Adventure

Sarawak Culture Village

2011-08-30T09:15:00.001-07:00

Sarawak Culture Village, the venue for the World Rainforest Music Festival. The international icon for rainforest music festival. I have been to Sarawak Culture Village various time either visiting or education visit. Surprisingly, the culture show always have a twist of different which makes every trip interesting.

The culture village, highlight the major ethnic group in Sarawak. In a small area, it hightlight the house, culture and daily life of the ethnic group to tourist.

The Malanau Tall House.

The Malay house.

The living room in the Malay house.

The Chinese farm house.

The main building where the culture show is perform twice daily.

The sourvenir shop near the entrance of the Sarawak Culture Village.

sunset at sea

2011-08-30T08:41:00.000-07:00

Sunset: The magic hour, some might call it and some might call it a moment of romantic. Which ever it is, it is beautiful to watch the nice colour of the sky at sunset.

The pictures below was taken at sea. I always love sunset at sea as it is more relax maybe due to all the worries are left on shore. What ever the reason is. It is a therapy.
If you have a chance, i suggest you to have a nice holiday at sea and see the sunset.

Telaga Air

2011-03-28T01:17:00.001-07:00

Weekend has always been a leisure time for all of us and the time going out of town to enjoy the scenery. Hence, a trip to Telaga Air, it use to be a small fishing village about 1 hour drive from Kuching City. Now, it have its own waterfront.

Beautiful Nature

2011-01-28T20:38:00.000-08:00

We took this sunset picture in the plane. We love the beautiful colour of the sunset and also the cloud cover.

The view from above on some of the island in Sabah.

A quick snap of the sunset with a cloudy sky.

Love this pictures of water and calm sky.

Fishing: A Ray of Hope

2011-01-02T21:45:00.000-08:00

Fishing : A Ray of Hope

Fishing has always been a stress releaser for those angler. It is not about the fish but it about the fighting quality. My friend was the happiess man after win fighting the spotted ray. The trip was in July 2010. Hopefully in 2011, the fishing trip will be more fruitful.

What a relieve, we through he is going to faint.

Poring Hot Spring, Sabah

2010-10-27T23:14:00.000-07:00

Poring Hot Spring has always been a get away location which provide a nice, hot spring for a dip. It is also surrounded by the wonderful forest. driving from Kota Kinabalu, we have to go through Kundasang and also the foot of Mount Kinabalu. We stop by the Kota Kinabalu National Park HQ before proceed to Poring Hot Spring.

We stop at each nice location to enjoy the scenery, often stopping by for photo shoot and also to taste the local delicacies. We fill our stomach with the local noodle at Ranau before we proceed to Poring Hot Spring.

The clear water river run through the forest in Poring.

The shelter for us to have a dip at the hot spring. Bewarn, please switch on the cold water tap and the hot spring tap before dipping or else you will be cook.

Part of the hot spring facilities. A lot of local and foreign visitors at the hotspring enjoying themselves.

Flora at Mount Kinabalu

2010-09-14T22:27:00.000-07:00

Flora have always facinate me with its beautiful shape, colour, characteristic, and its traditional medicinal usage. Recently we tooks a few photos during our trip to Mount Kinabalu, Sabah. the trip is a much needed holiday after those hard working days.

Orchid with its lovely petal and colour.

Fern, the ever green flora which i love to plant on my garden at home.

A different type of orchid with its small flower.

Lovely pink flower.

Another type of orchid. It has been a long time since I do plant identification. I have lost my plant identification skill.

YES UNION RETREAT, LUNDU

2010-06-20T22:32:00.000-07:00

Where is the suitable place for relaxing? anything exciting? needs to get out of Kuching but can't spend a long duration for holiday.

Part of the solution is the Yes Union Retreat situated at Siar Beach, Lundu. It is a friendly environment and with a scenic area facing the ocean. The beach is gradually slope into the sea and it is not that deep. Thus, suitable for kids to play in the sea. Beach fishing which I have not try yet at this location.

For those who love swimming, there is a swimming pool just beside the main building. There is a restaurant and a small bar for the visitor.

The waterfall at the reception area.

Nice landscape with small pond.

The chalets for those with family. It has nice room.

I grade this place as for those who want a relaxing weekend without spending few hours of journey time.

