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Showing posts from October, 2009

The 'Rain Tree' of the Sibu Tua Pek Kong

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The 'Rain Tree' & Na Tuk Kong in front of Eng Ann Teng, Sibu Commemorative Plaque of the 'Rain Tree' Extracts from the Commemorative Plaque... "This splendid tree, locally known as ‘Kayu Hujan’ or ‘Rain Tree’ (Samanea-Saman) has been confirmed by the expert from the Sarawak Forestry Department that it is estimated to be more than 100 years old. It is believed that it was planted by one of the early unknown settlers from China, presumably he was one of the earliest ‘Beca’ (trishaw) operator in Sibu town. Finding himself unable to withstand the hot tropical sun, he planted this fast growing luxuriant tree, hoping it would give him a cool shade and thus, creating a strategic & focal point for him to continue his livelihood as ‘Beca’ operator to ferry nearby women-folk to worship at the nearby Tua Pek Kong Temple. The tree had also borne some interesting legend as pointed out by one local historian.” Eng Ann Teng, Sibu