Impossible to generalise in such a multicultural population, but we did meet some interesting characters and some special people who gave us a glimpse into the Malasian way of life.Impossible to generalise in such a multicultural population, but we did meet some interesting characters and some special people who gave us a glimpse into the Malasian way of life.The business end of entering Malaysia alerted us to the friendliness of this nation. At the customs office we were sat down and offered all sorts of sweets and nibbles - after all, it was Hari Raya. All were welcomed and encouraged to help celebrate the end of Ramadan which is a month-long period of fasting from sunrise to sunset. It is also a period demanding abstienence from smoking, sex, lying and cheating. Some people have said that being in a Muslim country during Ramadan can be a bit grim, because the locals are understandably less than jolly during this testing time. But during Hari Raya, celebrations abound!

Along our journey this welcoming friendliness was continually encountered. When we asked for directions, people usually insisted that they "show you the way' and would walk with us until we were in sight of our destination.

Unexpected, unplanned moments can, of course, lead to the most special times - or at least make for good stories some way down the track! A stay at the Makota Medical Centre was not on our "To Do" list for Malacca. However, it was fortunate for Andrew that his continual vomiting and diarrohea happened with such a good hospital nearby...even though Andrew, connected to his drip, surveying the hospital ward, didn't quite appreciate his "good fortune". We were also extremely lucky to be staying at the Kancil Guest House owned by Daud and Fatimah. Their help and support was greatly appreciated by us...if only Andrew had taken Daud's advice earlier "Po Chai" he assured Andrew was the answer to his tummy turmoil. Still unsure of what these little black pearly beads do, we have packed a supply in our medical kit for the next time the grumbly guts grips!
Once well, we set off for Shah Alam, not really on the tourist track, but the site of BMW motorcycle repairs... a leaking fork seal. But meeting Garry, the BMW motorbike mechanic was certainly one of the highlights of the trip. Great mechanic, but also a terrific and generous guy. And he also knows where to find some amazing garlic prawns and curry crab in KL!

It was fantastic to have these people who so generously allowed us to step inside their world for a moment. Just through being with them, and continually bombarding them with questions, we started to gain a little understanding of what "being Malaysian" means.