After blogging about the various food in the state of Kelantan, it is time to write a short review about my visit there. It is the second time that I have journeyed back to this agricultural state to celebrate Chinese New Year this year. Instead of taking pictures of lion dance performances and Yee Sang, I took the opportunity to photograph some of the more unique characteristics about this state. Here are some of my favourite photos taken.
1. ‘Buah Salak’ or Snake Fruit is commonly found in the state of Kelantan. The fruit’s name is derived from the brownish-scaly looking skin which resembles a snake. Only the inner pulp is edible which has a sweet and crunchy texture.
2. Located at about 48 km from Kota Bahru, Tok Bali is a small fishing port which offers alternate route to Perhentian Island. The port is bustling with activities during the evening when fishermen are seen selling their catch of the day to locals and tourists. Picture here is a fishing boat anchored near to the fishing jetty at Tok Bali during sunset.
3. Stacks of salted dried fish were seen selling at Tok Bali.
3. A close up shot of a fruit seller at Pasar Wakaf Bharu during mid morning. While some of the local traders were camera shy, others will respond with a smiling face which is a typical trait of most Kelantanese.
4. Stacks of ‘Buah Maggis’ or Mangosteens were seen at the morning market at Pasar Wakaf Bharu.
5. For a complete shopping experience, Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah is a place not to be missed. From local kuih to intricate handicrafts, batiks and fresh produce this is the most photographed market in Kelantan. This picture was taken from a higher viewpoint, which offers a unique sight of female traders selling their goods at the central octagon area.
6. A close up shot of vegetables tied with rubber band sold at the morning market at Wakaf Bharu.
7. ‘Etok’ which is a type of mini clam is a popular snack in Kelantan. It is said that Etok has a distinct juicy flavour and can be eaten with curry and nasi kerabu.
8. The candid expression of this old lady was one of the most memorable shot I have taken at Pasar Wakaf Bharu. She was probably amused with the sight of my camera while I was searching for an interesting subject to shoot.
9. Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah offers a colourful sight with female traders selling vegetables, meat, traditional local delights and a host of interesting delicacies.
10. Ikan Bilis that are sold at Tok Bali are reputedly fresh and best eaten when they are deep fried with sambal tumis.
11. Fresh seafood is the main highlight at Tok Bali. Apart from being affordable, the fishing jetty is one of the best places to look for seafood variety.
12. At RM 4 per piece, ‘Telur Penyu’ or Turtle Eggs is a favourite delicacy among Kelantanese. From afar, these eggs look like deflated Ping Pong balls. Turtle eggs can be eaten raw and it is said that the fillings will still remain soft even after boiling it under extreme heat.
13. The roots of these fresh vegetables makes an interesting subject up when they were shot in close proximity.
14. An old lady with a cigarette was enjoying brisk business as she picks up a cabbage at Pasar Wakaf Bharu.
15. ‘Ketupat palas’ or glutinous rice wrapped in triangular shaped fan palm leaves is another unique offering only found in Kelantan. It is commonly eaten with chicken or beef rendang.
16. A local female trader inspecting her goods at Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah. Each stall offers such a colourful sight that cannot be found elsewhere.
17. Local mini fish fillets are called ‘Satay Ikan’ in Kelantan. Each fish fillet is no bigger than a 20 cents coin and is barbecued using a small charcoal pit.
19. Another shot taken at Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah. The market opens daily from 7.00am to 6.00pm.
20. Close up shot of fresh leaves produces interesting hues of colour at the morning market.
21. An old man was seen resting on the road side after a tiring day of collecting recyclable goods.
22. Another shot of a trader who was selling vegetables at the morning market.
23. A closeup shot of baby brinjals as seen at Pasar Wakaf Bharu
24. These bananas caught my eyes as I walked past the entrance of Pasar Besar Siti Khadijah.
