A DAY TO REMEMBER

16September is a day to remember. 45 years ago on this day, British North Borneo,(now Sabah) together with Sarawak, Singapore and the federation Malaya joined hands to form a new country called MALAYSIA. However, the Federal Government of Malaysia has since then ignored this important date and instead declared 31August as the National day. They even declared that Malaysia was 51 years old on 31 August 2008 (basing on the year Malaya gained their independence in 1957 from the British). As a Sabahan, I do not agree.

To me, there was no country called MALAYSIA before the 16 September 1963. Malaysia is actually 45 years old.

To remember this important day, only the State government of Sabah and Sarawak has declared this day as a public holiday each year since 1963. To the west Malaysian states, it is a working day!

This morning, we decided to drive to Tamparuli, a small town situated about 40 minutes drive from the city to spend this "National Day".

Driving into the town via this single lane bridge across the river of Tamparuli. On the left is the "Hanging bridge" used by the locals to cross the river.
Old wooden buildings lined the streets of Tamparuli like other small towns in Borneo. It was worthwhile to visit the local market. Varieties of local products ranging from fruits,vegetables and even salted fish.

Local delicacies like banana fritters and yam cakes.

Water melons





Bananas

Fresh Yam

Local pumpkins




Young gingers

Sweet potatoes

Fresh hot Chili (Chili padi)

Fresh prawns

Fresh fish & squidsLeaving Tamparuli via the same bridge.
One of our stops on the way home: Pottery factory

Beautiful cacti in the pottery factory