letters from a Father to his Children (05.09.58)

WENTWORTH HOTEL
SYDNEY, 6th September 1958.

Our Darling Dears,

SYDNEY, 3rd September (Wednesday): We left for Sydney early in the morning. Mr. Burns of the Department of Interior, New Zealand stationed at Auckland saw us off. After a smooth flight of 5 1/2 hours by TASMANIAN EMPIRE AIRLINES (TEAL), except for about half an hour of bumpy weather, we got to Sydney. A Qantas representative was waiting for us but he didn't do very much for us. Fortunately Qantas Air Terminal in the City was next to Wentworth Hotel which was a fairly big Hotel - one of the biggest in Sydney. It was expensive - the room we were occupying was comfortable though being provided with a Television set and a Radio. We had even an electric fire place. In the afternoon, as Mak was rather tired, I walked a bit in the City alone. We did not go out at all in the evening. Our minds were too much with you all.

4th September: (Thursday) We checked with the QANTAS regarding the times of departure and arrival and we were so disappointed to find out that we would arrive at Kuala Lumpur on the morning of Saturday

instead of Friday as originally thought, although the time and date of departure from Sydney would not be changed.

In the afternoon we toured the City and the beaches. We visited VAUCLUSE HOUSE, the former residence of the late Mr. W. C. Wentworth after whose name Wenworth Hotel was named. This house was open to inspection upon payment of an admission fee. Mr. Wentworth was well known for his fight for a liberal Constitution for New South Wales.

Lots of love and kisses to Sayang, Adek, Intan, Kuntom, Nor, Adek Shor, Nan, Nah, Ajid and Yong. Will be back tomorrow.

Ever Yours Lovingly,
Mak & Bapak

letters from a Father to his Children (03.09.58)

Hotel Trans-Tasmania
Auckland, 3rd Sept, 1958

Our Dear Darling Children,

AUCKLAND, 27th August (Wednesday): We flew out of NANDI this morning. At the Air Port as a sign of "good-bye" all the lady passengers were given a hibiscus flower - Bunga Raya - to keep. The flight by TEAL (TASMANIAN EMPIRE AIRLINES) plane was very smooth and comfortable. There was plenty of leg room as opposed to that in other tourist class of other planes. It was even easier for us to explain that we did not take pork; whereas in other planes the hostess always looked askance at us.

We reached AUCKLAND at about 4.30pm. It was rather cool as this was still at the end of winter. A Mr. Browns of the Internal Affairs Dept. met us and got us through the rigmaroles of the law without ado. We were takan by him to TRANS-TASMAN HOTEL in a Government motor-car. Although, according to the list I left with you all, we were staying at WENTWORTH HOTEL there was no such Hotel in Auckland. We wondered whether you had sent any letters to this non-existent Hotel.

Mr. Brown offered to help and told us that if we were going to WELLINGTON, the capital of New Zealand, Mr. Nash, the Prime Minister would give us lunch. We have,


however, decided not to go as it was quite a distance from Auckland.

We went to bed rather early. It was pretty cold, ooh!

Thursday, 28th August: After breakfast, we were interviewed and photographed by a correspondent of a local newspaper, "AUCKLAND STAR". This attracted some attention in the Hotel.


This afternoon the Governments' car which was at out disposal picked us up and took us round for sight-seeing in AUCKLAND. We were taken to the top of Mt. Eden, named after Sir Anthony Eden's great grandfather(?) who was at one time Governer General, New Zealand. From here the view of Auckland City was very pleasant, though rather cloudy as it was threatening to rain. This was now an extinct volcano. We also passed ONE TREE HILL, another extinct volcano. This stood in CORNWALL PARK in which was situated the first wooden house erected in Auckland - about 100 years ago. We stopped at the WAR MEMORIAL MUSEUM which was situtated in AUCKLAND DOMAIN. The Museum included a wonderful selection of MAORI relics and carvings.

In the evening we bought a copy of the "AUCKLAND STAR". We were rather disappointed. While the record of the interview was there, only my photograph was published whereas a photograph of Mak and Bapak together was taken.


Friday, 29th August: Mak was provided with an electric iron this morning and later in the morning we went out to the City. AUCKLAND is the biggest City in New Zealand but it does not compare with London or New York in size.

In the after three Malay students came to see us. We chatted till late in the afternoon. One of them was a Colombo Plan student and the other two were here on their own doing civil engineering.


In the evening another batch of students - four Chinese and one Muslim Indian - came. Mak was not feeling too well and stayed in bed. Most of them were officials of the Students Union here. They were going to celebrate the Independence Day Anniversary and invited us to attend on Sunday evening. We went on talking till rather late in the night.

Saturday, 30th August: We went out this morning to WAIWERA. Unfortunately this was a cold, wet morning. It's not unusual as this was still winter - though the end of it. We went round WAITEMATA HARBOUR and through EAST COAST BAYS to lunch at SOUTH PACIFIC HOTEL. WAIWERA is a Maori word meaning hot water. There is a hot water spring here. The hot water is piped to a swimming pool at the Hotel.

On our return we went through HELENSVILLE along which was a beautiful rural scenery.


Sunday, 31st August: We had a very quiet day. We stayed in the Hotel all day. In the evening two Malaysian Students, Siew Wai Cheong and Zahariah accompanied by a New Zealand girl came to fetch us to the dinner organised by the Malaysian Students Union on the occasion of the first Anniversary of Merdeka. The dinner was attended by some New Zealanders and Mr. & Mrs. Holgate, a former Director of Education in Malaya. Most of the Students were Chinese on Colombo Plan Scholarship. There were only 5 Malay Students - two private - in Auckland. It's sad to see so few Malays! There were also a few Indonesians attending.

