JalanLagi

How to keep Mosquitoes at a Distance

2009-07-12T00:19:00.000-07:00

Keeping Mosquitoes at a Distance

When you know that you are, or might be, exposed to mosquitoes, think of these few helpful tips to keep them at a distance:

Sprayed over the skin, cucumber juice
Sprayed over the skin, lemon grass juice.

A better deal - instead of failure

2009-07-11T08:15:00.000-07:00

Failure doesn't mean you are a failure...
it does mean you haven't succeeded yet.

Failure doesn't mean you have accomplished nothing...
it does mean you have learned something.

Failure doesn't mean you have been a fool...
it does mean you had a lot of faith.

Failure doesn't mean you have been disgraced...
it does mean you were willing to try.

Failure doesn't mean you don't have it...
it does mean you have to do something in a different way.

Failure doesn't mean you are inferior...
it does mean you are not perfect.

Failure doesn't mean you've wasted your life...
it does mean you've a reason to start afresh.

Failure doesn't mean you should give up...
it does mean you should try harder.

Failure doesn't mean you'll never make it...
it does mean it will take a little longer.

Failure doesn't mean God has abandoned you...
it does mean God has a better idea!

- Robert Schuller.

How to treat burns with natural methods druing trekking?

2009-07-10T01:21:00.000-07:00

During treks, sometimes you get into burns from camp fire or from lamps
or cooking.
Here are some remedies you can use

Papaya. Cut a piece out and place it on the burn site for about an hour.
It provides pain relieve and also heals the burns. Papaya contains
papain which is a mild pain killer.
Papaya also works on sun burns as well.

Sodium Bicarbonate (those you use for cooking). Make it into a paste and
rub onto the affected area. Sodium Bicarbonate not only promotes healing
but also prevents scarring.

Aloe plant. Cut the leave and pound it so that some of the liquid comes
out. Apply on affected area.

As with all the above, it is always wise to wash them clean first. Try
not to get dirt, which may contain bacteria and can create an infection
instead of healing the wound.

I alway like to bring along chalk (kapur) powder form. Mix it with water
and it becomes a paste and also can be used as a remedy for burns. Also,
it is an excellent remedy for insect bites especially bees.

How to Start Jogging?

2009-07-08T23:17:00.000-07:00

I suppose there are many reason to start jogging as an exercise.I started for health reasons. I was overweight and I knew I had to exercise. Today, I love running. I run at least 4 days in a week and on other days I go trekking, or short hikes. Now, I am an outdoor junkie.Of course this was many years ago.

Anyway, back to how to start jogging? When I started I could not even complete 1 kilometer. I hated running because I was not enjoying it and it took so much from me. I didn't see progress for many weeks. I was mentally beaten until I found a way to enjoy running.

It is what I call "Start-Stop" method. Basically, it is running for a very short period and then walking for a similar period. The lenght of the period get extended as you get more comfortable to jog longer. The nice thing about this is you are able to measure and you can either push for longer "start-stop" or extend the period. So you can basically get to measure and with daily improvements, you get motivated. There will come a time you can run for 30mins without stopping and then you realised that you do not need 30 mins of walk to recover. So you can then cut the walk down to 15mins. Try doing 1 minute run, 1 minute walk. Then increase it to 2 mins run, 2 mins walk and so on.

I used this method and within two weeks, I was completing 2 kilometers without stopping. By then, I was really enjoying runs. Of course, it helps when you have some running buddies with you as well to provide some motivation. But do this at your own pace. Everyone is different. I do not consider myself a good runner but I enjoy running at my own pace.

Try this method, you will be amazed.

Best natural treatment for bites.

2009-07-05T00:16:00.000-07:00

Getting bites on treks are pretty common

You can't beat these.. this is what has been past on from generation to generation. You can pick your favorite, or choose depending on circumstances and availability, but these 13 tips are life-savers.

Use chalk (kapur). Add a little to make a paste and apply.
Banana peel or juice extracted from crushed Plantain leaves (red banana) provide relief from itching.
Rubbing an itchy area with apple vinegar or lemon juice provide relief from swelling and itching.
Rubbing the affected area with raw garlic or eucalyptus oil also brings relief from swelling and itching.
A bit of Vicks vapor rub helps with the swelling and itching.
A mixture of tobacco and a bit of water, enough just to make it moist, reduces the swelling.
Applying toothpaste on the affected area is helpful as well.
Some people get great results using granulated sugar. It prevents scarring from a bite wound.
Raw honey, when applied immediately after being stung or bitten, reduces pain.
Cut an onion and rub it on the sting, or put a slice of raw onion over the sting area. It removes the poison.
Vinegar mixed with olive oil helps in reducing the swelling and itching.
Basil leaves put over the wasp or hornet sting draw the poison out.

Low cost Trail Mapping Methods

2009-07-01T02:20:00.000-07:00

The difference between a rich man and a poor man

2009-06-29T20:53:00.001-07:00

One day, the father of a very wealthy family took his son on a trip to the country with the express purpose of showing him how poor people live.
They spent a couple of days and nights on the farm of what would be considered a very poor family.

On their return from their trip, the father asked his son, "How was the trip?"
"It was great, Dad."
"Did you see how poor people live?" the father asked.
"Oh yeah," said the son.
"So, tell me, what did you learn from the trip?" asked the father.

The son answered:
"I saw that we have one dog and they had four.
We have a pool that reaches to the middle of our garden and they have a creek that has no end.
We have imported lanterns in our garden and they have the stars at night.
Our patio reaches to the front yard and they have the whole horizon.
We have a small piece of land to live on and they have fields that go beyond our sight.
We have servants who serve us, but they serve others.
We buy our food, but they grow theirs.
We have walls around our property to protect us, they have friends to protect them."
The boy's father was speechless.
Then his son added, "Thanks Dad for showing me how poor we are."

Isn't perspective a wonderful thing?
Makes you wonder what would happen if we all gave thanks for everything we have, instead of worrying about what we don't have.

Focus on the problem or Focus on the solution?

2009-06-29T20:28:00.001-07:00

Sorry, This is not about hiking but I bumped into this one and it really sunk deep .. so i thought it was apt to share with everyone.. :)

When NASA began the launch of astronauts into space, they found out that the pens wouldn't work

at zero gravity (ink won't flow down to the writing surface). To solve this problem, it took them one decade and $12 million.

They developed a pen that worked at zero gravity, upside down, underwater, in practically any surface

including crystal and in a temperature range from below freezing to over 300 degrees C. And what did the Russians do...??

They used a pencil...

How to choose a hiking shoe – a beginner’s guide

2009-06-29T08:10:00.000-07:00

I often get this question when I take people on a treks. So is my shoes ok to go? To me, using the proper hiking shoes or boots is one of the most important items to consider.

Some people I take on treks are novice and for some it is their first time. So obviously they do have these type of question.

So how to choose a hiking shoe? Actually it all depends on

How often do you intent to go hiking? If you are ready to get into hiking big time, then you should buy a more decent pair.
However, you just want to try this one time trek to see if you like treking, then a reasonably new pair of track shoes with studs soles are good choices. I can’t emphasize enough reasonably good, new pair. I often get people who will come with some old pair, thinking that it would be a waste of a reasonably new shoe if it got soiled or damaged. However, very often the old shoes give way during the trek and can create a number of issues. However, I always have a masking tape with me on treks and I don’t hesitate to wrap the shoe together with the feet just for us to continue with trekking.

Some tips on how to choose hiking shoe for general trekking.

