I was born and bred in Taiping, Perak. It's a quaint little town, with everything that you could possibly need, 20 years ago, while I was growing up. There were a cinemas to go to although the blockbusters took its time to get there. There were also a few supermarkets around town, although you can forget about getting the latest fashion. Those days, one was considered fashionable if one wore 'Applemints' jeans and if you were my mom's age, 'Dolly'.
Food was pretty good, cheap too. But you need to know where to go because the best places are often hidden. My parents weren't into eating out so I grew up not knowing nor appreciating the great food in Taiping. It was not until I was much older, when my friends got their motorcycle licences that I was introduced to some of the gems. Sad part was, during that time, I didn't have much money nor appreciation for food, so eating out was more of social indulgence for me instead of a gastronomic one.
I left Taiping to further my studies, as did my older siblings. Although I came back to Malaysia after my tertiary education, lack of career opportunities saw me and my husband settling down in the capital city instead.
Eventually, my parents sold off their house in Taiping and came down to join us. They now live nearby. So now there's no reason for me to go back to Taiping any more. The last time we went back was when we drove my mum back to exercise her right to vote, on 18 March 2008. My mum stayed with her friend and we stayed in a hotel.
That night, I stayed up till 2am to watch the unfolding of history, when the Opposition Party took hold of 5 states in the country. I remember going to sleep not totally comprehending what the future entailed.
The next morning, we went out for breakfast and the mood in town was one of cautious optimism. There was a quiet hope in the air. People wanted to believe that the future is going to be better and brighter with a new government.
But that was one year ago. The endless politicking and bickering has worn me out. I can only say that I'm glad I don't live in Perak anymore.
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We had good memories of Taiping. Visited last year. Love Taiping Zoo and the Lake gardens. The food... as you said, we don't know where to find good ones.. the shopping mall.... only go in to buy mineral water.
ReplyDeleteThe best thing about Taiping is its serenity I think. Nothing beats a walk around the Lake Gardens in the cool of the evening.
ReplyDeleteTaiping, no shopping malls lah! Just supermarkets and hypermarkets!