After dinner I was asked to address the gathering. I feel that I did quite well. There was a dance after this and we stayed back - just to watch!

Monday, 1st September: Just before we left the Hotel this morning we were so happy to receive a letter from home as we have not received one since New York. We went to a flat where two Malay Students, Zaidin and Aziz were staying. Che' Ibrahim, a Colombo Plan scholar studying printing and Che' Zahariah, another Colombo Plan scholar doing B. Sc. were also there, cooking curry and rice for us. Ooh, how we enjoyed a real curry lunch after about one month.

After lunch, we, except Zahariah who had to see her friend off, went to the Zoo. It was raining and cold but we enjoyed both the company and the sight.



We got back to the Hotel at nearly 6 o'clock.

Tuesday, 2nd. September: We went out with Che' Ibrahim round the City. Before lunch I had a hair-cut. That's a fairly good record? A hair-cut at Paris, London, New York and now, Auckland. Of course in Auckland it was cheap - 3s.6d. Later we had food at a Chinese Restaurant. We didn't like the food. From there we went to the Teachers' Training Centre Hostel. I found it in bad shape!

In the afternoon, Mr. Holgate who was Director of Education in Malaya picked us up to go to his house - a place called HOWICK, 14 miles out of the City. We had a very enjoyable time. The house was situated on a very good site, overlooking a bay and we had a lovely curry dinner. Mr. Holgate and his wife later sent us back to the Hotel. They were very kind indeed to have entertained us.

Lots of love and kisses to Sayang, Adek, Intan, Kuntom, Nor, Adek Shor, Nan, Nah, Ajid & Yong from

Yours Ever,
Mak & Bapak

letters from a Father to his Children (27.08.58)

HOTEL MACAMBO,
NANDI, FIJI, 27th August.

Our Dear Darlings,

Saturday, 23rd August: (HONOLULU) After posting our letter to you all in the morning we strolled about the town and was attracted to a restaurant called WAIKIKI SANDS. We discovered that it was a nice Restaurant on the beach of WAIKIKI serving Cosmopolitan food. We went in. Food - Japanese, Korean, Chineses and a few others - was laid on the tables to be taken personally - no restrictions as to the amount and it cost only $1.45 each. We enjoyed the food very much as well as the water melon and pine apples at the end of the meal.

In the afternoon we went to the INTERNATIONAL MARKET PLACE to watch Polynesian Dances. They were very interesting indeed. In the evening while waiting for the time to be picked up for the Air Port we sat in the gardens of our Hotel watching and listening to Hawaiian dances and music. The orchestra comprised only three with only one dancer.

At the Air Port there wasn't the bustle of arrivals. HONOLULU seems to care more for the arrivals than for those departing! This gave the impression of commercial tourism more than anything else.





While Honolulu was beautiful, it lacked the "native touch". Shops were stocked more with imported goods. The streets ware splattered with tourists - mostly Americans - who went "native". The women dressed themselves in MUUMUU - a long baggy gown. It tickled us to notice how these tourists behaved and dressed. They looked very odd.

We left at about 12.30 AM - about two hours later than scheduled and after a twelve hour flight and stopping at CANTON Island we arrived at NADI at 10.30 AM on MONDAY. This was wonderful and exciting. We lost one day, SUNDAY. There is a geographical explanation for this of which I was not clear. We shall discuss this when we get home.

Sunday, 24th August: LOST!!

Fiji: Monday, 25th August: We stayed in our Hotel - MOCAMBO - all day to rest. This Hotel was not near any City. SUVA, the capital of Fiji, is 137 miles away. We do not propose to go there.

Tuesday, 26th August: We went out on a tour by taxi to LAUTOKA. Before we went we were told that this was the second biggest town on the Island. On the 16 miles journey we passed by some nice scenery. There were many sugar cane plantations along the route. They belong to Australian Companies





employing Indian labour mainly. We passed some Fijian Villages with poor type of houses. Here again we were told that the natives were not hard-working enough! There were still plenty of land but no one wanted to work it as these uncultivated areas were not supplied with roads! I don't think the Fijians could be blamed. They seem to prefer fishing to working the land.

We were rather disappointed when we got to LAUTOKA as the place was very small - even smaller than Kuala Kangsar Town. We were taken round the town and we were happy to see a Mosque - a pretty, though a small one. We bought some "muruku" from an Indian hawker and watermelon - just two slices - from the market.

On our way back we stopped at a beach where we met some Fijians. They gave us coconut water to drink. We took a group photograph and one old chap gave me his address to send a copy of the snap. We went straight on to NANDI Town which was even smaller than LAUTOKA. We found that there was also a Mosque in NANDI. After going round we returned for lunch.

At MOCAMBO HOTEL we found two Waiters who had been to Malaya. They spent most of their time in Batu Pahat. After dinner tonight we listened


to the Hotel 3 man Orchestra playing sweet Fijian hits.

Well, how are you all getting on? We will be home in 8 days. In the meantime we are anxious to receive some news.

We wonder if Yang, Ayah Nyah, Enjang, Dak, Chor and Pak Ni know of our date of return.

Love and lots + lots of kisses to Sayang, Adek, Intan, Kuntom, Nor, Adek Shor, Nan, Nah, Ajid and Yong. Sembah salam to Tah and salam to the others.

