Trip - Taiping Sepatang Tour

Hi Blog,

This weekend, I will be travelling again! Many people have commented that I treat the airport like my second home. I understand they are teasing me, but it's not a pleasant feeling, and I need to learn how to manage it. My elder brother wants to organise another big family trip to Penang, and our itinerary will be managed by a tour guide. Previously, he had taken my aunts and uncles to Genting Highlands Day 1 & 2, and KL Day 3 & 4 (2024).

I will be staying overnight at my elder brother's house so that we can grab a meal together with my aunties.

I hope this trip will be conflict-free and less dramatic, and that we can bond well! Personally, I just wanted to relax during the whole trip. It was a four-day trip, and I will divide this into two long posts about different parts of Malaysia - Taiping and Penang.

I was trying to pack my luggage into a bag and felt like I missed something...

Heading over to my brother's place now, fingers crossed for a smooth and less drama trip!

Yawning... Woke up very early to get onto a scheduled Grab ride and to fetch my auntie. I couldn't believe my brother only slept for like an hour plus, and he claimed he would be alright.

My first drama: I called my aunt to get ready, but I saw only one click on WhatsApp. When our Grab car arrived, I didn't see my aunt. I began to worry as I noticed her unit was dark. I went up, knocked on her door hard, and tried to call her and her daughter for 15 minutes; still no response. I had no choice but to continue our six-seater ride for two passengers to the airport. Money wasted.

My auntie's daughter called me and apologised for oversleeping, and now they are rushing to get a Grab here. Glad they woke up and didn't miss the flight.

I took this chance to finish my previous unfinished blog posts quickly, and I will also write a long one for this trip.

My first time taking Singapore Airlines because I am a poor person; if it weren't for my crazy brother, I doubt I would fly to Penang in SA.

I realised that I neglected to pack an additional day's clothing, so I will likely wear my sleepwear on the final day.

It's a six-seater plane and only two cabin sections - the rich and us.

Let's fly together!

I guess the magic on this plane is this entertainment in front of us, but I could not find an earpiece, so I have to read subtitles.

Goodbye Singapore!

It is uplifting to witness a meaningful rainbow; it serves as a reminder that every storm is followed by a rainbow.

(Credit tour guide) We took one official group photo at the beginning of our tour.

Just 15 of us, and this bus will take us throughout the whole journey.

It had been a long while since we travelled together on a tour bus, or maybe it's just my imagination that we never had one.

Our tour guide, S, will be sharing the culture in Penang and Taiping.

From the bus, looking outside Penang, it looks like Singapore,e but without any public housing, just condominiums.

Despite looking ugly and unlovable, I am who I am. I can't change the way I look, even if I get plastic surgery or become a "gym rat." I don't wish to validate myself through other people's lenses. I just enjoy the moment of being myself.

As I mentioned previously, we wanted to have a four-day Penang trip; however, Penang itself somehow has little to offer for a big group tour. So the tour guide divided our four days into one and a half days in Taiping and the remaining time in Penang. It made me recall my first Penang itinerary in 2016 and how long-winded I was for my blog posts last time. 

Upon our arrival, our first destination was the popular Snake Temple, Tokong Ular, in Penang. Apologies for any confusion. Although I listed Taiping as my title and Penang for the following day, my intention was simply to maintain the continuity of the journey.

Near the temple, there are many snake-themed stalls.

Based on the tour guide, this temple is quite popular among both locals and tourists.

Some information about the Snake Temple for reference.

More of the history.

Luckily, there was a quiet morning - a lesser crowd.

Observe the intricate details of the dragons and phoenixes; this artwork exemplifies a fusion of skill, sincerity, and respect from the past.

The actual name for this temple is Temple of the Azure Clouds 檳城清雲殿 rather than Snake Temple, but usually the iconic and unique feature tends to be more prominent than the actual name.

A cat was sleeping peacefully on top of the altar.

Check out those snakes here.

The tour guide mentioned that these snakes seldom move around or show aggression towards visitors, but advised against touching them.

This one is Wagler's Pit Viper. Vipers usually have chunkier bodies and triangle-shaped heads, unlike the slimmer, more tapered bodies of most regular snakes. One more interesting fact about Wagler's Pit Vipers do not lay eggs. They are ovoviviparous, which means they give birth to live young.

They have a photo booth session to hold a python for photos and a mini terrarium zone for other snakes and amphibians.

Instead of a dragon, it is a form of a viper. Does anyone want to do an earthworm or caterpillar version? I remember there was a centipede version in a movie.

At the back of the Snake Temple, there is the Shrine Hall of Kuan Yin.

Rather quiet here. In front of the Shrine Hall of Kuan Yin, there is an enclosed garden which is filled with vipers on the trees. They are quite well hidden, as I cannot capture a clear image of them.

Love the Chinese Round Door, which you don't get to see these days.