Comfort – choose a shoe that give you maximum comfort. It must not be too tight on the side or the front. Allow some toe room. If you are testing without socks, allow some tolerance for the thick socks you may be using. Also check with the shoe assistant if the shoe will expand or contract with usage. Normally, canvas type shoes expand with use. Leather ones are likely to contract a bit. Walk around with the shoes a bit. It MUST not cut into your feet. It must not feel abrasive inside the shoe. Even a small abrasion can become a major problem when you trek for hours.
The sole of your shoe is quite important. Tracking requires more prominent studs on the soles. I don’t mean studs like football boots. It it must be more defined than a jogging shoe.
The front of the shoe must be able to bend fairly well. Do not pick a shoe that is hard to bend at the front. You may need shoes that bend easily when you climb up a rock face.
The back of the shoe should be fairly rigid. It should be able to hold and support your feet. On long treks, this will help prevent sprains.
Never use shoes with Velcro. Velcro shoes will not hold well in water. On some treks, you may need to walk in water. In water, some old shoes will fall apart. Another reason why you should not use old shoes during treks.

These some practical tips to pick the right shoes.

Hope this helps.

Broga Hill, Semenyih, Selangor

2009-06-27T02:26:00.000-07:00

Broga Hill is a nice morning workout. It takes only about 45 mins to reach the final 4th hill top. You get a pretty majectic view of Semenyih town and a smaller Broga town.

The climb starts from a private oil palm plantation about 1km before reaching Broga town. The entrance is directly opposite a Rabbit Fun Land.

The hill's picturesque view is rather different because the whole hill is covered with lallang (tall grass). The hill is relatively devoid of any other undergrowth or tress. The lallangs can grow to a man height.

In fact, the locals cut and burn the lallang to discourage wild animals from hiding in the lallangs. It was said that tigers from the nearby forest have been found hiding in the lallangs before. True?

There are basically 4 peaks with the final one entering into the forest beside it.

The whole track up to the hill is rather sandy, so sandals and slippers are advisable. Good hiking shoes are better.

The whole track is a loop but most people will turn back and walk down the same way.You can hike into the forest as an alternative way down. You then have to make your way into a rubber plantation and then an oil palm plantation. Unfortunately, the path down from the forest is not clear so tracking instinct do play a role if you are tracking alone or small group. Not advisable if you are novice to use this track. The good thing about this way is you don't have to hike down in the blazing sun.

This also explains why there were so many people who were already hiking down at 8am (while we were going up)... Smart fellows!

I can just imagine that you could watch the sunrise at broga hill, it would be sight. Maybe next time. 5am hike anyone?

Oh one more thing! Did you know that Broga is split between two states. One second you are in Selangor and the other second you are in Negeri Sembilan. Heard that Broga is famous for it's Pan Mee Soup.

Anyway, here is an amateur video of my trip.

Subang Jaya Park, Selangor

2009-06-16T23:36:00.000-07:00

Subang Jaya Lake Park is park that attracts a lot of people from as far as Klang and Bukit Jalil. Many of the joggers are regulars and they are friendly. The circuit is about 1.1km per round. Just nice to do about 7 to 8 rounds to get a good workout. The scenery is very pleasant with the lake in the middle. Some anglers will do fly fishing (actually there is really no fish in the pond or the fishes are smart, they won't take the bait. But I guess the anglers are casting just for the fun of it). The park can also be seen from the federal highway. KTM Kommuter passes by occasionally to the amusement of the children who often makes the park as a cycling track.

On a good day, the lake can be very still and the water surface is like a mirror. We traveled thousands of miles to see the renowned mirror lake in New Zealand only to find one in our backyard. Isn't this wonderful?
Sealing Wax palms lined the path. There are trees with only flowers and no leaves (or very little). I think they are called "ghostly fingers" or frangipanis. Some epiphytes can be found on the tall trees. Small bamboo plants are also planted along the jogging track. Nice large Chinese Juniper (christmas trees) line one side of the track. Chinese Jupiter leaves are used by the Chinese to obtain a liquor to treat coughs. Casuarina trees used to line the park but have been uprooted during one of the heavy downpours. I am afraid that without maintenance, the trees and plants will eventually disappear as well.
People are in the park at all hours from 5am till 10pm and beyond. I am not exactly sure what people do there after 10pm - never found out! The park used to be well lit but somehow due to poor maintenance, streets lights, stopping sheds have disappeared.

FRIM, Selangor

2009-06-14T06:22:00.000-07:00

Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) is a treasure! One of the most well manicured nature environments in the country! We did not have time to explore everything FRIM had to offer but it is worth several more visits just to explore them.

One thing I like about FRIM is the labeling of trees and plants. Anyone interested in plants would find this place a jewel. Just by walking the roads and observing the multitude of plant life alone would take hours. Then there are the trails which hides more jewels in their natural state. FRIM is a secondary forest but you easily can find variety of 30-40meter trees, standing majestically. I am not sure if the trees are considered dipterocarp trees. To name all the plants you can possibly see along the roads and trails alone would overwhelm this website. So my best advice, visit it yourself. Fortunately, FRIM is a permanent forest reserve and will continue to exist for the benefit of our future generations. Information is abundant and staff are knowledgeable at the visitor's centre. The visitor's centre provides lots of information on interesting things to do and see in FRIM as well as trails. Imagine seeing a 2 meter dragon fish in FRIM! It is in a pond opposite the visitors centre.

Then, there is the highlight of FRIM (to me and the kids) - the canopy walk. It is about an hour's easy to medium trek. The steel canopy walk is straddled on 30 meter high trees above the forest. It gives a picturesque view of Damansara area besides the tree canopy. For a person who is afraid of heights, it was a challenge to look down on the canopy walkway but the kids just love it. Many different species of birds can be found on the tree branches and if you are lucky, you will stumble onto interesting surprises like the courting of two snakes (like we did) along the canopy trail. The canopy trail is a loop which passes a nice, cooling waterfall. Just the right place for a quick cool down before continuing your descent.

You have to pay a little to get into FRIM (RM3 per car, RM1 per adult). Canopy walk charges are RM5 per adult and RM1 per child. It is worth the expense. It is a great place to plan for a half day or 3/4 day outing with the family. FRIM is located in Kepong (or Selayang) area. Go towards Rawang and you should see a turn off on the left to FRIM. Well marked signages can be found along the road. You won't get lost.

The young nature lover (Mikail) in the making.
The father (Ameer) seems to be practicing some breathing stance while the rest seeems to take the hike pretty wll. This is about 45mins into the trek.

Klang Gates II, Melawati Hills, Selangor

2009-06-13T21:08:00.000-07:00

Klang Gates II, or affectionately called K2 is the other peak in Melawati hills. The trek is about 4 hours and it is slightly tougher that Klang Gates I. The trek is less visited by trekkers so you generally will have the entire trek to yourself and you will not encounter, what I call "traffic jam". You are also climbing on top of the limestone hills similar to Klang Gates I.

The beginning trek is uphill all the way. For an average trekker, the uphill will take about 45mins. After that the trails plateaus off. Similar to Klang Gates I, the top is full of False Rhu. (if you rub the leaves of False Rhu, you get a nice minty smell). One will go through many limestone hills, although it is slightly more treacherous that Klang Gates I, so you have to be more careful.
The highlight of the trip is the 45% climb onto the final peak. The steep climb is about 100 to 150 meters. There is a rope there to help you up but I wouldn't trust the rope too much. There are a number of treks back to the base. One could use the same route back (on top of limestone hill) or use the orchard way, which is much less strenuous.

Klang Gates 1, Melawati Hills, Selangor

2009-06-12T20:39:00.000-07:00

Klang Gates is situated in the vicinity of Taman Melawati. Some people call it the Melawati hills. Well, it is not a hill but a limestone outcrop. Basically, you are climbing to the top of the outcrop and walking on top of the outcrop moving from one end to the other. When you have completed the trek and look up at the hills, you'll be pleasantly surprised at the distance you have covered. The trek is a loop. The entire journey takes about 3 hours and it is a good morning workout.

