Selangor

The Sun: Circumstances of pomp

Published in THE SUN, Malaysia 15th January 2010:

To read this article, click here: The Sun, Abiding Times. Jan 2010

by PZ and Tunku ‘Abidin Muhriz (in his weekly column Abiding Times).

Village Visit

During Ramadan (fasting month), many Muslims actively participate in charities (alms giving) for the poor, known as zakat – one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Frog and I were blessed to participate in visiting one such village (kampung in Malay) organized by Raja Zarina (Mama PZ). Together with the Religious department of Selangor, we went up one fine morning to Kampung Desa Kasih in Tanjung Karang, 2 hours drive from KL, and were warmly greeted by the villagers.

With Kampung Desa Kasih in Tanjung Karang, Selangor

It was my second visit and it was truly heart-warming as many of the mak ciks (old ladies) remembered me from last time. Mother gave a lovely speech and Frog was much appreciated for he practiced his Malay – much to the astonishment and giggles of the villagers – greeting them and even cracking jokes!

As the villagers’ names were called out, we handed them each a large sack of rice and a huge bag filled with lots of food essentials such as chicken, milk, beans, juice, flour, sugar etc. They seemed touched, and it was amazing how strong the mak ciks were at 78 years old, carrying kilos of food as if it weighed nothing.

It was a joyous occasion to be with the kampung. Insy’Allah, we look forward to being back next year!

PZ.

With Pejabat Ugama (Selangor Religious Dept)

Royal Malaysian Navy Launch

23rd July 2009 marked a very special day for me and Frog. The day I launched and named – as Lady Sponsor according to Navy tradition – the 6th and last patrol vessel for the Royal Malaysian Navy, KD SELANGOR. (KD = Kapal DiRaja similar to Britain’s HMS Her Majesty’s Ship.)

The Royal Malaysian Navy has the largest fleet in South East Asia and is also considered one of the more technologically advanced. The Sultan of Selangor is its Captain-in-chief and we were proud to witness the launching of KD Selangor in Lumut, Perak – the country’s main naval base.

As pictures speak a thousand words, I can only say what a humbling experience it was. Thank you to all those who made it such a special and memorable day, to the Royal Malaysian Navy and to Boustead Naval Shipyard. May God bless all those who sail with her.