Yours Ever Loving,
Mak & Bapak

P.S. Some more photos.

letters from a Father to his Children (23.08.58)

HOTEL HALEKULANI,
HONOLULU,

23rd August, 1958.


Our Dear Darlings,

VANCOUVER, Saturday, 16th August: This was indeed our day of rest. Except for a visit to the Post Office where we posted our letter to you all, we stayed all the day in the Hotel. As a matter of fact we had a feeling that we had seen enough. Another reason was that we felt very home sick - always thinking of you all and literally counting the days when we would be together again. We had definitely decided that leaving you all for three months was too long. At the most we could be away from home for two months- or only one month.


While in our room on the fifth floor we watched the streams of traffic below us. While in New York we saw only big cars on the road, here we could at least see a few small ones. The people here did not know much about Malaya. They still stare at Mak. I don't think they have seen many Malays in their country in the past.

The Chief Waitress one morning asked us whether Singapore was in China or India. What ignorance existed here!!

I just heard the firing of a gun. This gun was fired every day at 9 o'clock at night.


Sunday, 17th August: We had nothing to do this morning while we were waiting to leave for SAN FRANCISCO. We looked down the streets. They were decorated for the British Columbia's Centennial Celebration which began on 1st January for one year. There has been festivity in different parts of the Province.

The room we have occupied here had been the best so far. There was a private sitting room and the bed room was bigger than the others we have occupied but there was one disadvantage. In Toronto we had Television as well as a Radio in our room but not here.

When we got to the Air Port, Mr. Walker of the Qantas Airlines introduced us to the Captain of the plane by which we would fly to San Francisco. It was a very smooth 3 hour flight. When we reached San Francisco a representative of Qantas was at the Air Port to meet us. We were taken to the Immigration and Customs Officials and we got through without any difficulties. Everyone was so pleasant when he knew I was having a Diplomatic Visa.

We stayed at the HOTEL FIELDING, a picture of which has been sent to you all. It was a decent Hotel situated centrally. A Restaurant, "Bob's", was attached to the Hotel and it's very convenient as it opened 24 hours.

When we went to dinner there, we sat next to a table where there were three old ladies. We got to talking


with each other. They were very humorous and they were very generous with their praises for Mak who they said was so attractive. Ooh, I hope Mak won't be conceited. These old ladies, when we told them that we had 10 children at home, were very surprised. Aren't we flattered!!

SAN FRANCISCO, Monday, 18th August: We went to the Bank in the morning and walked about the City a bit. We found this City very beautiful. Its built on hill slopes overlooking San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean.

In the afternoon we went to MUIR WOODS NATIONAL MONUMENT. We crossed the GOLDEN GATE BRIDGE, worlds' longest and highest single-span bridge after going through picturesque scenery. The name of Muir Woods National Monument may be misleading. It was not just a monument. In fact, it was a national park, 424 acres of giant redwoods, some over 200 feet tall 2000 years old. When we walked around this park we thought of Templer Park. We hope something could be done on the lines of this natural park.

On our way back we went down the slope of Mt. Tamalpais where many lovely private dwelling houses were built with beautiful gardens.

Tuesday, 19th August: We did not go out in the morning but after lunch at Bob's we went to OAKLAND a few miles away from San Francisco. We crossed the

great BAY BRIDGE for where we could see in the Bay, TREASURE ISLAND. At Oakland we stopped at CHILDREN'S FAIRYLAND. It's a wonderfully beautiful place. The entrance to the Fairyland was through the shoe typifying the tale, "there was an old woman, who lived in a shoe". Among others in the Fairyland were the "house where the three little piggies live" and "Noah's Ark". We thought a great deal of you while we walked about the place.

We then went to BERKELEY where was situated the UNIVERSITY of CALIFORNIA. This University had a lovely campus. It was situated in a beautiful surroundings. This University had it's own Stadium which could accomodate 80,000. We passed later on along LAKE MERRITT and subsequently through a well-known residential area at PIEDMONT where lived some famous people including some film stars. Wonderful place - lovely houses and lovely gardens - on a hill from where San Francisco was in full view. We also stopped at CLAREDON HOTEL - an expensive Hotel situated on a hill in BERKELEY. One thing we were told was that the big carpet on the Hotel lobby cost $40,000/- (American). Wow! That's a lot of money.

Wednesday, 20th August: We left the Hotel at 11 o'clock and at the Air Port we met one Chinese couple whom I did not know before and also another Chinese, a Mr. Kok

with whom I was acquainted in Kuala Lumpur. What a small world! They were going to Honolulu too. The flight was smooth. It took us 9 hours and we got into HONOLULU when it was already dark. When we disembarked we were pleasantly surprised to be met by a gentleman from Qantas Airlines and a beautiful girl who placed a LEI (a garland of pretty flowers) around our necks and as she did that she put her cheek against ours - an old Hawaiian custom. Three of us took a picture at the Air Port before proceeding to our hotel - HALEKULANI. This hotel is on WAIKIKI BEACH and situated in very pleasant surroundings of tropical garden. The word Halekulani means "House Befitting Heaven". It's fairly expensive. We noticed that the charge for our room was $16/- (American). This, of course, was not the most expensive, which was $28/- (American). Newly arrived guests received cards written by the Hotel's founder, the late Clifford Kimball, which said, "You are more than a guest within these portals. Your visit honors us with a welcome obligation. For the time, this is your house. Its customs and ways we hope may measure up to your own standard. For our ambition is that you shall be happy here.... successful in your purpose.... undisturbed in your repose... and find pleasure in the recollection of your sojourn here".

