Literally meaning “the back of the island”, Balik Pulau lies in the southwestern region of Penang Island. As development projects mount in the state, it remains one of the few places left that has managed to retain its sleepy, rustic charm. Hidden behind its old town-facade, however, is a bustling, selfsustaining economy, which includes fruit and paddy farming, fisheries, animal-rearing and belacan. For those seeking a break from city life, a trip to Balik Pulau may just be the thing you need.
Located along Kampung Terang, this paddy field is owned and managed by a family. Azman (Pictures 2 and 3) cuts the grass to clear the paths leading to the fields, which belong to his brother-in-law, to make it easier to spot snakes. Paddy is ready for harvesting in about two months. Azman says he enjoys living in the kampung, because it’s peaceful. The family also grows bananas and coconuts nearby to sell to markets or little roadside stalls.
