Tuesday, April 12, 2022

BABA AHMAD ROAD

CAPTAIN BABA AHMAD JP (Justice of the Peace) 1888 - 1967

Baba Ahmad Road – Off Vale of Tempe, Tanjung Bungah is named after my granddad in appreciation for his service to the people and the country.

Today, few may remember him, and all that he did for the community. Most have long gone, including my father. It is no surprise if the people living on the road, wonder who he was.  

Baba Ahmad served the government, and the people in different capacities under the British administration. His concern for the welfare of the people, especially the under-privileged, and years of dedicated service, earned him the name, 'Grand old man'. 

This accolade was well earned. Over the years, he initiated, and assisted in improvements to their health, living conditions, education, and recreation. These he performed honorably, during his tenure as the Medical Officer, Hospital Assistant, Captain of the former Straits Settlements Volunteer Force, President of the Government Pensioners’ Association, Justice of the Peace, nominated Member of the Rural District Council, Secretary of Penang Muslim Orphanage, and as active member of 20 Sports Clubs, and charitable organizations.


Acknowledged for his exemplary service to the Malay community, people of other races benefited equally.  Age caught up with him, and a minor accident compelled him to retire. Penang lost an irreplaceable son, who was known for his integrity, honesty, and humility. He was to the people, a role model of a caring citizen, a devoted family man, and a dedicated social worker.    

He completed his secondary education at the Penang Anglo-Chinese School. Here was where he became multi-lingual, and learned to write and speak fluently in English, Chinese, in addition to Malay, Hindi, and Tamil.

From 1912 to 1923, he worked as a Medical Officer at the Special Ward for European patients, and local patients, respectively. From 1924, he was appointed the Medical Officer/Hospital Assistant, at the Balik Pulau District Hospital, by the government, under the British administration (photo right).  As hospital administrator, he introduced preventive measures to curtail the spreading of several infectious diseases, that were common to the community. He was very popular with the multi-racial villagers. He persuasively changed their mindsets, to accept treatment via Western medicine.

Picture below (The government house, where he lived).
  

The Second World War came, and Malaya was invaded by Japan. The house became barracks for Japanese soldiers.

During the Japanese occupancy, like most people, life became a living nightmare for him, and his family. He lost everything he owned, and struggled to fend for his family. Food was scarce, and many were undernourished, and starved. People he knew were  taken away, and many disappeared without a trace.  

When war ended, and the British returned to Malaya, he operated a government dispensary at Buckingham Street, in George Town.   

Justice of the Peace 

People frequented his home for advice, favors, signatures, food, money. He helped without gain or reward.

Honored posthumously by the government
An exemplary exhibition of his journals, diaries, photos, records of his achievements and contributions to the community were displayed for public viewing at 
Penang Museum. The words inscribed "Captain Baba Ahmed, JP,  ...respected...dedicated...served the community tirelessly" moved me to tears, but on this day, the tears I shed were of pride and joy. It pleased me to know that he is remembered and honored by the people and the country.  

Below, an excerpt of the eulogy, published by a local newspaper, Straits Echo on 30 March, 1967

‘GRAND OLD MAN’ of Malay community dies.
One of the few remaining grand old men of the Penang Malay community died yesterday.  He was Captain Baba Ahmad bin Ahmed, aged 78.

Capt. Baba Ahmad, who had been suffering from a prolonged illness, succumbed at about noon yesterday at his Jalan Bunga Cempaka home, Bukit Glugor.

A retired Government’s Hospital Assistant, Capt. Baba Ahmad had been in the forefront of the Penang Malay community, having served and associated with numerous Malay bodies.

He retained his commission as Captain of the former Straits Settlements Volunteer Force of which he served as Commanding Officer of the “C” Malay Company in 1931.

Appointed a Justice of the Peace in 1951, the late Capt. Baba Ahmad, served as Secretary of Penang Muslim Orphanage for 5 years since 1945.  