I do proposed that if you do visit this place, you can also go to Gunung Gading National Park for their nature and the main attraction is the Rafflesia flower.

The nearest small town is the Lundu town, which have bank, petrol station and shops for your convenience.

Fishing in April

2010-05-23T22:17:00.001-07:00

Opening seasons for our team started a bit late than usual. This year we started our fishing trip in April. The boat we used is the 'Blue Lagoon'. This is the first time I used this boat which i grade in term of facilities and the location of the fishing is B+. We disembak from the jetty at Muara Tebas at 1.30 pm after everyone have gathered.

During the journey, i have tie a few more fishing hook using special leader as this time our targetted fish is the spanish markarel or tenggiri as the local call it.

The happy anglers with their catch. 3 boxes full of fishes.

The fishes that we caught during the fishing trip.

The freshness of the fish are indicated through the eyes of the fish.

One of the most expensive catch is the Garupa. The cost of the fish is Rm 50.00 per kilo but it can get more than RM 500.00 per kilo in Hong Kong.

The Garupa fish caught that morning was stim for dinner. FRESH and nice.

Prawning or Prawn fishing?

2010-03-25T22:46:00.000-07:00

It is March, another fishing season have started. We start of going for prawning. I am not sure the correct terminology to use, either prawning or fishing for prawn?

We went to Sadaong Jaya, a small town about 1 hour 20 minutes drive from Kuching city in Sarawak, Malaysia.

The river is actually very near to the estuary thus it is a bit salty. Accoding to my friend Teo, the prawn here is the best among all the prawn that he has eaten. As for me, prawning is a way of relaxing.

The river that we done our fishing for prawn.

The prawn that was hooked up on line and hook. For those who never fishing for prawn, the hook is a bit different compared to the fish hook.

A few local people was casting net to catch parwn while we still fish on.

The river where prawn and fish can be found. We fish for prawn here.

This is the prawn that we caught. Lovely and fresh. How to cook? Basically asam prawn or BBQ.

We will be going again to that location. fishing season have started thus will be planning for sea fishing. That remind me of stocking up my fishing hooks, line and weight.

She Sell Sea Shell at the Sea Shore

2010-03-17T22:18:00.000-07:00

Sea shell and coral have always facinate me with its texture and colours. In Sabah, I always go to the local market to see all this interesting sea shell and coral being display by the local seller.

For those creative people, it has been used as part of the media for painting which resulted in fantastic and esthetic arts. For interior decorators as a decorative items for the house and for those who have acquarium with beautiful fishes, this is some of the ornament that can be found in their aquarium.

The beautiful colour of the sea snail.
This is a biggest sea snail that i have found. The colour and texture is interesting.

Some of the decorative items from the sea.

I always love the coral.

It interesting especially when you travel to see all this product from the nature to be sold. For the local people, it is nothing special. For us who are not staying near to the sea, it something beautiful that mother earth provide.

Another point to ponder, will tourism be the cause of extinction of the flora or fauna species?

Be smart when you travel.

Kota Kinabalu by the sea

2010-03-03T21:37:00.000-08:00

Kota Kinabalu, by the waterfront over looking the sea is always a place of peace for us. Even with the tropical sun shining on us and the welcoming sea breeze was delightful and cooling.

After shopping at the warisan square and the Philipine market at Kota Kinabalu, we walked to the waterfront.

A row of nice table and chair for visitors. Visitors can order cold drinks from ice lemon tea to beer and local or western food at the restaurant.

Looking at the fishing trawlers and boats, anchoring more than 20 meters from the waterfront.

Enjoying the scenery and quencing of thirst by drinking cold lemon juice or local call it 3 sour juice which consisted of sour plum, lime juice and lemon.

Another scenery along the road from 1 Borneo.

Beautiful sunset, from the airport waiting lounge. We are on our way back to Kuching.

Chinese New Year in Sabah

2010-03-03T21:12:00.000-08:00

Chinese New Year 2010 has been a wonderful celebration. Fire works was firing off during the Eve of Chinese New Year in Kuching. Friends and family visiting and get together was a delightful event.

End of February 2010, we were in Kota Kinabalu and visited 1 Borneo shopping mall. It was a few days before the 15 days of new year of the chinese calendar (Chap Goh Mei). It was beautifully decorated and was entertained by the local lion dance troop with a spectacular performance. We love to visit Sabah especially Kota Kinabalu as it has all the nature scenery and lovely shopping mall and of couse shopping is in the agenda.

