More than just a homestay
The purpose of my stay was not a vacation, but to be near the Borneo Hospital in Kuching. My beloved grandfather was critically ill. Therefore, all maternal relatives gathered, including the rarely-seen uncle from England. The atmosphere was bittersweet—a mix of worry and family love.
This homestay, located near the hospital, is a modest, concrete-brick house owned by an elderly couple, Pak Karim and Mak Siti. Despite its simplicity, the home offered more than just shelter—it offered warmth and humanity. The couple welcomed every guest with open arms, treating them like family rather than strangers. Their gentle hospitality, from the warm meals they cooked to their quiet, caring conversations, gave great comfort. During times of stress and worry, their kindness helped make even the hardest days a little easier to get through.
Every morning, my family gathered for breakfast before going to the hospital. Mak Siti prepared local dishes like nasi lemak, doughnuts and kopi-o, offering unspoken warmth and sympathy during those dark days. She sat with us, listened to our worries, and offered gentle reassurance. Her sincerity brought comfort during a difficult time.
One evening, after a long and tiring day, I stepped onto the porch to find some quiet. I noticed Pak Karim in the driveway, carefully lighting small tea candles. The soft glow lit up the space gently, casting warm, flickering shadows. Curious, I walked over, and he smiled, inviting me to sit beside him.
We sat in silence, watching the gentle flicker of the candle flames. Pak Karim spoke softly, explaining how the candlelight symbolised strength, fragility, and hope. His words were thoughtful and comforting, reminding us that even a small spark of hope can shine brightly in darkness.
Eventually, my grandfather passed away. But our time at the homestay became a part of our emotional healing. We carried with us not only memories of him, but also the warmth and kindness shown by strangers. It made me realise how deeply simple, compassionate gestures can touch our lives.
I came to realise that life often leads us to unexpected, and sometimes unwanted, places. Even during hardship, there are small lights of warmth and hope. The tea candles we watched became symbols of calm, strength, and kindness. That is the true beauty of a homestay, which is not just shelter, but an emotional refuge and light in the darkness. —DayakDaily
Adeline Ting Sze Jing from Sibu is the Bronze Winner (Youth Category) in the ‘Homestay Odyssey’ writing competition organised by DayakDaily and supported by the Sarawak Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts.
