & KC in yellow and our guide Man Panjang

Scenic View Along Tahan River

Scenic view of river

1st campsite - Camp Melantai

Sipping Tea 'tarik'

Very early, still relaxing

Rest at Camp Tengah and having hot drink. hmmm

Camp Puteh waiting for Wong

Still Waiting

Still waiting for Wong, KC went for a dip

Crossing the 1st river to Camp Teku

2nd river crossing

Video River Crossing

Very wide river, shallow during dry season

Slow and steady to avoid falling

Coming! too far and you hardly can see me!

Lost count of the number of river crossed!

many many more to crosss

Very rocky river

Take a picture first and will wait for you at the other end

After Camp Teku, no more crossing river

Where is Gunung Tahan?

Camp Pangkin - very small and hardly can accomodate 5 tents

Man Panjang quickly has his tent pitched!

Adjusting, maybe can squeeze in another tent here!

When your group is big, not advisable to camp here

OK! time to go and get some water

Happy Birthday Michael (red t-shirt), fruit cake used as birthday cake

Another picture! once in a life time celebrating birthday at the highest mountain in West Malaysia

It was a suprise to Michael

Laughing at a joke

Group photo before leaving Pangkin campsite

One more with Man Panjang

Packing up going up the hill at background

Gunung Pangkin 1462M

couple photo

Ask Man Panjang where is G. Tahan again?

Wow! many many mountains to go!

Steep Slope at Tangga Lima Belas

I am up here already!

Then you know why they named it Tangga 15

Hello! Hello! We are here! Always wear bright colour during climbing

Rest time and trying out handphone service

Next is to Gunung Reskit

Gunung Tanggga 15 (1848M)

These are wooded trail sign

Gunung Reskit here and next to G. Gedung

Michael took off his wet t-shirt

Tangga 15 another 4KM to Gunung Gedung

wild orchid

Scenic view from G. Gedung

More mountain views

Where is Gunung Tahan?

While waiting for Wong, we took photo using unfix trail sign

Here is G. Gedung and that way is to G. Tahan!

KC and Michael

One last one before they fix up the trail sign!

Another campsite down there - Camp Padang

Our last water point down there

I think that is Gunung Tahan

Cloud covering Gunung Tahan

Walking down to collect water

Here I am ready to scale the highest mountain!

Not even some shade to cover us during our lunch

At the top of another hill or mountain?

Very hot lah!

Background still can see the trail

Beautiful posing!

Almost there! A few more steps!

At last we are at peak!

Take another one in case

Couple photo

At last Wong is here !

Signing the our names in the log book

Michael turn to sign his name

I want a single shot!

Must take another couple photo

Michael was the 1st to reach the peak

Sunset at the background

Hardly can see YK, KC and Michael!

This one not clear!

This is a better one!

Here we are at the top of the highest mountain!

Sun covered by cloud

Beautiful sunset!

Misty morning cannot see sunrise what a miss!

Very, very cold!

A clearer shot because the cloud has gone

Hi, here is Gunung Tahan!

One way from Kuala Tahan and the other way from Merapoh

Packing up and getting ready to decent

Along the way a lots of white moss

Cooking our lunch at Teku

Teku river where Wong hurt his big toe on the 2nd night

Camp here after 12 hours trekking on the 2nd day

We are going to Camp Putih this way!

Camp Putih and ready to go Camp Melantai on the 7th day

Bye bye to Camp Putih!

Gunung Rajah 465M

2 hours from Camp Putih to Gunung Rajah

Here is Camp Tengah!

YK getting ready to get crystal clear water

Water collected through bamboo

Yk collecting water and photo taken by Michael

Waiting for Wong Camp Melantai

On the 8th Day going home

This fallen tree trunk is old and slipperry

Destroyed trail sign by elephants

Another 5KM to Kuala Tahan

Waiting for Wong again!

At last Wong showing 5KM sign to Kuala Tahan

Wong and Man Panjang at Camp Putih

Small pitcher plant

Gunung Pangkin 1462M

Man Panjang taking photo

Wong said 'I wish I can fly'

YK & KC

Wong resting at Gunung Tangga 15

Narrow trail

At the back were ropes

Group photo at the ridge

Bonsai tree

Wild orchid

View of plateau where we camped at peak

Wild flower

Beautiful High altitude plants

Wild flower close up shot

Gunung Tangga 15

KC coming up to Gunung Tangga 15

Wong coming up to Gunung Tangga 15

Gunung Pangkin 1462M

Resting at the peak of Gunung Pangkin

Where is Wong?

We are back to entry point at Kuala Tahan

Forgot to take this sign on the 1st day

Take nothing but photographs!. Leave nothing but footsteps!

Civilization at last!

Certificate for completing the climb from Kuala Tahan to Kuala Tahan

Group photo with certificate

Team photo with our guide

Team photo with Man Panjang

Another team photo taken!

Kuala Tahan floating restorant

Big makan here to celebrate the successful climb

email ykkclow@gmail.com

YO-YO, Champion from Kajang

2009-03-30T16:44:00.017+08:00

Did you know that in Kajang we have have a homegrown yo-yo champion? I guess not. In 1973 there were yo-yo competitions promoted and sponsored by Coca-Cola company. It became a instant hit and it was the toy to get. The hours we spent practicing the tricks and loops till our fingers became blistered and sometimes black eyed, especially attempting the trick 'shoot the moon'.

My childhood friend and neighbor Robert Low (click to know about his Fried Hockkien Mee), started yo-yoing (our English term for playing yo-yo) when he was 12 years old. We entered many competitions in Kajang, KL and PJ, together we have won many district and weekend challengers. Well actually Robert won more than I did and our prize included crates of Coca-Cola drinks, yo-yo s', strings and others. Robert almost made it to the finals which was held at the Coca-Cola factory in Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur and the first prize was a brand new car and won by a Eurasian guy. Robert could remember the Judge, Mr. Alfanso Trujilo from Colombia, in the finals whoever can play the most number of loops (loop-a-loop) will be the champion.

In 1975, the yo-yo promotion was back in Malaysia and this time Robert at age 14 more experienced and could play very well in loop-a-loop with both hands. Still miss the finals but he was spotted doing the loops with both hands (a trick considered difficult) by a Philippine yo-yo champion. Robert was invited to be one of the professionals of the Russell YO-YO team conductiong promotions.

In Roberts' words:-

"I started traveling with the Russell YO-YO team in 1981 to countries that include Colombia, Brazil, Spain, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, Jordan and Panama. While I yo-yoing around I started collecting yo-yos from all over the world. I'm still having my first yo-yo I bought at RM 1.70 (USD 0.45) in 1973. 2 yo-yos from the year 1969 in Colombia. I have traded about 20 yo-yos with Mr. Yohan (USA Champion). Now in my collection there are more than 800 pieces of yo-yo from around the world and I'm willing to trade some of my yo-yos"

Click On The Above To View Slide Of Yo-Yo Collections

Robert Low can be contacted at kid_mon@hotmail.com. Robert also has a team of yo-yo players also known as R-YO Team that does commercial promotions at company functions and competitions for companies promoting their products. You can also view his collections at his Felicidad Restaurant in Kajang.

St John Ambulance Malaysia, Pictures From The Past

2009-03-01T14:13:00.004+08:00

The Following Paragraph Was Extracted From The St John Ambulance of Malaysia Web Site.

The St. John Ambulance Association (SJAA) was the first Foundation of the Order of St. John to be established in the then Malaya in 1908 at Kuala Lumpur. At that time, the SJAA Committee and members consisted of the British Civil servants and medical officers from the British Army stationed in Malaya and Singapore. In 1938, Lady Ursula Copland-Griffiths, Superintendent-in-Chief of the St. John Ambulance Brigade came to Malaya on an assignment to organise the formation of the St. John Ambulance Brigade (SJAB) in the States of Malaya. Following this initiative in the same year, St. John Ambulance Brigade Divisions were formed in the major towns in Perak, Penang as well as in Kuala Lumpur and Johore Bahru. From 1938 to 1940, the British Administrations in each Malay State established the St. John Ambulance Brigade Divisions in schools, government establishments and in the Federated Malay States Railways.

Click on this link for a full Organisation History in Malaysia

The following are 'yesteryear' pictures from the St John Ambulance Hulu Langat, Kajang Branch. Most of the photographs were taken in the field (now Stadium Kajang) and in the background is the old Town Hall and RTM Kajang.