Usually, most people will start at the Klang Dam side hiking up a steep 45% angle for about 15-20 minutes and you will be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the dam. Get there early and the view is even more spectacular. From the mid section, you can view the other hills around. I believe you can see Genting Highlands from the point.

There are a couple of challenging points along the trail. The most challenging is probably the repelling down the rope. For the season trekker or if you have long legs, then you may not need the rope. This section is also prone to what I call "traffic jam" when there is a big group ahead. This section is about two thirds of the trek. After this part, an interesting climbing section awaits you. It is easier than it looks if you do not look down. There are some spectacular sights further on. For first timers, it can be overwhelming and exciting at the same time.

It is a medium hiking trip. For the uninitiated, the journey may take 4 hours. If the trek is done early in the morning, the air will be cooler. However, if you reach the top around 11am and the sun's up, it can be pretty hot. You need plenty of water (at least 1 litre) and some snacks as well.
The trek is a single trail so there is little chance of getting lost but it would be good to bring someone who is familiar with the trail just to be on the safe side.

Klang Gates 1 entire hill top. It is quite amazing after you complete the trek and then look up where you have been.

moss grows in certain parts of Klang Gates Hill

Local Belief - Things you need to know before you go hiking, tracking in Malaysia

2009-06-11T22:50:00.000-07:00

The information does not represent the contributor's beliefs but it is for knowledge base only. This section is meant for story telling and if you believe in some of it, there is no harm at all.

In Malaysia, many folks do believe in spirits residing in the jungles, caves, waterfalls, large tree trunks (especially if they resemble a feature), anthills and even animals.

Jungles

Do not "let go" (pee or do big business) anywhere especially near bamboos or on tree trunks. It is believed that bamboos house spirits. If you need to, you must ask for permission before you do it and after completing the business, you say thank you.
Do not pee on ants, the chinese believe that it will make you itchy near your "you know what". It is always fun especially for male kids to spray ants on the ground with pee.
At 12 noon, orang asli believe that you have to take a 5 to 10 minutes rest. Someone told me that trees branches usually will break during noon time. Perhaps it is this reason. But the orang asli version is that spirits are most active then and they will chase you if you are on the move.
In the jungles, never say "snake" or "tiger", it is believe that if you call it, it will come.
The Malays believe that a jungle snake has a spirit that follows it and if you disturb it, the spirit might follow you home.
Do not disturb the plants surrounding the trail too much. E.g. using a stick and hitting the plants along the trail for no reason - this is being disrespectful to the forest. Of course, if you need to hold them it is ok. Well, the scientific version is some of these plants have spores which can cause irritation to the human skin. (This actually happened to a friend during one of our trips).
Before going into the jungle, some trekkers believe in asking for a safe journey. Good practice, I suppose.

Caves

Never bring in pork meat into a cave. It is believed that most caves have a "datuk" (malay good spirit). And this will disturb the spirits and they may "blind" you of the cave exit.
Some cavers believe it is better to avoid any form of meat before a major caving expedition into a cave.

Endau Rompin, Johor, Malaysia

2009-06-11T05:41:00.000-07:00

One word describes Endau Rompin (ER) - Spectacular! First class facilities with first class maintenance for a out-of-this world virgin forest. ER caters to all - from hardcore jungle trekker to the city-folk "must need air cond rooms" type.
ER is a very well managed park and visitors are only allowed to certain areas of the park, which is a good thing. There are many things to do - jungle trekking, boating, rafting, canoeing, bird watching or just lazing around the pristine waterfalls.

At the heart of ER are the four spots which most visitors visit. They are Buaya Sangkut Waterfall (3 hrs trek one way), Upeh Guling Waterall (2hrs trek one way) and next to it, Tasik Biru. The forth spot is Janing Barat, a 500 meter hill (2 hr trek on a 30 degree gradient, you can run down in 35 mins).
To complete all four spots without killing yourself, you'll need at least 4 days, 3 nights at ER. You can do Upeh Guling, Tasik Biru and Janing Barat in one day and leave the other day for Buaya Sangkut. Most casual visitors would not do Buaya Sangkut.

The botanic garden is spectacular and can be left to the final day before departure. It is situated opposite the park hq.

ER is dotted with campsites around the park. Air conditioned dormitories can be found in Park HQ. You could stay in Park HQ with all the amenities of a four star hotel. The NERC is about 2 km away from HQ and is an excellent place to stay (I personally think, it is better than Park HQ). For the adventuresome, you could camp out at the many campsites.
There are many things to see, do and learn in ER. There are collections of orchids, medicinal plants, insects, snakes and a library. Trees are well labeled along the common treks. Even at night, you could go for a night walk or do insect trapping activities.

Getting into ER.
It takes about 2 hrs drive from Kahang town. Although, the road has improved significantly over the years and you do not need four wheel drive nowadays. It goes through Kelapa Sawit plantations (kelapa sawit as far as the eye can see, which in itself is spectacular). You then enter the park's buffer zone. Watch out for the elephant dung!

this is the prize of Endau Rompin - Payung Sabun Fern. This a new species found only around the Endau Rompin Region. It is found in Janing Barat.

this is one of species of Ant Plant that can be found in Endau Rompin, in particular in Janing Barat. The pods produces a sweet liquid instead the pod which attracts the ants to make thier home. The Ant plant does have roots but they are too few to provide the necesary nutrition to the plant. The Ant plant does not have any leaves. So the ants helps the plant to grow. By creating a home for the ants, the ants will bring 'food' back to the home, where the Ant plant will take nutrition from inside the pod. Interesting, isn't it?

this is the Upen Guling waterfalls.

if you are staying with the orang asli long house, this is what you wake up to every morning. This is also our shower place. Whole day, we will listen to rushing waters.

Janing Barat. The interesting thing about Janing Barat is that it is only about 450metres high and it manifest lower montane characteristics. The soil is that of mud! Minimal undergrowth at the peak

dinner time, with orang asli cooked food. After dinner, it is games and lots of chit chats.

adventure at its best

sleeping quarters - roughing it out style. this is how the orang asli will build they sleeping arrangement in the jungle. We are sleeping on tree barks and bamboo. It is very amazing that it is cooling from the bottom.

This is tasik biru. It is actually bluish-green in colour. It must be due to the leaves and sendiments. This is definitely a refreshing break after a hot hike from upeh guling.

this is tiger's paw mark.

The NERC, a complete and well kept place to stay. Mr Heah built it around 2000 equipped with solar panel for electricity.. Only jacuzzi missing to measure up to a 5 star hotel.

Upeh Guling legend - how it got its name.
There was an orang asli named Upeh and he lives on on side of the waterfall. He goes across the waterfall to participate in a fighting cock challenge. He has a fiancée. One day, while walking across the waterfall, he saw his fiancee and got distracted by her, and slip into the waterfall. Thus, the name Upeh Gulling.

Buaya Sangkut.
You can be creative on how it got its name. A buaya got sangkut on it!
Orang Asli
The one thing you will realized is that the orang asli (jakun tribe) will name things by the sound and events. They respect nature and never harm any living thing. Unless they are challenged by the animals, they will then kill (or at least attempt).

There is a bird call "ong-ong-ong-phat". Well, it is name that too and the orang asli has a song on it as well! You can hear them everywhere in Endau. Can't really miss it.

Getting there information:

The easiest way is to book through a adverture travel agent. Cost is about RM300/RM350 per head for 3 days 2 nites.
You can opt for homestay where you stay in the Kampung Peta Village with the orang asli, which I recommend or you could stay the Park HQ.
Personally, I do not use either. I organised trip in collaboration with my orang asli friend, Bunyin and Malaysian Nature Society (MNS). Malaysian Nature Society Nature Guide groups organises yearly trips into Endau Rompin during May holidays. Cost is about RM250 per head and most of the money goes to the orang asli.