Thursday, 21st August: We wandered the streets of HONOLULU in the morning. We also went to the INTERNATIONAL MARKET PLACE where articles of handicrafts from many countries were sold. We visited a shop, "THE THIEVES MARKET". Amongst all sorts of articles sold there we found a Malay Keris. We were later interviewed by a local newspaper who also took our pictures.

In the afternoon, we went for a tour of the island. I might explain that HONOLULU is situated on the OAHU Island. We visited the DIAMOND HEAD, a monument which jutted on to the Ocean, the beautiful HANAUMA BAY, passed KOKO HEAD CRATER, stopped at BLOW HOLE where the sea water spurted through a hole in then rock and NUUANU PALI, a Valley overlooking from a precipice. As we went along we were shown a Hawaiian Reserve. It was sad to note the condition of the Hawaiians. They comprised only two percent of the population which was predominantly Japanese. The Hawaiians were said to be lazy and they were mainly taxi drivers, minor officials and running small flower stalls. Unless we are careful and become energetic enough this may be the fate of the Malays too.

After dinner, we watched HULA DANCES at our Hotel. They were very entertaining.

Friday, 22nd August: We went window-shopping in the morning. In the afternoon we went on a tour of PEARL HARBOUR. It was very interesting indeed. We went by "MISS HONOLULU" and a description of what happened during the attack on the Harbour was given vividly by Captain Jerry Collins. We saw the sunken "UTAH" and "ARIZONA" and we were asked to stand in respect of the 1102 - the highest ranking to the lowest ranking in the ship - who died and were still lying at the bottom of the sea with the gallant ship. It was a fine example of the sense of duty of the men.

It was ironical indeed that as we were to enter PEARL HARBOUR, five Japanese Naval Ships came out - these Japanese who were the enemies and now the friends of America - from the Harbour.

We were talking about you all and were rather anxious as we have not received any letter since New York. We saw a girl who reminded us of KUNTOM - her size, her manner of walking and behaving.

Love and heaps of kisses to Sayang, Adek, Intan, Kuntom, Nor, Adek Shor, Nan, Nah, Ajid and Yong.

Yours ever,

Mak & Bapak.

letters from a Father to his Children (16.8.58)

DEVONSHIRE HOTEL,
VANCOUVER.
16th August, 1958

Our Dear Darlings,

Sunday, 10th August: I forgot to tell you in our last letter that I had a hair cut yesterday. It was expensive. It cost me $1.60 (American) and in addition I had to pay a tip of 20 cents to the barber and 10 cents to the chap looking after the Cloak Room where I kept my coat. I have so far made quite a good record - having a haircut at PARIS, LONDON and NEW YORK!! Expensive ones at that!!!

We got up rather early this morning. Che' Sopiee and his wife Che' Zainab, sent us to IDLEWIND Air Port. While having a bite at the Air Port Restaurant we met the TRANS-CANADIAN AIRLINE hostesses who were having a drink. Che' Sopiee informed them who I was, although he made it clear that I was going incognito. It was quite a short flight and on arrival at TORONTO I showed the letter of introduction given by the Canadian High Commissioner in Malaya at TORONTO Air Port and we got through both the Immigration and Customs Officials without any questions at all.

When we arrived at FORD HOTEL, the City of TORONTO was very quiet as it was a Sunday. There was very little activity. However, later in the afternoon we strolled about and sat at QUEENS PARK wherein was situated



the Provincial (we called it the State) Parliamentary House. Canada is a form of Federal set up and TORONTO is the capital of the Province of ONTARIO. The Federal Capital is OTTAWA which is also in ONTARIO PROVINCE. The Province has a Premier who is equivalent to an MB and there is, of course, the Prime Minister of the whole country - Canada.

We later went to eat at a Chinese Restaurant. Our Hotel was close to a Chinese section of the City. During our travels I have seen Chinese everywhere doing business. They are indeed enterprising.

Monday, 12th August: We toured TORONTO city in the morning and went to Niagara Falls in the afternoon. It was 2 1/2 hours by road from Toronto to Niagara Falls. The falls were a wonderful sight - God's gift to the Earth. Tons of water rushing down into Lake Ontario was an unforgettable view. I cannot possibly describe the beauty but they will certainly remain in my memory for life. There are two falls - one on the American side and the other - with a horse-shoe formation - is on the Canadian side. Both have their particular attraction.

We went round the neighbourhood - a beautiful Park in which was situated a FLORAL CLOCK. The clock has a floral face - flowers well arranged to give a special effect. There was the SCHOOL of GARDENING where people learnt gardening!



Before we went on our journey back to TORONTO I went again to look at the Falls to keep the sight in my memory for ever!

Tuesday, 12th. August: We left TORONTO in the morning for VANCOUVER by TRANS-CANADIAN AIRLINE. We stopped at WINNEPEG, SASKATOON (odd name!) and EDMONTON. We arrived at VANCOUVER at 10.00pm being one hour late. There were no formalities as we were travelling entirely in Canada. We missed our tea and dinner as ham was being served!