Funny to see how different layers of people's lives and wealth are all within a picture.

Time to cross Penang Second Link Bridge to Taiping.

Fact about Penang Second Link Bridge: it is 24 km long, making it the longest bridge in Malaysia and Southeast Asia.

(Credit tour guide) Our first early lunch in one of the vegetarian restaurants, and it will become the norm for this trip. Honestly... I don't like to eat in this setting because, as you can see, the number of dishes served is overwhelming. Do you expect the elders to finish it? To top it all off, they have their own preferences. Personally, eating is torture... I feel my upper abdomen bloated and unable to breathe...

One aspect I appreciate about Malaysia is the diversity of environments, ranging from urban areas to plantations.

I couldn't do much and rested by holding my fat tummy.

For our second stop, we went to Kuala Sepatang 十八丁.

It seems like Kuala Sepatang 十八丁 is one of the popular tourist destinations in Malaysia.

A big eagle structure is on a rooftop, watching over the town.

Kuala Sepatang was previously named as Port Weld.

Kuala Sepatang is a coastal fishing town in Perak, Malaysia. I love to swim, but definitely won't swim here.

Even the monitor lizard was wondering why this fat human was standing here.

Some useful tourist map for reference.

Everyone was queuing up to wear a life vest before getting onto the boat. The fee was taken care of, so I don't know how much it was.

A small speedboat brought us around. We had to enter the boat and sit on both sides equally to maintain balance.

(Credit tour guide on the boat) Smile everyone!

What you are looking at is a mangrove forest.

As the boat began to sail, the wind was strong, and it was inevitable that water would splash. It is advisable not to wear a hat, to handle your mobile device carefully, and to avoid feeding the river.

They also forgot about the water splashing onto our glasses.

My mother safely sat in the center of the boat with her cap on.

十八丁 (Kuala Sepetang) gets its name from the transliteration of its Malay name "Sepetang," which means "an afternoon."

At that time, the area was sparsely populated, and people could complete their work in an afternoon, hence the name. Interesting fact.

I heard from the tour guide that each boat has a certain license based on its function and size. For example, a Type A boat is allowed to sail for fishing for a certain period, while a Type C boat, which is bigger, can sail for a longer duration and on wider rivers.

We were sailing along the Reba River, surrounded by houses built along the river bank.

You will spot some tall buildings that are used to harvest birds' nests. Oops! The cloud looked like it was pointing its middle finger to me.

Between the two sides lies the Port Weld Scenic Bridge, which connects the villagers and integrates their lifestyles.

Did you notice the alphabet label on the boat? That indicates its type.

I was just thinking about how I feel if I stayed here.

The tour boat paused midway along the river to provide an explanation of the local residents' daily lives and their methods of harvesting mangrove wood for charcoal production.

This newly built house has a unique design, and it seems to be designated for Airbnb rentals.

They brought us to a wider stream where we could see more interesting things.

It was eagle feeding moment.

The sailor rang a horn, and the eagles started to show up behind us.

It seemed like they were ready to be fed, but not regularly; if not, they would lose their ability to hunt.

The eagles started combing the water, and it was quite a show. For those who sat in the center of the boat, they cannot stand up to move to the side of the boat for a closer look, as it would cause the boat to become unbalanced, so they can only watch.

They actually combed the water to collect the food in order, one by one.

What a show!

I googled a bit, these are Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus), oh man... It is so confusing as there are so many classes. Eagle: The largest of the three, with broad, rounded wings and a large, strong beak. They are powerful predators with strong legs for taking down substantial prey and soaring for long periods. Falcon: Known for speed, with long, pointed wings and sleek bodies. They have a unique beak notch for killing prey and tend to hunt in the air at high speeds. Kite: Medium-sized with long wings and often a distinctive forked tail. They are expert gliders, often hovering while hunting or scavenging for food.

Next, we stopped at a fish farm nearby.

I wondered how life is working in a fish farm.

It seems that the tour highlights in Kuala Sepetang are clearly listed.

Luckily, there is no fishy smell in this fish farm.

They rear horseshoe crabs here.

The archer fish too. I didn't know people eat archer fish.

Even pufferfish. Hmm… I really doubt they keep it as food.

There are some more zones of other fish.

A large group of Red Hybrid Tilapia swarming the surface waiting to be fed.

The tour guide brought out a couple of horseshoe crabs for close contact, and most of my relatives just stayed away. Worrying they will get stabbed by it.

(Credit tour guide) This is my first time handling a horseshoe crab. I have always wanted to hold a living one, and finally today, I got to hold one!

(Credit my cousin) Even the puffer fish, no one dares to hold it because my relatives heard the word 'poison' mentioned by the tour guide and dared not touch it. After I touched it, their expression of disgust and disapproval was loud.

(Credit tour guide) Puffer fish is cuter than this ugly.

