Padi Fields Poem by Kwai Chee Low

Padi fields as far as the eyes can see
Stretches of green touching the horizon
Farmers in straw hats busy as bees
And buffaloes, such loyal workers at every turn

Cycling into the breeze, along a well-worn path
Greeting 'How are you, sudah makan kah? ' evoking many a laugh
As kampong folks stared blankly, then chuckled
At my attempt at English and the native language unfurled

Soon I stopped at my favorite coffee shop of yesteryears
Tasting again my nasi lemak and kopi-o,
My feet tapping in tune to songs of yore
Fond memories that brought back smiles and tears