This is the best because, we stay Orang Asli style in a long house.
The orang asli will cook all meals
However this is typically a 4 day 3 nites stay.
Places to visit are Upeh Guling, Janing Barat during the trips. You can also do body surfing (small one) if time permits.

Buaya Sangkut requires fitness and more days.
Bukit Temembung - a sacred place to the orang asli is a 2 day, one nite jurney, which only the orang asli can take you.

The place to go enter into Endau Roming is Kahang. Johor.
Please note that there are two entry points into Endau Rompin. One is from Johor and the other is from Pahang. Unfortunately, I am not so familiar with Pahang side.

MNS Heritage Trail, Selangor

2009-06-10T23:02:00.000-07:00

Imagine finding a forest right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur! Malaysian Nature Society's Heritage Trail is such a jewel in the midst of our concrete jungle. MNS has plans to provide guided tours of the trail soon. Check out MNS website for details. The trail is rich in plants, animals (snakes, insects and, of course, mosquitoes) and birds. It is a great introduction to the secondary rain forest habitat.

Secondary rain forest are areas where the original habitat (plants and inhabitants) called primary rain forest, have been cleared naturally or by man, and then left abandoned for regeneration. When the regeneration process begins, the forest is then known as secondary rain forest. Most of Malaysia's forest are secondary rain forests.

Primary rain forests are found in the main range of peninsula Malaysia like in Taman Negara, and in Sabah & Sarawak.

The trail is only about 150 meters but one has to take a slow walk through, to appreciate the biodiversity of the rain forest.

The trail begins with the tall Jelotong tree welcoming visitors. Mainly prized as timber. Interesting thing is that the sap is used in production of chewing gum.

The small Kapur tree. Also prized as timber. The Kapur leaf is interesting.

The interwoven leaf veins makes it thick and difficult to tear. This is the tree's mechanism to discourage animals from eating them (my own conjecture). Crush one leaf (do not take more, 'cos there are not many leaves left) and give it a whiff and be pleasantly surprised.

The giant bornean keladi plant. The leaves can grow to 4 meters across. This is only a baby! and it already dwarfs a kid.

Liana. This is the species which the parasitic plant, rafflesia will grow on.

This species of liana grows breadth-wise causing the roots to become broader.

This orchid is called the Pigeon Orchid. They are epiphytic. Epiphytic plants do not kill the host plant it resides on. This species flowers simultaneously when there is a sudden change in temperature. The flowers are small, white in colour and look like little flying pigeons but they only last one day. The plant uses the root to store food and water thus causing it to swell. The orchid then uses this for survival during drought periods. The leaves of the pigeon orchid is medicinal. Locals make a poultice of the leaves and apply it on boils and pimples.

Palm with long leaf stem. The stem is used as fishing pole by the orang asli.

Gula Melaka comes from this palm tree. This palm can be seen across the stream.

Fig Tree. Figs bear fruits on branch nodes. Figs forms a symbiotic relationship with wasp. Each fig tree has its own wasp for pollination. Figs bear flowers which grow inside the fruit. The reason is because the wasp makes the interior of the fruit its home. While the wasp is in the fig fruit, pollen from the flowers will stick onto the wasp. When the wasp travels to another fig tree, it will pollinate.

Bird's nest fern - a epiphytic plant. Commonly found in most forests in Malaysia. All you have to do is to look up. The frond spreads out to collect fallen leaves from the canopy, and water. These are pushed into the centre, providing nutrients for the fern as the leaves decompose. The only threat to the host plant is when the fern becomes too big and heavy. It may then break the branch off. The Malays use the leaves to treat fever.

Sungai Buloh Nature Park, Selangor

2009-06-10T22:24:00.000-07:00

Clearing a Path for the Sungai Buloh Trail.

In line with the “Save our Sungai Buloh Forest Park Campaign” organised by the MNS in May, several nature guides offered to help clear a path for the Sungai Buloh trail. The objective of having such a trail would be to allow the local residents, and the community at large, to get closer to nature, thus creating a greater awareness of, and appreciation for the oldest forest reserve in Peninsular Malaysia.

Armed with parangs, changkuls and sickles, the eight nature guides met Andrew Sebastion and Chitra, and Mr Leong of the Selangor Polo Country Club at the area opposite the school on May 11.

The forest reserve is home to a large variety of flora and fauna. We saw trees like the mahang gajah, meranti, and lianas. Some birders in the group spotted several species of birds as well. The trek did not have much thick undergrowth, and clearing it was relatively easy, which was a good thing as many of us got distracted by the bountiful plant species!

After about one hour of trail clearing Andrew decided that we had done enough, so we headed back. The trail is definitely worth another visit, and we look forward to getting there again.

A few of us are planning to clear a trail over the next few weeks and Mr. Leong welcomes the idea. We hope to make the trail as popular as the Gasing Hills trails.

Second Trail Clearing, near the swamp area. We made a loop from one end of the swamp via the hill to the other end. The trail should take about 1 hour.

Tanjung Tuan

2009-06-10T00:25:00.000-07:00

by Andy Chong/Th Ong

Tanjung Tuan formerly known, as Cape Rachardo is one of the last remaining “Coastal Tropical Wet Evergreen Rainforest” located along the west coast of Peninsula Malaysia. The tropical rainforest in Malaysia is around 135 million years old, the oldest in the world and is the richest in terms of bio-diversity with 25,000 flowering plants as compared to only 6,000 in temperate forests found in Europe. Tropical rainforest is an important natural resource for timber; herbs, pharmaceutical and medicinal drugs; essential oils and is also a source of wild genetic materials important for future breeding program of crops. New genetic materials are also required for hybridization as over the years crops have a tendency to lose its resistance to pests and diseases.

Meranti Seraya - Crown Shyness
The Tg. Tuan rainforest is multi-layered comprising plants of various sizes (unlike a plantation that is easily identified with trees of uniform height and size) with tall trees forming the emergent layer. The canopy layer forms the second tier of trees including epiphytic plants and lianas (woody climbers) reaching upwards to compete for sunlight. The trees are tall and upright with no branches along the trunk as the trees prune themselves – shedding its lower branches as it grows. Though the trees are in constant competition for sunlight, the crowns or leaves meet but do not touch one another, a unique characteristic referred as “crown shyness”.

Ficus Spp.Tree

Liana – Woody Climber

A wide variety of tree species can be found in Tg.Tuan, such as the Meranti Seraya (Shorea curtisii) with it smoky-gray colored crown, Meranti Tembaga (Shorea leprosula) so named for its copper colored leaves, Serpetir (Sindora wallichii) for its timber used in furniture making and plywood,

Terentang (Camponosperma auriculata) a soft wood tree used for making matches and soles of shoes, Karas (Aquilaria malaccensis) a “sweet” fragrant wood that is pathologically diseased formed by insect wounds, Keruing (Dipterocarpus spp.) known for its oleo-resins which was the first product of the forest to be traded and Keledang used for making traditional chinese coffins.

Kelat Tree

Sting-less Bee Hive
There are also some very unusual tree species worth mentioning here, these are the Kelat trees with its trunk completely twisted; and the Meraga similar to the twisted Kelat with its “see-through” holes feature on its trunk. A large Pokok Ara (Ficus spp.) also commands a breathtaking sight along the trail, where it started life as a seedling on top of a tree, forming large trunks as its aerial roots sink into the ground, entwining its host.
On the forest floor, a hive of activity can be observed, giant forest ants measuring up to 50mm in size foraging for food, black termites (Hospitalitermis hospitalis) marching in a continuous convoy, traveling some 400 to 500 meters a day by following trails marked by hormones

Cicada Shell

“spit-out” by the termites. Large Globitermis sulphurous termite hills can also be seen, some measuring 900mm to one meter in height. Some species of termites also cultivate fungus gardens for food. The rainforest is also home to the Dusky Leaf monkeys, squirrels, wasps, cicadas and a wide variety of birds, not forgetting the migratory raptors that visit Tg. Tuan every year.

