| Interesting
fact How big can an Angsana grow? This BIG! This tree can be found inside the General Hospital in Penang. If it could walk, this giant could crush a four-door car completely afoot without a trace! Angsana flowers are called Cheng Beng Hua in Penang, as Angsana usually flowers after the dry season and coincides with Cheng Beng (All Souls Day). |
 Angsana and me (Photo 1993) |
| Besides the general hospital and the polo ground, there are magnificent old Angsana trees along Scotland Road and in Penang Free School grounds. All Angsana trees, unless restricted by growing space, have the same potential for growth if given the chance to do so. (See Min and the giant 'bean stalk') |
| Angsana
memories... I remembered very well that first visit to the General Hospital to see the tree. Strange how my scooter couldn't start when it was time to leave. As I was no mechanic, I headed instinctively for the public phone booth nearby to call Tay Peng, my brother-in-law. There I encountered a young lady. She was in the next booth. Her eyes were swollen with tears. She was sobbing as she spoke. I could feel that someone dear must have passed away or have been warded in a serious condition. I felt a lump in my throat seeing her so distressed. Not long, Tay Peng came on his scooter and got my scooter back in the roar. That's how heart-warming Penang people are. Tay Peng is one fine example. He never hesitate to help anyone in need. In fact, he took time off from his workplace just to come to my immediate aid. His boss didn't mind. They were childhood friends and were like brothers to each other. Inadvertently, I will recall that lady and Tay Peng whenever I think about this tree. It is bitter sweet though, for Tay Peng left this world last August. So young a soul. At 33 years, he left behind two young kids and a wife. His family misses him dearly, and so will his kins, friends and neighbours. Me too, dear Tay Peng. |