8th March 2003 will always have a special moment in my life, for on this very day, the moment I took my first step at 6.45am out of the house to head for McDonald's Jurong Point Branch, I know deep inside me that I am game for a journey of a life time.

The exclusive journey will be dictated in history for the Arowana Club with its strong contingent of 44 passionate arowana hobbyists for we are heading to Batu Pahat in Malaysia to visit Xian Leng Showroom and Xian Leng Farm.

We set off from Jurong Point at 8.20am. After passing through the Malaysian Immigration checkpoint, we are excited for we are already in the Malaysian borders. Going up the bus and we are greeted by Mdm Maria Tan our tour guide for the day.

In the bus, there are elements presented in a joyful mix of sling for we are given a riddle, which some members participated. One thing for sure we had a good laugh and a little gift was handed out to Aroy, one of our club members for getting the answer right. It was then back to the usual conversation between friends, getting to know each other further and establishing bonds. One thing that was not in tuned is surely the music that was aired kekeke just a different taste from what I have back at home.

Our first stop for the day was at Jin Qi Ling. Upon arrival, we were greeted by an 8 year old Red arowana on display. There was a decent selection of the Luo Han fishes but still what amazes all of us is the fact in the shop itself, there is a huge concrete pond with a community set up. There is a Red arowana, some silvers, a giant guorami, some fei fengs and some unknown breed cichilds. As explained by the owner of the shop, all his arowanas are at least 8 years of age. Upon mentioning that, there were thunderous ohhhs and ahhhs for this was the very first time (to some of us) that we have seen such a huge silver about 3 foot long with a perfect jaw and perfect eyes. Surely, this is a glorious moment spotting all the silver arowanas with neither signs of protruding jaw or even droopy eyes.

The recent hot spell both did not spare us a single bit. Nevertheless, spirits were at a high time level for we headed down to one of the restaurant in the city for our lunch. This humble restaurant served sumptuous spread of food, much to everyone's delight and surprise, (hee…, part of our meal course was sharkfin soup…..) At about 1.40pm, we made our move to Xian Leng Showroom where more surprises await us.

Xian Leng Showroom boasts of a newer and more dynamic signage, which never escape ones sight. With an air of confidence, the showroom in itself have three wings which was divided in their respective array of products, tropical fishes as well as awesome arowanas on display.

The right wing of the showroom displays a wide range of tropical fishes, which among the many variety, some has made a name by itself for arowana tankmates. These include assorted rays, assorted birchirs, gouramis, fei feng, oscars and many other different variety. The center wing also displays a generous spread of fish food, accessories as well as fish medication. Many of us were surprised to see a king arowana which has surpassed the age of 20 years old and still display the majestic but yet humble nature. Left wing which was located at the outdoor have ponds and aquariums which also captivated everyone's mind. One of the pond housed two Arapaimas which are at least 17 years of age.

Mr. Lim Meng Lok (Showroom Manager) patiently explaining everything about Arowanas to members.

As we were busy looking around, especially at the wide selection of red and golden arowanas, we are being introduced by Ms Chua Ee Chien the Communications Manager for Xian Leng Berhad. Warm, energetic and full of charisma, she greeted our Singapore contingent with friendliness and quickly made us feel at home at the showroom. We managed to take a group photograph at the showroom despite the heavy traffic and slight drizzle.

Each and everyone of us were very thankful to Xian Leng and to Miss Chua especially for the arrangement for all of us to purchased products or fishes at Xian Leng Showroom with discounts. Not surprisingly, most of us left the Showroom with something in our hands….erm wondering if we could pass the Singapore Immigration Custom with our buys kekekeke. Rays and bichirs happen to be the most hot selling items. Many teacups rays were snapped up by our hobbyist.

At 3.45pm, the most exciting moment has finally arrived, Miss Chua gathered our tour group so as to proceed with our last and most awaited destination-the farm.

The ride to the farm was something all of us look forward to and will be the envy of those who did not go. Everyone was already tired by this time, and yet spirits are still high. After the spending spree, we all board the bus with a sense of satisfaction and anticipation. Purchases were made and it was indeed value for money not forgetting the warm service provided by the staff and management of Xian Leng. Assorted Nonya Kueh were served during the half hour journey.

Part 2 >>>