I am attracted to old architecture. Many Catholic churches from the turn of the century incorporate neo-Gothic design with tall spires and ample windows and vents for an airy interior.
Asus Zenfone 3, ISO 50, f2 , 1/1100 sec.
Where is Kampung Hakka Mantin? Map and directions at MyCen Maps: http://www.mycen.my/kampung-hakka-mantin/
#streetphototography #mantin #village #hakka #urbex #abandoned #dilapidated #documentary #church #windows #architecture
Since I was at the Petronas Twin Towers, I went for a walk at KLCC Park after I finished my business. Wonderful to be able to enjoy the sunset and changing hues of the sky.
On the way back, I stumbled upon a Malay family breaking fast at one corner of the park.
Naturally, I asked permission to photograph them. I explained that it is a rare and blessed moment to have culture, architecture and a dusk sky so beautifully juxtaposed. The Azri Family graciously agreed.
Not only that, they kept insisting I join them by offering me whatever food they brought along. I am truly touched by their generosity, hospitality and friendship towards a stranger (and fellow Malaysian).
Am also glad I was successful in capturing them as they really were: humble, jovial and very warm people.
We chatted and Mrs Azri said they are looking forward to go back to their kampung in Rembau for the holiday. There’ll be prayers in the morning followed by a big feast on the first day of Raya.
Here’s wishing the Azri family and everyone a safe drive home and Selamat Hari Raya.
Sony Alpha a7R, ISO 1600, f5.6, 1/60 sec with Sony HVL-F60M fill flash.
The five-foot-way or ‘kaki lima’ is a colonial legacy from the time when front of shops were required by law to have a 5-foot wide walkway. The practical and functional architectural design element lives on in the old shops of Tanjung Malim and many other places.
According to Wikipedia, the requirement was first specified in the Stamford Raffles Town Act of 1822 for Singapore. It applied also to Malaya and Brunei.
I think is quite a brilliant design as the overhanging top floor acts as a shelter or shade for window shoppers. Together with classic columns and arches, the shady walkways appear like a long tunnel or corridor to the camera.
Saw this girl gulping milk on the five-foot-way from afar. When I got near, I found out her parents are trading in one of the shops. I asked her father if it is normal to drink milk so fast and furious. He said is normal. Gulps.
Anyway, I like how she multi-tasked by posing, smiling and drinking at the same time.
Happy Mother’s Day, all.
Sony Alpha a7R, ISO 200, f4, 1/250 sec.
During the few days I spent at Kuala Kubu Bharu, I asked the town folk as to which is the most famous institution. Famous, as in well-known to stopover visitors, tourists and outsiders.
The answer, invariably, is always Teng Wun the Hainanese cake shop. Cakes are not the main magnet of the shop, though. It is their kaya (coconut egg jam) puffs; allegedly the world’s most awesome. The world here, means the handful of countries that sell this unique pastry.
Since I’m leaving town, I went there to buy some kaya puffs as edible souvenirs. Before stepping in, I was already enthralled by the facade. The shop front looks like the painted backdrop hanging on a Chinese opera stage. Except for that damn bicycle, of course.
The classic design is similar to that of many shops from days of old. Brutal but quick tooth-extraction shops, photo studios, gents tailors and traditional hemorrhoids (piles or buasir) busters; to name a few. I have seen the remains of similar shop-front designs at many other small towns.
Some were modernised beyond recognition while many others were left abandoned to become decaying relics from a bygone era. This one not only looks pristine but smells nice too.
Sony Alpha a7R, ISO 800, f9, 1/60 sec.