The lantern was beautifully. It promoted the festive season mood in Malaysia.

A beautiful stage with the dragon on the side.

The beautiful lighted flower displayed.

The spectacular performance of the lion dance troops, accompanied by the music from the drum and cymbal. The usual music that can be heard during the Chinese New Year festival. Visitors and shoppers was being 'WOW' by the performance.

Chinese New Year

2010-02-04T01:13:00.000-08:00

Chinese New Year for this year will be on 14 February 2010 which coincide with the Valentine Day. It is a celebration that all are looking forward to where new year means new opportunity. A Happy and Prosperous New Year To all. Compared to the early 80's, most of the baby boomer generation will remember that it time for good food, new attire, 'ang pau' (red packet) and family gathering and fire crackers.

The symbol of luck and prosperity have been pass down from generation to generation. The only difference it is the type of symbol.

One of the symbol of properity is fish. The 'Flower horn' fish which many have rear in their aquarium at home.
Chinese New Year is a gathering of family and diner on the 30th night of the chinese calender. The picture below is not the 'flower horn' fish from above but a fish from the local restaurant. For most of chinese people believes that we should eat a fish with it head and tail attached. It symbolise that fish in chinese language means that luck or prosperity. A fish dish with the head and tail attached mean that if we do task we must have a starting point and end it accordingly.

The symbol of oranges in golden colors means that prosperity will be bountiful.

The symbol of the 'leak vegetable' means we can count the countless of prosperities in the years to come.

Happy Chinese New Year and May All have a great and prosperous year a head.

Costume Party: You Are a Star

2010-01-31T20:58:00.000-08:00

YOU ARE A STAR.

It is always a pleasure working with new organization. I was glad that I join a corporate company where the corporate culture is always be efficient and goal oriented in the tasks that we do.

However, it really surprise me as the work hard culture even spill over to the after office hour. I think the motto of this organization is 'Work Hard and Play Hard". I am glad to be part of this enthusiastic team of people.

The scenerio of the party room at one of the new and leading hotel in Kuching, Sarawak. 'You are A Star' is the theme of the night. Which I totally agreed. All of the staff and guest is wearing costume.

That me with the cowboy hat. I am impersonate 'Indiana Jone': the adventurer, I forgot to bring the whip. A colleaque of mine with its outrageous costume.

The MC have done a good job of bringing the celebration atmosphere. The pictures below you can see the 'The God of Wealth' giving out gold coin... chocolate in gold rapping.

A celebration in deed. A toast for excellent job in 2009 and going to excel from GOOD to Great for the year 2010.

A Michael Jackson impersonator danced to the beat of the music. A wonderful presentation.

The best costume of the nite. The picture below show some of the costume and as instructed by the DJ, they needs to do outrageous moves.

Sapi Island : Fishes in Clear water

2010-01-25T01:08:00.000-08:00

The beautiful and clear water of fishes in Sapi Island, Sabah have always a beautiful sight. The beautiful fishes or the ocean have always facinated me and hopefully in the future will be able to take underwater photograph. Anyway, I can't wait for the fishing season to start.

How many species of fish that you can identify?

The wonders of the beautiful oceon. Some call it the last frontier on earth.

Mulu from the Air and Airport

2010-01-10T00:04:00.000-08:00

Mulu National Park or Mulu have always been in my list of places that I want to visit. Well, during our trip back from KK, we transit in Mulu. Thus, was able to capture some pictures.

The winding rivers in Sarawak from the air before we reach Mulu. Sarawak have a lot of rivers. Thus, most of the transportation at the olden days was by river. We have the express boat which looks like the bullet train. If you never ride on one, you should try.
A view from the Mulu airport. Wish that i can explore the nature here. One of these days. I will definately going to.

A view from the waiting lounge at the Mulu airport. The limestone hill at the back of the airplane. I guess the limestone hill must have a lot of protected species especially orchids.

A view while taking of from Mulu airport. The duration from Miri is about 15 minutes and to Kuching about 30 minutes flight.

I will definately coming to explore Mulu especially the Pannicle and National park.