Bukit Putih, Wangsa Cheras. "Ah Pak San"

2008-06-22T02:43:00.003+08:00

Bazaar Sale Fund Raising Campaign

The committees of Bukit Putih, Wangsa Cheras and Ti-Ratana Welfare Society of Malaysia had organised a bazaar sale fund raising campaign in aid of the Sze Chuan Earthquake (China) and Myanmar Cyclone Nargis. The bazaar sale was held at the open air car entrance to the Bukit Putih or popularly known as "Ah Pak San". I have trek up this hill before and there are about 7 Stations (Level 1 to Level 7) and for the reasonable fit it will take about 45 - 60 minutes. The trails are well trek and mark with signs and directions so one can only loose their way if you trek away from the mark trail. Bukit Putih has hit the news a few time where adventurous trekkers trek away from the normal trail and had to stay overnight in the jungle. Luckily they came away unharmed but bruise, tired and lots of mosquitoes mark.

Bukit Putih, Wangsa Cheras (Ah Pak San) is popular for trekkers out to have a good workout and to enjoy fresh air just outside of Kuala Lumpur. On week days the crowd averages about 300 and up to a 1,000 on weekends and public holidays.

The signboard above says entry is forbidden without permission and trespassers are liable to a maximum fine of $10,000 or 3 years jail or both. I believe common good sense prevail that the Forestry Department of Selangor has not enforce this rule. The Bukit Putih, Wangsa Cheras committee has placed many signboards especially to parking, cleanliness and advising visitors to respect the residents living around the entrance trekking up to Bukit Putih (Ah Pak San).

Guest of Honor: Ven K Sri Dhamaratana Nayakha Maha Thera, Chief Buddhist Monk of Malaysia and YB Tan Kok Wai Member of Parliament, Cheras.

Guest of Honor YB Teo Nie Ching Member of Parliament, Serdang.

The funds raise were every bit satisfactory to everyone who had contributed towards a good cause. By noon most of the food stuffs were sold off which shows how generous visitors to Bukit Putih.

To view more photos click PLAY below.

The Great Kajang Flood 70's

2008-04-29T23:23:00.025+08:00

On the morning of the Great Floods that happen in Kajang. Morgan Soo who reside in Kajang Town started taking photos of various places in Kajang Town. See if you can identify the various places.

Picture 1
Beside TNB Kajang

Picture 2
Jalan Mendaling - the Last Shop on left is "Sea Yea" Temple

Picture 3

This is the Jalan Sungai Chua outside the shop houses from Kajang Garden which has changed to Desa Bunga Raya. The new flyover is standing over this location.

Picture 4
Kg. Jambu, next to the Langat River is the first to be flooded.

Picture 5
"Sea Yea" Temple side view

Picture 6
Kg. Jambu, Sikh Temple beside the railway gate.

Picture 7

The railway bridge over Kajang river, those days its made of iron structure but now replace with concrete. Its location just behind Aked Mara building and TNB Kajang Jalan Reko.

Picture 8

The roundabout between Main Street and Suleiman Street, the old bazaar is on the right. Metro Plaza building is occupying this location.

Picture 9

LLN Kajang now TNB Kajang same location beside Aked Mara building

Picture 10

Railway bridge over Kajang River. Notice the bended railway line cause by the floods.

Picture 11
Kg. Jambu

Picture 12
Railway track towards Kuala Lumpur direction, Kg. Jambu should be on the right and Sg. Chua on the left.

Picture 13
Photo taken from the railway bridge, River View Garden opposite of the "Sea Yea" Temple (back of Jalan Mendaling).

Picture 14

Kajang Roundabout with the National Cinema at the rear. On the left is Chiam Kee Chicken Rice Shop which has moved to Medan Selera (beside Kajang Market). If you are turning from the back of Bank Islam as you approach the Kajang Market there is a bridge on the right and the right has an eatery shop is now the present Chiam Kee Chicken Rice Shop.

Picture 15

The old Kajang Market I believe the present location is the Aked Mara building.

Picture 16

Shell Station just in front of Foh Hup Bus Station (ceased operations) now occupy by Metro Plaza Kajang. This Shell Station has moved to Jalan Semenyih just in front Kajang High School (KHS school field)

Picture 17
Side view of Sin Swee Kee Motor Shop and on the right is MCA office (undergoing construction now)

Picture 18
Side view of "Sea Yea" Temple, the flooded front portion is now the Hockkien Temple.

Picture 19
The former IC department office location.

Picture 20

I believe the railway line between Sungai Chua and the Railway bridge.

The above photos is courtesy of Morgan Soo. If you have any idea on the above (Pictures 1-20) locations please post your comment. Meanwhile Morgan Soo will be providing the actual details and location. Well if you can remember the exact location please let us know.

Kajang Town

2008-04-16T22:14:00.030+08:00

Text & Photography by: Mohd Nasir Abdul Rashid
email: puresein@gmail.com

Kajang Town started blooming from surrounding rubber estate. Kajang attracts colours of life and give this town its own life. After 200 years, there are a lot of things to come, to go and here to stay.

Lee Chang Long Shop at Jalan Besar, Jalan Tukang junction.

If there is a contemporary proverb to describe Kajang Town, I would like to recommend this: “If you come to the center of this town, open your car windows wide and smell the special aroma that has made Kajang famous and indulge on the exotic cuisine while enjoying the uniqueness of this 200 year old municipality.”

Kajang was first established in 1807 and mushroomed into a modern township as it enjoys the burgeoning rubber estate business at the turn of the 20th century. Nowadays, Kajang has prospered to be one the most developed sub-urban township of Klang Valley and have been linked with modern highways and complete network of transportations. Situated in the southern part of Selangor state of Hulu Langat district, it is inhabited by more than 230,000,000 residents of various races and religion.

Strolling around town in the morning, you can catch a breath of fresh air surplus of the lush green surrounding of the township with approximately 788 square kilometers wide. Considered to be the middle frontier town from the Selangor/Negeri Sembilan forest reserve to the east, Kajang’s proximity to the fast developing west side makes it more and more alluring and attracts tourists, new residents and investors.

To the east, the adjacent subdistrict of Hulu Semenyih provide an area for the biggest water catchment in Malaysia. Named as the Semenyih Reservoir, the 1500 acre man made lake offers a beautiful and breathtaking scenery with its blue turquoise water and bordering thick jungle.
From Semenyih Town taking the Jalan Kacau road you can rest at the famous Sungai Tekala waterfall and unwind while bathing in the cool natural mountain streams.

Thanks to the expansion of the Kuala Lumpur metropolis, Kajang offers a complete scope of life in terms of economic modernity and complete facility, while still embracing nature.

Kajang Town circa 60's

Kajang Old Town

The development of Kajang was first concentrated in Sungai Chua (Chua River) and since then, have also created residential and shop houses along roads leading out of Kajang Town beside the main Langat River. Along the main road of Jalan Semenyih, we can recognize the mixed combination of new and old buildings of the old Kajang. We still can see what’s left of the colonial era at the structures and designs of old shop houses along Jalan Sulaiman, Jalan Besar
and Jalan Mendaling

Most of the buildings in Kajang Old Town were constructed around 1920s to 1930s. The architecture of these shop houses is a combination of traditional Chinese and European design. The ground floor was used for commercial activities and the upper floor as living space for the family.

Hulu Langat Hokkien Association (formerly The Late Low Ti Kok's Mansion)

The interior of Hulu Langat Hokkien Association building.

One of the well known old building in Kajang is Hulu Langat Hokkien Association, formerly the residence of the late Low Ti Kok (a successful business tycoon and philanthropist). Located beside the gold domed Hulu Langat Jamek mosque at Jalan Timur.

Hulu Langat Jamek mosque, one of the famous historical landmarks.

Kajang Stadium

At Kajang Stadium where a lot of community-based activities are held and just beside this stadium, a two story building of Bangunan Datuk Nazir is the epicenter which Kajang has been famously known for. With a non-stop stream of locals and tourists frequenting the outlet, it is a national acknowledgment to relate Kajang to its ‘satay’ or ‘sate’ (pronounced sa-tay).

Grilling Satay at Haji Samuri's Restaurant

Satay

Kajang is famous for this exotic cuisine called 'satay'. Satay is simply marinated meat, skewered, and charcoal-grilled and served with peanut sauce. The most famous restaurant that serves satay is Haji Samuri Satay Kajang. Along the river bank behind the Town Hall and Bangunan Datuk Nazir there are many satay vendor to choose from.

