Humaira Soffri
Copyright © Humaira Soffri 2024 All rights reserved. Except for extracts for review purposes, you are not allowed to duplicate or republish this book, in whole or in part, without the written permission of the author or the editor. ISBN: 978-0-000000-0 Jom Pi Sungai Petani Content and Illustrated by Humaira Soffri Edited by Nur Aiza Zainol Abidin Printed by Print Expert Sdn Bhd., Malaysia First Printing Edition: February 2024 https://humairascarlet.carrd.co
Content & Illustration Humaira Soffri 2024 Editor Nur Aiza Zainol Abidin
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For the wanderers...
History page 8 Activities page 16 Contents
Eateries page 24 Culture page 30 I’m Budi and this little bird is Seri... Jom Pi Sungai Petani with us! Hello!
History 8
Remakes of Kedah Peak, 1960’s by A.B. Ibrahim, Malaysian painter 9
Sungai Petani (abbreviated Sg. Petani or “SP”) is an industrial city in the state of Kedah located in the north of Peninsular Malaysia. Why Sungai Petani? 10 The name of the city is taken from the name of the river, which is Sungai Petani, a stream of Sungai Merbok. The name ‘Petani’ may be related to the Pattani district in Thailand. Pattani was from the Sanskrit word ‘pathini’ which means ‘pure woman’. When Kedah was known as Langkasuka, traders used to go back and forth between the Merbok Valley and Pattani and the eastern part of the peninsula by road. So, it is not impossible if the name ‘Petani’ is borrowed from the title of the queen of flattery.
You can come here by... Car Train (ETS) Plane Sungai Petani is the second largest city in Kedah after Alor Setar Going by car is more convenient because the distance between places makes it hard to get public transport access, unless you are a great walker! 11
The discovery of various artifacts and temples by archaeologists including ritual sites, iron smelting sites and ancient harbors prove that the people of Kedah Tua have a high level of civilization. Lembah Bujang Archaeological Museum is the only museum in Malaysia that exhibits an archaeological collection that proves the creation of an international trade center and the development of Hinduism and Buddhism in Southeast Asia from the 3rd century AD to the 12th century AD. Did you know that the state of Kedah was an ancient Malay kingdom that has existed since prehistoric times? Nearby Sungai Batu, Bukit Batu Pahat, 08400 Merbok, Kedah Monday to Sunday 9:00 am - 5:00 am Free entrance! 12
The archaeological artifacts exhibited in this museum are materials that prove that the Lembah Bujang is an international port and trade center that has been visited by merchants who dominate the sea trade routes between countries in the east and west, especially merchants from China, India, Arabs alongside Malay traders from the Malay Islands who master spices and exotic forest products for the far eastern market since the 5th century. Great isn’t it?! What is in here? Gallery of historical relics Temple architecture Old coin dealer Leisure area 1 2 3 4 13
Kampung Permatang Samak, 08100 Bedong, Kedah Monday to Sunday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm 2:00 pm – 4:30 pm Free entrance! 14 Located in Merbok in Kedah, Sungai Batu is believed to have existed since 535 BC. Sungai Batu, which is nearby to the Lembah Bujang, is also a historical heritage site where the Kedah Tua community engaged in international entrepot activities and iron smelting. Because of its significance in the international trade of iron, archaeologists have discovered merchant ships that are thought to have been buried for around 4,000 years! Wow! What a long period. Ever wonder what this place used to look like? If merchants from far and wide are eager to do business here, it must be quite wonderful. In recent records, the location contains 10 jetties, multiple sacred sites, 13 administrative centers, and 17 smelting plants.
15 In ancient times, Sungai Batu functioned as... Iron smelting hub Merchant ship port Port administration center The distance between Lembah Bujang and Sungai Batu is only 9km (11 minutes) away Due to its strategic location near Mount Jerai, Sungai Batu’s position helped encourage traders to anchor in the area by setting the top of the mountain as a guide. This proves that Malaysia is also entitled to world cultural treasures on the level of its neighbors such as Indonesia’s Borobudur Temple and Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.
Activities 16
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18 1. Camera 2. Journal tools 3. Water bottle 4. Power bank 5. Comfortable clothes 6. Undergarments 7. Smartphone 8. Identification 9. Wallet with cash 10. Toiletries 11. Umbrella 12. Snacks 13. Sunscreen 14. Mini fan 15. Sunglasses To travel, all the basic equipment must be well prepared so the journey will be more smoothly. Sungai Petani is a town in northern Malaysia, so the weather is quite hot. Thus, bring the appropriate clothes to go there!