Kota Kinabalu, Sabah: Modern and Refreshing

2010-01-09T23:39:00.001-08:00

Kota Kinabalu City was by the seaside. As a modern city, its have all the facilities for tourists and visitors to enjoy. One of the reason that we love Sabah is the nature and the modern facilities. It is easy to get around. We were staying at Hotel ShangriLa Perbandaran and is not that expensive (less than RM 200 per night).

At the waterfront, a leisure place to be, sitting enjoying the view of the waterfront, beautiful people around, and sipping away coffee or for me beer.

We were having drinks and watching the beautiful sunset.

The next day, we spend most of the day at Sapi and Manukan Island. Beautiful Island as we snorkel and swim with the fishes. Wish that i can do fishing of the coast of Sabah. My next post will include some pictures of fishes. The duration of the boat ride is 20 minutes to Manukan Island. A view from the speed boat as we leave, KK city.

A view of the jetty in Manukan Island. That day, about few hundred of Korean visited the Island. From Manukan Island, we hop into the speed boat to the Sapi Island. We bought two island trip. We love Sapi Island more as it has minimal facilities. I should have bought 3 island trip but will spend shorter time in an island than.

Will be coming back to these Islands during the next trip. We went back to KK city around 2 pm and reach KK jetty around 2.30 pm. Have a nice walk back to the hotel, taking our sweet time and stroll alone the shop. Do some window shopping too and took lots of pictures.

Kota Kinabalu, Sabah: View from the air

2010-01-09T23:22:00.000-08:00

It was a long awaited vacation. I was tired out after continuously travelling and conducting the Localised Nature Guide course. The course was a certification course by Ministry of Tourism for the public who wants to be license as Nature Tourist guide.

As we board the aeroplane and leaving Kuching. I was happy to go on a vacation. A much needed rest. As the plane approach Kota Kinabalu International Airport, we were welcome by the wonderful sight of green and the welcoming blue sea.

A view of development of KK from the air. We love KK and hope to have a property in Sabah for vacation.

The Yayasan Sabah building; the round metalic building.

A welcoming blue sea. One of our vacation site will be at Sapi and Manukan Island, we are going snorkeling and enjoying the beautiful beach and sea. Wish that i can go fishing in Sabah. Hopefully, some Sabahan will invite me to go fishing.

I love nature and Sabah have one of the best place that satisfied my adventure needs... from oceon to the mountain. But this trip, we were unable to go up Mount Kinabalu. Next trip will be Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding. The last time i went up mount Kinabalu was more than 10 years ago. The view, sight, smell and sweat still fresh in my mind.

Localised Nature Guide Training in Sibu: The next generation of Nature Guide

2009-12-25T20:31:00.001-08:00

The localised nature guide training was conducted in November 2009. This is a Nature guide (tourist guide) certification course by Ministry of Tourism. It is an intensive 21 days course which started at 8.30 am and end at midnight.

The participants was exposed to various knowledge and skill namely guiding techniques, nature, bird watching, culture, adventure and more. They were stress out as the trainers demanded on performance of guiding skills, presentation skill, knowledge and attitude.

At the end, all ends well, friendship and teamwork was build. skill and knowledge was acquired. The cautions was given by the trainers especially on development of their knowledge and skill.

Lecturing on Eco-host.

Fisrt Aid Training given by ResQ 999 personnel.

Some of the interesting attraction during the trail examination.

From right to left (Hardy, Rody and Frankie). Picture was taken by Glen. The road to the Kemunyang Camp was flooded. So, water fight, it was an ambush by Glen etc.

A view from the lecture room toward the flooded football field and road.

Oil Palm Plantation in Tatau, Bintulu, Sarawak

2009-12-22T20:32:00.000-08:00

I visited an Oil Palm Plantation in Tatau, Bintulu, Sarawak in mid of December 2009. I am always looking for interesting attraction any where i go. It help me keeping nature tourism in perspective. Hopefully, with those interesting things that i found will help in the nature tourism of Sarawak.

The oil palm plantation is about 2.5 years old. It just started with the planting of seedlings. From Bintulu airport, it took me about 1.30 hours to reach the plantation estate.

One of the morning in the estate, we found a beautiful moth. I wonder what is the scientific name. Usually in the olden days, if moth or insect come into the house, it mean that you will have visitor(s) soon.