Satay, an exotic cuisine that has made Kajang famous.

Haji Samuri himself have opened more than 20 branches of its restaurants nationwide and employs more than 800 employees. With the offering of various meats from chicken, beef, tripe, liver or fish, the price per stick would be around RM0.60. They also serve lamb at RM0.90 per stick, deer at RM1.30 per stick and rabbit at RM1.60 per stick.

A thick peanut sauce with separate chili to cater to different taste buds is served for you to indulge. A must have of course is the ‘nasi impit’ (compressed rice cubs) or 'ketupat' that goes so well with the sauce. This is 'must try' if you happen to come to Kajang.

Bountiful food offerings are scattered over the town with a wide variety to choose from. Either you are keen on Chinese or Indian food, Kajang offers a lot of specialized outlets for your taste. Famous fast food chains had been opened since decades ago while luxury Chinese restaurant can be found anywhere in Kajang. Whether you have the appetite for hotel-like dishes or food stall strung out of the road, Kajang has it all.

Coming to Kajang

Kajang is easily accessible from anywhere of its fringe area whether by car, train or public transport. Due to its closeness to Putrajaya, the Administrative Capital of Malaysia, Kajang is blessed with prosperity and development in all aspects of life.

Since the opening of North-South Expressway in 1982, Kajang is openly reachable from anywhere and after two more decades more modern highways were connected to this town and now Kajang is one the prime lands of the Klang Valley.

Hotels and a place to stay are abundant and if you want to stay at the nearby Putrajaya or Bangi, it has a couple of luxury accommodation such as Marriott Hotel in IOI Resort, Putrajaya, Shangri-la Putrajaya and Hotel Equatorial Bangi.

In Kajang itself, a four star Oriental Crystal Hotel with a rate around US$20-40 per night offers a very good bargain for a stay in this exceptional town. There are also Prescott Metro Inn, New City Hotel, Uptown Hotel and expect more hotels be developed to cater for the increasing demand.

Its a 15 minutes drive from Putrajaya and just around 40 minutes from the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), if you’re staying in Pan Pacific KLIA or just watching the Formula One in Sepang International Circuit. The other convenient stay is the Palace of The Golden Horses in Seri Kembangan which can access Kajang through Cheras-Kajang Expressway in 20 minutes.

The New Kajang

Kajang nowadays has transform into a 'sub-city' on its own with unstoppable sprawling developments on its peripheral surrounding. A couple of new township has been developed to cater for more inhabitants from Kuala Lumpur such as Kajang Perdana and Prima Saujana, to name a few. Prima Saujana has its own golf course and at the Kajang exit from the North-South Highway, Kajang Country Heights, an upmarket residential estate greets you as you enter Kajang.

If you want to do golfing, Kajang Hill Golf Club or Prima Saujana Golf Club is ready to receive you at the very best of golf courses in Malaysia that landscape nature into its surrounding.

A new township has created more shopping convenience from Giant and Tesco hypermarkets to our own shopping complex such as Billion Shopping Center, Bintang Shopping Center, Metro Point and Metro Plaza to Ipoh Old Town and Coffee Bean. In short, Kajang is a booming town but in some sense, it still maintains its core of old times and historical memories that are here to stay.

One of the Chinese Temple in the town center.

Bountiful food offerings are scattered all over town with a wide variety to choose from.

Preparing ‘roti canai’ for breakfast.

A common view at Kajang train station.

Eating out for morning breakfast in Kajang.

Whatever it is, something will definitely stay for long and that would be the aroma of the grilled satay that lingers in the air at the town center, especially at the call of the evening. This is the usual time for locals and tourists to bring their family and friends to indulge in tourists favorite Satay cuisine.

I myself live in Kajang, and whenever I’m driving at early evenings near Haji Samuri’s, I will open my car windows wide and smell the special aroma of this 200 year old town.

An aerial view of Kajang from the highest peak of Bukit Mewah Club.

The usual morning on weekends.

Semenyih Curry Mee

2008-01-14T00:16:00.001+08:00

On Sunday morning we decided to drive up to Semenyih town to eat Semenyih's curry mee. As I attended SJK (C) Sin Ming fund raising dinner in December I remember this curry mee coffee shop. It has been a while since I have been to this coffee shop which is situated just next to SJK (C) Sin Ming primary school in the heart of Semenyih old town.

During the fund raising dinner there were many performances and my niece was one of the ballet dances so here is the video of that ballet.

Upon arrival at this coffee shop I was surprised to find it over crowded and had to wait a while before a table was available and even after sitting down and placing our order for the usual Malaysian hot drink which is either tea or coffee and was informed to wait a while before we could place our order for the curry mee. A full 15 minutes before we could place our order which is curry bee hoon and mee (mix) and a barbecue chicken wing which I noticed every table having it. So Sunday is really a crowded day to come.

Finally our Semenyih curry mee arrived and we quickly finished it and the barbecue chicken wing tasted delicious. The curry mee is not that spicy and if you want to make more tasty just add the chili paste into the curry and mix it well. I find that it taste better that way.

Broga Happy Fruit Land Camping

2008-01-06T15:11:00.000+08:00

In December 07, our regular group that exercise regularly doing hill climbs around Broga Happy Fruit Land, as we were having our dinner and suddenly we had this idea about camping at Broga Happy Fruit Land to celebrate the new year 2008 by having a count down at Broga Happy Fruit Land. Most of our friends and their children have never gone camping unlike myself who does it regularly a few times a year.
Visit malaysiatrekking.blogspot.com

I was thinking that camping at Broga Happy Fruit Land was safe and convenient as water and electricity was available. And to make it more interesting we decided to have barbecue for the countdown. As preparations were being made with our three chef (Alice, Ah Chu and KC) on food for dinner, barbecue and breakfast. Our plan was to meet at Broga Happy Fruit Land on the eve 31st Dec 2007 around 3.00 pm, set up the tents and start climbing Broga Hill at 5.00 pm, with all the food planned its a good idea to burn if off climbing Broga Hill.

As regular hill climbers here for the last 4 years, I have set the trail namely two well trek trails, one at Broga Rock Temple and the other at Broga Happy Fruit Land. As more people come to join us some will do their climb at Broga Rock Temple and some at Broga Happy Fruit Land. Both are averaging 1 to 1.5 hours to climb for the young and old. Our youngest friend is around 6 years and the oldest my mom at 70. So anybody (unless with severe health problem) can follow this trail. One of the main attractions climbing is that the air here is fresh and clean as compare to parks near the city area where once I did light training in preparation for Gunung Tahan climb and later in the night my throat felt congested probably from the polluted air. If you have plans to go camping (3 to 7 nights) and need some good training areas why not try Broga hills. Word got out to other friends that we were organising a camping countdown and a family affair and our group swell to about 35 participants, about 6 left as they plan to stay until 1.00am 2008.

To entertain ourselves we sang karaoke songs throughout the night and for those who dislike our singing entertain themselves with stories and jokes and barbecue and as for children they really had a good time with the barbecue and playing around the tents. There was a light shower which actually cool down the area making it chilly, just nice for us.

As the hour tick closer to New Year 2008 we began noting the time and by then everyone's belly was bloated with food (over indulging) and plan for another climb early next morning (of course next morning everyone was too lazy to get up). Fifteen seconds left, turn up the radio 5..4..3..2..1.. Happy New Year 2008!!! and instead of playing and singing Auld Lang Syne we played Chinese New Year songs, nevertheless we just clap, dance and sing along having a good time. What a wonderful way to spend with family and friends to ushered into the New Year.

Finally to bed err.. I mean to 'sleeping mat' at around 2.30pm for some who have never experience camping find it hard to sleep until much later. As I lay down I was thinking 2008 what kind of resolutions do I want to set. Most people set resolutions every new year then again most people never achieve what they set. Thoughts went through my mind, about the impending price increase (consumable goods), election year, increase in expenses (children growing up) and schools reopens in a few days and more money to spend. So my resolution for 2008 is to be a good son, a better father, a better husband, a better friend and to increase my income (almost everyone wish for this) not that it will solve all problems but at least some of the financial ones. So......

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2008 to YOU!!!
and May You Have Fun, Happiness and Success!!!!

