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By Mihar Dias Copyright (C) August 2023
A long-awaited reunion among former classmates from Sultan Abdul Hamid College Class of '65, turned into a memorable event at a picturesque durian orchard.
Despite the stormy start at dawn, the weather graciously held up, allowing the gathering to unfold in all its splendour.
The journey to the rendezvous point in Kuala Nerang, located en route to the Thai border, was not without its challenges.
Rain-soaked roads and turbulent flights set the tone for an eventful day. However, upon reaching the orchard, the warm hospitality of the "Mayor of Kolanerang" (Halim Karim) and his family made everything worthwhile.
The award-winning durian orchard, boasting 400 seedlings planted three decades ago, showcased an impressive array of healthy, fruit-bearing trees.
The delicious and aromatic durians quickly became the focus of attention, and guests indulged in the mouthwatering fruit accompanied by glutinous rice soaked in thick coconut milk with salt and sugar. It was more than finger-licking good. Compliments to the chef, Mrs Halim.
Reconnecting with old friends, many of whom we have not seen in the last fifty years, added to the delight of the occasion.
It took a long while to figure out who's who amongst the old men that we knew as young adults of thar renowned secondary school in Kedah.
Major Bakhtiar, Mad of Cape Fox, Man of Elephant Bridge, the proud Dato obsessed with golf, Pak Wan Biola, and many others looked different now compared to their old selves. Gone were the muscles, the good looks of youth, and the strength that once made them champions on the sports field at our alma mater.
The transformation from youthful kids to proud grandparents with wrinkles on their faces was an incredible testament to the passage of time and the bonds of friendship.
Conversations at the Durian orchard switched back and forth between school days and adulthood, sharing both the good and bad times we had gone through together.
As the day drew to a close, it was evident that the reunion at the durian orchard had left a lasting impression on all who attended.
The combination of shared memories, laughter, and the exquisite taste of the durians made it an extraordinary and truly spectacular event.
Can't wait for the next reunion!
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