VANCOUVER, Wednesday, 13th August: We strolled about the City until lunch hour and later had a rest. We thought of resting the whole day but then at about 4pm I received a telephone call into our room to say that a gentleman named DUBEC asked to see me. We discovered that he was an Official of the Government of BRITISH COLUMBIA - the province in which Vancouver is situated - sent by the Premier who could not come himself. He lives in the capital which is VICTORIA 70 miles away. Mr. Dubec offered his services and would show us some places.

Thursday, 14th August: We did not go out at all in the morning and in the afternoon Mr. Dubec picked us up in his car and took us to the suburbs of the City. We went through very nice neighbourhood. He wanted originally to take us to a forest where logging was carried out but was advised that it was not a good time to go out


there, we returned to the Hotel after a three hour drive.

It seems that news have gone around of our presence in Vancouver. Before we went out this afternoon a Mr. R.L. Walker, District Sales Manager of Qantas in Vancouver came to see us. Fortunately our room in DEVONSHIRE HOTEL was quite decent. We have a separate lounge for our guests. Later a woman correspondent of the local newspaper, "THE VANCOUVER SUN" rang me up. I told her I was on a private visit and that stopped her from going very much further. Even the Manager of the Hotel introduced himself and hoped that we were comfortable there.

Friday 15th August: We did a little shopping in the morning and in the afternoon went out on a tour of the STANLEY PARK, QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK, the UNIVERSITY and the BRITISH PROPERTIES. The Stanley Park was a huge natural Park providing for picnic sports and games. Queen Elizabeth Park was a very beautiful fully laid garden. The University has 6000 undergraduates. British Properties were given that name because houses were built with British capital. This was a residential area. Most of the houses are very attractive with beautiful gardens. This has given Mak ideas about our future garden.

In the evening Mr DeBeck took us out to dinner. We were joined by his sister, Mrs. McCrossan. Later

we went to Mrs. Crossan's house for coffee. It was a nice small house. We had an enjoyable evening. Mr. DeBeck took us for a drive before sending Mrs. Crossan home.

How are you all getting on? We'll be back home in 20 days - hoping to see you all well and hearty.

What are you doing during the School vacation?

Love and lots of kisses from us to Sayang, Adek, Intan, Kuntum, Nor, Adek Shor, Nan, Nah, Ajid and Yong. Sembah salam to Tah and salam to the rest.

Yours lovingly,
Mak & Bapak

PS. More pictures herewith.

letters from a Father to his Children (09.08.58)

16 COLVIN ROAD
SCARSDALE, N.Y.
9th August 1958.

Our Darling Dears,

New York, 1st August: We left London in the morning. Dr. Mohd Nor was at the Victoria Air Terminal to see us off. One Che' Jamaluddin was there too to do a good turn. What happened was that I sent one suit to the dry-cleaners. It was ready on Wednesday but as I had no time to fetch it, I thought I would take delivery on Thursday afternoon, I found the shop closed. This shop was only open half-day on Thursdays. So, Che' Jamaluddin had to fetch it for me as I had to leave for the Air Port early. Good thing, he was on time; otherwise I had to get someone to take it back home and I would have been shorter by one suit.

When I got to the Air Port a BOAC official came and asked me whether I was the Chief Minister of Selangor and being told of the affirmative he assured me of a good trip. I was wondering how he came to know and again when I boarded the plane I was asked the same question by a hostess.

We were told that there was a head wind and to be safe only a certain amount of fuel was taken.

This meant making two stops instead of making a straight flight to New York and a delay of an hour. We stopped at SHANNON ISLAND in South IRELAND and NEWFOUNDLAND in CANADA. We did not realise that at the beginning that when we stopped at NEWFOUNDLAND we thought that it was New York and wondered why the Air Port was small with very little signs of any activity.


We arrived in IDLEWIND Air Port, N.Y. at 11.30pm local time which was 5 hours later than London time. Che' Sopiee was very kind to have sent a Mr. Lim from his office to meet me with his office car -- a big, streamlined CADILLAC with a chauffer. He could not meet us himself as he was out with Mr. Ong Yoke Lin. We were given priority by the Immigration officials and unfortunately, although the Customs Officials would not check our baggage we were delayed for about half an hour as one of our bags was missing. It seems that it was not removed from the plane. (Oh yes, I forgot to mention that amongst the passengers were the AUSTRALIAN team to the Empire Games). We found later that Che' Sopiee was responsible for the privileges accorded us.


We reached Che' Sopiee's house late but he was still up as he too just returned from the City. His wife also stayed up and served us "laksa". We enjoyed it as we were quite hungry. Che' Sopiee's house is about 20 minutes out of New York City. It is situated in a good residential area.




Saturday, 2nd August: We went out marketing with Che' Sopiee's children - Nordin and Norina - at a SUPER-MARKET quite close to Che' Sopiee's house. A super market is where almost everything for the kitchen is available. One takes a trolley and pushes it around picking up anything one needs. After one has picked what one requires, one proceeds to the Cashier who works out the whole bill. This is a very interesting feature with a housewife in America - efficient and convenient.

Che' Sopiee gave a sateh party this evening with Mr. Ong Yoke Lin as the honoured guest. We met quite a number of Officials of Foreign Diplomatic Services in New York. It was a very successful party and everybody enjoyed the sateh. I was considered an honoured guest too!


Sunday, 3rd August: A friend of Che' Sopiee's who owns a speed-boat took us and Mr. Ong Yoke Lin for a sea trip. This friend of Che' Sopiee is a rich Jew. He took us round MANHATTAN Island - on this island is situated New York City - seeing the lovely sights of the City. As the boat got into the Harbour Area we saw the Statue of Liberty and on the right, the magnificent sight of the skyscrapers of the Financial Section of the City on the sky-line. We all enjoyed the trip, which took the whole day.



