Camping in Kenong – Part 1 of 4

The faithful day of 31st August 2007 finally crawled on to my calendar. I have waited in full anticipation for the wee hours to draw closer. I was chuckling in excitement as I lay my clothes on the blue carpet in my room. It was 2am and I was still packing. “I don’t think I should sleep” I thought to myself. The truth was, I don’t think I can sleep, I was perpetually excruciating, waiting to begin my journey.

Soon I arrived at the waiting point. My patience was tested again. Along with my 2 car pooling mate, we were waiting for a late comer. I didn’t wear a watch but I was told, it was 5am. We were expected to gather with the rest of the group at 5:30am. I retained a continuous joy and accepted this ambivalence in spite of the obvious state, we were late. The drive finally began and I got acquainted with complete strangers in the car. I must admit that although the thought of spending 3 days in the wild with unknown people was exciting, it was quite daunting too. My first encounter with my car pooling mate was pleasant. We exchanged our courteous introduction. It was indeed memorable experience for me, seeing the unspoken friendship bonding.

The journey to Kuala Lipis took us approximately 3 hours. We arrived hungry. Breakfast was served in the typical Malaysian style, at a stretched of food stalls.

Then, we adjourned to Appu’s Guest House. Excitement was mounting by the minute as I climbed the flight of stairs. The steps wasn’t sparkling with opulence but instead it appeared antique. The humble looking wooden planks invited me in.

The Guest House’s friendliness may have given an indecent impression to passer by, hence the need of this signage imprinted on the steps.

Translation : Please remove your shoes here
Translation: Caution. Beware. This is not a prostitution home. Dare to ask, dare to accept the consequences

I sat admiring the surroundings.

The atmosphere in the house was enchanting but yet informative.

Time wasn’t an essence for me as I didn’t keep track of it. Initially days before Independence Day, I was feeling rather blue as I know I will be missing the sight of the yearly parade on tv. What I witnessed was even better.

The Merdeka (Independence) spirit of the small town residents were quite prominent. The street was flooded with colourful flags and the band was marching.