Memories of Penang Present




Bungalows by the sea shore, beside an ever shallowing Straits of Penang and the larger Andaman Sea.








Bamboos, ferns, any plants with good foliage - they are all treasured in residential gardens
on the island, already getting packed with bland high rises, crowded commuter traffic on its narrow roadways and constructions made on recently reclaimed land.








The classic tiffin carrier, utilised to effectively carry hot luncheons, soups on inner bowls and dessert cakes, originated from both southern China and India. Floral designs were the norm of the day in the 19th and early 20th centuries before the outbreak of World War 2. Above, a heritage enamel version that has not resisted some rusting but which has seen more than its fair share of Straits Chinese dishes.








Above, taking a ride in the trishaw, which was once ubiquitous in most of South-east Asia, China and India.

The Georgetown version ( rambling along a Chinatown street with an umbrella for its rider) were used for short trips carrying groceries, prostitutes and schoolchildren. Now mainly treasured by foreign tourists, each vehicle provides a comfy leg parking area and reasonable cushions for tired bums. Think of it as a forerunner of today's business class seat on an aircraft, except that passengers are still firmly moving on the ground.








Fish ready for spice condiment stuffing, deep frying or steaming at a restaurant in Paya Terubong, near the central foothills of Penang Island.








A well preserved dark blue kaya (coconut-based egg jam) steamer (above).

The psychology of bargaining for tourists and locals alike at the
Batu Ferringhi night markets (below) near the beach hotel strip.






















Above, two types of favourite coffee choices at the typical Georgetown coffee shops, popular anytime for breakfasts, snacks, lunches and suppers - the thick black version (background) and the ice milk coffee mix (foreground).










Live terrapins on offer at a Saturday market - I was not sure whether they were bought to be symbolically released at temple ponds or for some other purpose.

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