Monday, 4th August: The first day we went out into the city. We were walking down to the Railway Station when an old man driving a big car stopped and offered us a lift. Of course, we didn't refuse the good offer - good thing too as we just managed to catch the next train. It was a 45 minute trip by train and we stopped at the GREAT CENTRAL TERMINUS.

We walked and without realising it we got to the EMPIRE STATE BUILDING which was on 34th Street 5th Avenue. In New York City, streets, except for a few, are known by numbers. This makes it relatively easier to trace the streets and Avenues. This building is 102 floors above the ground and is 1472 feet high. From the Observatory the magnificent view of New York City can be seen. We stayed up there for about 2 hours. The means of going up and down this tall Building are by lifts -- the Americans refer to them as elavators.

We roamed the streets again. I personally felt rather "pressed in" while in the streets. This was the feeling resulting from the sight of tall skyscrapers which made one to imagine that all the streets were narrow and crowded. One thing we found was that the Americans, generally speaking, were more friendly than the English. The standard and also cost of living were very high. There were cars -- big ones at that -- everywhere and people drived fast here.




Tuesday, 5th August: Today Che' Sopiee personally took us out with his car - a MERCEDES BENZ. He first took to the UNITED NATIONS Buildings - the General Assembly Hall, the Security Council Hall, and the Economic and Social Council Hall. The feature of the last Hall was that part of the ceiling was not completed. The significance was that there was a great deal yet to be done in the World in the direction of economic and social progress. In other words, progress in this line was still incomplete!


We had lunch in the United Nations Restaurant. it was interesting to realise that there were quite a few people eating there who could make or mar the world.


We then went to Che' Sopiee's Office and while he was doing some work we went through Malayan Newspapers. Later we went to CHINA TOWN of New York. There was a big Chinese population there, with many Chinese Sundry Shops and Restaurant. We had dinner in a Chinese Restaurant before going home.


Wednesday, 6th August: Again, we went out in Che' Sopiee's car - this time Che' Sopiee's wife and children came along too. It was our intention to see Television Live Shows. The first was to begin at 11.30 am and the door would close at 11.20 am. We were a bit late and it was quite an exciting moment for the children. We were doubtful if we could make it. I have, by 11.20 am, resigned to the idea that we would miss the show. We were confronted with red lights at every junction.


We were fortunate in being able to be just in time. The programme on was entitled "DOTTO". It was a quiz show with members of the public taking part. The prize offered was big and the winner this morning was a young lawyer who won $1600 (American). This couple could, if they wanted to, carry on in future programme to increase their winnings provided, of course, they could give the correct answer. One American dollar is equivalent to mr $3/-.

After lunch we went to see another TV show. This program was called, "Who Do You Trust?" The competitors here were in pairs - normally husband and wife. When a question was put one member of the pair - normally the man - would either say, "I trust myself" and answer the question himself or say, "I trust my wife" and would allow his wife to answer. The idea is that the person stronger in a particular subject should be made to answer on that subject. Here again big cash prizes were awarded.

We were supposed to go to another T.V. Show but as we were rather tired we decided to return home and even had dinner at home.


Thursday, 7th August: We went this morning, with Che' Sopiee's wife - Che' Zainab - to the Radio City where groups of visitors were taken round to be explained the workings of Radio Broadcasting System. It was very instructive and educational. One of the most interesting



was the demonstration of making sound effects - the sound of a train starting to move, soldiers on parade ground and so forth. It needed ingenuity for these. For instance, the sound of soldiers "turning right" was made by small pieces of square wood tied loosely to a plank, dropped and raised in correct time. The sound of egg being fried was made by the rustling of oil paper!

From there we went again for lunch at the United Nations Restaurant. This lunch was given by a Mr. MITRA a member of the Indian Permanent Delegation to the United Nations. It was originally arranged to be at his house but because of the sudden convening of the SECURITY COUNCIL this afternoon, the plan had to be changed. It was very interesting today. Many leaders of various delegations had lunch here today. In front of me I could see Mr. ALI SASTRODJOJO (I hope I have spelt it correctly) the leader of the Indonesian Delegation. Behind me was SIR LESLIE MONROE of New Zealand, the President of the U.N.O. A bit to my right was the wife of GHANA's AMBASSADOR to U.S.A. entertaining some lady guests. I might explain, at this juncture, that this restaurant was reserved for U.N. Delegates and their guests only, until after 2.30pm or so when it would be open to the public.

The lunch was very nice and before going into the Security Council Hall we crowded in the Lounge. Che' Sopiee introduced us to Ali Sastrodjojo - a very nice old man. We then went in to listen to the debate of the Security Council.



When I listened to the debate I was wondering if every Country was really sincere about maintaining peace in the world. The Russian delegate attacked the U.S.A and the U.K. Governments for sending troops to Lebanon and Jordan respectively. It was then necesarry for these two Governments to defend themselves. The Council eventually decided to call an Emergency meeting of the General Assembly tomorrow.

We later went to a CINERAMA show. This was something new and were shown only in New York, Tokyo and London. When we watched the film we felt we were in the midst of the activities. I believe three projectors were used - one in the middle and two on the sides - giving a curved in impression of the stage. The sound effects were very realistic and the film was in colour. The film shown was "South Seas Adventure" depicting scenic beauty spots in Hawaii, Fiji, New Zealand and Australia. This was very useful to us as we would have an idea of what to expect.