A beautiful mountain infront of the Plantation office.

A grass hooper. I seldom found this species in the city area especially in Kuching City.

Another beautiful insect, the leaf insect which mimic the shape of a leaf to camoflage itself from predator. This is the first time I found this species.

The year 2009, is coming to an end and a new year with a new beginning. I am sorry that I have not been able to up date my blog last two weeks or months. I have plenty of photos from different place i have visited. Thus, wait for the next up dates. Some interesting pictures I will post are from Sibu and Sabah.

Merry Christmas to All and a Happy and Properous new year 2010. :)

away for 2 months

2009-11-27T03:08:00.001-08:00

free invisible web counterSORRY I WAS AWAY FOR 2 MONTHS CONDUCTING NATURE TOURIST GUIDE COURSE IN SIBU & SERIAN SARAWAK. WILL BE UP DATING MY BLOG BY NEXT WEEKS

Ranchan Pool Recreational Park

2009-10-19T23:10:00.000-07:00

Rachan Pool Recreational Park have always bring fond memories especially going picnic with family during my childhood years.

I always like to go to Ranchan pool as it is natural with modern facilities around. Ranchan pool is a public place where no charges is impose to visitor(s) who wish to do picnic and enjoy the montane stream.

a hanging bridge across the ravine.
Proper walk way being erected for the convenience of the young and old.
Tree top, walk way for the public to enjoy the forest canopy.
Chalets and hostel for visitors to stay. However, a minimum charges are impose for the hostel and chalet.

Traditional Musical Theater : Mak Yong

2009-10-15T19:52:00.000-07:00

MaK Yong is a traditional performance which is conducted to the Malay Royal in Peninsular Malaysia. Thus, this theater have been handed down to the new generation of performer which now can be enjoyed by all.

We went to this theater at RTM Kuching. I love the music and appreciate the artistic of it but I do not really understand the language that being used during the performance.

The dancer of Mak Yong.
Beautiful traditional costume on the dancer. Love the music too.
One of the musician performing during the performance.

Kuching at Nite

2009-10-13T17:38:00.000-07:00

I love Kuching at night especially some of the street with beautiful lighting and it is romantic. I guess couple and tourist love the night scene in Kuching, beautiful, calm and clean.

The photo below taken from the street at Sarawak Tourism Complex looking toward the river (Waterfront).

A picture taken in front of Sarawak Tourism Complex looking toward Carpenter street.

A view of the General Post Office (the white building). The building have quite a history. At the far back, the building lighted with warm light is the Merdeka Palace Hotel.

The entrance to Carpenter Street. It was call Carpenter Street because it used to have all sort of carpenter, gold smith etc. Even today you can still find some of the carpenters and gold smith.

Will publish more of Kuching City in the future. A good friend of mine have a good blog on Kuching too (willie)

Sarawak Tourism Complex

2009-10-01T18:06:00.000-07:00

Sarawak Tourism Complex is situated in center of Kuching town. The complex have a wonderful history as police station and also court house. I am still trying to get full information on the history of the Sarawak Tourism Complex.

Currently, it house the Sarawak Tourism Information Center and it have function room and theater for performance.

I took the photos after I attended the Musical Charity Concert. I love this place at night.

The center garden of the Sarawak Tourism Complex.

The 'Little Lebanon' restaurant is housed at this building.

The lovely lighted and beautiful landscape around the Sarawak Tourism Complex.

Over looking toward 'Carpenter Street'. Carpenter Street got its name because it used to have carpenter, goldsmith, tin smith etc. It still have goldsmith, tin smith etc but not as many now.

The huge pillar around the complex. From the pillar, most people knows who influence the architecture design... the British.
I will feature some other building next to the Sarawak Tourism Complex soon and will be regularly updating the night scene in Kuching. Till then... have a good day.

MUSICAL CHARITY CONCERT IN KUCHING

2009-09-22T23:14:00.000-07:00

A Musical Charity Concert was organized by Sarawak Music Society and Co-organised by Borneo Rainforest (Sarawak) NPO featuring a duo recital by Aki Utsunomiya (Piano) and Misato Sakai (vocal) on 22 september 2009 at 7.30 pm at the Sarawak Tourism Complex.

