TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Around 30 tourists from Kedah, Malaysia, visited a village in Banda Aceh named Gampong Keudah, a name that is similar to their hometown. In the occassion, the tourists were visiting and interacting with the locals to reconnect with their “folks”. Kedah in Malaysia and Gampong Keudah are said to be “siblings”.
Sulaiman, the Custom leader of Gampong Keudah welcomed the visitors with the open arms.
"This is something to be thankful for, that our brothers have come here from a far," Sulaiman said.
According to Sulaiman, the residents of Keudah are also eager to visit Kedah in Malaysia to strengthen the bond between regions.
The tourists’ group leader Fazilah Ismail said they are honored by the warm welcome. According to Fazilah, it’s been a long time since they wanted to visit Keudah.
"On this night, God has brought our hearts to meet our brothers here," Fazilah said.
According to Fazilah, the group is fond of the tourism attractions in Banda Aceh which is rich of religious heritages in addition to the tsunami heritage. They love the Baiturrahman Grand Mosque.
"Almost all Malaysians are fascinated by the grand mosque. And the history as well, "said Fazilah.
Secretary of Banda Aceh Bahagia said the arrival of the Malaysian tourists could open more doors for collaboration between two regions. Bahagia said that Aceh and Malaysia have built a kinship since the long time. Booth regions own many similarities including religions, culture and intellectual richness.
Kedah and Keudah had been linked to each other since the era of Iskandar Muda Sultanate. Gampong Keudah was a gift from the Aceh’s Sultan fot people of Kedah who wanted to visit Aceh during the 17th century. The collaboration was started to facilitate economy and spice trade development.
ADI WARSIDI
