Farewell to three old friends

Three old friends passed away within six days - Yeoh Eng Hin, Thomas Khor and Lee Keat Heng - all coming as a shock to me. 

It's no fun living to be 100 when you are frail of mind and body. But it is still an immense achievement and for that, I applaud Yeoh Eng Hin to have lived until this ripe old age. This senior Life Member of The Old Frees' Association passed away on 12 April having attained this centenarian landmark. Frailty of body was a definite given but I do not know whether it had affected him in any other way as I had not met Yeoh in the last few decades of his life. In the 1970s, I used to be a frequent visitor to his record shop, known as Hinson, in Penang Road. I used to spend hours browsing through the interesting records he had stocked up.

Another OFA Life Member that passed away this week, on the 15th, was Thomas Khor, my old class teacher from the Westlands Primary School. Eighty-six years old when he died, I was taught by him exactly 60 years ago in Standard Five. For many years we lost touch but happened to reconnect after 2012 when I was starting work on Let the Aisles Proclaim. He was from Ipoh but at the time during or after the Japanese Occupation, his family made their way to Penang. He was a devout Catholic but instead of enrolling in St Xavier's Institution, he somehow found himself in Penang Free School. With some old school friends, we took him to revisit the old Westlands Primary School which today is a centre for sports excellence. Thomas Khor loved that visit and I could see his old familiar, spritely swagger return to his steps. He walked the length of the main building, climbed the stairs to the upper floor and peeked into the old classrooms. My last time seeing him was in the middle of last year at the New World Park food court. He was there with one of his sons, enjoying a meal when my friends and I spied him. And naturally, I went up to say hello. Old teachers must be appreciated. We grow up to become their friends.

Yesterday too, I learnt of the passing of Lee Keat Heng on the 17th. He was another Life Member of The Old Frees' Association. Understandably shocked by this news as only on Monday he was celebrating his 70th birthday. He was my classmate from Primary schooldays. Both of us had been placed in Standard 1E at Westlands but we parted company come the following year. Although we did not know one another very well as I went into an express class and he did not, the parting of ways could not hide the fact that Lee was one of my oldest school friends. We only began touching base again after the Free School's Bicentenary celebrations.

The container and the content

I've been digging through my old books to search for a particular story from Ajahn Brahmavamso, the Abbot of the Bodhinyana Monastery in Western Australia. He has a big following worldwide due to his wisdom. He's also a regular visitor to our shores and at the end of the year, he is likely to be in Kuala Lumpur and Penang for short visits. Ajahn Brahm is also a prolific author of books in which he give insights into Buddhism in his own humorous way. The book I was trying to locate was this one titled Good? Bad? Who Knows? which was a sequel to his earlier book, Who Ordered This Truckload of Dung? 

In the past, I had reproduced a few interesting stories from Who Ordered This Truckload of Dung? in several of my earlier blog posts here but never from Good? Bad? Who Knows? However with this socks incident still impacting the minds of small people everywhere, I shall now reproduce the very first of Ajahn Brahm's stories from this book. Here it is:

The Container And The Content 

A local journalist called and asked me, "What would you do, Ajahn Brahm, if someone took a Buddhist Holy book and flushed it down your toilet?"

Without hesitation I answered, "Sir, if someone took a Buddhist Holy book and flushed it down my toilet, the first thing I would do is to cal1 a plumber!"

When the journalist finished laughing, he confided in me that that was the first sensible answer that he had received.

Then I went further. I explained that someone may blow up many statues of the Buddha, burn down Buddhist temples or kill Buddhist monks and nuns; they may destroy all this but I witl never allow them to destroy Buddhism. You may flush a Holy Book down a toilet, but I will never let you flush forgiveness, peace and compassion down the toilet.

The Book is not the religion, nor is the statue, the building or the priest. These are only the 'containers'.

What does the book teach us? What does the statue represent? What qualities are the priests supposed to embody? This is the 'content'.

When we recognise the difference between the container and the contents, then we will preserve the contents even when the container is being destroyed.