Er Hu Chinese Violin, Chan Kum Loong

2007-12-06T00:23:00.000+08:00

I visited a friend in Shah Alam and he invited us for dinner and mentioned that his Er Hu teacher (Mr. Chan Kum Loong) will be joining us and after that maybe play us a song or two. After a casual introduction we found out that he once taught Er Hu in SMJK Yu Hua Kajang. He spoke passionately about music and his Er Hu, we finished dinner and proceeded back to my friend house. He insisted that before he play his Er Hu he would like to hear KC sing a song which she obliged with a chinese number by Teresa Teng. And I requested that he allowed me to video him playing his Er Hu. Ah Loong as he is known, sometimes get invited along with some of his friends to perform usually for dinner functions such as birthday and etc.

I did a search on the internet and I found out that Er Hu has over a thousand year history. Er Hu is a kind of violin (fiddle) with two strings which, together with zhonghu, gaohu, sihu, etc, belongs to the "huqin" family. It is said that its origin dated back to the Tang dynasty (618-907) and related to the instrument, called xiqin originated from a Mongolian tribe Xi. During Song dynasty (960-1279), the second generation of the huqin was among the instruments played at the imperial banquets. During the Dynasties of Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911), the Er Hu underwent a great development at the time of the golden age of the local operas. The Er Hu then developed into different "schools". Two famous artists Hua Yanjun (1893-1950) and Liu Tianhua (1895-1932) made an exceptional contribution to the improvement of the Er Hu, and it was indeed due to the latter that the erhu, an instrument mainly for accompaniment in an opera, became a solo instrument. After the formation of the People's Republic of China (1949), the production of the Er Hu, the playing techniques, the repertoire as well as the musical education of this instrument have undergone an unpresidented development. The repertoire has grown rapidly in the genres of solo, with ensemble as well as concerti with symphony orchestra. Er Hu now has become one of the most popular instruments in China.

Teresa Teng Song

The sound body of the Er Hu is a drum-like little case usually made of ebony or sandalwood and snake skins. It usually has a hexagonal shape with the length of approximately 13 cm. The front opening is covered with skin of python (snake) and that of the back is left open. The functions of this case of resonance are to amplify the vibrations of the strings. The neck of the Er Hu is about 81 cm long and is manufactured with the same materials as the drum. The top of the stem is bent for decoration. The two strings of the Er Hu is usually tuned D and A. The two tuning handles (pegs) are found close to the end of the stem. There is no frets (as contrast to the lute) or touching board (as contrast to violin). The player creates different pitches by touching the strings at various positions along the neck of the instrument. The strings are usually made of silk or nylon. Nowadays, metal strings are commonly used. The bow is 76 cm long and is manufactured of reed which one curves during cooking and arched with horse hair in the same way as the bow of violin. However, in the case of Er Hu, the horse's hair runs between the two strings. One cannot take off the bow from the instrument unless one of the two strings is taken off or broken. (the above is extracted from www.philmultic.com)

I was amazed with the song played on the Er Hu and it felt as if some part of my body move along with the rhythm, well if you have the opportunity to listen live you will understand what I mean.

Teresa Teng Song

Mid-Autumn Festival, Moon Cake and Lantern Festival

2007-09-26T11:37:00.000+08:00

The Mid-Autumn Festival (Simplified Chinese: 中秋节; Traditional Chinese: 中秋節; pinyin: zhōngqiūjié), also known as the Moon Festival, is a popular East Asian celebration of abundance and togetherness, dating back over 3,000 years to China's Zhou Dynasty. In Malaysia and Singapore, it is also sometimes referred to as the Lantern Festival or "Mooncake Festival", which is just the same as "Mid-Autumn Festival" but with different names.

The Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month of the Chinese calendar (usually around mid- or late-September in the Gregorian calendar), a date that parallels the Autumn Equinox of the solar calendar. This is the ideal time, when the moon is at its fullest and brightest, to celebrate the abundance of the summer's harvest. The traditional food of this festival is the mooncake, of which there are many different varieties.

The Mid-Autumn Festival is one of the two most important holidays in the Chinese calendar (the other being the Chinese Lunar New Year), and is a legal holiday in several countries. Farmers celebrate the end of the summer harvesting season on this date. Traditionally, on this day, Chinese family members and friends will gather to admire the bright mid-autumn harvest moon, and eat moon cakes and pomeloes together. Accompanying the celebration, there are additional cultural or regional customs, such as:

Eating moon cakes outside under the moon
Putting pomelo rinds on one's head
Carrying brightly lit lanterns
Burning incense in reverence to deities including Chang'e
Planting Mid-Autumn trees
Lighting lanterns on towers
Fire Dragon Dances

Shops selling mooncakes, before the festival, often display pictures of Chang'e floating to the moon. .... for more on this please click on this link http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mid-Autumn_Festival

As I remember during our childhood days, every year around this time we would make our own lanterns made from "Milo" tins and sometimes from bamboo and color paper. The "Milo" tins were definitely fire proof. And in the night we would walk around the neighborhood for hours and it was safe to do so. In present time, I don't think it is safe to do so unless you have a big group. Anyway my family attended a Mid-Autumn Festival and potluck gathering organized by Kajang Buddhist Center at Jalan Reko, Kajang. The various food from many participants was delicious. The events included best dress in three categories (traditional dress) which is Indian , Malay and Chinese. Followed by the Lantern Making competition using recycle materials. Various Chinese tea was served. The highlight of the evenings was a lantern walk around the place which covers about 1.5km.

Click on the above for a slide photo display

Lat Tong, Kajang Claypot Spicy Soup, Kajang Food

2007-09-11T23:36:00.000+08:00

Location of Lat Tong and other areas of Kajang Town
Courtesy of Yu Hua School Kajang

Years ago I was told that Kajang's clay pot "Lat Tong" (hot spicy soup of chicken or pieces of pork meat) originated from Semenyih and spread to Kajang and after that it became popular. This Kajang food is a very popular dish. I did not have the opportunity to verify their origins. I have tried the "Lat Tong" at a few places but somehow felt that this little side restaurant located at Jalan Mendaling tasted very good. If you are coming from Maybank Kajang, go past the right angle turn and notice a side lane on the left, you will notice two eatery shops where the first sells noodles and the second is the "Lat Tong" but both do not display any noticeable shop names.

This "Lat Tong" should not be mistaken for the normal hot pepper soup but instead uses lots of ginger and other ingredients. Also available is the clay pot "Fah Tiew Kai" (chicken in special sauce) and clay pot "Chee Keok Shin" (sour pork leg). On the 7th of September 2007, three friends, two from Ipoh and one from KL en route to Malacca to attend a Shaklee A dva nced Leadership Seminar stop by in Kajang to have "Lat Tong" for breakfast. They have heard about it from me and were eager to taste them.

There were 5 of us so we ordered "Lat Tong", "Fah Tiew Kai" and "Chee Keok Shin" to go with rice, KC ordered porridge. After a few bites, everyone commented that it tasted very good. The chef of this delicacies is uncle Tony, he looks more like a Kung Fu master than a cook and he speaks English besides the various Chinese dialects. He has operated this shop for 9 years this coming November. Incidentally this shop is known as Hong Kong Lat Tong (in Mandarin) that was given by some patrons years ago. So when some guest came from Hong Kong and commented they have not heard of it in Hong Kong.

Next time you are around either for breakfast or lunch why not try the Kajang Famous "Lat Tong" dish.

Old Buildings, Architectures and Structures in and around Kajang Town

2007-09-04T15:13:00.000+08:00

THE ARCHITECTURES AND STRUCTURES OF SHOP HOUSES
IN AND AROUND KAJANG

It is always our habit of driving or walking at relatively fast pace through town. Only if you were to spare some time walking slowly and looking up at the structures and designs of the old shop houses along Jalan Sulaiman, Jalan Besar, Jalan Tukang and Jalan Mendaling, you will notice artistic design and year of construction displayed at the buildings. Most of the buildings in “Kajang Old Town” were constructed around 1920s to 1930s. The architecture of these shop houses is a combination of traditional Chinese and European design. The ground floor was used for commercial activities and the upper floor as living space for the family.

The older street of Jalan Tukang has more varied display of design as compared to others. Till today, the corner Lee Chang Long goldsmith shop stands as a Kajang landmark. Formerly named Hong Bee, i.e. Low Ti Kok’s shop had a panel of cast-iron floral motif (picture) which was torn down and replaced by flat wall some years ago.

