BLOG UPDATES:

You can read the thoughts and opinions about the recent Klang Valley Roadshow at the following blogs.

• STEEST - The Colour of Blood
• Resonating Ripple - Saya Anak Bangsa Malaysia roadshow - Taking back our country
• Sivin Kit's Garden - Multi-Mosaic Malaysia: Living Together as Malaysians! Dancing Together as Humans? (You can also view the good Reverend's slideshow there.)

If you have a posting, or know of one, do let us know.

There is a heartbeat in the Klang Valley. It is but a baby's, but it is strong. We heard it Saturday afternoon - felt it - up in the nosebleed section of the KL-Selangor Chinese Assembly Hall.

The grungy MCPA Hall on the top floor was filled to the brim with people of different age groups. There were songs, film, and drums. And messages we hope to share with all who want a better home.

Forge partners: Hammers resting on the iron anvil at Wong's workshop. Picture / Nandakumar Haridas

I remember his clean nails when we first shook hands that afternoon. It was firm, not vise-like, nor do I recall being gripped by calluses. He spoke in tones which never rose above the decibel of the mellow traffic outside. All this in a man who worked over 45 years in the drama of fusing the elements – fire, metal, wood, water, earth.

Wong Fook Woon is a blacksmith. One of the few left around the country who actually still do it all by hand. In fact, the 60-year-old is said to be the only one left in the deep central region of the country. He makes knives and parangs, those kukri-shaped machetes that helped clear the land for agriculture.