Travel Brunei Darussalam
by John Tiong Chunghoo
Stanza 1
Bandar Seri Begawan weds the old and new -
roads, heritage buildings, museums, mosques, parks,
a market by the river selling jungle produce
and of course the Jerudong Amusement Park
where late Michael Jackson performed for
the Sultan's 50th birthday - - almost 20 years
before the release of his last album, That's It
Stanza 2
it is not the town though that revs one's spirit up
but the humble Brunei river that flows by it
the river opens one to the heart of the Sultanate
here you could see the gleaming Sultan's Palace
the oil kingdom's diverse flora and fauna
as well as the way the Sultan's subjects live,
Stanza 3
oil fuels the movements here and everywhere
sampans, motored boats go up and down
the waterway
there is even a little oil station on stilts
right in the middle of the river
for the boatman to fill up their boat tanks
Stanza 4
the most poignant here are the
smart young generation during sunset hours- -
tudong clad malay schoolgirls
in long white blouse and ocean blue skirt
bleary eyed boys in white shirts, dark green long pants
with rucksacks on their backs get down from their boats
and rush to their wooden houses - home sweet home
Stanza 5
a newly wedded couple
in resplendent traditional baju melayu
hold each other, smile and speed
away in their boat to their new nest
Stanza 6
cococnut palms sway and
a Sharifah Aini song goes on air
while warm breeze blows
reminding me of a paradise on earth,
Stanza 7
the egrets both the orange and black beak species
add grace to the to the picturesque river
the Malays call them banggau
Stanza 8
I also have the Brunein luck to spot the
proboscis monkeys- monyet belanda
with their long flabby nose, humanlike faces
the males moving with their harem
Stanza 9
at one end of the river the Sultan's Palace
where cutleries are made of gold
and waiters get thousands in tips
glistens over the waters
there also I could visualise the smile of the
man with the songkok on the blue dollar notes
the man who led one of the oldest Malay sultanates
which gave away Sarawak - my beloved state to the
White Rajah
The End...
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Travel Brunei Darussalam by John Tiong Chunghoo
Story Analysis by Christopher John Sasel
REFLECTION
This opening part of the poem sets the stage for a journey through Bandar Seri Begawan, offering a glimpse of its rich cultural tapestry. It encapsulates the idea that a city can be a living testament to the past while embracing the present and future. The mention of Michael Jackson's performance serves as a reminder that even in a city steeped in tradition, there are moments of modernity and global connection.
THEMES
In 'Bandar Seri Begawan,' the poem portrays a theme of cultural fusion, depicting a city blending its past with the dynamism of the present. The juxtaposition of traditional architecture, museums, mosques, and parks alongside contemporary references like Michael Jackson's performance symbolizes the blend of old and new in the urban landscape. This fusion serves as a metaphor for the evolving nature of Bruneian culture, where tradition seamlessly integrates into modernity. It also highlights the resilience of culture against globalization, retaining its roots while embracing change.
CULTURAL CONTEXT
The cultural context of 'Bandar Seri Begawan' showcases a city embodying the fusion of eras and influences, mirroring broader cultural dynamics in Brunei. The poem illustrates Bruneian society's ability to blend its historic past with contemporary influences. Architectural marvels and landmarks symbolize Brunei's deep-rooted heritage and traditions, preserved in the capital. References to modern pop culture, like Michael Jackson's performance, signify Bruneian society's openness to external influences, enriching their cultural experience. This portrayal encapsulates Brunei's cultural ethos, where tradition and modernity converge to create a vibrant and evolving society.
SYMBOLISM
The reference to Michael Jackson's performance for the Sultan's 50th birthday highlights the city's connection to global pop culture and its significance in the international scene. It shows that a Brunei are open for entertainment and embraces a diversified culture so that it transform to more interactive and peaceful country.
LITERARY TECHNIQUES
Contrast: The poem effectively contrasts the historical aspects of the city with contemporary events like Michael Jackson's performance, emphasizing the dynamic nature of Bandar Seri Begawan.
Imagery: The description of the market by the river selling jungle produce and the Jerudong Amusement Park creates vivid images that draw the reader into the city's atmosphere.