Another big shop house at the end of the row along with Maybank has a third storey and a balcony overlooking Langat River. This building was owned by Towkay Low Boon Liew who was a rich man in Kajang and a philanthropist. He was a committee member of the then Kuomintang branch in Kajang. There is an emblem of the party engraved which is still noticeable even though part of it had broken off during a fire some years ago.

In Langat 14^th Mile, the eye-catching distinguish old shop house of Woon Family has a big KMT emblem at its back facing the Langat River. Its owner was Towkay Woon Peng. Further down the end of the old town across the river, there is another old building which was built using compact earth, a traditional Hakka technology. The owner was Chong Koon Lin, a successful businessman involved in tin mining and was appointed as council member of Selangor Sanitary Board.

The flag of Kuomintang consists of a twelve ray sun
(originating from the twelve traditional Chinese hours of
the day) to symbolize the spirit of progress. The flag forms
the Canton of the flag of the Republic of China

Article and photos by Lee Kim Sin
email : leekimsin@myjaring.net

Low Ti Kok

2007-08-27T00:50:00.000+08:00

LOW TI KOK (1877 -1942)

Low Ti Kok was born in a village called Kuimei, Anxi District of Fujian Province, China. It was then under the government of Manchu Dynasty, i.e. Guangxu 3^rd Year according to the Chinese calendar. He arrive in Klang at his youthful age of 20 and later moved inland to Serendah, Selangor where he helped his uncle in his business. Three years later he moved to Kuala Lumpur to seek better opportunities. He managed to make his living and with some savings, he went back to his homeland and married a village lady of surname Lee.

Low Ti Kok arrived in Kajang at the age of 28 and started his venture into alcohol and sundries business. Later, he found tin mining and rubber planting a good business which proof him successful and made him a rich man in town. Mr. Low was a philanthropist and had been very generous in contributing to Anti-Japanese invasion of China during the late 1930s. He was elected as Chairman of the Hulu Langat District Nanyang Homeland Aid Committee ( Nanyang Huaqiao Chouzhenhui). Besides his commitment in providing aid to war victims in his homeland, he was the main contributor to the reconstruction of Yu Hua School which was completed in 1918. Today, Yu Hua School Hall is named in his honor. He was also perceived as aides to the British colonialist government in settling dispute within local community and assisted the authority in local development. He was honored Justice of Peace by the Queen besides naming the road in front of Yu Hua School as Low Ti Kok Road or Jalan Low Ti Kok.

Mr. Low passed away in 1942 at his house in Hong Bee Estate in Sungai Jelok. A Grand Funeral procession was carried out after the Japanese surrendered in 1945. His body was buried in the Hokkien Cemetery just behind Kajang High School. Today, the Hulu Langat Hokkien Association building standing along Jalan Timur was formerly the mansion of the late Low Ti Kok, JP.

This article was contributed by
Mr. Lee Kim Sin
email : leekimsin@myjaring.net

Broga Durian and Fruit Season

2007-07-25T12:46:00.000+08:00

In July 2007 a group of friends were offered the opportunity to a durian party from 8.00 am to 8.00 pm at the durian orchard for only RM$ 10.00 per person. Our friends decided it was too early to start eating durian at 8 in the morning but we will come prepare by having a very light breakfast so that we will have durian feast later. Ten of them arrived at Broga Rukun Tetanga Post at around 12 and were treated to durians by Ah Leong (on the right) our durian seller cum chief cook of the restaurant (Restaurant 12-12) beside the Rukun Tetangga Post.

KC and myself decided to come in around 2.00 pm and it was the right decision as the first group had eaten almost 30 durian fruits of various type. By this time they started eating mangosteen (local fruit), rambutans and "dokong" a hybrid of "duku langsat". Sometimes human behaviour are predictable for RM$10 they want the money's worth of RM$100. We started enjoying ourselves and by 3.00 pm everyone was "surrendering" and "no more! I can't eat anymore!" but when Kenny another durian seller came to assist by choosing the better tasting variety. They could still eat a few more, greedy Malaysians at his best.

We took a breather and KC who brought a stove and tea pots to prepare tea for everyone. Chan Meng suggested pouring some water into the durian husk for drinking as this is known to reduced the "heat" from our body due to eating durians. Instead of water we used tea and coined a new name "teh O durian".

Later we proceeded to Dragon Fruit Farm (Broga) or Happy Fruit Land which is located about 2km from Broga Town towards Beranang Town to meet up with another group of friends from KL for a trek up Bukit Beranang. After durian feast we wanted to burn up the calories and what better way with a one and half hours trek. As we arrive at the farm our other friends were already eating fruits including durians. None of the first group dare to eat another durian no matter how they coaxed us.

We started trekking along a rubber plantation trail and followed a mark trail up towards a secondary forest and pass through many "lallang" (weed grass) before reaching the peak known as Bukit Beranang where you can view the Beranang Town, Semenyih Town and Broga Town. Later we trek back to the Dragon Fruit Farm, rested and took a bath at the farm and dinner from the fresh farm produce and karaoke away belting songs like Englebert Humperdink, Theresa Teng, Nat King Cole etc. We really enjoyed ourselves and plan to come again.

A video of a insect stick that looks like a twig.

Kajang High School - Class 77 Reunion

2007-07-16T22:45:00.000+08:00

On 7-7-2007, 7.00pm at Prescott Inn, Kajang. About 100 of us gathered together after leaving Kajang High School 30 years ago. Many of us have not seen or met each other for the past 20 to 30 years. How many of us have change, gray hair, bigger face (receding hair line), big belly, heavier and what a laugh as we tried to recall their names.

In pursuit of better life each one of us went our ways discovering bit by bit about ourselves through new experiences. Some went to further their studies, some joined the work force and others venture into business. After 30 years leaving school most of us agreed that the 5 years we spent in secondary school KHS was the most memorable one. It is here the formation of our characters starts to take place forming the foundation and traits of our behavior that will give the uniqueness of each and everyone of us. The teenage years were the discovery years and the belief that we could do no wrong was a myth. Teachers played such an important role with them not realizing it but they played their part of a part time guardian teaching us, guiding us and punishing us when we break the rules. Teachers of those years are unique lots as we come to realize their commitment as a teacher. Teachers then was more focused without the interference and the stresses of todays' lifestyles.

As the emcee, Hock Hai congratulates each and everyone of us for being present in this memorable occasion. Then he proceeded to thank the teachers who were present and the Class of 77 gave a standing ovation and applause in appreciation to the teachers. The Headmaster Encik Mohammad Sani gave a speech, still as witty and humorous and yet commanding showing a glimpse of his past. Teachers that were present were Mr. Hong Foo Wah, Mr. Yong Bang Kuang, Mr. Chin Ket Poh, Mrs. Ong, Mr. Siwnan, Mr. C. Pelly, Mr. Jeyaratnam and Mrs. Sim. Later after dinner, all were treated to a slide presentation showing the past and present. Everyone was attentive as we went down memory lane and some shed a tear or two. As with each passing slide it dawn on us that those memories became clearer and it was a connection that all of us shared.

We took class photos but not all from the past were present and so we join classes for the photo shoot. Later, we had "down memory lane" sharing, Steven Hiew Ming Foong was the first to share his most memorable experienced when how he bit the finger of Mr. Siwnan and finally "apologize" now and a gesture by putting a plaster around Mr. Siwnan's finger. Another was Ragavan who was appointed by Mr. Jeyaratnam to be the class monitor. Ragavan after two weeks requested to resign from his post because he was bullied by the class. Ragavan continued after Mr. Jeyaratnam ticked off the class. Another class mate Heng Ken Ng share the many times he was being slapped ever since primary school till secondary school and he complained that it was a bad experienced. Everyone laughed and had very good feelings from hearing these personal sharing as we began to understand what a bunch we were during those school carefree days.

Finally in closing we requested that we meet again in 2017 and immediately the teachers requested an earlier date (obvious reason "age") and everyone burst out laughing and the committee jokingly promised transportation will be provided. In 10 years time we will be 57 and the teachers will be in the 70's to 80's, how time flies when old friends meet. To those who were not present please leave us a note or your contact here so that Tony Choo and Hock Hai can update the Class of 77 database.

KHS

To view photo gallery click on the photo above

Kajang High School - Poem

2007-07-07T16:16:00.000+08:00

My Beloved School
Labor Omnia Vincit

Up on the hill
Standing proud and still
Old and yet beautiful

Is my beloved school.