I nearly forgot to mention that we met Dr. Ismail our Ambassador this morning. He came down for the meeting of U.N. Security Council. He was nice to us.

Friday, 8th August: We went rather late this morning and had an early lunch. We went for a bit of shopping and went to Che' Sopiee's Office to go to watch the Emergency Meeting of the U.N. General Assembly. We considered ourselves very fortunate to be able to do this. We sat in a special row just behind the Delegates and in front of the Press.


The meeting however was a short one and adjourned for a full discussion of the situation in the Middle East to Wednesday.

We sent Dr. Ismail to the Air Port to return to Washington and after dinner we went to see the play, "MY FAIR LADY". Here again we considered ourselves very lucky as it was not easy - in fact nearly impossible - to obtain tickets. We managed to get tickets through an influential friend of Che' Sopiee's. I think I did mention in my earlier letter that I tried to get tickets for the play in London and I was told the soonest date was early next year when some tickets would be available. Of course, the New York casts were not the original - they are now in London - but the performance was excellent. I believe that you know this play is based on Bernard Shaw's "Pygmalion." An American told me a joke about this play. There was an old lady who had two big wishes. One was to see the President of America and the other was to see "My Fair Lady". She got her first wish but not the latter!

This play was performed in a Theatre on the BROADWAY which was the main street on which entertainment theatres are situated. It's lovely at night with all the lights. As I said earlier it was brighter than PICCADILY CIRCUS in London.

Saturday, 9th August: Being our last day in New York we went out for a final shopping. We went to two big



Department Stores, "MACY' and "GIMBELS". Speaking about shopping reminds me to tell you that many shops are run by Jews in N.Y. They number 2 millions here. They are very smart in business. As a matter of fact they are very unscrupulous. I am even inclined to think they cheat. Their main trick is to have a sale selling at so-called reduced prices. In actual fact the prices are not reduced but even higher than their normal prices. One of their tricks is to advertise that they are closing down.

I will tell you what happened to us one day. We went into a shop and got to admiring a silver coffee set. It was marked at $1600/-. When one of the salesman asked me to buy it I naturally said that I couldn't afford it. He then took a set - definitely did not look as good as the other - and offered me to buy it at $600/- while the price marked was $1200/-. The salesman started to explain that the shop was in a desperate position as there was a claim on the shop for a payment of $4500/- on a certain date. He showed a telegram demanding payment. Of course, this telegram was sent by themselves to convince that in their desperation they would reduce prices to the lowest. This was just a snare. The actual price might have been even less than $600/-! These Jews' shops are even inclined to play in the total of our bills!!

It was shocking! One has to be very careful with them.

Well; how are you all getting on? We are indeed counting the days when we will be together again. Yes; 26 days more.

Heaps of love and kisses to Sayang, Adek, Intan, Kuntom, Nor, Adek Shor, Nan, Nah, Ajid and Yong. Sembah salam to Tah and salam to the others.

Ever Your Loving

Mak and Bapak.

P.S. More photos

P.P.S No time to post this letter in N.Y. Posting in Vancouver.

letters from a Father to his Children (01.08.58)

73 LEXHAM GARDENS
LONDON, W. 8


1st August, 1958


Our Dear Darling Children,


Wednesday, 23rd July: We had nothing particular to do except in the evening when Che' Mohd. Din and Che' Hawa picked us up to go to Tunku Ja'afars flat for dinner. We ate and went on yarning till it was rather late.


Thursday, 24th. July: Bapak went out alone in the morning to sort out a few things and went back to have early lunch. Che' Mohd. Din and Che' Hawa picked us up to go to PARLIAMENT. From 3 to 4.30 pm we were in the HOUSE OF LORDS listening to the debate on the new Constitution for the State of Singapore. We listened to the EARL OF PERTH introducing the second reading of the Bill and also to LORD OGMORE (who was a lawyer in Penang before, when he was still Mr. Rees Williams) and LORD MILVERTON. We were sitting in the Commonwealth Gallery. At 4.30 pm we moved on to the HOUSE OF COMMONS. Very few Members were present as the house was in a Committee stage and they were discussing Votes for Education in Scotland. Miss HERBISON spoke, if I may say so, very well with a Scot's accent.

Che' Din then took us for a drive to REGENT'S PARK where people go boating and yatching. Later we went to have dinner in a very nice place, "PERERA SINGAPORE

RESTAURANT". We had "sambal udang" here.

Friday, 25th July: We went to see the CHANGING OF THE HORSE GUARDS. We could see the proceedings but as we got there only about half an hour before the parade I could not get a vantage point to take any photographs. We did a bit of shopping later.

Being a Friday the shops were very crowded. People came out today as many of them would go out on Saturday and Sunday during Summer. People rushed about. We could not quite understand it. They rushed about as if the sky was falling. They rushed to catch their buses or tubes as if missing one for a few minutes meant their downfall! This is, I believe, due to their own philosophy of life!!

We went round to "HARRODS". This store or shop is known to Malays here as "KEDAI QUEEN", as this is a favourite shopping store for the Queen. It is a big shop and expensive too.

Saturday, 26th July: We left London for BRIGHTON a sea-side resort at 9 o'clock in Che' Mohd Din's car. Brighton is 50 miles from London. The day wasn't too bad though a bit cold. About 7 miles before we got to Brighton we stopped at a LAY-BY at about 11.30 for our lunch on the road-side. A lay-by is a place where vehicles can stop. These are provided at intervals of one to two miles. No vehicle can stop on the road for any length of time

except at a lay-by.

