The Craft Complex has its big annual shindig today so we strolled down after a bowl of Hong Kong style prawn wonton noodles en route. The KKK fair, as it is unfortunately known, had craft stalls from all over the country set up in big tents. There was furniture, machetes, abayas, basketry (lots of basketry), ceramics, batik and lots of tat as well. We were tempted by a black clay vase from Pahang but eventually bought another Mah Meri icon, this time of the spider spirit, several books and a woven pandanus bag which now contains all my comic book gear.
When we first arrived in KL, we popped into the Craft Complex and fled its dingy government-y misery to stroll through the area. There are a few restored stilt houses dotted around, some of which house museums. As we walked, two motorcyclists zoomed past, unhooking my handbag off my shoulder. Not fully, though, so I was dragged after them and knocked my head rather badly on the road. The bag, my favourite bag, was lost, as was my phone, my lovely little leather wallet, my German umbrella and various cards and things. It turned out not to be too bad: the knock didn’t give me a concussion and I chatted with a very sympathetic Bruneian diplomat as I waited for my x-ray; the cards and phone were easily replaced; there was little money in my wallet and I wasn’t carrying my passport. But I do still miss my wallet and handbag, and that very sturdy umbrella. It was not a great introduction to KL, and shortly after the haze descended.