Ginger Flower
The leaf litter (and fallen trees) on the forest ground forms nutrient for the

plants, undergoing mechanical and chemical decomposition by insects and fungi. The leaf litter also plays an important role in controlling the soil moisture content, soil temperature and soil erosion. Palms, ferns, mosses, dracaenas, rattan, Bemban (Donax grandis), Mahang Gajah or Telinga Gajah (Macaranga triloba) thriving well under the filtered sunlight are in abundance along the forest floor.

Mengkuang
A “young” giant Mengkuang (Pandanus spp.) measuring some 3 meters in

height amongst the Meranti Seraya trees is another natural wonder of the forest. Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) is also found along the trail, a useful medicinal plant for the treatment of fever, diarrhea and is also known for its anti-malaria properties. Lumbah (Curculigo latifolia) a natural sweetener – gives a very sweet taste/sensation when its seeds or parts of the plant are chewed.

Pandanus odaratimus

Sea Hibiscus
A large fallen fig tree across the pathway marks the exit of the trail, observe carefully and you’ll find an abandoned beehive beneath the trunk. This trails leads up to the lighthouse and is also the main exit. On a clear day, Sumatra can be seen across the Straits of Malacca from the lighthouse. Dugongs have also been sighted in the clear seawater beside the lighthouse.

Those with ample energy can turn-off from the main trail towards the seafront (before the fallen fig tree) where the rainforest gradually changes to a mangrove forest. One is greeted with an entirely different species of plants, such as, Nibong (Oncosperma tigillarium), Sea Hibiscus or Bebaru (Hibiscus tiliaceus), Mengkuang (Pandanus odoratisimus), Sea Apple or Kelat Jambu Laut (Eugenia grandis), Sea Almond (Terminalia catappa), Ambong-Ambong (Scaevola taccada), Bakau Kurup (Rhizophora mucronata), Bakau Minyak (Rhizophora apiculata), Perepat (Sonneratia alba), just to name some of the many species lining the shoreline. Sting-less bees can also be found on tree trunks within the mangrove forest. The trail is clearly marked and takes one to three hours depending on your enthusiasm.

Tongkat Ali - Malaysia version of Viagra. The left of Tongkat Ali is bitter in taste and is known to keep mosquitoes away. Take one leave and chew on it. It is believed that Tongkat Ali that grows 600meters above sea level are the good ones.

Sea Almond

Mahang Gajah - this plant has a symbiotic relationship with ants - big ones. So do becareful when you touch this tree. The Mahang Gajah produces a sap which is 'sweet' to the ants. In return the ants protects the plant.

It is called the Mahang Gajah is because of the leave. It looks like a footprint of an elephant.

Basic Hiking Tips

2009-06-09T22:45:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer: The information below is not meant to be a "bible" but has been gained through experience and may not be comprehensive enough. What you need depends on the type of trek you are going on but generally, the information below should be adequate for Day Trekking needs.

Day trekking is fun and appeals to everyone of all ages. Day treking can be enjoyed by the experienced nature lover, uninitiated and even kids. Although, it is only a day trek, you still have to be prepared.

Day treks which will require more serious preparation,

are treks more than 3hrs, or
are far from amenities (especially
first aid and/or food), or
involves climbs, or/and
involves water (especially
waterfalls)

Recommended things to bring. For the
leader, items 4 to 10 is a must item for any trek.

A good knapsack - you must be able
to keep your hands free for holding.
Water - Know before hand how long
is the trek and bring the appropriate amount of water. Typically, for
every 1hr trek, 0.25litre of water (but this depends on individual).
Food - some dried food. e.g.
biscuits, raisins, energy bar, chocolates are good energy food for any
trek. Typically, you should prepare enough food for at least 2 meals. (6
bars of chocolate, one large box of raisins, one pack of biscuits).
You should not finish your food totally during the trek. Always bring
enough to take out of the trek in case of emergencies.
Raincoat - this is always good for
a variety of purposes besides its main function. Raincoat can be used to
keep you warm. A good raincoat is a poncho.
Basic First Aid Kit - most often,
people tend to forget this very important item.
Small torch light.
Pen knife (Swiss army knife is
good).
Compass
Pen and some paper
Watch
Wear a good pair of shoes (with
socks).
Dress appropriately for the trek.
- slippers for jungle treks are a
  no-no. Actually, for any trek, slippers are a NO-NO
- sandals are typically good
  stream-walking but only if you are familiar with the trek and is an
  experienced treker.
- t-shirts are appropriate for
  Malaysian weather. Singlet is a NO-NO
- Short pants are good, preferably
  loose ones. Tights are typically not appropriate for treks.
Cap to shield from sun and rain
- comes in handy.
Luxurious items
- Cooking stuff (usually not
  necessary for day trip)
  - Mess tin for cooking - usually
    only for boiling water (to make coffee).
  - Manual stove with firestarter (A gas stove,
    if you can carry it).
  - Matches (or lighter).
- Thermos flask with something
  hot. This can come in handy in emergencies.
A very important item - toilet
paper. Never know when someone might need it. Believe me, this is often in
demand on a trek.

The Trek.

Trek familiarity is the
most important aspect of any trek.

Length of trek.
Difficulty of trek.
- trek terrain.
- water source.

The People going on the trek

The people you are going with is another important factor. The number of kids going on the trek plays a significant part in your preparation. Extra food and water are required for kids.

Important ethics & some important considerations

Never rely on others to bring stuff for you
Never underestimate the trek. You need to be relatively prepared for emergencies. Even a walk in the park can result in a crisis.
Respect the trek surroundings. Plants, animals and insects. Remember, we are the visitor not them.
Never litter
Try not to kill anything. Admire them, Shoot em ....with a camera.

Interesting Facts about our RainForest

2009-06-09T22:04:00.000-07:00

Interesting Facts about our RainForest

We are losing Earth's greatest biological treasures just as we are beginning to appreciate their true value. Rainforests once covered 14% of the earth's land surface; now they cover a mere 6% and experts estimate that the last remaining rainforests could be consumed in less than 40 years
Nearly half of the world's species of plants, animals and micro-organisms will be destroyed or severely threatened over the next quarter century due to
Rainforest deforestation

Currently, 121 prescription drugs currently sold world-wide come from plant-derived sources. And while 25% of Western pharmaceuticals are derived from rainforest ingredients, less than 1% of these tropical trees and plants have been tested by scientists.

A twenty-five acre plot of rainforest in Borneo may contain over seven hundred species of trees - a number equal to the total tree diversity of North America;
Tropical rainforests are found in 85 countries around the world. "Ninety percent of these forests are concentrated into fifteen countries, each country containing over 10 million hectares each." (Malaysian Timber Council, 1995)
More than half of the world's estimated 10 million species of plants, animals and insects live in the tropical rainforests.

At least 3000 fruits are found in the rainforests; of these only 200 are now in use in the Western World. The Indians of the rainforest use over 2,000.

Rainforest plants are rich in secondary metabolites, particularly alkaloids. Biochemists believe alkaloids protect plants from disease and insect attacks..

Many alkaloids from higher plants have proven to be of medicinal value and benefit.