He was President of the Government Pensioners’ Association from 1957 to 1962.  An active sportsman in his younger days, the late Capt. Baba Ahmad, was a member of more than 20 sports clubs, some of which are now defunct.

LAST SERVICE

His last service to the public was as a nominated member of the Rural District Council from 1952 – 1957.  In appreciation of his public services, the Government has named a new road in Tanjong Bungah (off Vale of Tempe Road) after him.”

Tuesday, November 27, 2018

SERVICE TO COMMUNITY

Time moved on so quickly; I now realize my blog has been inactive for quite a while. I must recall this important phase of my life. It was on the day when single mums and orphans strode into our centre; a new experience it was for both. To us, the day was the beginning of a new programme we launched. To the participants, it was a surprise. They learned new skills and knowledge and had a good time. When they left with smiles, tears, hugs and handshakes they conveyed the message of joy and gratitude. It gratified us.

At an early age we were taught to care for our health and make another person happy in the smallest ways that we could; it was the trend in my family. . 



After I left the entertainment world, I delved into experimental study in alternative healthcare for a decade. I put into practice what I learned. It thrilled me to discover people who came to me for help were relieved of symptomatic irregularities by following a simple regemented lifestyle, monitoring their food intake, performing light exercises, etc.   Obesity, stress, insomnia, were my specialty. It gave me unknown joy they benefited. I asked for no payment or favours from anyone.   

A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
With assistance from dedicated volunteers, we established  a non-profit organization

During my 12-year tenure as founder/president, we implemented various community service projects. It was then that I came in close contact with single mothers and orphans.

It surprised me to know many single mums remembered my songs. They were teenagers then, when my TV shows were aired. 


We travelled to various parts of the country to meet 
the people.  We collaborated with 
the government, via its Ministry of Women, Family and 
Community Development and implemented many skills development programmes
MOMENTOUS MOMENTS The smiles, warm handshakes, and embraces,  inspired us in our quest to serve our community.
MANAGING STRESS
(To increase work performance and productivity)
The Ministry in Seremban  sent 40 of its staff members to take part in our introductory programme. Talks, tests, and techniques were passed on by our team. The overwhelming feeback,and   follow-up requests pleased us beyond words.  (video - left)


SELF ENHANCEMENT TECHNIQUES
(To improve physical and mental 
state of mind)

Women were overjoyed to learn simple techniques to maintain themselves and eleminate stress. I gave them simple tips on how to age with grace without resorting to unnatural means while they listened attentively and jotted down notes.
on "Alternative Therapies" 



HOW TO ACHIEVE WEIGHT LOSS IN A SAFE 
AND NATURAL WAY 
Single mothers had scars to heal. They were touched when they learned simple techniques on 
how to sustain themselves, to look good and 
feel good, to increase self esteem.

They were advised that obesity could result in  
health issues. Simple tips and 
hand-outs on how to maintain a healthy 
life-style with proper diet, some home 
remedies and simple exercises, were 
passed on  at the end of each session.

SKILLS DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS
We pioneered various skills development programs for women. 

CREATIVE ART
Most favoured programme was  "Painting on glass". This program was implemented over a period of time, and hundreds from Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Perak, and Seremban, participated. 

My passion for the arts made me pursue painting as a hobby.  Here, I taught women and children techniques on how to paint on glass.

Single mothers were encouraged to cultivate art as a hobby, and income opportunity. They agreed hobbies distracted their minds from life's challenges. and provided opportunities for career and income subsidy. As for orphans, should they fall back in their studies, it could be an income opportunity.

It thrilled us to hear several single mothers secured orders from cafes and restaurants, for decorative vases they created as home industry.

Thereon they passed on the craft to family members and friends.
People of different cultures, religions and ethnicity, mingled freely. We organised competitions between single mothers and orphans, and they turned out beautiful works of art. 

The event was televised. Creative works were exhibited to public, and winners received gifts and monetary rewards. Nestle, Barkath Stores and several companies donated their products to all participants.