19 of the paddy fields. If you come in the harvest season, you will be able to see the sight of plump and yellowing paddy. So, when you visit Sungai Petani don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful scenery and fresh air around the paddy field. The best paddy field viewpoint in Kedah: Capturing beautiful panoramic photos Visiting the Kedah Paddy Museum in Alor Setar Cycling by the paddy fields Suggested activities... Kedah Darul Aman is referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Malaysia” since it is the primary rice producer and contributes to up to one-third of the nation’s rice production. As you make your way to your locations of interest, you’ll glance at the expansive views Gunung Keriang Kampung Gunung Hulu, Alor Setar, Kedah Bukit Kodiang Kampung Kandis, 06100 Kodiang, Kedah Gunung Jerai 08300 Yan, Kedah Seri Perigi Kampung Perigi, 06900 Yan, Kedah
20 Pantai Merdeka Tanjung Dawai Beautiful soft sand and blue seawater can be seen in Tanjung Dawai’s beach. Tanjung Dawai is the ideal location for those who enjoy fishing to experience the activity. Renting a fishing boat will allow you to take advantage of the peaceful the beach fishing experience. Picnic and relax under the beach sheoak tree Take a boat to Tanjung Dawai Enjoy some meals at eateries and vendors What you can do here? Do you want a soul free from all problems and the stresses of daily life? You may find the ‘therapy’ in Pantai Merdeka. This one-kilometer white sand beach has the power to carry you somewhere. You may admire the magnificence of Gunung Jerai in the distance while strolling and taking in the constant breeze. One of the attractions in Sungai Petani is its beautiful beach. Among the must-visit beaches here are Pantai Merdeka and Tanjung Dawai. The area is well-known for its mouthwatering seafood. Fresh and authentic foods are served at a variety of eateries and seafood vendors. Also, you can discover a selection of fresh seafood obtained by local fishermen at Tanjung Dawai’s traditional fish market. Furthermore, you can purchase seafood and fresh fish to eat on-site or take home.
21 Suggested activities... Visit the Mangrove Forest Reserve Museum to learn about the immense significance of mangrove forests Take a mangrove tour to learn more about the different kinds of plants, birds, and marine life Cruise along Sungai Merbok all the way to Teluk Bayu, Tanjung Dawai, and Pulau Tiga The mangrove forest surrounding Sungai Merbok, covering 4,000 hectares, is an ecological paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and anybody else seeking a peaceful outdoor experience. Epic natural shows may be seen here, with waders and kingfishers as well as groups of Little Egrets stealing the show. Because the area has historically been used to produce charcoal and bricks, the presence of mangroves gives the impression that you are in ancient times. At the Sungai Merbok Jetty Complex, a coal kiln is located. The domeshaped roof of this kiln is constructed from bricks. Sungai Merbok Jetty Complex, 08000 Bedong, Kedah Monday to Sunday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Coal Kiln
22 Suggested activities... ujrjr Suggested activities... ujrjr Desserts, handcrafted drinks, various thrift and antique vendorsAffordable variety of clothes, food and traditional medicinesEvery weekend night, Sungai Petani town is very lively with various interesting night markets open from 7pm to 12am.
23 Suggested activities... Various kinds of street foods and ujrjr handcraft drinksLots of vintage and thrift vendors, from clothing to toysThese places have a lot of exciting things to offer, and the atmosphere is vivacious! Find out more about these night markets on Instagram: @kolektifbiggy @minato_street @space08000
Eateries 24
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26 Sotong Buncit Jahat TOP D’ GURUN 8A, Lorong BLM 1/2, Bandar Laguna Merbok, Sungai Petani HJ. ZAN NASI DAGING Taman Rhu, Sungai Petani Nasi Daging Mee Udang USOP MEE UDANG LAUT PULAU SAYAK Kompleks Bilik Sejuk Fama, K639, Kampung Teluk Chengai Cendol Pulut Durian CENDOL PAK NIK 53, Lorong 20, Taman Petani Jaya, Sungai Petani
27 HUSSAIN NASI KANDAR Jalan Mawar Z, Pekan Baru, Sungai Petani Nasi Kandar NASI LEMAK D’LAYAR Jalan Patani, Taman Pekan Baru, Sungai Petani Nasi Lemak ALONG BIHUN SUP MARVELES Tikam Batu, Sungai Petani Bihun Sup Utara DATARAN AT SATAY SEMELING Lot 10, Taman Desa Semeling, Bedong Satay
28 Are you an enthusiastic coffee drinker who also enjoys handcrafted beverage and hanging out at cafés that make for superb Instagram photos? So let’s go café hunting in Sungai Petani. You can discover anything from classic café with Malay food to retro-themed café, Japanese café, and modern cafés. Numerous cafés serve their special specialties here, and this is one of the must-visit spots! Biggy & The Ahli Kopi Tias Cafe Lily Coffee A café with a classic concept in old classic English construction. Malay & Western food with a unique name and taste with relatively large portions! Don’t forget to try the pure Kopi Jalan Patani. A vintage decorated coffee shop built in a classic building. Serving dishes such as buttermilk chicken rice, spaghetti & mantou. Their specialty is handcrafted drinks and coffee. 1, Jalan Patani, Taman Pekan Baru Open everyday except Tuesday 12:00pm - 12:00am With a cozy and minimalist concept, it is suitable tfor your OOTD spot. Serving varities of Italian & Western cuisine. Their specialty is delicious pizza! 30, Jalan Ibrahim Open everyday except Wednesday 5:00pm - 12:00am 50, Jalan NCity 1/3, N-City Open everyday except Wednesday 12:00pm - 10:00pm
