Balik Kampung: A Ramadhan Weekend Escape

This weekend is special for a Ramadhan standard, at least. Right now, I’m on my way balik kampung, riding a double-decker bus, sitting at the lower deck, and feeling the cold air-conditioning slowly making me mengantuk. Expected arrival? Around 5 PM, just nice for berbuka puasa with my mom.

After a few years of celebrating Raya di Baling, this year we’ll be celebrating in KL. My in-laws are from KL, making My All a true urban cosmopolitan girl, haha, though I’m not sure if she claims that title with pride or just rolls her eyes at it. Heh.

Since we’re taking Friday and Monday off, this means a long weekend in Baling. And honestly, I’m looking forward to the simple joys of berbuka puasa and sahur with my mom. No specific must-have dishes, but one thing I really want? Kanji by my mom.

Or as KL folks call it, bubur lambuk.

The funny thing is, I’m not sure what the actual difference is. Looks the same, but kanji my mom makes tastes way better. She loads it with meat, sometimes prawns, halba, black pepper, ginger, and of course lots of santan. That’s the secret. Lemak, sedap, and comfort food at its best.

And of course, the plan includes going to the Bazar Ramadhan. Here in KL, I never really go to bazar because most of the time, we break our fast at the mosque. But at kampung, it’s a different story. There are always rare dishes that only make an appearance during Ramadhan. Some, I don’t even remember the names, just that they bring back childhood memories.

The bus is almost full, but the ride is smooth so far. We just passed Slim River, meaning there’s still a long way to go. Not even 1 PM yet. I’m not really hungry, just sleepy. Maybe a short nap will make time move faster.

I’ll let you know when I arrive. Baling, here we come!