ORPHANS
It was upsetting to know that many underprivileged children had never been to the seaside, or attended any such training programme.The day's outing of fun and laughter   gifts,sumptuous meals, and new found friends. would be long remembered. I often wonder where they are today - surely married with kids. They had challenging life, I wish them well.

HOW IT ALL BEGAN

I met the man, who changed my life. We created a business corporation, and implemented varied mass-communications, and community service programmes, info-media projects. We then specialized in documentary film production (link) and publishing.



AN ANTI-DRUG ABUSE ALBUM 
We were the pioneer in Malaysia, to use pop music as a medium to bring awareness on drug abuse. It thrilled me to put my dormant skills in music composition, and singing when I produced the album of I0 emotion packed songs - pro-bono.

The project was produced in collaboration with PEMADAM (the National Anti Drug Agency)via former Minister Datuk Seri Utama Dr. Rais Yatim was the Patron/Adviser of PEMADAM.
10,500 cassettes, and LP albums were presented at no cost, as a gift to the Nation. These were distributed by PEMADAM free to the public. We were over-whelmed by  support from private sectors, who donated the costs for printing the albums and cassettes. 

The songs were regularly  played by all radio stations.Our  anti-drug concept was dramatized on stage by a private entity, to assimilate anti-drug messages to the public.

(Below) A trailer of "Sumpahan Dadah" songs 




A phone call from the office of Tun Dr. Siti Hasmah surprised us. We delivered 10 copies of the album, these were taken by former Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohammad to a major drug-abuse convention in America. 

We featured an anti-drug speech by him,in one of the songs. 



ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
It was an honour that I was acknowledged as the first only female music producer in Malaysia at that time. I believe there are others in Malaysia now. 

EPILOGUE
Overall, I am content to put smiles on the faces of those who touched my life. 

Today, there is yet another initiative to be implemented. I look forward to the day when I can write on my next venture. .


Wednesday, October 18, 2017

PART 2 - CLOSE ENCOUNTER AT BUKIT LARUT (MAXWELL HILL)

The story below is Part 2, a continuation of the earlier post under "Filming in Perak - Part 1". (All pictures featured below are snapshots taken of the film on Perak we produced).

Bukit Larut 
We proceeded to Bukit Larut, only a short distance from Taiping. This is the oldest resort in Malaysia, founded in 1884, and named after William George Maxwell, a British Assistant Resident in Perak. The hill is about 1,250 meters above sea level, and located in the wettest part of Malaysia.

Private vehicles were not allowed within the premise. We left our vehicles at the foot of the hill and took a 30-minute ride in government-owned 4-wheel drives. The 13 kilometers uphill road to Bukit Larut was narrow, steep and winding.
This is a protected area. There were many jungle trails accessible for people to view and explore the National forests with its flora and fauna, numerous species of birds and wildlife. When we approached the hilltop, I observed the place retained much of its colonial charm. But, most of the wooden-structured buildings were not maintained, and some badly neglected.


We stayed at the government-owned Rest House for several days. The weather was cool, breezy and the air fresh cooler during the nights. The clouds passed by the varandah and occasionally right into the hall.

Unusual changes
When we arrived, I spotted a change in one of the girls. We presumed she was home-sick, or upset with someone. When comforted, she confided she could not understand why she was depressed. We adjourned for an early night. The following morning, some complained of restless sleep, unusual dreams and nightmares. I did not have a good sleep either because I often take time to settle-in, especially in new places.

Most memorable 
This was unanimous. The hot spicy chicken curry, mutton curry, vegetables, and fried fish, etc. prepared by the Rest House caretakers were the most delicious meals that we had tasted throughout the duration of our filming. Perhaps it was the environment, or the cold weather that made us exceptionally hungry, that everything we consumed here was truly the "best".

Special props
Many props were created for filming purposes, and one in particular was a campfire scene in the compound, where the girls enjoyed a barbecue, and another lazing by the fireplace.

