On 16 August, at six o’clock in the morning, we embarked on a long-awaited journey. Thirty members gathered at the Church of Saints Chastan and Imbert in Perai, boarding a coach bound for our destination — Royal Belum. Our mentors, the Joseph & Theresa couple, travelled up from Ipoh to join us along the way.
The very first thing we did upon boarding the bus was to begin our journey with an opening prayer led by ME51 leaders Hai An & Mei Yun. After the prayer, Jun Kai & Run Ying distributed bread, Sheng Yi & Yang Cai handed out Milo drinks, and Zhen Cun & Yong Ai shared curry puffs as our breakfast.
The scenery along the journey was breathtaking and refreshing. As the bus travelled along winding roads towards the highlands, we entered misty clouds and rolling hills. Some members chatted and laughed, while others rested quietly, conserving their energy for the adventure ahead.
At around 10:00 a.m., we arrived safely at the jetty, where our mentors also reached at about the same time. We were honoured to be joined by Martin and Rose, the Penang Marriage Encounter secretariat couple.
At approximately 10:30 a.m., we boarded our houseboat, which would be our home for the next three days and two nights. Besides ME51 members, we were joined by couples from ME54 and ME62, as well as family members and friends.
This trip was not only a retreat away from the outside world, but also a celebration of ME51’s 10th anniversary. Over the past ten years, we have weathered many ups and downs together, yet our friendship remains strong — like one big family.
On the first day, the houseboat headed north and travelled for about an hour before anchoring near the shore. During the journey, Jin Rong & Xing Ni assigned rooms to each couple. After settling into our rooms, we enjoyed free time — some gathered for coffee and snacks, some sang karaoke, some prepared fishing rods, while everyone relaxed in their own way.
At around 12:00 noon, Captain Kenny briefed us on the history of the area and the day’s itinerary. After lunch, our first stop was Kampung Asli, an indigenous village, followed by Sungai Ruok Waterfall for some water fun. After returning to the houseboat, we enjoyed afternoon tea, followed by free water activities such as bamboo rafting, boating, and swimming.
Clang! Clang! Clang! When lunchtime arrived, the chefs brought out dish after dish of delicious food, filling the air with mouth-watering aromas. Everyone joyfully sang “My Lord, My King…” for the pre-meal prayer before enjoying a hearty feast together.
After lunch, free time resumed — singing continued, dancing followed, fishing went on, and small groups chatted about life and memories. At about 2:30 p.m., the captain instructed everyone to put on life jackets and board speedboats to head to our first stop — Kampung Asli.
Upon arrival, we were warmly received by the village chief and several men at the raised community hall. The captain explained their daily life, how the government supports and improves their living conditions, and how expectant mothers are brought to hospitals for childbirth. We distributed snacks to the children, and before leaving, we made donations and purchased walking sticks, honey, and spices.
After a group photo with the village chief, we headed to Sungai Ruok Waterfall. Due to lower water levels, we were informed that we would need to hike to reach the waterfall. Young and old alike eagerly disembarked and climbed uphill. After about fifteen minutes, we arrived at a beautiful stream surrounded by nature.
To our delight, schools of small fish gathered around our feet, nibbling between our toes. These fish had been trained to do so — the captain provided fish feed, which we rolled into small balls and placed between our fingers for the fish to eat. It was a truly marvellous experience, allowing us such close interaction with God’s creation. Some strong swimmers ventured further to enjoy the waterfall’s natural massage.
After about 45 minutes, we returned happily to the houseboat, where a generous afternoon tea awaited us. After tea, bamboo rafts and canoes were prepared, and once again we put on our life jackets to enjoy peaceful paddling across the calm lake. Some members even jumped straight into the water for a refreshing swim.
As night fell, we returned to the houseboat to clean up. Dinner was served promptly at 7:00 p.m., beginning with a prayer. A hotpot feast followed, accompanied by drinks and laughter. After nourishing our bodies, we turned to our spiritual needs — at 9:00 p.m., we participated in a live-streamed Mass from the Church of the Holy Cross in Singapore, remaining united with God even in this secluded lake setting.
With body, mind, and spirit fully nourished, the evening continued in various ways — some sang karaoke, some played mahjong, some shared heartfelt conversations in their rooms, while others prepared for rest. All activities concluded at midnight, bringing a fulfilling day to a close.
After all, as the saying goes, “The early bird catches the worm.” After a restful night’s sleep, on 17 August, before dawn had even broken, some members were already eager to greet the rising sun. At around 7:30 a.m., everyone queued for washing up, exchanging morning greetings along the corridors. Breakfast was served promptly at 8:00 a.m., with such a wide variety of dishes that even a small portion of each would leave one completely full. As we enjoyed our meal, the houseboat began its journey south. Captain Kenny took this opportunity to brief us on the day’s programme.
Day Two itinerary: Temenggor Dam, Bukit Batu Putih hike, Gua Temenggor (Temenggor Cave)
Afterwards, we would return to the houseboat for afternoon tea, followed by free water activities such as bamboo rafting, boating, and swimming.
As the boat travelled south, we began our group activities. We started with an opening prayer and hymns, followed by ice-breaking games led by Brother Hai An — games such as “Touch” and “Scared, Scared”. Laughter filled the room, and those who were “penalised” had peanuts clipped to their earlobes.