We can print more books, build more temples and statues, and even train more monks and nuns, but when we lose our love and respect for others and ourselves and replace it with violence, then the whole religion has gone down the toilet.

Note: Good? Bad? Who Knows? was published in 2013. A year later, the contents were expanded to include several other new short stories and the revised book was published as Don't Worry, Be Grumpy. This same story, The Container and the Content, was given an expanded introduction:

There were riots in the streets some years ago after a guard at Guantanamo Bay was accused of taking a holy book and flushing it down the toilet. The next day, I took a call from a local journalist who told me he was writing an article about the outrage by asking leaders of all the major religions in Australia the same question he was about to ask me. “What would you do, Ajahn Brahm, if someone took a Buddhist holy book and flushed it down your toilet?”

 

Judge Dee

Judge Dee's Mystery is an unexpected gem on Netflix: an authentic portrayal of ancient China devoid of unnecessary Western storytelling and embellishments. However, the rapid pace of the subtitles was a challenge to me as it demanded quick reading to keep up with the dialogue while following the on-screen action. Many times, I had to rewind a few frames in order to finish rereading the subtitles.

Based on Robert Van Gulik's novels, Judge Dee's Mystery followed the titular magistrate's adventures in the Tang Dynasty court, played with finesse by Zhou Yi Wei. Appointed by Empress Wu Zetian, Judge Dee navigated a treacherous landscape of bandits and disillusioned citizens to uphold justice. While the focus remained on Dee's investigations, deeper exploration of secondary characters enriched the narrative tapestry.

The series succeeded in capturing the essence of Van Gulik's work and offered detailed insights into ancient Chinese society and governance. Zhou's portrayal of Judge Dee was a standout, blending quiet resolve with fiery determination to combat injustice. Despite occasional forays into exaggerated drama and unrealistic CGI, the series was engaging, driven by Dee's unwavering pursuit of truth.

Judge Dee's Mystery stood as a testament to the enduring appeal of historical detective dramas, weaving a captivating narrative across its 32 episodes. The commitment to authenticity was exemplary. Meticulous attention to detail in set design and costuming. A compelling exploration of justice and intrigue in ancient China. A stellar ensemble cast, each bringing depth and authenticity to their respective roles. Wang Li Kun shone as Cao An, embodying infatuation and love amidst the backdrop of Tang Dynasty politics. Zhong Chu Xi's portrayal of Empress Wu exudes power and complexity.

Despite these strengths, Judge Dee's Mystery mildly stumbled in its second half where the narrative lost some of the momentum of the initial episodes. This dip in engagement impacted the overall viewing experience, causing a perceptible shift in the series' dynamics. While the first half excelled in building anticipation and suspense, the latter part struggled to maintain the same level of intrigue. Additionally, several secondary storylines went unresolved. The allure of a well-crafted mystery was not just in its unravelling but also in the satisfaction of a complete resolution. At times, the series fell short in tying up loose ends. There were lingering questions that left viewers yearning for a more conclusive finale.

Nevertheless, these were only minor imperfections. The blend of historical authenticity, gripping storytelling and compelling characters transcended the occasional misstep. The series stood as a testament to the heights that Chinese period dramas could achieve.

As a conclusion, Judge Dee's Mystery triumphed as an historical detective dramas with its commitment to authenticity, innovative narrative structure and standout performances. After having been treated to a visually stunning experience that solidified the series as a standout in its genre, I have to ask: will there be more to come than these 32 episodes?

Tolerance out the window?

Whatever happened to the virtues of tolerance? In the past few weeks, the country has been mired in farce as a politician-wannabe called on people of his race to boycott a certain mini-market chain on the pretext of the chain having insulted his religion by selling merchandise bearing the name of his god. I'm not saying whether the sale was right or wrong, whether it was intentional or inadvertent, or whether enough should be enough, but I found the whole episode so childish when this unrepentant nobody took his boycott call too far without considering the consequences to the economy and people's well-being. What was even more absurd was the emotional fervour he whipped up, making clueless people cause mischief outside other mini-market chains that had no connection with the original mini-market. Not to mention too the violence he brought on in the wake of his boycott call. 