Close Encounter
Filming continued throughout the duration. Then came the final day. I wanted to enjoy my last evening here walking in the mist, and breathe-in the cool air rather than be cooped up indoors.

Dusk was approaching and no one wanted to follow me, not even my husband, or daughter. They wanted to play some indoor games before dinner was served. I was reassured that it was perfectly safe to be on my own.

I joyously ventured into the woods, and I could feel the cool mists brushing my skin. While walking,  I felt extreme serenity surrounding me. I walked further and further, with no concern for time or where my foot would lead me to. I then noticed from afar, an empty bench overlooking the jungle. I sat down relishing the beauty of nature around me. My eyes were content just soaking in the greenery around me, as I watched the sky slowly changing colours, far across the horizon. The feeling of being surrounded by nature with the mists occasionally clouding my vision was an experience that I had never known before in my life.

Suddenly, I was overtaken by a sudden depression. All kinds of depressive thoughts raced through my mind - of death, and misery, and I began to cry.

Then, behind me from afar, I could hear footsteps of someone shuffling and dragging the feet over dry leaves that dropped on the ground. The footsteps were heading towards my direction. I did not turn around because I assumed that it was my husband's footsteps. I felt silly, and quickly wiped away my tears, as I did not want him to see me crying, for no known reason.

I then realized that the shuffling footsteps sounded more like the footsteps of an old, or sick person, and had just stopped right behind me. I felt a sudden gush of cold wind brushing down the back of my neck and arms. I immediately turned around, and to my utter horror I could see no one. My feet were frozen. I sat rigid, and my mind was blank. It took 5 seconds for me to realize that the situation I was in was REAL -  that something invisible was actually standing right behind me. I jumped out of the bench and ran as fast as I could, occasionally turning my head to see if I was being followed.

I had ventured further than I imagined, and had difficulty finding my way back to the Rest House. I also did not realize that I was away for quite a awhile and my worried husband was searching for me. When he found me, I was in a dumbfounded state. I rushed straight into the Rest House, where all eyes were on me. Everyone looked anxious, as the hot food on the table was beginning to get cold. The following day, the girl confided that her depression was similar to what I felt when I was sitting on the bench.

Would I visit Bukit Larut and walk the same path again - alone? Needless to say, it would be a surprise if I do venture alone again. However honestly, the experience really did me no harm. The reason that I may not visit the place again is that, I now prefer to avoid uphill rides, and winding roads to begin a stress-free holiday, and not for any other reason.

Epilogue
Mysteries of Nature do exist, even though in many instances cannot be proven scientifically. Believe or not to believe, matters of the supernatural  continue to intrigue inquisitive minds. (I've written my views on these topics).

Tuesday, October 17, 2017

FILMING IN PERAK - PART 1

It's been awhile since I wrote my last story. Time flew by, far too quickly. I was occupied with other activities that required my attention. Today, I tell myself that I need to spend some time to myself and continue writing as it's relaxing and helps to sharpen my memory.

I'm now recalling some of my experiences when my husband and I were producing the documentary film for the Perak State Government.

Something interesting and extra-ordinary happened when we were at Bukit Larut and this, I will relate in the next post - Part 2 Bukit Larut Close Encounter.

A Film Production House
The Company we incorporated (a combination of my husband's name and mine) specialized in the production of documentary films for the State Governments, Statutory Bodies, and Corporate organisations in Malaysia.

We produced more that 25 major documentary films, and several short films.

Scripting, cinematography, directing, were my husband's forte, while I complemented his work with editing, music compositions for sound tracks, and post production works.



I wrote the lyrics, and sang the opening theme songs in several tourism films that we produced. It was nostalgic for me, as my involvement in this line of business meant that I did not totally divorce myself from the arts. The wonderful change was that, I was no longer in-front of the camera.

