AS the country is in full gear recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic, the construction of new malls and high-rise residentials are rapidly taking shape in Kedah's capital of Alor Star. Despite these developments, the iconic Pekan Rabu, which underwent a makeover in 2018, remains a cherished tourist shopping spot, preserving its distinctive local charm.
Participants of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) Heritage Train 2024 recently visited Pekan Rabu — which literally means "Wednesday Market" and located in the middle of bustling Alor Star — with glowing reviews.
Pengiran Mohammad Fauzie Zainal Abidin, the Brunei Culture, Youth and Sports Ministry officer, praised the government's initiative in preserving Pekan Rabu as the hub for the state's traditional delicacies, arts, crafts and heritage.
A Malay headwear enthusiast, Fauzie was impressed with the exquisite craftsmanship of handcrafted products and the warm hospitality of the traders here.
"The traditional offerings at Pekan Rabu are rich and vibrant. The courtesy and friendliness of the people here make the experience truly unique," he enthuses after spending 45 minutes strolling the building.
Meanwhile, for Archie Prameswara, a 29-year-old chef from Jakarta, Indonesia, it's the variety of spices and food items on offer that most intrigue him. "There are ingredients here that really stand out compared with those that can be found in Indonesia, for example, ikan pekasam (fermented fish) with its vibrant colour."
Adding enthusiastically, he continues: "The array of fermented products such as squid as well as the variety of traditional kuihs, like the peneram, all have a distinct Malay twist that is are really quite captivating."
PLENTY OF PRAISES
For Areeluck Pongpaijit, a 45-year-old textile industry player hailing from Thailand, it's the variety of traditional materials and clothing displayed here which that got her most excited. She observed that while there were design similarities, Malay batik has its own distinct style compared with the southern Thai counterpart.
Given the proximity of Alor Star to southern Thailand, Areeluck heartily encourages more Thai tourists to visit the city.
"Pekan Rabu has a very 'local' feel that we Thais love to experience. It's worth a visit, and what's more, Malaysia is so close. Travel is easy, the culture is both different and similar, and communication is not an issue," she adds, beaming broadly.
Jam Melchor, a 37-year-old chef from Manila, Philippines, appreciates the good upkeep of facilities in Pekan Rabu. "The complex is so clean; the toilets are spotless, trust me. I am very particular about toilets! Also, the people are very nice and welcoming."
Adding, he remarks: "The availability of cashless transaction options is a huge plus as it makes it easier for tourists to buy goods without having to wait in line at money changers. Pekan Rabu is an excellent place to experience the local culture."
Concluding, Melchor says: "You can learn about a community through its local market. The collection of arts, crafts and everything in one complex is just such an 'Asean' thing, and I can feel that we share the same essence but with a unique twist."
ENHANCING CONNECTIVITY
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations Heritage Train 2024 is a cultural tourism programme under the Asean Cultural Fund initiative. Delegates from nine Asean nations took part in the programme this year, themed "Enhancing Connectivity Towards Culture Diversity".
They spent two days in Kedah, visiting several tourist attractions in the state's capital, such as Padi Museum, Craft Complex, Pekan Rabu, Alor Star Tower and Alor Star train station.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry senior assistant secretary Lydia Irffian Mohd Isa expressed gratitude that all 35 Asean delegates were pleased with Pekan Rabu.
She said that the ministry would use their feedback to enhance Pekan Rabu as a cultural tourism attraction ahead of Visit Kedah 2025 (VK 2025).