Two years is a long time by any measure, longer for a quietly vanishing place like Kampong Kuala Suai. Though the surroundings feels the same and warmly familiar, the abandoned houses looked more wretched, the place slightly more empty and lifeless. Tok Usu, the oldest crocodile Shaman we knew, had passed on, August 2010 to be exact. Most of his relations had moved to either Kpg Muhibbah, Kuala Baram; Sepupok near Niah and as far as Bintulu. Surprised that Pak Yusof Gayu didn't mention this to us. There are also less young people about. Only Azman our boatman, nephew of Tok Usu, and family are still staying put in the kampong. He's carrying on with the fishing, making daily trips to Suai Bridge as and when necessary.
Abang Rahim is still there, he sorted out all the necessary to make our weekend stay at the kampong possible. He still remembered our fondess for his salted fish. We gobbled it up like biscuits on our last visit, so this time he made four generous portions for us to bring back to Miri. We finally met with Pak Adeni, the official Ketua Kampong as we were leaving Suai Bridge by boat the evening before. We stayed at his guesthouse and had the pleasure of the company of his family for a scrumptious breakfast the next day. We were supposed to have waited for him that morning for more chit-chat, but had to leave before his arrival. We only crossed path halfway Sg Suai on our return trip. Quiet places, tranquil and serene tend to stay that way as they have always been; only the folks slipping in and out as destined.
Words and images by Nazeri Abghani
1 comment:
U managed to capture the beauty of the Suai Beach! Even the driftwood looks exquisite....
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