Medicinal value:
Vincristine, extracted from the rainforest plant, Periwinkle, (see plant database) is one of the world's most powerful anticancer drugs. It has dramatically increased the survival rate for acute childhood leukaemia since its discovery

Medicines that derive from tropical forest plants include:
Curare (muscle relaxant used in surgery),
Diosgenin (birth control pills, arthritis, asthma),
Ouabain (heart medication),
Quinine (malaria, pneumonia),
Emetine (bronchitis, dysentery),
Vincristine/Vinblastine (Hodgkin's disease, leukemia, other cancers).

Why are plants important?

Provides oxygen for life
Climate control
Pollution control
Food
Fuel
Shelter

Tropical rainforests have more kinds of trees than any other forests in the world. The richest in plant species are Amazon forests, but in general all tropical forests have an incredible variety of trees. A hectare of Malaysian rainforest may contain 180 kinds of trees (compare this to a temperate forest where a hectare might have just ten species of tree)- 20 times more.
Rainforests are perhaps the most endangered habitat on earth.

Structure of a rainforest:

Inhabitant of the rainforest.

Plants & Trees - easiest to see (Plants & Tress). There are always there and thus making them easy to study.
Insects
Animals

Structure of a Tree / Plants

Leaves

Compound
Simple

Vein Structure

Parallel.
Pinnate
Intramarginal veins

Thickness of leaves

Leaves of emergent trees are typically thick and waxy. This is to prevent water loss since they are exposed directly to sunlight.

Branches

Trunks
Barks

Smooth

Cracked Bark

Fissured

Peeling Bark - Typical of Paper Bark Tree

Scaly Barks.

flowers on Trunk - Saraca Tree

Roots

Prop / Stilt

Buttress

Plant defense Mechanism

Thorns

Leaves e.g. Mengkuang

Branches e.g. Bayas and Rattan

Using Chemicals

Sticky sap
Burning saps
Frightening saps (red like blood)
Irrating saps

Symbiotic relationship

Ants e.g. Mahang Gajah which produces a sweet sap which the ants eat. The ants in return protect the plant.
Ant Plant

Climbers - another very common plant in the rainforest

2500 species

Creepers

Initially will search out darks places and then reaches upwards.
Changes the leaf structure as they grow. Initially will “cling” to tree trunks and face outwards to catch reflected sunlight. When they reach the top, they spread out and catch direct sunlight.

Woody Climbers (Lianas)

Some lianas are poisonous. Some stores water. Liana supports the biggest flower in the world – rafflesia

Some Lianas can grow to 1000 meters and be as big as a tree.

In some forest, 40% of the canopy is made of lianas

Lianas increases tree mortality, Killing weaker trees increases food for stronger trees.

Lianas also provide strength to the trees by linking them together.

Trees retaliates by performing self-pruning, breaking off fronds and branches to discourage liana growth.

Liana will inevitably kill the host tree.

Epiphytes and Hemiepiphytes and Parasites

Hemiepiphytes – grow as epiphytes but roots grow downwards like strangler fig

Gasing Hill, Selangor

2009-06-09T21:06:00.000-07:00

Gasing Hill is situated in Petaling Jaya Section 5, in the vicinity of PJ EPF building. It is nestled behind an established government housing area. It also lies on the boundary between Petaling Jaya and Kuala Lumpur. Hutan Pendidikan Bukit Gasing (Gasing Hill) has several established trails within it. The trails are well marked and a trail board at the entrance provides visitors a fairly good guide. Over the years, I have noticed more small trails being made. We have not explored all of them yet.

There are three major trails. The main one is a loop (if you choose to do so) which will take you to the novelty of Gasing Hill - the steel canopy bridge. This loop takes about 80 mins. Another trail will take you to a hideout. The hideout gives a good view of the little forest left around the area. A third route is via the stream and it loops back to the hideout trail. It is about an hour's trek. These trails are fairly well marked and you won't get lost. We have explored the stream trail further and landed up behind Pantai Dalam. Another trail took us to the Indian Temple on a hill nearby.

Unless you are familiar with the place, I suggest a bottle of water and some snacks, just in case you get a little lost. Again, forest gets dark by 6pm. This place is wonderful for a short exercise and can be visited at any time of the day. The terrain is a good combination of ups and downs, so you will get a fairly good workout. The canopy provides good shade from midday sun. However, do protect yourself from the permanent resident there - the mosquitoes.

I believe the area used to be a rubber plantation (since there are a lot of them around) and has since been abandoned. It is now a secondary rain forest. Plenty of Bird Nest ferns. The picture above is probably a jelutong tree and has provided a good canopy shot. Nipah palms are abundant. Colourful mushrooms have made their homes among the rotting trees.

The anak bukit is the torture park of the gasing hill. You really can work up a sweat. It is challenging especially if you add speed and more times around it.
Take a looks at my crazy friends.

Jelor Waterfall, Ulu Langat

2009-06-09T20:36:00.000-07:00

Jelor waterfalls is located in Ulu Langat, about 1hr trip from Phoenix Plaza, Cheras. It is speculated that the place is behind the Ampang hills. Jelor is like a mini KKB, only more accessible and nearer to KL. It is a well landscaped area, clean and well taken care of by the locals. The water is fantastic on a hot day. It is a great short get away from the city's stressful life. The trek is only about 2hrs to reach the waterfall area. There are mosquitoes, so bring along a repellent. If the trail is wet, prepare for leeches as well. You should get about 3 bites along the way. Along the trail, there are many interesting plant species. Birders will find this place a treasure as well (if you get there early). The entire trip can be completed in 1/2 a day.

The beginning trek to Jelor waterfall is also the starting point for longer a trek to Janda Baik (2 to 3 days hike).
The waterfall is worth exploring upstream. There are many side treks which is worth exploration. The upper part of the waterfall is a perfect resting spot.

Jaspal picks a great spot to do pushups, of course, he's showing off.

June (left most) & Tara (in front) resting at the pool area of the waterfall.

Saracca flowers next to the pool area.

Ganeson with a ginger flower (i think) (beast and beauty). Guess which is the beauty?

Kuala Kubu Baru Waterfalls, Sungai Chilling, KKB, Selangor

2009-06-09T20:26:00.000-07:00

Kuala Kubu Baru (affectionately called KKB) waterfalls is another fantastic place to take the entire family. Because of the numerous river crossings, more adults (some with experience) than kids would be advantage.
Go towards KKB town. Be sure to stop by in KKB town and check out the Nasi Kandar (By the way, a packet of Nasi Kandar at the waterfalls completes the trip). Drive towards the KKB Dam and be amazed at the amount of destruction of the hills and the environment. I often feel that this could have been avoided. You should see a TNB building on the left side. Drive slowly. Follow the road till you come to a small metal bridge. About 20meters after that, there is a clearing on the left. Park your car there. The entrance to the KKB waterfall is about 10meters towards the metal bridge on the right side of the road.

There are about 4 river crossings you will have to do before reaching the destination. We have only reached the top of the falls. Kids will not be able to make the climb. They can stay the bottom. Do be careful of the water currents, they are pretty strong.

← This is the beginning of the track.

Rivers usually knee deep (adult measure) under normal conditions. If it rained the day before, the river may swell up and may not be passable for kids. Beware!

←Did the water level rise when these two jumped in?

This is the prize of KKB waterfall.→
It is about 40meters high. There are about two levels. You can climb to the top of this waterfall and there is a large pool there but it is off-limits to kids. Too dangerous. They will have to stay at the bottom of the fall

Bunga Buah, Genting Highlands, Pahang

2009-06-09T04:02:00.000-07:00

Bunga Buah is my favourite trek around KL. Bunga Buah is located near Genting Highlands. However, it is in a private land owned by Genting (that was what I was told). Go towards the direction of Genting Highlands. Upon the first round-about, swing towards the left most road. You will see a locked gate. That route used to be the old road to Genting Highlands. You can't drive further, so start walking. The weather is always nice and cool, so it is not a problem. You have to budget about 8hrs (with 1/2hr at the summit and stops) for the entire trip. Some food, 1.5litres water each person and torchlight (if it gets dark). Remember, 6pm is when the jungle gets very dark. This is not a trek for the novice - go with an experienced trekker, if possible.

