Stone Kiln Roast Chicken in Segamat

One of the thrills of a driving tour is stumbling upon an unconventional meal in the least expected of places. I still remember our Kelantan trip back in October 2016, when one evening we set our hearts on dining at the Kampung Kulim Restaurant, famed for its signature Coconut Shell Fire Roast Chicken ((Read here). Finding it, however, turned into an adventure of its own - after several wrong turns and countless checks, we finally tracked it down, and the reward was worth every effort.

Fast forward to 26.05.2024: after checking into the VIP Hotel in Segamat, my wife suggested we try a place she had come across online - “Segamat PG,” a restaurant reputed for its stone kiln roast chicken (瓮窑雞). A quick Google search revealed that it was hidden deep within an oil palm plantation, some 18 Km away from town.

With no familiar landmarks to guide us, we relied entirely on Google Maps. When we reached what was supposed to be the destination, there was no restaurant in sight - just a junction with several unmarked tracks leading into the plantation. After some trial and error (two dead ends included), we finally decided to follow the only sealed road. To our relief, that choice proved right: the narrow road eventually opened up to reveal the restaurant tucked away in the heart of the plantation.

The proprietor was certainly ingenious in devising such a creative way to market their signature roast chicken. The concept bears some resemblance to the familiar tandoori chicken found in Indian restaurants. However, instead of using the traditional clay urn to roast chicken pieces, this outlet went a step further - constructing a custom-made kiln. Built from sturdy stone blocks cemented together with concrete and lined with a metal sheet on the inside, the kiln not only retains heat efficiently but also gives the chicken a distinct smoky aroma and evenly roasted texture. It is a clever blend of traditional inspiration and local innovation, transforming a simple dish into a culinary attraction in its own right.

Once the lid was lifted, we noticed the kiln is lined

with metal sheet

To be honest, after finally trying it, there was nothing particularly exceptional about the taste of the roast chicken itself. What makes the experience memorable, however, is less about the flavor and more about the journey to get there. For tourists and visitors, it is the remoteness of the outlet, coupled with the unusual stone-kiln setup and the theatrics of its preparation, that spark curiosity and turn an ordinary meal into a small adventure.

The outlet also offers fresh fish, caught straight from the large tanks positioned beside the restaurant - a clear sign of how seriously they take freshness. Tempting as it was, we decided to give the fish a miss this time; our appetites were still only half-recovered from the hearty bak kut teh we had indulged in during our late lunch earlier that day.

A Short Driving Tour of Johor, Seremban & Malacca in May 24 - Segamat

The last time we went on a driving tour in West Malaysia with my mother-in-law was back in October 2016 - more than seven years ago (Read here). That journey had taken us through the states of Terengganu and Kelantan.

Earlier this year, when it became known that my sister-in-law in Batu Pahat was planning a trip to China from 22.05.24 to 31.05.24, my wife decided to take the opportunity to fly down to Johor. She wanted to spend a few days with her mother during that period and perhaps fit in a short trip or two around Batu Pahat. Since my mother-in-law, now 93 years old, is no longer likely to embark on long journeys, we planned instead for a modest 4D3N tour covering nearby destinations - Johor, Seremban, and Malacca.

It turned out to be a journey shadowed by reminders of life’s fragility. During the span of just eight days in West Malaysia, I received two sad pieces of news: first, on 27.05.24, the passing of my cousin Ellen’s mother at the age of 84, and two days later, the passing of the mother of one of my CG members, Hyen Siong who lived to the remarkable age of 104. Against this backdrop, our own trip with my mother-in-law carried a bittersweet weight. We could not escape the feeling that this might well be the last time she would be able to join us for an overnight, out-of-town adventure.

Our first stop, on Day 1 (26.05.24), was Segamat. Along the way, we drove through Parit Sulong, Pagoh, Lenga, and Bukit Kepong. My mother-in-law was especially delighted to revisit these small but historic towns - places she had known and remembered fondly from decades ago

Day 1 Route.

***************************************************

A trip to Batu Pahat without tasting some of its famous local delicacies would be unthinkable. To start off our Day 1 journey, we stopped for breakfast at Local Aroma Cafe along Jalan Jelewat, Batu Pahat - a cozy spot well known among the locals for its hearty offerings and authentic flavors.

Lontong at the Local Aroma Cafe.

**************************************************

From Batu Pahat to Segamat, we had our first stop at Pagoh for an early lunch at a newly opened coffee shop, Ang Xiang Kopitiam.

***************************************************

Not long after passing through Lenga, I came across a rather picturesque little park located right by the main road and along the banks of the Muar River. It is called Taman Rekreasi Lim Pei Tiam.

The park was the brainchild of Lim Pei Tiam, a native son of Lenga who later moved to Kuala Lumpur to build his career. Rising to success as a banker and eventually serving as a director of numerous companies, he never forgot his roots. A plaque at the park describes him as a man of “endless and deep affection” for his hometown, someone who has continuously devoted himself to its well-being despite his achievements elsewhere.

