GE15 | The pitter-patter of rain falling on rooftops of old shophouses was heard across Kampung Baru Gunung Hijau on a Tuesday afternoon.

As this writer sought shelter in front of a dimly lit hardware store nestled in one of the streets of the Tronoh constituency, she was joined by the store’s elderly owner.

Descending into his rattan chair, leaving him stuck in an almost hunch, the local, who only wanted to be known as Uncle Loh, lit a cigarette while engaging in a quick chat.