My Childhood Memories In A Small Village In Kelantan

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Everyone has special memories of their childhood. For me, the most unforgettable memories come from the time I spent growing up in a small village in Kelantan. My village is Kampung Tandak, Machang. It is surrounded by paddy fields, coconut trees, and friendly neighbours who treated each other like family.
Life in the village was peaceful and simple. I still remember waking up early to the sound of roosters crowing and the azan call from the nearby surau. My mother would prepare delicious traditional breakfast like 'nasi dagang' or 'nasi kerabu'. After eating, I would rush outside with my siblings and friends to play games like 'galah panjang', hopscotch and 'dekcak hambat'.
School was not far from my house. I would walk with my friends, enjoying the fresh morning air and waving at the farmers working in the paddy fields. Sometimes, we would stop by the river to catch small fish or watch water buffaloes cooling themselves. The river was one of our favourite places. We would swim, float paper boats and pick fruits from the trees along the riverbank.
During festive seasons like Hari Raya, the village became very lively. The children would visit every house, collecting duit raya and enjoying local kuih like akok, kuih puteri mandi and bahulu. The elderly would sit together, sharing stories while we played in the open fields. Everyone helped each other during celebrations. That strong sense of community is something I will always treasure.
The rainy season was also fun. Although it made the roads muddy, we enjoyed running in the rain and playing in puddles. Our parents never scolded us because they knew we were just having fun. Life was full of laughter and freedom.
Now that I live in the city, life is very different. Everything moves fast, and people are always busy. Sometimes I miss the quiet evenings, the sound of crickets, and the smell of fresh grass after rain. Most of my childhood friends have moved away, and some paddy fields have been turned into buildings.
Still, I will never forget Kampung Tandak. It was the place where I learned about friendship, kindness, and simple happiness. My childhood in the village is a part of me that I will always carry in my heart.
Childhood memories are very special. They remind us of who we are and where we come from. I feel lucky to have grown up in a small village in Kelantan, and I will always be grateful for the beautiful memories.
www.zukidin.com {Estd 2012}

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