|
Homespun Hospitality At A Malaysian HomestayBy Emily Nixon
The Chief of Kampung Ulu Chuchoh, and the head of the entire Bangsuris Homestay Program, Misriah BT Natijo, welcomes our group of eighteen touring Canadians. In spite of his limited English, he graciously greets us with smiles and waves. “It is an honor to have you all here,” our interpreter and guide relays, “and it is my hope that you enjoy learning more about our Malaysian roots.” His dark eyes dance with enthusiasm as he proudly gleams from ear to ear, and as the day progresses we gain more insight into his beliefs and how this program came to be. Traditionally, these villages survived on a subsistence lifestyle, however after opening their homes to the world, they began to revolutionize their economy while maintaining their basic way of life. For a minimal cost of sixty ringgit per day, (1 ringgit = 2.75 CDN) the program provides travelers from around the world with comfy accommodation, tasty cuisine and the opportunity to integrate into the daily workings of a Malay village.
To gain a true lifestyle experience, the Banghuris Homestay Program also offers visitors the opportunity to work directly with the locals. Many of the agricultural activities, around the villages include the production of palm oil, coffee, coconut, vegetables and rubber.
During my day away from the modern mayhem, I reflect on the laid back lifestyle that I’ve had the pleasure to sample. Although free of any frills and fluff, it’s provided me with insights into a satisfying way of life. Comfortable living, and gracious hospitality, combined with an intriguing culture in a setting of natural beauty. They’re all fine qualities and redeeming factors of the Banghuris Homestay Program. To Get There:Daily flights are provided out of Los Angeles (Vancouver to Los Angeles via Air Canada) If ticket is purchased from Vancouver, cost of airfare to L.A. is covered. Malaysian Airlines is well recognized for its superlative service, cuisine and hospitality. (1-800-552-9264) www.malaysiaairlines.com.my/ Where To Stay:For further information please contact Basir B. Wagiman Tourism Malaysia:
http://tourism.gov.my Tourism Malaysia: Phone (604) 689-8899 (Toll Free:
1-800-689-6872); IMAGES BY EMILY NIXON |
|
TM
While pulling away from the hustle and bustle
of Kuala Lumpur, my sense of adventure is sparked by the search for a truly
Malaysian ‘homestay’ experience. We head south from the metropolis along the
four-lane highway, and a canopy of lush vegetation soon replaces the urban
jungle’s bumper to bumper gridlock. Although just a short sixty kilometers
from Malaysia’s thriving capital, the village of Kampung Ulu Chuchoh feels
as if it’s a world away. 
The Banghuris Homestay Program, located in the
Sepang district of Selangor, is comprised of three villages: Kampung Bukit
Bangkong, Ulu Chuchuh and Ulu Teris. Within these communities, a total of
seventy families are able to accommodate up to three hundred people at any
given time. Although the predominant language within each village is Malay,
thanks to mandatory English programs provided in public education, the
younger generations are able to translate, when necessary, for the village
elders.
Although not a five star hotel, the humble abode
we visit is a quintessential Malaysian home that offers a blend of customary
living with a touch of modern amenities. A communal living room creates an
open and easy feel, and comfortable bedrooms provide a restful stay.
Malaysian décor flows into the simple dining room where fans cool the humid
air and bamboo mats replace conventional tables and chairs. 
Heavenly aromas engulf us as we literally enjoy
our first hand experience of Malaysian cuisine. “Eat only with the right
hand,” we are informed by our host, “as the left is saved for wiping other
body parts later.” He chuckles when sharing this customary etiquette, and
although no elaboration is given, we can only assume this is not appropriate
table talk. We adhere to the commands, and while sitting crossed-legged and
free of the utensils, our right hand goes to work. 
Most of the ingredients for the traditional
Malay meals are home grown right from within the Banghuris Homestay
villages. Chicken, fish, seasonal veggies and steamed white rice meld
deliciously with creamy curries and tantalizing spices to leave us feeling
totally satisfied. It’s a hands on feast fit for any King, and one that can
be literally described as being finger-lickin’ good!
With a loud crash, a cluster of palm nuts falls
to the ground and stops us in our tracks. We are amazed as we observe a
local farmer effortlessly cut down the fruits of this massive tree and break
it open to reveal it’s oily core. These trees flourish in abundance, and it
comes as no surprise to discover that Malaysia is rated as the world’s
largest exporter of palm oil. 
The Banghuris Homestay Program has also set
aside 13 acres of agricultural space for a fruit orchard. As we meander
through the maze of trees, we come upon a stake with our group’s name on it.
“The planting of this tree celebrates your visit today,” the chief proudly
conveys to our guide. “When you return at a later date, you will witness not
only its growth, but also the flourishing of our surrounding community.”