Nowadays, it takes so little for these politicians to take advantage of situations. These people should be locked up and the keys thrown away, but the government won't do that. So we have this perceived insult and that perceived insult, and people seeing demons when there are none. If a little levelheadedness and common sense had prevailed, we would not have wasted so much time attempting to defend mighty gods who don't require any defence at all. I mean, who are we to defend an impregnable god? If one's personal faith is steadfast enough, this incident should be like water off a duck's back.

Brain tumour symptoms

How coincidental it was for me to discover this image on facebook some days ago! 

Although it is part of a series of sponsored information from a leading private hospital in Penang, the message is important enough for me to share around. 

In recent weeks, I've a close friend - we've known one another since our primary school days - who had undergone a risky operation to remove a tumour in his brain. 

Some of his symptoms were identical to those shown: headaches and visual disturbances. He underwent an MRI scan that confirmed the tumour and necessitated an immediate removal. My friend is now in rehabilitation and undergoing therapy.

Berbuka puasa

Together with a few friends from the Nandaka Vihara, we attended a Buka Puasa function in Kampong Pisang here in Cherok Tokun. Also present at the function was the state assemblyman for Machang Bubok, Lee Kkai Loon. Earlier, the Nandaka Vihara had presented some RM5,000 worth of essential food stuff to the villagers. It was interesting to note that the Penghulu had urged the villagers to put the disruptive socks incident behind them and move along.

Unimpressed

What is real and what is fake? Netflix's 3 Body Problem had a brilliant portrayal of the Cultural Revolution which enveloped China for many years from 1966, but beyond that, the eight-episode series felt damp. I forced myself to finish watching the first episode but I doubt that I'll be watching the rest of the series. 

Khoo Tiong Poh's grave

This being the Cheng Beng season, I thought that it is appropriate for me to say something about a solitary grave which sits on a piece of private ground on the island. 

Now, if one is a frequent customer of The Gardens Banana Leaf Restaurant along Free School Road, I would believe that sooner or later one will discover that this restaurant is located next to a grave. A big grave, actually. An old but big grave. Just one grave, but it is big. and old. Dating back to 1892, which makes it 132 years old in 2024. The inscription on the head stone, however, is all in Chinese characters and for a very long time, I was wondering who was buried here. But its immense size could only mean that the occupant must have been someone rich and perhaps influential. And he was indeed rich and influential.

Khoo Tiong Poh (b 1830, d 1892) was a prominent business and social figure in mid- to late-19th century Penang and Singapore, as detailed in this book, Biographical Dictionary of Mercantile Personalities of Penang. He founded Bun Hin & Co (萬興公司), a leading shipping enterprise in the Straits Settlements. His ventures extended to trading, planting, revenue farming and tin mining. In Penang, he made substantial contributions to the two largest Hokkien cemeteries, namely, the Batu Lanchang and Batu Gantong cemeteries. Khoo Tiong Poh had three wives, from whom he had eight sons and four daughters. He passed away in Singapore, with his burial in Penang marking his legacy. His estate, including businesses and properties, underwent liquidation posthumously due to financial challenges and familial disputes, leaving only his grave as a final reminder of his life. No image of Khoo Tiong Poh is available in the public domain.

These pictures of Khoo Tiong Poh's grave were taken in January this year. The main entrance into the site is from the Free School Road roundabout, which one has to navigate slowly in order to notice it. Otherwise, come enjoy a meal of vegetarian banana leaf rice at The Gardens and then take a walk through the restaurant to the grave.

CPR and AED

Sudden cardiac arrest, according to Dr Goh Eng Leong, a cardiologist from Loh Guan Lye Hospital in Penang, can strike at anyone at any place and at any time. Chilling statement but it is true, if newspaper reports are anything to go by. He spoke at a a sharing session to some 50 people at the Nandaka Vihara Meditattion Society who later underwent training on CPR and the use of AED equipment. I couldn't attend the training but I lingered long enough at the Nandaka Vihara to hear everything that Goh said. Maybe one day, I shall get the opportunity to attend a similar training.