We enjoyed the "nasi lemak" and "sambal bilis" very much. We proceeded to Brighton. It was rather cold and very windy. We went on a short trip on an electric train along one part of the beach.

Brighton is like any other sea-side town in Britain. It has got its public swimming pools, children's playground and other attractions for summer holiday-makers. There were very few people swimming in the open sea as it was very choppy and cold. We returned at 4pm arriving in London at 6pm.

We rested a bit when Raja Redzuan and his wife called. We talked for an hour and took them for dinner at NEW ASIA RESTAURANT our regular eating shop. This restaurant has three Muslim waiters. They are very fond of us and always greet us with ASSALAMUALAIKUM!

Sunday 27th July: We did not go out as were expecting Pa' Shairi this morning. I was writing a few letters and it was getting late we nearly gave up hope. However, nearing noon, he turned up. He wasn't changed in appearance and he looked fit. We yarned until lunch time and we took him to PERERA SINGAPORE RESTAURANT. We had a good lunch and we returned to our Hotel and continued to talk and talk about old times and home. Pa' Shairi would be returning Home soon

and he proposed to spring you a surprise.

We went out together at 6pm - he, to go back to SANDHURST and Mak & I to go to a friends' (Che' AHMAD ZAINAL) house for dinner. We all went together part of the way by tube until Pa' Shairi stopped at WATERLOO to take a train to Sandhurst. We carried on to CLAPHAM SOUTH, Che' Ahmad Zainal is the son of Che' Yusof, Malayan Chief Scout and his wife is the daughter of Syed Kadir ex-Menteri Besar, Johore. Che' Yusof Zainal and his Swiss wife were with us too.

We left the place rather early as we would be leaving for Oxford early tomorrow but as luck would have it we did not reach home until midnight. What happened was we took a wrong tube when we changed at CHARING CROSS. Instead of taking the District Line we took the Circle Line which went in circle without touching at EARL'S COURT. We passed the same Stations before Earl's Court except that it did not pass Earl's Court. After we have missed Earl's Court by a few stations we came down and worked out how to correct our mistake. It appeared that we could not do anything but to go to Circle Line again and changed very much later to PICCADILY Line. It was indeed a case of "Man proposes and God disposes".

Monday, 28th July: We left for Oxford by coach and arrived there at about 12.30pm and went on straight to lunch at RITZ Restaurant which I used to frequent when I was there. We had a very poor lunch. The meat was so tough that I left most of it. We then went to my old landlady's house. We received a nice welcome from both Mr. and Mrs. Chaffin as they were expecting us. They took us round the house, particularly to show Mak the room I was living in before. We then talked of old things and it was quite late in the afternoon before we went to see the City, and some Colleges. I took Mak to see MAGDALEN (pronounced MAUDLIN) COLLEGE where there also a deer park. I took her round to the Colonial Service Club (now named Commonwealth Service Club) where I lived for a few months before I moved to the Chaffins'. After showing a few more places we returned for dinner.

Mrs. Chaffin prepared a special dinner for us. After dinner we went on yarning until it was a bit late. Mr. & Mrs. Chaffin were very happy. They were very kind to us and they liked Mak very much. We talked quite a bit about you all and showed our group photograph to them. Mrs. Chaffin wanted to see partitcularly Adek's photograph because Mrs. Chaffin remembered the story I told her about Adek disclaiming me from being her father when I came back from England before.

We slept in the room downstairs as Mrs. Chaffin

has let the room I was living in before to a tenant. Otherwise she wanted Mak and I to sleep in my former room!

Tuesday 29th July: We went out late after breakfast to the city. I took Mak to my old College and took a photograph of her there. I took her also to CHRIST CHURCH, the biggest College in Oxford. After going round a bit we went back for lunch and left for London by the 4 o'clock coach.

Wednesday, 30th July: We went out to sort out the arrangements to go to New York. It was a tiring day looking for QANTAS Office. I walked and because I thought Mak could not last it, I left her at HYDE PARK. That was fortunate. It was a hard morning. I was trying to make arrangements to delay by a day or two our departure but I did not succeed as every plane for the next week was fully booked.

In the evening we went for a "meehoon" food at the flat of Che' Rahman Jalal. He and his wife Che 'Aishah were very kind to us.

Tuesday, 31st July: We went to Thomas Cook & Son in the morning to get our Traveller's Cheques. We also went to a News Theatre after which we had lunch at MARBLE ARCH Restaurant. There was a news "shot" showing the EMPIRE GAMES at Cardiff and although we tried to spot out our Malayan Team in the parade we could not do so.

Later in the afternoon Che' Din and Che' Hawa took us to go to KEW GARDENS. The weather was very fine and we enjoyed our trip there. After dinner we had out final packing as we would be leaving for New York

early tomorrow morning. We felt rather excited because we would be on the move again coupled with the idea that we would be on our way home to you all.

Oh, yes, we too are counting the days when we would be together again. Pray for our safe journey home.

God bless you all and heaps & heaps of love and kisses from us to Sayang, Adek, Intan, Kuntom, Nor, Adek Shor, Nan, Nah, Ajid and Yong.

Yours ever lovingly,

Mak and Bapak.

PS. Some more photos herewith.

I have no time to post this letter in London but will do so in New York.