As a gift to the community, he donated RM500,000 to transform a 500 m stretch of the Muar Riverbank into this leisure park, complete with footpaths and sports facilities. It now provides a welcoming space for residents to walk, exercise, and enjoy nature - contributing to both their health and quality of life.

It is not often that one encounters such a strong sense of pride in humble origins, especially from someone who has found success on a larger stage. Lim Pei Tiam’s gesture in creating this park stands as a truly commendable act of generosity and love for his hometown, leaving a lasting legacy for both the community and its visitors.

***************************************************

Before checking into our hotel (VIP Hotel) in Segamat, we stopped for a late lunch at a well-known bak kut teh shop - Teo’s Bak Kut Teh along Jalan Sultan, overlooking the Segamat River. Though the dishes are a little on the pricier side, the portions more than make up for it. The steaming claypot was brimming with large, tender chunks of meat, accompanied by generous servings of taufupok, enoki mushrooms, and fu chok. What makes Teo’s stand out is its option of yam rice, served alongside the usual white rice - a hearty twist not often found in typical bak kut teh outlets.

Even close to 2 p.m., the place was still bustling with customers. Judging from the crowd, I had the impression that many were not locals but travelers in transit or visitors making it a point to stop by this popular eatery while in Segamat.

Another Short Visit to Keluang

On 24.05.2024, which was Day 2 after our arrival in BP, we visited the family of my wife’s eldest brother and his wife in Keluang, together with my mother-in-law. It was heartwarming to see them again - they have not changed much since our last meeting in October 2022 during the Lim family’s grand reunion outing to Ipoh (Read here).

Upon reaching Keluang, we stopped by Tiong Hwa Restaurant and picked up a few dishes to share over a simple yet meaningful mini reunion lunch.

Like many aging couples in Malaysia, the two of them now live alone in their spacious home. Their daughter, Sophia, is married and residing in the UK, while their son, Tai Tai, is also married and based in KL.

However, there was also some sadness in the air. Tai Tai has been diagnosed with a rare illness that prevents him from working. Our prayer is that he will one day find healing and regain his strength, health, and normal life again.

It was quite amazing to see that the photo display on the TV countertop has remained virtually unchanged since we last saw it in 2008 - some 16 years ago. My daughter Serene’s beautifully framed wedding photo is still proudly displayed there!(Read here).

First Time Adjudication

After becoming an Adjudicator in July 2013 (Read here), I did wonder when would I be asked to take up my first case of adjudication. 

I remember since then, I have been asked to consider taking up adjudication cases at least three times by the Asian International Arbitration Centre (AIAC). Unfortunately, I had to decline because of work commitments or imminent overseas travels.

Finally on 16 February 2024, I was appointed to take up my very first case of adjudication, that's after more than ten and a half years since July 2013. As the saying goes: "It's better late than never". This is another milestone achieved!

I am pleased of the outcome and I believe I have reached my decision based on utmost diligence, impartiality and independence to resolve the case.

Reunion Breakfast at the Jesselton Twin Towers

Since 2022, one of the former badminton kaki who migrated to Canada, Lo Vun Kai was noted to come back to visit Sabah in yearly basis.

In October 2022 when he came back with his wife, we had dim sum at Lok Tien Dim Sum (Read here). 

In 2023, he came back together with his children's families. We did not manage to have a gathering probably because he was too tied up with travelling with the rest of the family members all over Sabah.

In December 2023, he whatsApp me to inform that he would be back again to KK in April or May 2024. He came back in April 2024 and asked me to organize another reunion of the former badminton kaki.

This time, I decided to meet at the newly opened Canton Lane @ Jesselton Twin Towers. It turned out that this was the first time eating at this outlet for all of us.

Dim Sum at Canton Lane @ Jesselton Twin-Towers
on 29.04.2024

**********************************************

In actual fact, It was my second visit to the Twin Towers. I did visit this Twin Towers before on 4 November 2023. That was a Technical Visit organized by the Institution of Engineers Sabah. That visit was about four months before the Occupation Certificate was issued for the building on 12 March 2024 by DBKK.

The Twin Towers with 56 storeys now is acclaimed as the highest building in the Borneo island. Residents at the upper floors have spectacular view of the surrounding.

The Jesselton Condominium at a short distance to the north is a mere dwarf when compared to this mega tall building. Taman Kim Leng at the north where I once stayed is fully "exposed" to the residents' view residing at the northern face.

City Mall Shopping Centre is visible at the south.

Now, even the private residence of the former Chief Minister of Sabah, Datuk Pairin is not spared (At lower right hand corner). His house is now under full view of some of the Tower's residents!

Taken with long time friend, Ir. Heng Aik Sin

at the Roof Top of the Twin-Towers.

Stingless Bees Farming at Our Backyard

Our plan to set up stingless bees hives at our backyard finally materialized on 25.04.2024 after we brought back two units of the bee huts all the way from a kampong farm in Beaufort. The plan to acquire the hives was mooted soon after we joined the "Nature's Little Buzzers Educational Tour" at Shangi-lah Rasa Ria Hotel together with Sam's family in March this year (Read here).

With the contractor currently doing some repair work in our house, it was perfect timing to get him to help to set up the poles and platforms to hold up the bee hives.