The actual trail up Bunga Buah is about 1hr walk through the tar road. You won't miss the left trail since it is conspicuously marked. The trial is about 3hrs hike (moderate speed) to the summit. The journey is more interesting than the summit. In fact, the summit is rather an anti-climax.

There are three clear landing (or stops) along the way and they are about 1hr apart. The first one is just a clear landing. On the second landing, you will see some changes in the landscape. Mosses which are more evident in lower montane forest begins to be more visible. Undergrowth is not so thick. Weather is likely to be cooler. There are plenty of tree palms, common bamboo, lichens and herbs. We found a golden chicken palm growing in one spot of the trail. Traditionally, Golden Chicken hairs have been used to treat wounds. Also plenty of fascinating spiders.

The third stop is breathtaking. Just look at the view! and the weather is cool. If you are lucky, there will be some wind as well. We usually take a pre-lunch break here. If you start the journey at about 7.30am, you should reach here by 11.30am. I like to spend a little more time here. This is the first major scenic point. Again, along the way, you would have been amazed by the plants and animals you find already. By this time, you would say, it was worth every drop of sweat! But wait, better things are yet to come. If you have seen Lord of the Rings (the movie made in NZ), didn't you think the forest scenery was fantastic! Bunga Buah has a secret! See for yourself. It just takes your breath away... at least mine. Moses and small ferns grow on the tree trunks . I just learnt that mosses can lower their metabolic rate during a dry spell, so that they survive in a dormant state. When the rains return, their metabolism returns to normal. Sometimes the trail is littered with white ginger flowers either probably dropped from the canopy. The cool weather just completes the atmosphere. Imagine, 2hrs away from KL and you can experience a sample of NZ.

This is the prize of Bunga Buah.

We keep going back to BB. Often friends would come along. If you can't make it to the LOTR place, at least to the 3rd stop. It is worth the effort. Enjoy.

A butterfly cleaning me →

Air Itam Dam - Penang

2009-06-08T04:10:00.000-07:00

Air Itam Dam (AI Dam) is one of the favorite spots in Penang, not just for tourist but for locals as well. It is nested among hills overlooking Georgetown, the capital of Penang (Pulau Pinang). On the other side of the dam is forest and right in the middle is the lake. The charm of this place is its serenity, just a few minutes from the hectic pace of the city. A tar road loops the dam and is very popular with joggers and walkers. The distance is about 3.4km. On a quiet day, all you hear is the cicadas and crickets. There is usually a breeze and is fantastic for a run. On days like that, the tranquil atmosphere rejuvenates the soul.

There are many interesting things at the AI Dam. One is the path to the dam. There is a long path which will take about 1.5hr on gradual terrain. You will pass the famous Kek Lok Si temple.►

The short one is steep but will take about only 25 mins.
There are a lot of side path - both civilized and uncivilized path (civilized means tar road). One of them can lead you to the other side of the island (Balik Pulau) - imagine that. I am not sure of the distance. The dam houses a number of Chinese temples as well. Like a lot of popular treks in Penang, one unique thing is that is their rest stops. They provide tea, coffee and sometimes food for FREE.

Penang is the only place I know which provides free food to visitors on treks. Regulars will make the trek up to AI Dam early in the morning and they will prepare the drinks for the later hikers and runners. Payments are on voluntary basis. Everyone chips in. I was told that hikers will buy biscuits, coffee, tea and leave them at the rest stops.

One common thing you will also find at AI Dam is temples. I know of at least 4 around the dam area and all of them provide FREE drinks with all the amenities as well like the one shown.

Brackens basically line the entire path with occasional banana trees. The entire island is full of bolders and this is a common site. Small and medium waterfalls feeds the dam. Monkeys are abound but do be careful, they can be aggressive. Do not feed
them.

Take a look at Kek Lok Si temple a nite. A friend sent me this picture.

◄ This is Georgetown from AI Dam. The tall building is KOMTAR. Imagine this view at night.

What is Green Selipar?

2009-04-08T23:04:00.000-07:00

Selipar means ‘slipper’ in Malay. This is the most common footwear worn by Malaysian men, women and children. It represents relaxed travel, leaves light footprints and must be taken off as a mark of respect before entering a Malaysian home.

It is the ideal travel accessory and souvenir from Malaysia.
Written by C.Bossis, Kuala Lumpur.

Ninh Binh, Hanoi, Vietnam

2008-09-11T20:42:00.000-07:00

Ninh Binh - the area is naturally beautiful, referred to many as the “dry Halong Bay”, with limestone peaks and fertile green valleys It is supposedly an ancient civilisation in the area in the 10th century. The "King" move to this place and build a civilisation One observation during the visit to the 'dry Halong Bay' the existence of tombstones around the area. No one seems to know what it is but obviously before the floods waters came perhaps people did live there. BTW, most padi fields have tombs too. Seems like it is the ancient practice. I have not found out why this is so yet? Ninh Binh - 'dry Halong Bay' is not actually dry. It is river called the Boa river and next to it are padi fields with water ways as deep as 1 meter where sampan are used to ferry visitors through the grottos. The view is quite spectacular with limestone hills surrounding you.

Another interesting thing I saw was mountain goats - alive. I have seen them in discovery channel but seeing them alive, even from far away was quite exciting. I saw them moving around the limestone hills. Ninh Binh. Only about 2hrs away from Hanoi and cost about USD25 per head.

My Mt Kinabalu Trip

2008-07-07T22:44:00.000-07:00

Let's me tell you about Mount Kinabalu. This is highly recommended. It there is one thing you need to do on this earth - you should try to climb this mountain. This was my second time doing this.

What a holiday? First, My wife was with me and then had the best bunch of friends going.
Their antics provided tons of laughter and great moments.

This is my second trip and I can say that I enjoyed this one much better than the first time.

I guess the first time, I was too caught up with completing the climb and ignored the most important aspect - enjoying the climb. This time, I was not rushing, I was not 'trying' to make it but took my time to climb up and in the 'slow' climb, I saw and experienced things which I had not seen.

I took tons for photos and videos.

For those climbing for the first time, I guess you have to be fit to climb. The fitter you are, the more you'll enjoy the climb -- that's what you want anyway. Your fitness will help you overcome the altitude, 'thin' air and the cold. For us urbanites, our bodies have become lazy and too use to the good life -- at least mine. :)

**TIPS**
Besides the proper clothing and shoes, the most important thing I found was food... lots of chocolate and 'power' food. You really don't know how much the cold can take the energy out of you.

A good walking stick really comes in handy. Rain coat is a must .. unless you intend to get sick and sploit your second day hike to the top of the mountain.

The champions of our group has to be my wife, Prema and another girl, Seema.
Both were first timers. Both were not that fit but they made it all the way up to the top despite lots of challengers. Prema was not feeling well, mainly due to the altitude and cold. Towards the
last 2km to Laban Rata, she had to rest every 5 steps. She was experiencing nausea, headaches and breathlessness. Yet, she continue to trudge along. What will power!

Seema has a "power packed will power" too. She was freezing and she already had a headache even before we started.

**TIPS**
Oh by the way.. Panadol for headaches.. is a must as well.

from left: Me, Rajes, Alpesh, Seema, Atol,David, Prema, Ravi and Ameer.

Nine of us went up the Mt Kinabalu, of which, only 4 of us are 'old' timers (i.e. have been up to the top before). The funny thing was that it was not the old timers who reached Laban Rata first .. the old timers -- Ameer and David suffered going up.