Born on the 1st of April

Fifty eight years ago,

On a day known as April’s fool,

She was christened

Kajang High School.

Boys and girls go to her,

To acquire knowledge from the wise

teachers,

The country will have brilliant leaders,

With her everyone is happy,

Though sometimes a little naughty,

These carefree and happy days

Will be cherished in the future days,

I wish that time will pass slower,

So that I could stay here longer,

And don’t have to say goodbye

so soon,

To my beloved school.

Pau Kah Heng Form 4 Sc. 1
Written in 1977

The School 7-7-2007 12.43pm

Something Out Of Kajang - The Ancient Chinese Art of Face Mask Changing

2007-06-01T23:14:00.001+08:00

During my visit to Shenzen Cultural Village, China, we had dinner along with this performance of Changing Face Mask often done with a blink of an eye and no matter how many times you watch and wonder how it is done. Watch Closely! Don't Blink!

Dangerous Junctions - Kajang Traffic

2007-05-17T00:06:00.000+08:00

I have seen Kajang traffic grew by leaps and bounds since 1978 especially I obtained my driving license. The first thing I did was to invite my friend Ng Yen Tien (migrated to Australia), together we left on a 200km journey exploring Kuala Lumpur from 11.00pm till 4.00am with my father's car which run on diesel and for less than $8.00, at todays petrol prices probably you will be able to reach Mid Valley, period. Driving in Kajang in those days was really stress free unlike today, drivers need to be considerate be it driving slow or fast and always remember that there are others who are also using the road like you. I did have my fair share of receiving traffic summons and accidents and with that comes the experience knowing how to avoid the avoidable situations like not "speeding" at certain stretch of the road at a certain time if you know what I mean, and being cautious and attentive otherwise it will be a costly affair.

There are three dangerous junctions in Kajang where I find that by placing proper signboard and traffic lights with proper maintenance, many accidents could have been avoided. Due to maybe "tidak apa attitude" people just complained or "curse" when approaching this junctions and once they pass through it, they would nod and forget about it. For the poor fella who are involved in accidents in these junctions just have to experience the hassle of making police reports and insurance claims.

The first Junction is the Bandar Teknologi Kajang entry and exit, here I could not understand since its opening till today and after numerous accidents and near misses, still there are no traffic lights installed. Every time when I visit my friends who lives there, after that if you want exit towards Semenyih you will need to be very patient as there are many vehicles coming from Semenyih. Last I heard is that there are road works going on but for how long?. And till the day they finally install the traffic lights..."That will be the day..." as the song goes.

The second Junction is in town, in front of RHB bank, cars coming in from the Jalan Semenyih road is the right of way going towards the Metro Plaza direction but cars coming from left (Taxi Station) sometimes think that they have the right of way, so what happens, somebody will be starring like you have to give way or else... and some just bull doze their way through. If somebody just refuse to give way, accidents would result. There use to be a "Stop-Look-Go" road sign but it is missing maybe due to scrap metal collectors or poor maintenance, the authorities concerned should provide regular inspections to ensure that road signs are in place.

The third Junction is the many entry and exit points along Sungai Chua road from BP station to Vinny Plaza. There are just too many entry and exits without proper road sign. Sometimes cars going in and out where ever is convenient to them but dangerous to others. Either install road dividers or have proper road signs.

If you have further comments put it here and I believe with enough complaint and suggestions the MPKj and the counsellors would take note and especially with the expected up coming general elections, their actions will be scrutinized.

Kajang High School

2007-04-28T23:16:00.000+08:00

In the year January 1973, I had been transfered to Kajang High School (KHS) the most prestigious school at that time, it was all male school only to have its history rewritten when they admit girls for the Form 6 classes. Everything was strange and different because in the primary school at Hill Street Kajang we had new buildings but in KHS it was colonial design, the building looked very stately like and very grand. As the main building was built in April 1 1930 and its opening was graced by His Royal Highness Sultan Alaiddin Suleiman Shah K.C.M.G. Sultan of Selangor. As the years past the building at its present site undergo many changes to what it is today. The picture on the right is the right wing, photo taken from road leading up to the main complex.

As boy scouts member we would always be active during most of the school's activities like sports day, cross country run etc. and on other occasions we would camp at our scout house (use to be located just behind the present KHS hall). During our camps we would collect bamboos from the opposite hill (now Bukit Mewah) and build many gadgets like tables and chairs just to test our scouting skills. And at night we would have campfire gatherings and our seniors would tell stories about KHS from ghost stories to the Japanese occupation and especially there were secret tunnels on the border of KHS and the Hockkien Cemetery. So during the day we went looking for secret tunnels and we found them, with fear and anxiety we climb down one particular tunnel which was about 6 feet deep and once inside there were connecting underground tunnels. It was dark except for the sun light through the tunnel, it was covered with cobweb we dare not venture further as it was near the cemetery, pretty scary for a young boy scout.

Sleeping in the school class rooms was also "hair raising" experience, at one particular dark night around 20 of us decided to sleep in the classroom in the main school building and somewhere after midnight, we were still awake and we heard footsteps along the corridor, without hesitating we rush out to see who it was. There was no one............. except.............. ... foot steps...........was clearly heard, really hair raising experience. Till today things still happened in the night without explanation.

KHS had many outstanding students, one of them who was transfered from another school (Victoria Institution) to Kajang High School was Tan Sri Dato' Dr. David Tan Chee Khoon who was a outstanding boy scout and also a patrol leader. Here is an extract ...

Tan Sri Dato' Dr David Tan Chee Khoon, born on 4 March 1919, was a V.I. student at High Street and later at the new V.I. in 1937-1938. He is perhaps the most renowned and respected Malaysian opposition leader of all time. He was also a most selfless doctor, a tireless educationalist, a humble christian and an avid reader and writer to boot. His two sons- Tan Kee Keong and Tan Kee Kwong - were Victorians (and doctors) as well. The latter was also the V.I. School Captain in 1965 and is now the Deputy Minister for Land and Co-operative Development. Tan Sri was close to his alma mater, and he even attended both the Centenary Countdown and Centenary Dinner in 1993. The following is the story of Tan Sri's inspirational life, extracted from his autobiography, Tan Chee Khoon: From Village Boy to Mr Opposition and from various articles.

If you have interesting stories about KHS you are welcomed and If you happened to be a KHS old boy or Class of 77, they will be having reunion dinner in 7 of July 2007 (7/07/2007) you can contact

Tony Choo 012-3667833 or
Kwan Hock Hai 019-2279209, 03-21635848

Hash House Harriers - Kajang Hash Begining

2007-04-26T00:23:00.001+08:00

History

Hashing began in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in 1938, when a small group of British colonial officials and expatriates, Cecil Lee, Frederick "Horse" Thomson, Ronald "Torch" Bennett, and a British accountant of Catalan descent Albert Stephen Ignatius Gispert(A.S Gispert), a casual group who would meet after work on Monday evenings to run, following a paper trail, through the environs of Kuala Lumpur to get rid of the excesses of the previous weekend. There was another member of the group, John Woodrow, who is rarely credited as one of the founders as he left Malaysia after the war to return home to his family in Scotland.

After running for some months they were approached by the Registrar of Societies, who advised them that, as they were a "group" they would require a Constitution (the aims of which are reproduced below) and a name. A.S. Gispert (known as "G") suggested the name. Hash House Harriers... Click on this for more hash details

By the year 2007 there are about 2000 chapters (clubs) in major cities and towns. In the beginning Hashing members were strictly Male and only later did they include Females and today there are all male chapters, mixed chapters and even children (to promote as a family outing). The history of Hashing in Kajang begin in the year 1988 and had its first run in Bukit Angkat Kajang. This chapter is known as Kajang Hash House Harriers (KH3, mix chapter) later another mix chapter was form by the name of Hulu Langat Hash House Harriers, followed by Batang Kajang H3 (BKH3, Male chapter). In the year 2000, Cheras Hash House Harriers & Harrierts (CH4, Mix Chapter) and the latest is Kajang Happy Happy Happy Hash House Horrors (subsidiary of BKH3,KH6, mix and includes children). There are many publicity about hash clubs but this slogan says it all "A running club with a drinking problem". Today there are members who are non-drinkers and drinkers.