Sri Lanka: Day 4 (Nuwara Eliya)

The first thought when I awoke the next morning at Pensive Villa in Nuwara Eliya, a hill station in Sri Lanka, was whether I could watch the sun rise. We had slept rather late, having arrived from Kandy at about one o'clock in the morning and consuming our late night dinner before retiring. Looking out the window of our room, I uttered an "uh-oh" as the day was already breaking. But there was a saving grace. Right ahead of me was a reddening sky, which meant that the sun was not quite up yet. The reddish sky afforded me a perfect photo opportunity from the comfort of the room. I glanced at my Whatsapp messages and saw a picture from Bhante Aranagavesi. It was of the temperature in Nuwara Eliya and it registered 12 Celsius, I checked the temperature on my own mobile and it said nine Celsius! Twelve Celsius, nine Celsius. Which was correct, which was incorrect? These online temperature gauges couldn't be all too accurate, can they? This discrepancy made me question their accuracy. Nevertheless, the place was very cold by Penang's standards. By this time, my fellow travellers had started to stir from their rooms. Some chose to remain indoors in the living room but some of us ventured outdoors into the garden. Before long, however, all of us had crept indoors for breakfast.

Nuwara Eliya, nestled in Sri Lanka's Central Province, is renowned for its elevated position of 1,868 metres, earning it the title "City on the Plain" or "City of Light." This picturesque locale boasts a cool, temperate climate, making it the heart of Sri Lanka's tea production. Pidurutalagala, the island's tallest peak, watches over this city. Founded in 1846 by Samuel Baker, Nuwara Eliya became a haven for British civil servants and planters, earning the moniker "Little England." Its colonial past is evident in structures like Queen's Cottage and the Grand Hotel, and landmarks such as the Hill Club and St Andrew's Hotel. The city's allure extends to activities like fox hunting, polo and cricket, reminiscent of British leisure pursuits. Today, Nuwara Eliya's colonial charm persists with many buildings maintaining their historic features. The city's lush English-style gardens and estates add to its timeless appeal, making Nuwara Eliya a captivating destination steeped in history and natural beauty.

On Day Four of our Sri Lanka trip, we deviated from our usual visits to Buddhist temples and embarked on a day trip around Nuwara Eliya. Our first stop was at Simply Strawberries by Jagro, a charming strawberry cafe nestled in a picturesque setting reminiscent of New Zealand's countryside, minus the sheep. We indulged in delightful combinations of plump, juicy strawberries paired with ice cream, chocolate, cream and waffles. It was also where I savoured my first local latte coffee, four days into our Sri Lankan adventure. Interestingly, the coffee culture here seemed relatively subdued compared to what I had experienced elsewhere.

From the Café, we hopped on next to the Ambewela Farm, a journey that promised a glimpse into Sri Lanka's dairy industry. Before our bus and other vehicles could venture onto the long, windy road to the farm, there was the peculiar sanitisation process of wheels, ensuring biosecurity measures were adhered to. But why only wheels when all passengers had also stepped on all types of soil prior to entering the farm's facilities? Can't quite understand. As we meandered along, we passed by the Nuwara Eliya railway station and crossed the rail tracks. The nearby lake glistened under the sun. Arriving at the farm, vast pasturelands stretched as far as the eye could see. We were directed to a showcase shed to observe the cows. While most cows were at rest or chewing on straw, we encountered a few in the midst of calving. Although the birthing process extended beyond our stay, the experience served as a poignant reminder of the circle of life. 

