By Leong Yuen Teng
In a world where the travel bug bites but the alarm clock stings, Chai, a 22-year-old student, planned the perfect getaway for the non-morning person. Imagine a trip dedicated to a slow rhythm of exploration, where getting up early is not required, and the destination is just a stone’s throw away. Dear Kuchingites, prepare for the ideal escape — a short getaway that will satisfy your wanderlust without demanding an early morning alarm call.
Chai discovered the spots by browsing social media such as Facebook, Instagram and referrals from people around him. These destinations were selected for their excellent facilities and the fact that they were all on the same route and had everything to offer — drinks, food, activities, and breathtaking scenery.
Chai and his friends set the wheels in motion on a sun-drenched Sunday afternoon. Their first stop? The renowned countryside gem of Kampung Temenggong: Serapi Virgin Coconut Shake.
Venessa, one of Chai’s friends, couldn’t help but express her surprise at the pleasant drive as the group navigated the well-maintained roads leading to Kampung Temenggong. Contrary to the stereotypical view of bumpy country roads, the path to their destination was easily navigable and pothole-free.
Arriving at their destination, the Serapi Virgin Coconut Shake was situated among the lively atmosphere of Kampung Temenggong — the narrow yet straight road, lined with stalls offering local delicacies, making finding parking a challenge.
“The coconut milkshake tasted good, and I’m already planning my return to indulge in more, especially the roadside snacks like keropok. The place gives a chill vibe; it is a perfect spot for a lazy Sunday escape,” said Venessa, known for her keen taste buds and love for discovery.
However, Venessa, the observant critic, noted a minor quirk.
“The only thing that has puzzled me is that it seems that the fan unit in the place is not set high enough. I’m 170; when I sit on a bar-height chair, I can feel the fan right above my head, and I dare not put my hands up while I’m sitting because I can touch the fan.”
Enjoying the last sips of their coconut shakes, Chai and his friends carry the memories of a scorching afternoon well spent in Serapi Virgin Coconut Shake, continuing to their next destination — D’white Station Telaga Air Kuching. A charming fishing village at the mouth of the river, Telaga Air is tucked away just ten minutes from Serapi Virgin Coconut Shake.
“As far as I know, Telaga Air was developed in the past due to its strategic location close to the sea. It began where a group gathered and gradually transformed into a kampung. As it’s near the sea, outsiders were first drawn in due to fisheries, contributing to its development. That’s how it got bigger, and that’s why we can be here now,” said Chai, unravelling Telaga Air’s history.
“This place is good for sightseeing, walking around, and taking photos. You can try the seafood from the roadside stalls if you get hungry. I find this place very family-friendly and perfect for families to come over for a break. Parents can enjoy a two-person world, sitting on the bench and enjoying the sea breeze and each other’s company, while their children can play at the available playground,” said Lim, who captures the charm of Telaga Air with his acute sense.
Chai and his friend arrived at their last destination, Golden Beach in Trombol, after a quick 13-minute ride to a place where soft sands meet breathtaking views of Mount Santubong, Mount Serapi and the Talang Satang National Park.
Kelly gladly shared her thoughts on Trombol Beach. “The soft sandy beach made me take off my shoes right away. Standing at the shoreline, with the seawater gently lapping at my ankles, I felt nothing but relaxation and calmness.
“Don’t miss out on all-terrain vehicles (ATV), utility terrain vehicles (UTV), and kite flying when you come here,” said Kelly, highlighting the recreational alternatives.
She felt liberated after trying ATV riding herself: “I tried ATV, and it was amazing. When I hit the throttle, I felt free. The price for renting an ATV is also very fair, RM50 for 20 minutes.”
“Well, I had a great time collecting hermit crabs. So, I think the RM5 admission charge per person is reasonable,” said Lim. Yet, he also pointed out parts that needed work: “I didn’t see many bins on the beach, and there was a lot of trash everywhere.”
Lim emphasised the need for caution, especially for families, “Parents who bring their children to the beach need to be extra careful about their children’s safety as this is a beach with no lifeguards and ATVs, UTVs, and cars are everywhere on the beach.”
As a constructive safety measure for those renting ATVs and UTVs, Lim proposed, “I think the businesses that rent ATVs and UTVs could give safety instructions before renters get on the road.”
Chai stresses why protecting and preserving these locations for the future is important from a sustainable perspective.
“First, these locations are situated far away from the city. They risk stagnating and staying as little kampung forever if there is no tourism at all. Nonetheless, the beaches have been rejuvenated by the concentrated efforts made there. The tourism sector grows as more visitors are lured to visit again. It’s a mutually beneficial relationship that fosters the development of these places. Second, take Trombol Beach as an example. Being a private location, there was no dedicated effort to maintain it, so it was quite dirty in the past. Thus, the beach needs visitors; more visitors equal more money, and with money, the beach can be kept in better condition. More people are drawn in when the environment improves, and a sustainable loop is created.”
No early morning alarms, no rush — dear Kuchingites. The charm of Serapi Virgin Coconut Shake, the serenity of Telaga Air, and the breathtaking views of Trombol Beach invite you to rediscover the beauty in your backyard. However, please remember to explore responsibly, cherish, and protect these havens, keeping these local getaways timeless for generations to come!
- This article was written by a student from the Strategic Communication Programme at the Faculty of Education, Language and Communication, UNIMAS.
