MY TRAVEL: LUBOK CHINA (MELAKA & N.SEMBILAN)

2012-2016: LUBOK CHINA

Lubok, China, my parents' hometown, is a charming border town that holds a rich tapestry of history and culture. Nestled in the heart of Negeri Sembilan, it serves as a gateway to various experiences, from its lush landscapes to its vibrant local traditions.

The town is known for its warm community spirit, where locals often gather to celebrate festivals and share stories of the past. The blend of cultures, influenced by its proximity to different regions, adds to the unique character of Lubok China.

Visitors can explore the quaint streets, enjoy local delicacies, and immerse themselves in the serene environment that this border town offers. Whether you're reminiscing about childhood memories or creating new ones, Lubok China is a place that resonates with nostalgia and warmth.

2019: KG.SEMIN

Since the termination of my service contract with the Malaysian Heart Foundation, I have rarely travelled, spending more time at home, especially after undergoing a Cardiac Bypass Surgery (CABG) at the National Heart Institute on March 23, 2019.

Only on the second Hari Raya of 2019, I accompanied my third sister and her son to celebrate Hari Raya in Kg. Semin, Lubok Cina, N. Sembilan, to my brother's mother-in-law's house and also to Lendu for Hari Raya.

On the morning of June 6, 2019 (second Hari Raya), we continued our journey from Lembah Keramat, Kuala Lumpur to Lubok Cina, Negeri Sembilan.

The journey from Lembah Keramat, KL, to Lubok Cina took 1 hour 30 minutes, 113 km, via the PLUS Highway exit at Pedas Linggi.

The Lubok China Post Office building reminds me of the 70s, when I was still in primary school. My late grandfather (Atok Yasin bin Kidam) once took me to this post office to collect his pension money as a former police officer during the emergency period... we went to Lubok China Town by bus... this is the post office where my late grandfather used to collect his pension money... what I still remember is, after collecting his pension money, he would buy breakfast with roti canai and teh tarik at a stall where I can't remember the location.

2023: DEWAN JAPERUN

On June 3, 2023, I, my wife, my sister and her daughter, left my house in Lembah Keramat, Kuala Lumpur, for Lubok China, Melaka, my late mother's village, to attend the wedding of our cousin's son.

The journey from Lembah Keramat, KL, to Lubok China, Melaka, is 114 km, and the journey takes 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The Japerun Hall in Lubok China is in the Ayer Limau DUN area, Melaka. JAPERUN stands for the State Legislative Assembly Development and Coordination Committee. The JAPERUN Hall in Lubok, Malaysia, once caused a stir on 7 September 2022 when a 20-year-old man and a 16-year-old woman were found dead in a car in this hall.

My memories of Lubok China are woven with the threads of nostalgia and warmth. Each visit to this charming town brings back vivid images of my childhood, where the air was filled with laughter and the aroma of local delicacies.

I remember the vibrant festivals, where the community would come together, adorned in colourful attire, celebrating traditions that have been passed down through generations. The sound of traditional music and the sight of joyful faces created an atmosphere that felt like home.

The quaint streets of Lubok China hold countless stories. I can still picture myself wandering through the market, the vibrant stalls bursting with fresh produce and handmade crafts. The friendly vendors would greet me with smiles, sharing snippets of their lives and the history of the town.

One of my fondest memories is of my late grandfather, who would take me to the post office. I can still hear his laughter as we reminisced about the past while waiting in line. Those moments spent with him, sharing breakfast at a local stall, are etched in my heart forever.

As I reflect on my experiences, I realise that Lubok China is more than just a place; it is a treasure trove of memories that continue to shape who I am today. Each visit is a reminder of the love, community, and rich culture that define this beautiful border town.

Hj Zulheimy Maamor

4/11/2026: 11:43 a.m.