Revisiting the Wonder Years at P. Ramlee Memorial House

 If you’re ever in Kuala Lumpur and feel like taking a trip down memory lane, let me tell you about a little gem tucked away in Setapak – the P. Ramlee Memorial House. Walking into this place feels like stepping into a time machine set to the golden era of Malaysian entertainment. It’s nostalgic, heartwarming, and a beautiful tribute to the man who brought so much joy to the nation.  

For those who grew up humming his Getaran Jiwa or laughing along to the antics in Bujang Lapok, this house is a treasure trove of memories.

Stepping into Nostalgia  
As I approached the modest kampung-style house, I couldn’t help but smile. It’s simple yet charming, much like the man himself. Inside, you’ll find rooms filled with memorabilia—his personal belongings, photos, movie posters, musical instruments, and even a replica of his awards cabinet.  

Standing in his workspace, I felt a strange mix of awe and warmth. This is where the magic happened—where ideas for his iconic movies and songs were born. I swear I could almost hear him humming a tune in the background (or maybe that was just my overactive imagination).  

The Legacy of P. Ramlee  
P. Ramlee wasn’t just a singer, actor, or director; he was the entertainer of his time. His movies, like Ibu Mertua Ku (Kassim Selamat, siapa boleh lupa kan) and Seniman Bujang Lapok, are still aired on TV, keeping Malaysians glued to their screens even decades later. And his songs? Timeless. Who hasn’t sung along to Bila Larut Malam or danced to Azizah at least once?  

Here’s the thing about P. Ramlee: he had this uncanny ability to blend humour, heart, and hard-hitting social commentary. His movies weren’t just funny; they were smart. He poked fun at societal norms, tackled issues like poverty and family, and still managed to make you laugh until your stomach hurt.  

I remember my dad saying, “P. Ramlee didn’t just entertain us; he taught us about life.” And honestly, after rewatching Tiga Abdul for the umpteenth time, I have to agree.  

Why Malaysians Love Him  
Why do Malaysians still adore P. Ramlee after all these years? Because he wasn’t just a star; he was one of us. His stories, his characters, his struggles—they were relatable. He celebrated the quirks of Malaysian life, from the nosy neighbour to the strict father-in-law, in a way that made us laugh and cry at the same time.  

Even in his songs, there’s this raw emotion that tugs at your heartstrings. He didn’t just sing; he poured his soul into every note.  

And let’s not forget his humour. Malaysians love a good laugh, and P. Ramlee delivered that in spades. His slapstick comedy, witty one-liners, and perfectly timed jokes are still unmatched. I mean, who else could make a simple scene about buying a keris so ridiculously funny?  

Why You Should Visit  
The P. Ramlee Memorial House isn’t just a museum; it’s a time capsule. It’s a reminder of a simpler time when black-and-white movies brought families together, and a song could make your whole day better.  

Walking through the house, you’ll feel an overwhelming sense of pride for this man who gave so much to Malaysian culture. And trust me, by the time you leave, you’ll probably be humming one of his songs (don’t say I didn’t warn you).  


Why we Malaysian loves him
P. Ramlee wasn’t just a legend; he was—and still is—a part of who we are as Malaysians. His work continues to bring joy, laughter, and even a few tears to audiences of all ages. Visiting the P. Ramlee Memorial House reminded me of why he holds such a special place in our hearts.  

So, if you’re ever in KL, go check it out. Rekindle those wonder years, laugh a little, maybe tear up a bit, and take a moment to celebrate the man who made us all proud to be Malaysian.

A day at the Royal Selangor School of Hard Knocks

Have you ever wanted to try your hand at something creative and fun while learning a bit of history? Well, the Royal Selangor School of Hard Knocks is just the place for you! Located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, this unique workshop lets you dive into the fascinating world of pewter crafting. If you're curious about how shiny, intricate pewter items are made or want a memorable hands-on experience, read on—I’ll take you through my unforgettable day there.

Starting the Day with a Tour
Before the workshop, we went on a guided tour of the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre, and wow, what a treat it was! The tour kicked off with a walk through the Pewter Museum, where we learned about pewter’s rich history. Did you know Royal Selangor started way back in 1885 as a small family business? Today, it’s one of the world’s most renowned pewter brands.

The museum showcased some jaw-dropping artifacts, like an enormous beer mug that holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest pewter tankard. There were also intricate pewter tea sets, jewelry, and figurines that left us marveling at the craftsmanship. It was fascinating to see how a simple alloy of tin, antimony, and copper could be transformed into such stunning pieces.

Behind the Scenes: The Pewter Factory
The next part of the tour took us into the pewter factory, where the real magic happens. Watching the artisans at work was mesmerizing. Each step of the process was laid out for us:

1. Casting : Molten pewter is poured into molds to form basic shapes.  

2. Polishing : The raw pieces are buffed to achieve that iconic, silvery sheen.  
3. Hammering : This is where patterns and textures are added using traditional hand tools.  
4. Engraving : Some items are personalized or adorned with intricate designs.  

It’s a mix of old-school craftsmanship and modern techniques, with every step done with precision and care. Seeing the artisans' dedication gave me a whole new appreciation for the pewter items I’d taken for granted before.

The School of Hard Knocks Workshop
After the tour, it was time to roll up our sleeves and get to work at the School of Hard Knocks. The workshop is designed for beginners, so no need to worry if you’ve never touched a hammer before (I hadn’t either!). Each of us was given a flat pewter disc, a wooden mold, and a mallet. The task? To transform the disc into a simple bowl—sounds easy, right? Well, not exactly.

Under the guidance of a friendly instructor, we started hammering away. It was oddly therapeutic to hear the rhythmic clinking of mallets against pewter. There were some wonky edges and uneven surfaces, but that’s what made each bowl unique and personal. By the end of the session, I had a slightly lopsided but charming little bowl, complete with my initials stamped on it.

What I loved most about the workshop was how it connected me to the artistry and effort behind pewter-making. I left with more than just a souvenir—I walked away with a new appreciation for this centuries-old craft.

Why You Should Try It
Attending the School of Hard Knocks isn’t just about making a bowl; it’s about the whole experience. Here’s why I think everyone should give it a go:

- Hands-On Fun : It’s rare to get the chance to create something with your own hands in today’s digital world.  
- Educational : You learn about pewter, its history, and the artistry that goes into making it.  

- Memorable Souvenir : The bowl you make is one-of-a-kind, and it’s a keepsake you’ll treasure.  

- Family-Friendly : Kids and adults alike will enjoy the workshop, making it a great activity for families.  


The Versatility of Pewter
Before this visit, I never realized how versatile pewter is. Royal Selangor produces an impressive range of household items, from elegant wine goblets and tea sets to decorative items like photo frames and figurines. Some of their limited-edition collections are nothing short of art—one of my favorites was a chess set with intricately carved pewter pieces.

Wrapping Up
The Royal Selangor School of Hard Knocks is more than just a workshop—it’s an experience that blends creativity, history, and fun. Whether you’re a tourist looking for a unique activity in Kuala Lumpur or a local wanting to explore something new, this place is a must-visit. 

You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind pewter items, a cool handmade bowl, and a big smile on your face. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a mallet and let’s get hammering!