Belangkas, Anyone?

So during Karnival Jom Heboh in JB back in 2008, I was introduced to several of Tunku Tiara’s family members -- an extremely warm and welcoming bunch. Tiara was one of the artists involved in an online drama series I had produced at the time, and her family had come by the GUA booth to show their support. Before long, I was invited to their own gerai, located at one of the Rumah Limas on the other side of Danga Bay.

The booth was part of "Promosi Makanan Melayu Johor & Santapan Kerabat Johor", organised by Persatuan Zuriat Ungku Mohd Khalid, JB. What immediately piqued my curiosity was the appearance of belangkas (horseshoe crab) on the menu.


“You should try it. I don’t eat it myself, but you should try it,” said one of Tiara’s aunts, YM Tunku Jacky.

Now, this wasn’t my first time encountering belangkas -- I’d had it before. But this was the first time I properly documented the experience, complete with photos and, of course, commentary.

When break time rolled around, the late Johan Nawawi and I made our way over to the Rumah Limas and ordered a generous spread, which naturally included the famed belangkas. We were joined by Tiara’s dad, YM Tunku Hassan, who also encouraged us to give it a go.

Did it taste like chicken? Not quite. The only edible part was the eggs, which tasted more like turtle eggs, but firmer. After a few spoonfuls, though, I started to enjoy it. Tunku Hassan shared that belangkas was now highly sought-after, especially for its blood, which commands a ridiculous price due to its medicinal value. Personally, I’ll just stick to the eggs, thank you very much.

And what else did we indulge in on that day? Well, I simply couldn’t pass up some good ol’ Laksa Johor. True blue Johorean, and always proud of it. 😊



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Dapatkan buku 'Kisah Hidup & Budaya Pop Anak Gen-X' di SINI

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