They had a 'board meeting' and decided that they were not going to the top citing that they wanted to enjoy Laban Rata. ..obviously, it was just an excuse for being lazy.

Rajes is the real old timer - he had gone up there 3 times before and this will his fourth! Don't let appearance fool you. Rajes do have a beer belly and if you look at him, you would not think he can make it. But this guy is tough. I guess he epitomizes 'fat fit'.. well maybe not fat... 'chubby fit'.

Then there is Atul - our bollywood singer. He breaks into his singing any time. Everytime, he sings I will be looking around for some girl and guy dancing around a tree.

And then there is speed gonzales, Alpesh. He is so fit, he virtually ran up. Ariba! Ariba! He already had his siesta by the time we (me,Prema and Seema) got to Laban Rata.

Finally, there was Ravi... the guys who got 'con' to come. Ameer, our close friend told him that Mt Kinabalu was just a walk in the park. And Ravi believed him! There is one thing you must realise about Ameer - he is a joker and being a marketing man, he will can fib with a straight face. I guess Ravi fell into that.

Ravi trained for the climb just two days before departure - by climbing 2 floors to his office instead of taking the lift. You can imagine what happened next in the climb. Actually, he was much better that David and Ameer.

Ameer started his diet the day we left for Mt Kinabalu. David was hoping that the plane left without him. You can tell that Ameer and David were really prepared for the trip.

I was glad that my wife, Prema came. I could use her as a 'cushion' -- as an excuse for being slow... ha ha.. I was not that fit either. All those overseas work assignments left me 'fat' and I now look like the penguin - my Gtalk avatar!

Two other guys who came to Kota Kinabalu with us but did not go up was Piyush - a friend I met the last trip up and Kamal Kamdar. Piyush is a funny guy. He trained so hard for this trip that he 'fractured' his ankle. So he could not climb. Stories abound that he purposely did that so that he need not climb. Both Kamal and Piyush sent us off at Kinabalu Park and met us back when we return from the Mount Kinabalu. What a send off and receiving party? I was wondering where were the pom-pom girls, kompang and bunga mangga? Obvoiusly, poor planning.

Sometimes you wonder about this group. They signed up and then find all sorts of excuse for not going... I guess that is what makes this group so much fun.

This is the 'vibrant, exciting and FIT team' about to start the 'torture' to Laban Rata. We started our journey at about 3000ft above sea level (1000metres) from Timpohan Gate.

Look..David say that he wants to achieve the climb up there in 2hrs and 30mins. What do you think he did?

We started at 9am and all of us reached Laban Rata by 2.30pm. So it is about 5hrs trek. Alpesh and Atol reached by 1.15pm. We like to think we are urban 'fit' people but actually we are weaklings compared to the people who carry food, gas tanks (yes, 25Kg gas tanks) and walls (yes, aluminium walls) up there. The porters only stop for a drink of water and away they go.

They are super humans. They only wear kampung adidas (rubber shoes), no socks and one layer of t-shirt. When they come down from the top, they run.

We were extremely lucky. It had been raining daily especially in the afternoon. So, lucky for us we managed to get to Laban Rata before the rains came. During our hike, we had great clear skies. The clouds were already moving in ...(and so we knew that it was going to rain later in the day).

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For the 'urban' me, who thought that an-hr-a-day run on the treadmill meant fit, I was dying hiking up. The thin air (especially when we approached Laban Rata) and the cold was torturous. Every 10 steps or so, I had to stop to catch my breath. My wife was suffering too.. I was glad she was there because between the two of us, we were resting more than walking... But finally we go up there.

That day, the wind was so strong...

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**TIPS**
Use a walking stick to help you go up. It really helps.

Don't try to use the kampung adidas, use a comfortable good sneakers. Make sure they are not too old either. You don't want them to give you on you when u are walking. A good pair of shoes is VERY important. Don't compromise on this.

Also, pray a lot. If it rains too heavily the night before and/or in the morning, the guides will cancel the trip up to the summit the next morning. The climb to the summit begins at 2am and it is common for the temperature to be about 8degrees celcius. So have good body insolation.

You don't need a lot of warm clothing on the first part of the trek i.e. from Timpohan (or Mesilau) gate to Laban Rata. To be comforable, use cotton long pants, t-shirt and maybe a sweater. For me a hat is important, not just to keep the sun out but more importantly to keep body heat in.

The Climb to the summit.
I find the most difficult part of this journey is the layers of cloths you have to wear. It is common for have 3 to 4 layers of cloths (remember that I am from the urban jungle -- a softie for the cold). The layers of clothing is quite good because it allows you to peel them off. Some people use winter jackets - I am not sure about that because you actually will sweat and it could trap the sweat in. Anyway, I find a rain jacket / coat is quite useful even without rain. It helps to keep the body heat in. (I learnt this from the guide). Wearing a rain coat (without rain) may look weird but it actually helps.

Actually it looks kind of funny. But if it keeps you warm.. so who cares if I look like a weirdo!

The Gang of Robbers. Don't worry, we will trip over ourselves before we can rob anyone.

The tough part of the ascend to the summit is probably traversing the rock face. In the dark you really can't see anything but on your way down, you can see clearly the rock face .. and it looks scary...you begin to wonder how you did it at 2am in the morning!

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The climb to the summit is a must, if the weather holds up. The view is spectacular and I mean at all hours. Of course you can't really see anything until about 5.30am when the sun finally peeks out from the horizon. That is when the colors of Nature shows up. No words can describe the how beautiful Nature can be.

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On the first day we already do 10steps-one stop.. Can u imagine how we did to the summit? At that time, I was wondering what I was doing.. I could be in bed sleeping enjoying myself at 2am in morning instead I was climbing with the cold biting into my face, and so poop-out because of the thin air and the very cold wind.

At that point, I think Ameer had the right idea - the chicken that he is.

**TIPS**
Have a face mask. Those that robbers uses to rob. They are a MUST, if you want to feel your face!

Sayap Sayap is the last check point to ascend to the summit. It even have 2-phone booth.. (sorry not working). You have to bring your tag along and they need to check when you return from the summit - just to make sure you are not missing.

Want to know how to climb? Slowly...one step at a time. In our case, we had no choice because we are so unfit. Move forward not backwards..one step at a time.

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After 5 hrs of torture to walk only about 3KM.. we finally reached the top. Was it worth it? YES it is not just the view but the sense of achievement. I was extremely proud of my wife. I finally understand what Will power means! It means never to give up. She was so sick - throwing up, severe headache and nausea. She willed herself up to the top.

So what did we get? Nothing. Just the most wonderful view of Nature. There was not monetary reward, no cheers, no gold medals - just peace, quiet sounds of the mountain, and a wonderful sense of achievement - and freezing your butt off.

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**TIPS**
One final tip. I often see people rushing up and then rushing down the summit. You should take your time and really enjoy the mountain. Don't rush down.

Oh.. finally, when you are at the summit, do be careful not to stay too long. I got a heat stroke for staying up at the Summit too long.. ha ha

ENJOY

2006 Malaysia Flood - Impact on Endau Rompin.

2007-07-01T08:20:00.000-07:00

The 2006 floods was the worst in 50 years. The orang asli in Endau Rompin are usually pretty used to floods which occur annually.

Kampung Peta is 30 feet above the river level. During usual floods, it would rise to just the door step of their houses. Even with the annual floods, they would just be cut off for a couple of days.

The 2006 floods occurred in the afternoon of 19th December 2006. By 4pm, the water level rose to 40ft above the normal river water level. The water touched the roof of their houses. Fortunately, no one lost their lives. Animals like chickens and other small animals could not be rescued. A few dogs and cats died in the floods.

Normally, the houses surrounding areas are full of plants and vege plots. Now, it is barren. Some houses collapse and most of their belongings all gone.