Next, Jun Jie & Yu Mei led an interactive activity called “The Salesperson”. Each person selected two items from a treasure bag and planned how to “sell” them. Through this exercise, the facilitators highlighted the value of one’s spouse — just like the treasures in our hands, their worth is precious and meant to be discovered and cherished. During sharing, couples expressed their appreciation for one another, openly acknowledging each other’s strengths.
The houseboat arrived safely at the southern area, where the chefs soon presented a spread of delicious dishes — including three styles of fish, squid, and vegetables. Once again, we sang “My Lord, My King…” for the pre-meal prayer before enjoying a hearty lunch, accompanied by karaoke and lively conversation.
At around 3:00 p.m., everyone donned life jackets and boarded speedboats to our first destination — Temenggor Dam. The boats sped towards the power station, where Captain Kenny tied four boats together and explained the dam’s construction, the operation of the power station, and historical incidents. We learnt that 300 metres beneath the water once lay villages before the dam was built. The dam was constructed primarily to enhance national hydroelectric power generation and also to counter communist insurgency.
Next, we arrived at the foot of Bukit Batu Putih. It was said that from the summit, one could enjoy a panoramic view and capture some of the most beautiful photographs of the journey. Without hesitation, we disembarked and climbed eagerly to the top. Indeed, the breathtaking scenery made every effort worthwhile, rewarding us with stunning photos.
After descending, we headed straight to Gua Temenggor, once used as a communist hideout during the resistance period. These individuals sacrificed themselves to protect the land, yet were later persecuted by the Malayan government and eventually fled to southern Thailand. Much of this history has been buried. Reflecting on their sacrifices reminded us that the nation we enjoy today came at a great cost. This journey was deeply moving and meaningful, teaching us that a beautiful future requires great effort — though effort does not always bring the expected reward. We give thanks to God for all His blessings and strive to live each day as His witnesses.
After such exertion, nothing was more rewarding than a generous afternoon tea and karaoke session. Upon returning to the houseboat, a full table of refreshments awaited us. Famished, we did not wait for instructions and tucked in immediately. Meanwhile, the crew prepared equipment for free water activities.
Changing into light clothing and putting on life jackets, we plunged once again into the embrace of the vast lake. With the confidence gained from the previous day, everyone played freely and joyfully. As promised by Captain Kenny, a speedboat towed bamboo rafts around the lake. Ever creative, we tied rafts and canoes together and enjoyed being pulled along. The children were reluctant to leave the water, continuing their playful splashing, while the adults gradually returned to freshen up for dinner.
Dinner was served punctually, leaving a lingering fragrance on our lips. After the meal, Teachers Joseph & Theresa shared a short video about a monkey and a fish. In the story, a monkey on a tree saw water levels rising and noticed a fish jumping. Thinking the fish was struggling, the monkey “rescued” it and placed it on dry land — unaware that the fish was actually rejoicing in the rising water, and tragically suffocated as a result.
This led to reflection: in marriage, who is the monkey, and who is the fish? Group sharing followed, with couples recognising how misunderstandings arise when we assume rather than communicate. Thankfully, through Marriage Encounter weekends, we have learnt to resolve conflicts through dialogue, understand each other’s needs, and allow our relationships to grow deeper and happier.
After this thoughtful session, Brother Hai An lightened the atmosphere by introducing a game inspired by recent global discussions on tariffs — “Trump, What to Tax?”, a playful twist on a childhood game. Everyone, young and old, joined enthusiastically, laughing until tears streamed. Brother Sheng Yi cleverly targeted only Brother Jin Rong, earning laughter and applause from all. After many rounds, the game ended when everyone could barely walk.
Free time followed — singing, dancing, and socialising continued until midnight, when lights were switched off for rest.
Joyful moments always pass too quickly. 18 August, the third and final day, arrived. Breakfast was served as usual — familiar faces, familiar surroundings, yet different dishes. Songs filled the air as we enjoyed our last breakfast together.
After greetings, free activities resumed. Everyone treasured these final moments — chatting, taking photos, singing together, playing cards, mahjong, fishing patiently, and simply being together. At 10:00 a.m., the houseboat began its return journey to the jetty. Around 11:30 a.m., the chefs served our final lunch on board — still abundant, yet tinged with reluctance to part.
During lunch, the assistant captain sang two songs to express his gratitude, followed by a performance of indigenous songs by his Orang Asli assistant as a token of appreciation. Over these three days, their service had been exceptional. Deeply moved, we prepared small tokens of appreciation for them. They truly made us feel at home, quietly serving and giving their best.
After lunch, we packed our belongings and prepared to disembark. As the houseboat docked, we gathered at the bow for a group photo, thanked every crew member, and concluded this meaningful houseboat journey with hearts full of gratitude to God.
After bidding farewell to Teachers Joseph & Theresa, we boarded the bus home. Along the way, conversations continued as we reminisced about the past three days. After more than three hours, we arrived safely at the Church of St. Euphrasius and St. Sebastian in Butterworth. We concluded with a closing prayer, thanking God for His blessings and protection, before bidding one another farewell and returning home — bringing this beautiful journey to a perfect close.
Jun Kai ❤ Run Ying