It's no small feat to transport these hives all the way from their original habitat to our backyard. Beside travelling 100Km to the farm, we spent another four hours from the time of our arrival at 2.30pm until 6.30pm just to wait for the bees to return back to their bee hives at sunset. Inside the car, the bees had to endure another two and half hours of driving. The bee hives were finally set up under our mango tree just before 10pm.

Talking about stingless bees farming, the seller of the bee hives told us that at one time he had two hundred units of bee hives. Initially, he was able to sell a bottle of 150ml capacity for RM150. Over the years, the price dropped to RM100 and now at RM60. According to him, too many people are now into stingless bees farming. He had decided to stop this business and disposed off most the hives. We bought two of the last three bee hives which he still possesses. 

In fact, this farmer who becomes a bee hives seller had not been harvesting the honey for the last two years. Because of that, we are the beneficiary of the bee hives with all the pots filled with honey!

Unlike the seller, we are green horn hobby farmers of stingless bees who are unsure of the success or failure of this endeavour.

So far, the bees appear to have settled down well and are going on with their routine as if in their original habitat! We are keeping our fingers crossed!

The Sofa Story

Our sofa has been one of the most enduring pieces of furniture in our home, quietly witnessing the growth of our grandchildren over the past ten years - though only during their visits back to see us.

What amused us most was how that sofa became their favorite spot, especially when they were glued to the screen watching Peppa Pig, the preschool animated series that captivated them without fail.

During their recent short holiday at Grandpa and Grandma’s home, Olivia and Maddie were given some TV time by their parents. Needless to say, they seized the opportunity and enjoyed every minute of this rare luxury. On some days, they were even treated to an extra bonus - extended viewing time!

Children truly grow up at lightning speed. In what feels like the blink of an eye, they transition from infants to toddlers, then preschoolers, primary schoolers, and before long, high schoolers. If the sofa could speak, perhaps it too would let out a wistful sigh, having silently kept their laughter, chatter, and growing-up moments within its embrace.

Olivia & Maddie in March 2024.

Latest in March 2024.

**************************************************

Nathan was 2 years old in January 2013.

Nathan was 3 years old in January 2014.

Nathan was 3 years old in January 2014.

Nathan & Gracie in January 2014.

Gracie was 4 1/2 years old in January 2018.

Gracie & Olivia in January 2018.

Olivia or Livvie was under 2 years old in October 2018.

Maddie at 2 years plus old in August 2022.

Story Studio in VIR

It is now customary for our grandchildren to set up Story Studio whenever they have the opportunity to meet up with their grandparents.

On the second night of our stay at Shangri-La Rasa Ria, our imaginative granddaughter, Olivia came to our room with her sister, Maddie and said, "We are going to have Story Studio tonight in VIR." Asked, "What is VIR?" She instantly replied, it's "Very Important Room". 

Since the last Story Studio just over four months ago (Read here), Maddie has improved her story telling skill with increased confidence and creativity. She loves chain story and was spontaneous to keep the chain story continuous and unbroken. She too loves to be the first to say "The End" when the story line turns too way out of line :)

Olivia took great pains and drew a picture for this story telling session. For the presenters, she inserted, "Olivia & may be Maddie". In the end, Maddie proved to her sister that she is not a "may be" but a "sure can". Maddie was an active participant from the beginning all the way to the end! Bravo!

Happy Times in Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort

Shangri-La Rasa Ria Resort is indeed a good hideout for families to relax and chill out. My two granddaughters were particularly happy to stay at the Deluxe Family Room because of the Bunk Bed provided. Ever since Olivia spent two nights sleeping in bunk bed at "The Cottage" holiday home at Lake Clifton, WA (Read here), she has been looking forward to have another chance to sleep in bunk bed again. For that, we made special effort to make sure that the Family Room we booked did indeed have such facility. Once she saw the bunk bed, she was overjoyed!

This Resort is children-friendly with numerous facilities and amenities provided for children. Olivia and Maddie loved the children pool, enjoyed the children playground and spent some time making bracelet at the Cool Zone Kids Club.

**************************************************

**************************************************

Nearby hotel car park was full throughout our stay. we had no choice but to park our car at quite a distance from the Hotel Main Lobby. Maddie and Olivia loved to be ferried by the cart whenever we needed to use our car.

***************************************************

This Hotel has special significance because it's here that Paul tied the knot with Junshi more than eight years ago on 4 July 2015 (Read here).

Surprisingly, the wedding pavilion where the wedding
was held has changed little after eight and half years!

The Wedding Reception Venue after more than
eight years! 

One of the assets of this hotel is the huge expense of sandy seafront that customers can spend hours walking, sitting at the lounge chairs doing nothing but just enjoying the ambience and the sunset. For the more adventurous, it can be a dip in the sea or doing kayaking under supervision.

*************************************************

Interestingly, Sam who got married just two months earlier on 1 May 2015 (Read here) are now blessed with two lovely girls.

**************************************************

Buffet breakfast at the open restaurant was fun but "annoying" at times. Hundreds of little birds flogged the area hoping to pick up bits and crumbs of food left on plates on the tables.