We traveled to different States, filmed in numerous locations in towns, remote places, jungles, seas, on roads, in boats, and from helicopters. We touched base with the people from different walks of life, that we would never know otherwise. We had great times, and filming was more a family vacation as it often coincided with the school holidays, so that our daughter could be with us.

(All pictures featured here are actual snapshots from the film on Perak that we produced).

Perak documentary films
In 1989, we were assigned by the Perak State Government to produce two documentary films - one on tourism, and the other on investment promotion. The films were dubbed in 6 foreign languages with the objective of enticing foreign tourists and investors to visit and invest in Perak.

The story-line written by my husband for the tourism film, was about 3 young women of different ethnic backgrounds - Malay, Chinese, and Indian. They were close friends and had not seen each other for some time. They decided to spend their holiday together exploring different parts of Perak. They had the time of their lives, free and undisturbed. The theme was to convey a subtle message that Perak was a safe destination for all - even for 3 unaccompanied young women.

Filming & locations 
Filming was not confined to tourism locations around the sea, jungles, lakes, caves and waterfalls. The film highlighted other aspects of Perak - its historical backgrounds, heritage, people, cultures, costumes, food, gourmets etc. The weather was mostly kind to us throughout - something most essential for good cinematography.

Crews and casts
The crews and casts got along well, which made filming enjoyable for everyone. Schedules were hectic, as the casts were only available for two week's filming. So, there were no breaks in between locations. Although tiring, everyone was eager to fulfill their obligations to return home without delay, even though this meant that the two weeks of bonding would come to an end.

Lata Iskandar Waterfall - Tapah
We traveled in a convoy in the early morning from Kuala Lumpur, and headed for Pangkor. There were several stop-overs along the way.

The camera rolled its first morning shots with scenes focusing on Lata Iskandar Waterfall and the surrounding forests. The scenery provided a beautiful backdrop, as the girls teased each other
by the river side.


Kellie's Castle
We then proceeded for Kellie's castle. It stood elevated and distinct from a distant. As we approached the castle, I noticed that the place seemed run down, and abandoned. In a way it was ideal for us, as we were able to commence filming without any hassle. It was an amazing experience for the girls, as they stood at the edge of the rooftop while the gentle breeze cooled them down.

The castle was built by William Kellie Smith "as a testament of his love for his wife". Sadly she died before the castle was completed. When filming of the place ended, I explored every nook and corner of the dilapidated building, out of curiosity. I imagined the sadness that surrounded the castle, and his sorrow in not being able to carry his beloved wife across the threshold.

Many years later, my family and I visited the place again, and noticed pleasant changes had taken place. The castle was restored, and turned into a tourist destination. Surely, William Kellie Smith and his family, would have been happy to know that the castle had served its purpose, and made many visitors happy.

Teluk Intan
It was a quaint-looking place, simple and undeveloped. However, the people there were friendly, and hospitable. As we began filming, curious onlookers began to gather to see the excitement of how filming was taking place. The girls thoroughly enjoyed the attention and the sudden limelight.

It was amazing to see right before my eyes a mini replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. I had never imagined that this unique place actually existed. Everything in this place was cheap - food, clothes, handicrafts, etc. compared to the prices in the city. So, it was no surprise that everyone was tempted to do what little shopping they could, after filming completed at this venue.

Lumut
We then adjourned for the next destination. By the time we reached Lumut, it was almost dusk, and time to freshen up for dinner, and a well-earned sleep.

The late Sultan Azlan Shah

Here we were privileged to film the late Ruler of Perak, Sultan Azlan Shah, and his family. He was officiating the launching of the Annual Water Sports, participated by several countries.







The  late Sultan "formerly a Supreme Court Judge, was the pride of the people". He was warm and kind to his people, and judging by the way the crowd reached out for him, they were extremely proud of their Ruler.

Terrapins
My favourite shots were those of tiny terrapins as a hundred of them were let loose to find their way into the sea. Surprisingly,

Lumut turned out to be a very interesting experience for everyone. Here, we also filmed several historical sites that we were not aware of.