29 Kopi Bunga Half Full Cafe Panggey Cafe Daily Coffee Kopi Tamu Hanazawa Bakery A minimalist café that also sells fresh flowers. Serving Malay, Western cuisine, salads & desserts. There are also many interesting drink options such as coffee, matcha, frappe & tea. The atmosphere of the cafe is very calm. Suitable if you want to do some work here. Good selection of coffees and noncaffeine drinks. Not the usual generic sugary drinks you can find in regular coffee shops. Cafe with a classic Malay concept in a classic building. Serving Malay, Western cuisine & also throat-cooling drinks. Open until late at night. Suitable for dining with the family. A beautiful café, suitable for hanging out. The menu is also very interesting for Western food lovers. For those who like to eat under the sky & in the shade of trees, you can enjoy your food at outdoor dining. The atmosphere of the cafe is cozy & comfortable & the arrangement of tables & chairs is also suitable for a family meal. Various choices of Western cuisine, pasta, dessert, pastry & drinks. Cute Japanese cafe design & a very cozy environment. They serve delicious bread, pastries & cakes. And also refreshing handcrafted drinks. Suitable for hanging out with friends & also an OOTD spot. 1, Jalan Bakar Arang, Bakar Arang Open everyday except Wednesday 10:00am - 11:00pm 4, Jln NCity 1/1, N-City Business Park Open everyday 10:00am - 11:00pm 26, Jalan Pengkalan, Taman Pekan Baru Open everyday 9:00am - 11:30pm No 20B, Kompleks Perkim, Jalan Pegawai, Kampung Teroi Open everyday except Monday 4:00pm - 10:30pm A1, Jalan Bakar Arang, Bakar Arang Open everyday 8:00am - 12:00am 171, Jalan Badlishah Open everyday except Thursday 9:00am - 7:30pm
Culture 30
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32 Each state has its accent that has its uniqueness. Likewise with the Kedah accent, which always sounds harsh but most of the people are friendly. It is interesting to travel here by being able to learn the local accent. Let’s learn some words in the Kedah accent together! Awat Pasaipa Lagumana Sapadia Tang mana Dok buat apa Phrases when questioning... “Awat hang dok tersengih dari tadi ni?” “Pasaipa hang pi jalan tak ajak aku?” “Lagumana nak naik gerek pi Pantai Merdeka?” “Sapadia yang dok keloi aku tadi?” “Tang mana nak naik bot pi Tangjung Dawai?” “Nelayan tu dok buat apa kat tengah laut?” (“Who called me just now?”) (“Why are you smiling from earlier?”) (“Why don’t you ask me out?”) (“How to ride a bicycle to Pantai Merdeka?”) (“Where is the place to take a boat to Tanjung Dawai?”) (“What is the fisherman doing in the middle of the ocean?”)
33 Things in Loghat Kedah... Gerek Toyu Tokua Camca Nyioq Merton Gon Ayiaq Cabai Pedai Ayam Spoon Bicycle Padlock Chili Soy Sauce Coconut Water Hammer Tofu Menyorok Bumper Breakfast Sia Tiffin Moi Congee Lau Coop Teghebey Slingshot
34 Mosques The community in Sungai Petani is harmonious and the people are very friendly if you want to socialize to learn more about the city. There are several places suitable for you to mingle with the Sungai Petani community. They are from various ages, races, and religions. Jam Besar Pekan Lama Tanjung Dawai Gigs & Event The area near this Sungai Petani landmark is never quiet, especially when it comes to the festive season. The night atmosphere here is also very lively with lights and festive events. If you’re a fan of indie gigs and events that resonate with your young soul, Sungai Petani is the place! You can follow @kolektifbiggy, @space08000, and @_bloct on Instagram for more updates! Along the streets of Pekan Lama, Sungai Petani there is a very large Chinese and Indian community. There are various traditional eateries and cultural shops, and also very lively during the festival season. The design of the classic buildings along this street is also very well preserved and maintained. If you want to get closer to Chinese and Indian culture, you can go here. If you want to know seafood recipes, types of fish, and anything related, you can mingle with sellers at the fish market and fishermen around Tanjung Dawai. Most of them are elderly people who are very friendly. The mosque is a place of community and also learning. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the beautiful mosques in Sungai Petani such as Masjid Andalusia, MADAD and Masjid Sultan Muzaffar Shah.
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The Journey Jom Pi Sungai Petani is an illustrated guidebook for travelers and those who are interested in discovering underrated local gems with a contemporary illustration approach. With Budi and Seri guiding you through this book, I hope you enjoy connecting with the town and discover that Sungai Petani is a tourist-worthy place to visit! -Humaira Soffri
Jumpa lagi noh!
Jom Pi Sungai Petani! This fun guidebook is your go-to for contemporary illustration and easy guide. Find all the awesome spots and enjoy the town’s vibes. Let’s explore together!