Batu Arang Special | A step back in time

Batu Arang Special | A step back in time from Indrani Kopal on Vimeo.

BATU ARANG MERDEKA SPECIAL | A step back in time
Produced by Indrani Kopal | Sept 18, 2010

The quiet Batu Arang is home town of former All Malaya Estate Staff Union secretary-general Jiwi Kathiyah.

According to Jiwi, during its heyday, Batu Arang was a fountain of peace and a cauldron of revolutionary spirit, all at the same time.

Batu Arang was the birthplace of many radical unions. The Coal Workers Union had a leading role in some of the largest strikes of the period when they protested over their working conditions and poor wages.

This forgotten town which witnessed some of country's most popular labour strikes and demonstrations is also home to many prominent leaders past and present. Today it silently holds many untold stories of our history.

Batu Arang has seen its ups and downs. But this little town, though it looks a bit tired, still retains its beauty.