A snake expert
The following morning, arrangements were made for an early filming session with a man known by the locals as the "snake man" for his expertise in taming snakes. This day, I excused myself and stood at an extreme corner with my eyes half closed, blurring my vision. Later when I edited the film, I did just the same. There are more dramatic shots in the film, which I am not keen to upload here, as snakes are certainly not my favourite.

Pangkor
This was my maiden trip to Pangkor and I was really looking forward to this moment. The island is accessible by ferry, and the ride was pleasant. There were fishing villages along the way, and as the ferry moved along, beautiful scenery shots were taken, as the girls enjoyed their ride.

Boats were hired to capture different shots of the island, and many secluded shores. The sea waters of dark green and blue in colour, were crystal clear, clean and unpolluted.

No wonder there were many tourists vacationing in different corners of the island. The Pan Pacific resort was then fully booked as it was a peek period, and reservations were made many months in advance. Pangkor earned its reputation  internationally, as an undisturbed haven for hibernating.

Ipoh
The next destination familiar to all was Ipoh. It was not as busy then as it is today. There were lesser cars, and roads were lined with matured trees providing the environment with a natural cooling effect.

The former Chief Minister
Many activities within and around Ipoh were filmed to showcase its facilities, recreations, and activities that were available for locals and foreigners to partake - including a stud farm for horses.

At the Polo Club the following morning, we filmed the former Chief Minister, Tan Sri Ramli Ngah Talib, enjoying a game of polo, and some shots were taken of his children riding.

In the evening, a cultural dance was staged for filming purposes. Together, a display of Perak's exotic food, and other specialties. These were hosted by the Menteri Besar at his Residence. When filming wrapped up for the evening, we were treated to a feast, and afterwords for the next few days I felt guilty for having overindulged.

Tambun Inn
During the few days of filming in Ipoh, our accommodation was at Tambun Inn. It was a small 3-star hotel, without much facilities, but sufficient for our purpose. All we needed was a good night's rest after a tiring day of filming, which unfortunately we did not get.

The service was fine and the staff were obliging. However, the only complain we had was that none of us could get proper sleep. After midnight until the wee hours of the morning, there were knocking sounds, and  scratching, then of children giggling, and running around the corridors.

The following day, we mentioned this to the management and no one seemed surprised.  Apparently, the Inn faces the cemetery, and occasionally there were unusual sounds, and other guests have  complained of seeing uninvited guests, even in their rooms.

Kuala Kangsar

The Royal town is a short distant from Ipoh. We had an early start so that we could wrap up as much, before proceeding to our next destination. The most prominent shots filmed here was surely the Royal Palace with its grandeur. Other shots taken were the Ubudiah Mosque, Kuala Kangsar Museum, Pasir Salak, etc.

The town holds fond memories for many as Kuala Kangsar Malay College was where many of Malaysia's renowned personalities received their education. In my early years before becoming a recording artist, I was invited to judge a Song Competition here, and later obliged the audience with a song. I met some nice people then, and wonder where they are today.

Taiping  
We then arrived in Taiping where beautiful shots were taken around the lake and within the vicinity. Taiping zoo was well maintained, and its occupants seemed content, and well fed.

When we completed filming here, and as we were heading for Bukit Larut, I was shocked to see that the left side of my jeans was soaked with blood. I thought that I was injured, but I was not in pain. I quickly got out of the car and I screamed in fright, when two huge well-fed leeches dropped off my legs, on to my feet. Obviously, they were hitching a ride from the Zoo!

From here we proceeded to Bukit Larut (Maxwell Hill). The story on "Close Encounter at Bukit Larut" is now featured as a Part 2 story - in the next post. 

Epilogue
Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the time that we spent, filming in Perak. I feel truly grateful and proud that we have been Blessed with a creative line of business and livelihood, that we both loved, and regarded as hobbies!

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