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26 | FireFlyz
get
away
TanHeeHui
decides that a short break is
needed and heads to the slower pace of Kuala
KubuBaru, where life is just thatmuch calmer
and filledwith small town charm.
Charm Offensive
K
uala
Kubu Baru (KKB),
just a 45 minute drive
from Kuala Lumpur,
offers a quick break
that is near pristine
rainforests. I arrived
at this small charming
town where the slow pace and old world
charm quickly lulled me into a state of
relaxation. Perfect for a day-trip, but I
chose to stay overnight to suss out the
diverse attractions at my own pace.
Tin Town
My exploration began at KKB’s clock
tower, which was built in the 1930’s to
commemorate the coronation of King
George VI and Queen Elizabeth I. This
monument sits on a hilltop, where the en-
compassing views of the town centre and
mountainous landscapes in the distance
will make you reach for your camera. The
town’s grid-like streets are lined with well
maintained British colonial shophouses.
Pop into mum-and-pop sundry shops and
a traditional Indian barber for a haircut.
There are several traditional eateries which
serve local specialties such as freshly
baked kaya puffs and aromatic coffee.
Kaya is a jam made from eggs, sugar and
coconut milk, flavoured by
pandan
leaves,
and later sweetened with sugar.
Known for tin mining, the town was
rebuilt in 1883 after the original town of
Kuala Kubuwas completely destroyed by a
massive flood, attributed to a burst dam.
Its name is derived from a fortress
(kubu)
that was built before
the British colonials
took over the town.
Traditional architectural adds
to KKB’s historical charm
KKB surrounded by lush greenery