We love Kuala Sepetang.

(Credit my brother) I love 十八丁

Kuala Sepetang is more than just a fishing harbour; it is a tranquil town where time seems to have stood still, preserving its traditional lifestyle and environment.

Next location in our itinerary - My Charcoal Factory @ Kuala Sepetang.

Ooo, you could smell the strong burning smell, but not the smoky type.

They also offer charcoal-related products, and I purchased a few, particularly the charcoal vinegar on the left. I was like this is my first time knowing this. It is a natural liquid by-product, produced by condensing the smoke and vapors generated during charcoal production. I have also discovered that it can be utilized as a pesticide and fertilizer, which I am interested in experimenting with. Additionally, it may serve as a household deodorizer and in skincare due to its antibacterial and smoky properties. I tried to spray on my sticky and stinky body, and you know what, I could feel my body wasn't sticky anymore during the whole trip. It is amazing!

I saw another advertisement on the tour in Kuala Sepetang; the firefly tour will be interesting, but isn't included in the itinerary because it has been rainy these days...

Some information about the Khay Hor Holding Charcoal Factory.
The Port Weld Mangrove forest is the largest single mangrove forest in Peninsular Malaysia and is acknowledged as the best managed mangrove forest in the country. The charcoal industry located here is recognised as a national asset and heritage. A charcoal factory and klin hailed as one of the biggest attractions in Matang Mangrove Forest is Khay Hor Holdings established in 1930. Chuah Chow Aun, the owner, is a passionate and active tourism player who is the driving force in promoting charcoal manufacturing as a tourist attraction.

Love this big map which shows a lot of its available attractions. Since Kuala Sepetang is a sleepy town, you can expect this map to last for another 30 years.

This looks like my usual urbex exploration scene. Aww... I missed exploring like this... Too bad, no more in Singapore...

We gathered around to listen to Mr. Chua, who is the 3rd generation to run this factory, and who will be sharing the facts and details about the process of baking mangrove wood.

Oooo, Charcoal oven. I just imagined I am doing urbex here.

I wondered what it looks like inside.

Here it is like the back of the house: raw and unpolished, yet somewhat organised.

(Credit tour guide) Like in your own room, you know where and how to find your own things.

(Credit tour guide) Mr. Chua asked if anyone could try to carry this log, as a few people had tried but could not because they didn't bend their knees before carrying it. Most of the logs will float on water; however, a mangrove wood log will sink due to its high density.

Ooo, I found one empty oven. That won't stop me from explore further.

It is quite dark and warm inside (obviously).

Mr Chua switched on the light so we could see the roof.

What a unique space.

Ooo, another oven beside it was baking. I didn't take a video of it, but you can see the smoke.

The entrance was sealed, leaving only the visible flame. The logs were baked for around 45 days, yielding only 5-10% of their original weight in charcoal.

Our first day itinerary in Taiping finished, and the sky started to storm. I heard Taiping is known for frequent rains, so we considered ourselves fortunate to have had good weather.

Rain!

I am unable to capture a clear photograph of the hotel where we will be staying; our accommodation will be at Novotel for one night.

Interesting ceiling in the lobby.

The street of Taiping.

With a mountain as its backing.

My usual approach involves observing details such as the hotel carpet. I am pleased to note that it is seamless, which aligns with the tour guide's comment that this is one of the more expensive hotels in Taiping.

Quite a standard and clean room.

Clean toilet which is important!

And a fat guy trying to take a selfie to express his emotions positively because the second drama happened in the lobby...

My mother was angry with my aunties over some misunderstanding... That was not a nice experience for everyone... Sigh...

Even though the scene outside the window was beautiful but...

...the drama was unbreathable...

...Especially someone who has a victimised mindset and always thinks they know it all to justify their high level of argument is unbelievable....

Only swimming can get my headache out of my mind.

But... It was raining...

It's a small pool though. I guess I will swim tomorrow morning.

Since I couldn't swim and had to step out for dinner... I guess... I have to try to see what I can do...

Just know that I can't change the situation, I can't change a person entirely, but I can change my mood, even when it is stormy.

After a heavy dinner, we went shopping in the Novotel hotel. It is a sleepy and quiet mall, and I love it.

Then we had our impromptu gathering at the lobby because we got 50% discount for desserts.

My first purchase for the day, black smooth pants and a wristband.

Looking around Taiping. Honestly, there must be some hidden gems here waiting to be discovered, but I don't have a guide for it.

There was something going on there, not sure what that is, and I spotted a UFO! Haha... Anyway, I shall sleep early tonight for tomorrow.

Good morning, Taiping.

Thanks Heaven, the rain had stopped.

Quiet alley to the lift.

I didn't know there was a condensation on my camera lens.

If there is a sunrise behind me, it will be great!

Okay, the water was freezing.

