Another sizeable group of Xinjiang people, Urumqi perhaps, women predominantly black at one row and two rows back men in white. At the Al Wadi tables the look of an exotic flock descended from the clouds. History, geography, culture across centuries within touching distance. Witnessing the good fortune of people finding their own; oppressed people come from afar, reaching their brothers. Gestures and expressions must suffice: here the old man in white shift and matching cap requesting a toothpick. Pleased to offer assistance, Zahruddin the manager, an Arabist who had studied eight years in Syria and more in Egypt. Indicating the holder. Chap carefully removed one stick, showing it to Zahruddin. Oh... Zahruddin calls him back, holding out a dozen he has plucked from the bowl and giving entreaty. Much obliged. One more then, thank you. Shows the second single again, raised hand for thanks. With a light frame the man nimble on his feet, unlike Zahruddin after a month’s feasting through the New Year festivities back in Malacca. The transformation had been spied immediately on Zahruddin’s return, 5 kg. owned and intended loss of same within the same time-frame has proved too much for Zahruddin. Stationed in the kitchen, behind the prata stand, what hope was there? The group of travellers filed off around the corner to the hotel. When community and homecoming everywhere was difficult, if not impossible and inconceivable, a pleasure to behold.
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