Celebrating vintage rides and the community behind them
In the dynamic world of automotive enthusiasts, a unique community stands apart – devoted to celebrating the vintage and venerable. Among them, groups like KB Squad Old School embody a reverence for classic cars that extends beyond mere nostalgia.
They cherish these vehicles for their rich history and the memories they evoke, fostering a deep-seated passion for preservation and appreciation.
In their quest to revive the glory days of vintage automobiles, KB Squad Old School stands as an inspiration of nostalgia, tirelessly restoring and customising classic cars that once graced the roads. Their latest endeavour, the Sungkai Ride 2024 gathering, served as a vibrant showcase of their prized possessions. Held recently during this holy month, the event saw an array of classic cars parading to the Garden Sentral Hotel’s main foyer.
Alongside KB Squad Old School, other esteemed groups like Borneo Kustom Show and Olskool My, joined in, each bringing their unique flair to the gathering. From sleek cruisers to rugged classics, each car was a testament to the passion and dedication of its owner, who eagerly shared their tales of affection for these relics of automotive history.
Classic car owner and head of KB Squad Old School Haji Md Fitzila bin Haji Md Yunus, elaborated on the significance of organising Sungkai Ride 2024. He said beyond just uniting fellow classic car owners and enthusiasts, the event serves as a platform to observe the spirit of Ramadhan, fostering a sense of camaraderie as participants come together to break their fasts.
“The event was aimed at helping to establish closer relations between classic car lovers and owners from across the nation and beyond, while also breaking their fast during the holy month of Ramadhan.”
He emphasised that while classic cars often make appearances on social media platforms, there are few opportunities for enthusiasts to convene and admire these vehicles first-hand. The gathering provided a rare chance for classic car owners and enthusiasts to come together, share their passion, and engage with friends and family.
The event attracted classic car owners from Malaysia, who travelled to participate and impart their expertise and love for vintage automobiles.
At the Sungkai Ride 2024, representing the Olskool My Association Alfian bin Razali said, “Having attended the gathering for the first time in Brunei, it has been a great experience interacting and meeting with classic car owners and aficionados in the country.”
“We are all here in sharing the same culture, and that is the culture that surrounds the appreciation and admiring of the classic cars that many of us have either grown up with or have adored since we were kids,” he added.
Transcending borders, culture and race, he added that Sungkai Ride 2024 is a great addition to the other classic car gatherings with one being their Oldskool Mega Gathering or OMG, which he explained is an annual gathering that brings together more than 2,000 classic cars from before the 1980s.
Founder of the Borneo Kustom Show Asmalee bin Haji Ariffin, underscored the diverse range of classic cars scattered across the nation. “Many of the classic cars that are all the rage today range from the 1970s to 1990s, this includes iconic cars such as the Toyota Celica and KP30 to Datsuns and Nissans,” said Asmalee. For classic car enthusiasts, the act of restoring a vintage automobile transcends mere mechanical refurbishment, it’s a labour of love aimed at crafting a vehicle that resonates with their individuality and lifestyle.
Each restoration project becomes a canvas for personal expression, where owners infuse their distinct tastes, preferences, and practical requirements into every aspect of the car’s design and functionality. From selecting the perfect colour scheme and upholstery to fine-tuning the engine for optimal performance, every decision reflects their unique vision and passion for preserving automotive history.
“Some classic car owners prefer to modify their classic cars to suit their personality, taste, and style. While others prefer to keep them faithful to their origin for a sense of nostalgia as well as to showcase to others how cars from the old days look and feel like in the past,” he added. He emphasised that classic car enthusiasts often explore various modifications to enhance their vehicles, with wheel rim changes being particularly favoured. Many opt for rims imported from Japan, adding a touch of authenticity and uniqueness to their cars. Additionally, pairing these rims with rare accessories can elevate the overall aesthetic, allowing owners to showcase their classic cars in all their glory while adhering to road regulations.
The community celebrates this diverse array of personalised classic cars, cherished not just for their aesthetics but also for the rich history and painstaking effort invested by their owners. Each vehicle carries a story, reflecting the journey and dedication of its owner to preserve and enhance its legacy, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of classic car culture. “Many of these classic cars have not stood the test of time, and the efforts made by many of the owners start with the restoration, which can be challenging, but the result is the completed and beautifully crafted cars we see today which are their pride and joy,” said Asmalee.
Events like Sungkai Ride 2024 serve as vital platforms for classic car enthusiasts to exhibit their cherished vehicles and connect with fellow aficionados. These gatherings not only foster camaraderie among like-minded owners but also contribute to the growth and cohesion of the classic car community. As dusk falls on yet another gathering filled with gleaming chrome and timeless charm, participants are reminded that their devotion to classic cars extends beyond mere pastime. It is a tribute to the enduring legacy of automotive heritage and an expression of individuality that transcends time and trends. – Daniel Lim
