Last Sunday, 13th April 2025, I took a solo trip to visit some of the most important people in my academic life – my seniors, lecturers, and teachers at Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) and Kolej MARA Kuala Nerang (KMKN). It was a day filled with warm memories, reflections, and unexpected little blessings.
I kicked off the day at Joe's Shop with a classic Malaysian breakfast – roti kawin and teh tarik. The seller casually mentioned he was also from Kuala Nerang. Small world, eh?
From there, I hit the PLUS North-South Expressway, entering via the SP Toll, with a quick fuel-up at Caltex Jitra. I didn’t want to take any risks, so I made sure the tank was full before heading off.
First Stop: UUM
Next, I headed up to the Management Museum Office, where I met Bang Zuki and others. Bang Zuki looked well and offered heartfelt prayers for my future. It meant a lot, especially coming from people who know how tough it is to land a stable job in today’s climate.
I also caught up with Encik Nan, who kindly treated me to lunch at Nasi Ayam Bukit Tangga with Kak Yin and Cik Megat. Thank you, Cik Nan. That meal hit the spot.
Raya Visit to UUM Library
After lunch, I made my way to the UUM Library to meet Kak Seha and Bang Hilmi. Being a raya visit, the vibe was warm and festive. I also stopped by the Knowledge Resources Department and had some valuable chats with Bang At and the rest of the team. Their advice was genuine and appreciated — coming from experience, not theory.
Through the Jungle to Kuala Nerang
Then came the second leg of the trip. I followed the Kampung Perik route — a peaceful, green path through jungle and villages — and finally arrived at KMKN. I waited in the lounge before reuniting with Cikgu Zuraida, my Business Management teacher. The later joined, other teachers from Social Science Faculty, including Madam Manja and Cikgu Rafiqah.
We sat together and talked for an hour at the KMKN café. As always, the stories weren’t just about me. Updates on other alumni came up too — laughter, achievements, a few struggles. It felt good to know that the bond is still there.
Heading Home
After Asar prayer, around 7 PM, I left amidst light rain. I used the Alor Setar South Toll to get back on the highway. At Gurun, I thought of grabbing a Ramly burger, craving something fast and greasy. But reality hit — funds were low. So I skipped the snack and headed home to Sungai Petani.
"Sometimes it's not about the destination, but the people you meet again along the way."
This trip was a reminder that time may pass, but some connections stay timeless. The advice, kindness, and simple gestures I received that day are worth more than any material thing.
Till next visit, UUM and KMKN.