All too soon, we had to bid farewell to Ambewela Farm. There was a long journey ahead of us. From Nuwara Eliya, the journey to Piliyandala would take at least six hours of non-stop travel but in all likelihood, I expected the bus to make several stops along the way. thereby prolonging the journey. This wasn't something everyone was looking forward to, but the uncomfortable journey had to be endured one way or another. True to expectations, there was a detour to the Damro Labookellie Tea Lounge. The name itself gave a hint of what we were searching for: Sri Lanka's celebrated Ceylon tea. The Damro Labookellie Tea Lounge was nestled amidst the scenic tea plantations of Labookellie. It offered a serene setting for visitors to indulge in the rich flavours of Ceylon tea such as traditional black teas, green teas and specialty blends unique to the region. We didn't have the luxury to truly unwind in the lounge or to sample the various types of tea because of time constraints but nevertheless, we still enjoyed a fresh cuppa before we went on our way, laden with our purchases.

There was a peculiar incident that happened on our way down from the Tea Lounge. At one stage of the journey, the road took on many twists and turns down the mountain. At one point, we noticed a man running beside the bus trying to sell us some flowers. Of course, nobody was interested and the bus sped away from him. But as the bus turned around the next bend, there was the man again, running beside the vehicle and thrusting the flower stalks against a window. The bus sped away again but yet at the next turn, there he was again running beside the bus with his flowers. This happened many times and we finally discovered how he took shortcuts down the mountain slopes to end up ahead of the bus as it negotiated the bends. But finally, the bends ended and we saw the last of this fellow. We wondered whether he dis this sort of thing every day for a living. It was dangerous but I wouldn't be surprised if the answer was a yes. He had the perseverance but probably not the brains. I mean, who would stop the bus just to buy flowers from him, huh?

Our last stop was quite unexpected. The bus driver pulled up at the side of the road. It seemed that the brake pads were overheating because he was stepping on the brakes while driving downhills. So we had to wait for some 30 minutes to let the brake pads cool down somewhat. In the meantime, we paid an adhoc visit to a small and very basic cafe connected to the Thanuja Hostel. Ordered some cakes there to while away the time. Up on the hill was a Hanuman (or Monkey God) temple but we didn't choose to go there. We were more concerned with hopping onto the bus again to continue with the journey.

Much of the latter part of the journey towards Piliyandala, which was a district in Sri Lanka's capital city of Colombo, was done in the dark. Normally quite a boring journey but at least, I was able to amuse myself by looking into the doorways of houses along the route. My intention was to see as much as possible of the home lives of the Sri Lankan people. Firstly, there are some households that do not keep their front doors closed before midnight. I do assume that they do lock up their houses before retiring. Secondly, most houses have lights in their porch area or outside the front door, although they were very dimly lit. Thirdly, the windows are largely closed up by nighttime. And finally, wherever i could see through the doorways, I hardly saw anyone in the living rooms. Perhaps they had retired to their bedrooms or moved further indoors. 

Finally close to midnight, we arrived at the Grand 7 Hotel & Restaurant, where much to our surprise, we found the hotel's kitchen still open. And the bigger surprise was that we were served a full dinner with all the works. The kitchen staff were still on duty to wait on us. We felt guilty that we were unable to finish all the food before us. Such a heavy meal at this time of the night. How could we hope to finish the food and then go to bed? Anyway, we were thankful for the big rooms and the comfortable beds to lay our heads. Tomorrow, in Piliyandala, another day of journeying would await us.

View of Pensive Villa from the road

These views were taken outside the Simply Strawberries Cafe

Strawberries picked fresh, plus fresh cream plus chocolate. What a morning treat!

My first cup of latte coffee in Sri Lanka, and it was almost my last too

At the entrance into the vast grounds of the Ambewela Farm

The railway station is some eight kilometres from the Nuwara Eliya town centre

These were cattle at rest, not being milked, although at least two were in the process of calving

On our way to enjoy the beverage at the Tea Lounge

Okay, here we are, jawing over a cup of tea

Tea for all occasions. the place wasn't as empty as it looked in this picture

There's this fellow who ran down the road beside the bus. Dangerous stunt.

In my mind, this is a small Hindu temple in the middle of no-where

Only a roadside Hindu shrine. The main Hanuman temple was further up the slope

A typical provision shop