The writer G Raghunathan (fifth from right in the back row) and a group of his schoolmates from Ibrahim Secondary School, Sungai Petani, planned a week-long train journey to Thailand to celebrate their 50th reunion this year. — Dr ZORIAH AZIZ
Looking retrospectively, our friendships date from primary school days in Kedah, in towns like Sungai Petani, Kulim, Baling, Sik, Jeniang and Merbok.
From these small towns, some of us continued our studies at Ibrahim Secondary School, Sungai Petani, for Form Four and later Form Six. These events took place in 1973 and 1975, respectively.
Many from out of town stayed in the school hostel or rented homes in nearby housing areas.
While some continued into Form Six, others started working early to support their families.
After a memorable reunion holiday this year, G Raghunathan (1st from left) said he and his old schoolmates promised to organise more frequent gatherings, knowing how precious time was. — Photos: DR ZORIAH AZIZ
Our batch was not only academically inclined but also active in sports and social activities – qualities that we carried into our adult lives.
Form Six marked another separation, as many pursued studies at local universities or abroad in Japan, Taiwan, New Zealand, Australia, Britain, Canada, India and beyond.
Despite going our separate ways, we agreed to meet every 10 years in Malaysia. These reunions were always spontaneous and well-attended.
As our 50th anniversary approached, we decided to spend more time travelling together. The idea of a week-long train journey to Thailand was born.
Since our friends are spread worldwide, planning began in October 2024. With a large Hokkien group, we scheduled the trip after Chap Goh Meh, from Feb 13 to 18, 2025. Seventeen of us made it. Someone suggested a partial train journey, which sounded exciting.
Despite the Chinese New Year season, we finalised plans with Sunway Travels. On Feb 13, one group took the morning ETS from KL Sentral, picking up others from Sungai Petani and Alor Star.
After immigration, we travelled by bus to Hat Yai, where the Thai spicy food and warm hospitality set a great tone for the trip. Hat Yai was bustling with tourists, offering a variety of food and recreation options.
The next day, after enjoying local delicacies and sightseeing, we boarded the overnight train to Bangkok. There was initial concern about the train’s condition, sleeping berths and food, but all worries faded as the facilities exceeded our expectations.
Our music director entertained us with music and karaoke, bringing back memories of our younger days.
The train arrived on schedule at 8am at Bangkok Railway Station. Freshened up, we continued by bus to the famous Pattaya Beach.
Avoiding the afternoon heat, we relaxed at a mall, visited Chinatown, and enjoyed a delicious halal dinner. Later, we had another karaoke session at the hotel.
The next morning, after time at the beach, we had lunch and took a bus back to Bangkok for a two-night stay.
Sightseeing was light and easy – not as young as before, but we managed to visit The Grand Palace, Temple of the Emerald Buddha, and Wat Arun The Temple of Dawn, staying hydrated with mineral water, umbrellas and caps.
We ended the day with dinner and a cultural show at Asiatique The Riverfront. For first-timers, the cabaret show was an eye-opener.
The following day, we took a long drive outside Bangkok to visit the Maeklong Railway Market, Floating Market, and coconut plantations, witnessing the unique identity of Thailand.
By this point, we were craving something other than spicy food, so we opted for stall food at Iconsiam, enjoying the air-conditioned shopping before heading for a river cruise dinner on the Chao Phraya River.
Our enthusiasm was uncontainable – we ended up dancing with the band and laughing at our rusty moves. Back at the hotel, we had another karaoke session before turning in for the night.
The next day, we went our separate ways. Most flew back to KL and Singapore, while some extended their stay in Bangkok.
The six days passed quickly. We relived our youth, shared countless memories, and laughed together. We also remembered friends who are no longer with us.
Most importantly, we promised to organise more frequent gatherings, knowing how quickly time flies. We extend our gratitude to our families, teachers, and classmates who kept us together. Until we meet again.