Each member of the club will host a run regularly at the same time and same day of the week and he or she is known as the hare. He would have to set a run by choosing a run site for eg. Broga Rock Temple, he would enter the trail usually 3 to 4 hours earlier to lay papers to guide the other runners. A good run will typically last from an hour to two where all the runners safely returned to the run site. Whereby members and guest can drink and have a meal. After the "run" members would form a "circle" (informal meeting) to listen to news and jokes where members would like to enjoy their evening among hash friends. Some generous hares (host) would on their "run" sponsors T-Shirts for every member and guest and throw a sumptuous feast usually at a restaurant (NOT compulsory, can be at the run site with a simple meal).

Goldprick Chin says his most memorable run "my first run was at Bkt. Angkat Kajang, the hare was Mr. Tai Lin Yoong, it was such a long run with many hills going up and down it was agony but as soon as I reach the run site it felt dammed good"

Many hashers have many memorable runs which is why they joined the club, to the other hashers out there I am sure you have a memorable experience to share you can always put your story here.

Hash Runs every Week, For further information contact the below hasher (Normally each hash member will be baptized with a new name hence the funny names)

Kajang Hash House Harriers (KH3-Mix Chapters), Approx. 140 members, Runs every Saturday at 6.00pm
Contact Hasher Mr. Funtoong H/P 013-3388236

Hulu Langat Hash House Harriers (HL4-Mix Chapters), Approx. 100 members, Runs every Saturday at 6.00pm.
Contact Hasher

Batang Kajang Hash House Harriers (BKH3-Male Chapters), Approx. 100 members, Runs every Wednesday at 6.00pm.
Contact Hasher Mr. Goldprick Chin H/P 019-3383005

Kajang Happy Happy Happy Hash House Horrors (KH6-Mix with children chapters). Runs on alternate Sundays at 5.00pm
Contact Hasher Mr. Half Chicken H/P 012-6557093
he is the owner in the mentioned "Barbecue Chicken, Duck and Pork- Kajang Food"

Cheras Hash House Harriers & Harriettes (CH4-Mix chapter), Approx. 180 members, Runs every Tuesday at 6.00pm
Contact Hasher Mr. Funtoong H/P 013-3388236

Recent Addition:-

Danau Toba Hash House Harriers (DTH3)

Founded by Ibrahim Wong (member of Batang Kajang Hash

House Harriers (BKH3)) on the 9th July 2004. Co-founders: Lau

Lin San, Cowlin, Bicycle Man, Crazy Guy, Crazy Horse, Sakai,

Fatty Dragon, Pig Leg, Big John Silver and Piss Off.

Inaugural run (Thai Tao Run) was held on the 17 June 2005

at Phuket Island, Thailand. Men hash only. Runs monthly

on the 3rd Friday at 1800 hours.

Contact Ibrahim Wong at 016-316 7666.

Happy Hashing

Barbecued Chicken, Duck and Pork or Chicken Rice - Kajang Food

2007-04-09T22:21:00.000+08:00

Years even before western fast food came into existence, Malaysians already started on the many varieties of Asian food available throughout the day and night and in many towns and cities. In Kajang town which is famously known as the 'Satay Town' where travelers will stop to enjoy the barbecued meat skewed with a short stick. There is another type of barbecued meat which others have slowly come to enjoy is the 'char siew fun' or 'char siew kai'.

Tucked away in a coffee shop next to Kajang's wet market is a stall called 'Leck Kee' which is actually a branch of the 'Leck Kee' of Semenyih Town. It operates during lunch hour from 11.00am to 3.00pm and are sold out usually by 2.00pm. Patrons sometimes have to queue for a table and sometimes a long queue for take away orders. The shops here used to be from Kajang Bazaar ( aerial view of Kajang town, the right hand side of the round about) and consists of many small eateries, sticker shop, newspaper, barber etc..

The 'char siew' or roasted pork belly is a mixture of fats and lean meat has a nice dark reddish colour and authentic tastes. Other than this dish you can try the 'char siew kai' (barbecue chicken), 'char siew up' (barbecue duck) and 'siew nyoke' (roast pork). Once you arrived at this stall you can't help noticing the stall owner with his stylish dyed hair. He can be quite snappy when your order is confusing to him or when there is a long queue but having our meal here on many occasions you find him sometimes amusing. He is also known as 'half chicken' or 'pun chaq kai' to many of his patrons, he got his name by being a member of the Batang Kajang Hash House Harriers club (will post a story about the Hash clubs of Kajang later).

Another Fire - Early Morning News 4th April 2007 - Kajang News

2007-04-03T12:58:00.000+08:00

This morning a few shophouses was on fire just in front of Metro Plaza and TNB office, billowing black smoke is seen from far. Roads from the Main Street, Jalan Reko, Jalan Tukang and Jalan Sulaiman was closed to traffic causing a massive jam. By noon the fire was brought under control by firemen from Kajang Fire Station. Reports by Patrick Chin from nearby shops reported that the Bicycle shop (corner shop facing Metro Plaza) was completely destroyed, second shop selling home plastic wares was almost completely burn only front portion left standing and the third shop's (Bonanza) back portion was destroyed. A sad incident for owners and espcially for the Home Plastic wares whom had experienced from a previous fire, (see story - Big Fire in Kajang Town). Sources said that the fire may have been caused by tenants cooking on the second floor of the bicycle shop, others says due to a short circuit. What ever is the caused will be investigated by the authorities. At this time there is no report of casualty but damages to property and stock could amount to a RM1 million. Photographs will be posted once it is obtained from friends who took pictures of the incident.

Click to view more photos

Watch Video

The Fried Hockkien Mee - Kajang Story

2007-03-27T00:17:00.000+08:00

If you look at the aerial view of Kajang Town, you will notice to the right of the roundabout and also the right of the Shell Petrol Station, that is the location of Kajang Bazaar and due to development they have all moved to various places like behind Mendaling Street and Medan Selera on the right of the Kajang Market. In those days other than Satay the other talk about food is the fried Hockkien Mee (thick chinese noodles). I use to frequent this busy restaurant called CHIN KEE RESTAURANT located in store no. 57, Kajang Bazaar. It also boast of a record dishing out a huge 80kg of Hockkien Mee in one night, that is roughly equivalent to serving about 800 person at this restaurant. Chin Kee Restaurant chief cook and proprietor was the late Mr. Low Lee Chin

Today you can savour this original taste of Chin Kee Restaurant style of cooking handed down to his youngest son Robert Low who operates a fusion of asian and western restaurant call FELICIDAD RESTAURANT & CAFE (please ask him what the name means) located at No. 75A Jalan 1, Taman Sri Langat, Jalan Reko. In the 60's my family and myself included used to frequent this hockkien mee along with other dishes which is just as tasty. In those days there weren't many food stalls and sometimes even at 2.00am when we feel hungry, we would just grab a bicycle and come out here to eat this favorite tasting mee (definitely better than instant noodle).

Robert Low who also happens to be my childhood friend is also a Yo-Yo expert who had traveled to countries like Japan, Columbia, China, Hong Kong, Brazil, USA, Spain, Portugal, Holland, Jordan, Thailand & Singapore to participate in Yo-Yo competition. He achieved a world ranking No. 8 at the 2000 Proyo Challenge in Phoenix, Arizona USA. While traveling, with cooking still in his blood he would always find opportunity to learn various types of dishes and one such dish is the Hungarian Goulash taught by an Austrian, Mr. Wolfgang.

Well I found his restaurant in a very unique setting compared to his fathers' and the Hockkien mee is still as good as before mmmmm. He decorates his cafe with Yo-Yos, and collections of his hobbies, interesting. We used to play yo-yo when we were about 12 years old, I stopped but he hasn't, imagine a elderly looking guy playing with yo-yo and if you talk about yo-yo ask him to show you his collection from antique ones to very high tech ones, about 700pcs in his collection. Well if you are not a fan of Hockkien mee you can always try the Hun....Gou.... gee...! I wonder how you pronounce it. If you were to ask around the older generation, I wonder whether they can still remember Chin Kee Hockkien mee.

