Ancient times meets modernity

Lamboya region, Sumba Island, February 2010.

Free the bird

Kuan Yin Temple, George Town, Penang, Malaysia, December 2010.

Betel nuts

Chewing betel nut (or sirih in Indonesian) is one of the favourite occupations of the Sumbanese, men and women, young and old. Three elements are required: a nut from the areca palm tree, some lime, and a leaf or the fruit of the betel vine. The nut is cut into pieces and put into the mouth. Then the betel fruit is chewed a bit to cut it open, put into lime and put into the mouth. The reaction of the lime with the betel fruit makes for abundant, reddish saliva. Old people may require a small areca nut ponder to replace missing teeth.

Chewing betel nut is a social activity. Offering betel nut to a guest is welcoming him in the house.

... and the winner is...

Sumba Island, February 2010.

PLA climb

Chinese wall 1985.

After the plastic meal

Anyway, Penang's hawkers are the best!

George Town, Penang, Malaysia, December 2010.

Pinky on the road

What brand is it?

When was this vintage car built?

George Town, Penang, Malaysia, December 2010.

Chinese Buddhist Monk shows the way

Kek Lok Si Temple, Air Itam, Penang, Malaysia, December 2009.