Time to enter the cold pool.

Hmm, should I wait for the sun ray to warm up the water first?

After five minutes, no sun ray...

I endured the freeze for a while and then started swimming.

Good and refreshing swim. Feeling much better now.

Yes, I am just an ugly individual who is getting nowhere...

Sometimes... I wish I had something that I could be proud of.

No look, no bod and no money

Just a plain nerd and I am already old...

I just am myself and enjoy the moment of peace even when my mind is bashing me hard.

Besides eating, my to-do list is rest, map, sleep, and hibernate.

Okay, time to leave Taiping to Penang.

Ensure that I bring everything; I always worry that I might leave something behind.

Good weather for today!

The tour guide told us there were two more places to visit in Taiping, so let's go.

Next stop was Taiping Lake Gardens.

What a beautiful and calm lake.

The morning sun is ideal for jogging. Unfortunately, I do not have control over my schedule; otherwise, I would take the opportunity to jog here.

(Credit tour guide) We were at Raintree Walk, where you can see some of the trees. Some of these trees are several centuries old, and collectively, our ages might approximate that of one of these trees.

(Credit tour guide) The trees in Taiping Lake Gardens tend to bend over towards the lake because the softer soil cannot hold the weight of these massive trees, and they need metal support on the concrete to lift them.

Family photo moment. It was difficult because I got many requests from my relatives and park goers to help them snap photos.

What an art here.

Ah, are you able to see the metal pods to support the tree? From this angle, it looks like the tree is alive.

In Singapore, they will cut down the trees.

But the layers of nature here is so peaceful.

Thanks, nature, for taking me in instead of judging me.

Ooo, a photo frame? I was unable to position my camera to capture the entire scene effectively.

Beautiful scenery

All my aunties were taking a group photo when the third drama kicked off. One of my aunties doesn't like to take photos, so she resisted taking them despite everyone inviting her to join the family photo. In the end, she did it unwillingly due to social pressure, which really spoiled the mood of the trip.

Can see the design here?

Okay, since no one is available to help us with the photos, my camera will do it.

And a last photo for myself.

Last stop in Taiping - visiting Coffee Museum aka AnTong (one of the oldest coffee mills in Malaysia)

I think only coffee lovers will love this place because I can smell the freshly baked coffee aroma here.

I heard the tour guide said Next to the Antong Coffee Mill is the Changchun Pu villa. There is a statue of Dr. Sun Yat Sen who was a Chinese physician, revolutionary, and political philosopher who established the Republic of China and the Kuomintang, leading the 1911 Revolution that overthrew the Qing dynasty. 

The guide started to welcome everyone by introducing the type of coffee, which I won't understand at all. Haha

The long history of AnTong Coffee Mill since 1933.

Not a coffee fan; I don't understand the smell of it. I do love the aroma of coffee, but the taste... I skip it.

So this place has turned into one of the tourist spots which anyone can consider going to in order to learn more about the history and making of coffee in Malaysia. It was quite interesting.

Here, they have still maintained the process of baking coffee beans since 1933; they haven't wanted to industrialise the process.

I heard that one of their oldest staff members, who is still working in this mill, is more than 95 years old. I saw him sitting in a corner, and he seems healthy and mentally well compared to elderly people living in the city.

(Credit auntie) Look at the visitor stickers, the visitors had made this into an artwork. Hope they have spares of this traditional coffee pourer.

Legendary An Tong maybe (right) and with legendary Ah... Who are you (left)? I suspected this one is one of the oldest staff members working in AnTong.

Everyone started to go crazy over buying coffee here, especially since they have the most unique coffee ice cream.

For me, I just moved around for photos!

A culture center exploration where I didn't pay any attention that day.

(Credit my brother) because too focused on photos.

(Credit my brother) I don't know what hand sign this is.

I tried to help my aunties and my mother snap photos together, hoping they wouldn't feel left out.

AnTong 安東

I think that portrait could be An Tong.

Malaysia’s coffee history can trace back to 1779 when the British first introduced the Arabica variety.

At least, they have a visual explanation on how coffee influenced and reached out to the rest of the world. However, most of the aunties took this chilling opportunity to nap.

The fourth drama played out in this store. My elder brother purchased many bags of coffee for his friends, and my mother asked the staff to pack them into a box. However, they secured and tied the box with tape, which my mother found unsatisfactory, so she asked them to secure the box with ropes instead. After a few exchanges of harsh words, my mother started raising her voice to demand the service, saying that if it was not done, she wouldn't pay anything.

I couldn't take the drama and left to look at other areas.

No matter what, I will be struck...

It was my first time visiting Taiping. It was a great learning trip, despite being a sleepy town where time seems to have stood still for many years. If you try to live here for more than a week, you can feel its rich historical influence in its local products. I learned a lot. There is part 2 of our journey to Penang City.

Jeff