Broga - A Cool Place to Exercise, Fresh Air and A Great Scenic View

2007-03-22T23:40:00.002+08:00

Broga village which is about 8km from Semenyih Town is situated in a valley surrounded by a range of hills on the left and right. The population here I was told by the locals consists of about 500 families living before WWII. Broga town was recently link to a controversial site for the building of a incinerator which spark a nation wide protest from locals to foreigner. To go there just take the trunk road to Seremban from Kajang, go past the Semenyih Police Station and just after the Petronas Petrol Station there is a traffic light, turn left go through a winding stretch of road. Along the way you will pass a sanctuary for the orphan and the aged managed by the Desa Amal Jireh Group (Jireh Charity Village), Which should be operational anytime soon). After that Taman Tasik Semenyih (residential housing area) is also on the left and soon you will come to Nottingham University Campus. You will soon notice a barren hill with a beautiful hilly backdrop. Popularly known as Broga Hill (click on this link for full map and Broga Hill Post)

The primary economic activities here are mainly farming (local vegetables), rubber plantations, palm oil, fishing ponds, fish farming, durian and lately dragon fruit. There is also a famous Broga Rock Temple where people come from near and far to seek divine help and intervention to their lifes. Among other things Broga used to be famous for is restaurant cook wild meat supplied by the orang asli nearby but now banned. Occasionally they may still supplied these illegal wild meat. During the months of June to September which is the durian fruit season and people will come here to enjoy the durians from special grade to the jungle grade. The prices here are reasonable and definitely delicious. There are many trekking trails which lead you to different hill peaks with different scenery and on top of the first Broga "botak" hill you can view the KL Tower on a clear day.

Every Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays a group of friends will gather (Rock Temple car park) here just before 6.00pm to trek up the hills. The trekking time will usually take about 1 hour for try the reasonably fit and the normal around 1 1/2 hour. The starting point is at the Rock Temple car park (see top photo). They will walk about 1 km down hill and turn left at the rubber plantation. Another 1 km through the rubber trees and you will start ascending uphill for about 5 - 7 minutes, this will take you past some banana trees, durian, lime and other type of fruit trees. At the top of this first hill you can view part of the valley, you will be enjoying a good workout. Taking a short half minute breather continue the trek down a gentle slope along the rubber tappers trail before turning left steeply through large rocks and boulders. Here on wards for another 15 - 20 minutes it is a steep trek upwards, about 4 short hills before stopping on a flat terrain with various types of fruit trees. The altitude here is around 500 ft above sea level.

Here you can a good view of the valley with the sun setting on the west, sometimes the whole valley is lighted up with some areas cast in shadow. It is a wonderful view and sometimes breezy. From here another 15 minutes a slight uphill slope before a descending all the way to the view point behind the Rock Temple (see 2ND photo). Here you can view the whole of Broga in a panoramic 3D view. For those who still need additional work out can do it here before descending all the way to the car park. You can take a bath and change at the many bathrooms (male/female) located beside the temple. And the Rock Temple is also surrounded by many statues and a beautiful garden at the top. By nightfall the village becomes alive with many bicycles and motor bikes moving here and there. Usually we will have our dinner here before going home. Highly recommended is a little restaurant just beside the Rukun Tetanga Broga office which serves delicious Claypot Fish Porridge and others. Other restaurants nearby (air-con) are also recommended. A great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of a little town Broga.

To join Friends of Broga for a good exercise or just to meet new friends and definitely for the young and old every Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, you can call
Mr. Wong +6012-2897223 or
Miss KC +6019-3339825.

Nasi Lemak - 10 cents p pack THE REAL THING - Pasar Malam Evolution

2007-03-17T01:20:00.001+08:00

Back in 70's I could remember every Saturday night there will be this Saturday Night Market that was held in Old Kajang Town Hall at the very site where the new one is sitting. We would walk from home (about 10 mins) and with whatever shillings we saved would spent buying those delicious home make "kuih-kuih" for about 5 to 10 cents per piece. Rural and town folks would gather and set up their stores to sell these items ranging from kuih-kuih, tahu sumbat etc. to nasi lemak (click on the nasi lemak recipe link) (10 cents per pack YES!) and occasionally there would be all kinds of performers like snake charmers and kung fu display that will end up with selling herbs and herbal remedies.

Well today this Saturday Night Market has evolved into Pasar Malam and it is held every night. It has become a full time income for many of these so called night traders, some may be supplementing their income and for others it is a full time job and it can be very lucrative but it is hard earned money. Many types of items can be found in these pasar malam such as food, house hold items, decorative items, fruits, vegetables, tit bits, potted plants, toys (latest designs), latest movies (VCD/DVD) and songs (CD's) yes! and etc.
Prices are displayed (as required by law) and most of the time you can bargain for a price reduction. Depending on your bargaining skill you sometimes get good discounts.

Usually these traders would begin their day at around 5.00pm till 10.00pm and normally at any one time they would occupy the whole street sometimes even two or three street depending on the popularity of the area. They would come in all sizes of vehicles and occupy their favorite spot. Towards the evening when it gets cooler, people would start swarming over the whole area, loud shouts, music and generators would give the place an attractive feel. Customers, some come from near by residential houses in very very casual wear (the opposite when you walk in Mid Valley), some drive from far, some would leave very satisfied and some not so. By 11.00pm the whole area would be deserted and looking like one large dump yard with garbages strewn all over the place and stinks too. Contract cleaners would start cleaning up and usually by morning the place is clean up. Looks like they are here to stay for a long time to come and maybe further Evolution. From Mondays to Sundays they are over the place. Take your pick....

Monday - Bandar Teknologi Kajang, Broga, Serdang
Sg. Chua - comment by Jesmond thx!
Tuesday - Bandar Baru Bangi, Sungai Long

Taman Sri Langat Jln Reko - comment by Carson K.U. thx!

Wednesday - Semenyih (Garden), Asa Jaya
Thursday - Bandar Teknologi Kajang, Jasmin, Sungai Chua
Friday - Sungai Jelok, Balakong
Saturday - Semenyih Town, Bandar Baru Bangi, Bandar Teknologi Kajang
Sunday - Bukit Mewah, Kajang Utama, Sungai Ramal

Big Fire in Kajang Town, 7 shophouses burn to the ground in the 60's

2007-02-28T00:30:00.000+08:00

I remember one evening, pitch dark, there was a power cut at our house in Kajang Garden (Desa Bunga Raya). Everyone came out of their house and look up towards the sky, it was red with color and it was filled with smoke. Everyone was wandering what was happening, then came shouts that the town was on fire. Those days there weren't hand phones available and fixed line phones was only available to the rich. My mother was worried because our great grand father's shop was in town, she hurriedly took the bicycle and I sat on the back (common mode of transport in those days). It took her 15 minutes to reach the shop and what a sigh of relief when she saw the shop house intact. It was the opposite row of shop houses that was on fire, people were running here and there and fire engines with their siren howling were approaching. We just stood there like anyone else the fire was burning intensely and I could feel the heat radiating from the fire. People were shouting, and there were still people trapped in the building and some people tried to rush into the burning shop house but were held back by others. It was a tragic sight, the sound of fire crackers, fireworks were shooting dangerously close to other shop houses and shop dwellers were getting worried. Most of the shop houses were made of wood and were considered fire hazards. People were shouting to the firemen "over here the fire is spreading!!!". The fire was brought under control and all in all 7 shop houses was razed to the ground with hot smothering burning wood. They said 3 burn bodies was found the next morning.

How many of you remember that fateful day, many of you may have not been born, you probably could ask around for more details. If you found more stories, post your stories so that many others will read about the history of Kajang.

What have you got to say about the traffic in Kajang

2007-02-21T23:06:00.000+08:00

The Celebrations are still ongoing and minute by minute the traffic are passing through Kajang and mainly to avoid paying toll. Once the school holidays are over we will experience traffic as usual JAM! especially the hour when the morning classes ends and the afternoon classes are about to begin. Sometimes the jam are due to overwhelming traffic volumes and other times bad traffic light timing and of course the usual bad parking habits of some people, queue jumping, buses park at bus stop which only suppose to pick up passengers blah blah blah etc...
And usually around this time people seems to be more stressful than usual, I am sure there are many near misses and sometimes accidents which results in ugly situations.

Hope somebody can give good suggestions to improve the situations........

Happy Chinese New Year 2007

2007-02-16T12:24:00.000+08:00

Wishing All a Very Happy Chinese New Year 2007

May you and your family attain Good Health and Happiness!!!

from
Flipper

Something to talk about!!!

2007-02-06T02:17:00.000+08:00

Hi! You are invited to post any interesting happenings in Kajang which used to be a sleepy town in the 60's, now it is bustling with people, traffic, buildings which now becomes a busy town. So if you have something interesting to share, pls post your ideas here and incl. your name. If you have photos or suitable articles you can email it to ykkclow@gmail.com.