Life certainly takes an opportune turn when you are in Malaysia visiting the Kampung villages. A Kampung is a small village, and those in Malaysia are located in Kuala Lumpur, linked to neighbouring town centres by the Sungai Besi way.
Life in these villages is modest, but not lacking in culture and tradition. The spirit of hospitality offered by Malaysians to any touring guest is admirable and is certain to leave you humbled. The hush away from city traffic, noise and sirens allows for one to relax and reflect on life and things that do not have anything to do with work or the usual fast pace of life. For you to enjoy this freedom and experience a stress free vacation, you have to indulge in Kampung life, which is calm, peaceful and quiet.
To fully experience the way of life in Kampungs: it would be necessary to travel to Malaysia, Indonesia or Brunei. Each village differs, one from the next, yet somehow the sense of hospitality is similar in all the villages. Dance, cultural shows, locally prepared meals and games are just a part of the warmth shared in these villages.
Not too far from this traditional lifestyle is the bustling city, of Malaysia or Indonesia. The proximity of the city, the modernity and sudden shift of lifestyle certainly brings out the authenticity of the Kampung way of life. The art further depicts the traditions that are the foundations of these communities. Batik making is highly upheld using candle wax which certainly varies from the technology created batik works in the city. The intricacy of this Kampung art is breath-taking to say the least. These works of art are sold around the world at high fetching prices.
Unfortunately Kampungs may not be around for much longer, but the inhabitants of these homesteads have done well to hold on to their tradition and culture. Currently in Singapore, only one Kampung remains, Lorong Buangkok. Take some time to feel removed from the modern ways that have swallowed up human authenticity, discover your own human nature and experience the heart of the Kampungs. A visit to these villages is a welcome change and will be hard to forget.