Bintangor

Small and laid back,

Conjuring images of the outback,

Along the lower reaches of the mighty Rejang it sits,

Capital of Meradong District it is.

 

Inhabitants predominantly Foochows,

Industrious like hardworking cows,

Binatang is its old name,

Green tangerines bring it fame.

 

Vibrant and lively in the old days,

The town deteriorated in many ways,

Riverine life quietened,

Exodus of youngsters to bigger towns heightened.

 

Situated between Sibu and Sarikei,

Things seemed to be going okay,

But when the trunk roads were completed,

The town became neglected.

 

Many shops may be ragged and tattered,

But things have started to look better,

After abolition of the Lanang road toll,

Business in town is on a roll.

 

Come savour its famous rojak,

As well as its tumpik lemantak,

Charcoal-toasted bread and Foochow dishes,

Lu’s Buscuit Shop’s kompia and the town ‘s cheap freshwater fishes.

 

In Mandarin the town’s name means bright pill,

Obsolete are its four sago mills and its rice mill,

Come enjoy the small town vibe,

You may be in for a surprise.