It was a rare occasion that Kuching have such kind of musical concert. I guess the music scene in Kuching is up coming and more younger generation is getting involved. The concert also featuring the homegrown musical band called D'artes ensemble.

Some of the song was composed and arranged by Laura Pranti Tutom a local composer and also Drs. Yousbar Djaelani a well known composer, arranger and also the conductor.

The evening started off by a lovely piano piece played by Aki Utsunomiya and followed superb soprano performance by Misato Sakai. This was a first experience listening to a wonderful pianist and suprano by some of the audience during that evening concert.

Miss Aki Utsunomiya and Misato Sakai given the audience a wonderful musical experience.

Misato Sakai graduated and major in vocal performance especially in Italian Opera and German Art Song and she also played the piano. she is currently lecturing in Universiti Malaysia Sarawak. A wonderful suprano vocal by Misato.

A solo piano piece by Miss Aki Utsunomiya. Miss Aki Utsunomiya has numerous performance experiences and has appeared as a soloist in The Nishinomiya Symphony Orchestra in 1991. Currently she is the pianist at The Osaka College of Music.

D' artes ensemble and Drs. Yoesbar Djaelani as the conductor. D' artes ensemble consisted of eight young talented musicians from varies professional background.

Drs. Yoesbar Djaelani, currently a lecturer in Universiti Malaysia Sarawak. He has wide experience in arranging, composing music and conducting concert. We were entertained by two wonderful piece of music 'Putus sudah kasih sayang' and 'Tunggu Sekejap' by P. Ramlee and arranged by Drs Yoesbar Djaelani for the concert and performed by Misato Sakai. The song that most of us can relate to but the intense suprano by Misato give it a different twist that most of us have not experience it before.

A lovely vocal duet by Misato Sakai (suprano) and Eddie Chan (Tenor) accompanied by musician. A wonderful evening coming to an end with another song by the musician and lastly a presentation of bouquet.

I was unable to capture another guest artist performing with the musician. He is Christopher Dino David Ebol playing the percussion and sape. They performed a song called 'Suara Bumi Kenyalang' composed by Laura Pranti Tutom.

I hope Kuchingite can experience more musical performance in the future.

Stutong Wet Market at Tabuan Laru, Kuching

2009-09-03T17:35:00.000-07:00

Stutong Wet Market.

Kuching's wet market was situated at Jalan Gambir at down town. It was there for ages until 2006. It was decided by the council to move the wet market to Stutong at Tabuan Jaya. The Stutong wet market is a two floor building which house the seafood, meat and vegetable section on the ground floor and eateries place on the second floor.

The ample parking space at the Stutong wet market.

The local and imported vegetable sold at the market.

Fresh seafood (prawn, fish, crab etc) are available at a reasonable price at the wet market.

You can also find fruits at the market namely water melon, local fruit, banana, etc.

Beautiful Giam Waterfall

2009-09-02T17:48:00.000-07:00

Giam waterfall with its mountain crystal clear stream water running through it. The waterfall is situated at kampung Giam, Padawan.

I love the cool and crystal clear water and it have some deep pool. This waterfall will be frequent by picnicker every weekend.

The scenery at the waterfall. I took this photos a few weeks back when it was hot and dry. The river stream is shallow.

A few 'sampan' was tied up at the side of the river. this is dry season. Imagine if it is the raining season, how high will the water go up and according to the local community this river is connected to the main river where you can paddle to town.

Pictures at Matang Wildlife Sanctuary

2009-08-23T22:31:00.000-07:00

Matang wildlife sanctuary is an interesting place to visit as it educate the public about wildlife animal that are being protected.

Here is some of the pictures that I have taken during the trip.

The park ranger will feed the animals in its enclosure with suitable foods and vitamins. Some of this animal are even given task on how to extract food from its container.

An old parrot in its cage.Porcupine at the porcupine enclosure.

Macaranga species.
Students learning on the park management and wildlife.
Binturong or bear cat on its enclosure.

Matang Wildlife Sanctuary

2009-08-20T18:30:00.000-07:00

Matang Wildlife Sanctuary is a sanctuary and a rehabilitation center for animal that have been confiscated from the public. The confiscated animal are actually in the protected and totally protected list under the Sarawak Government.

This Sanctuary is to rehabilitate the confiscated animal so that it can be release back into the jungle. The good thing of this center is that most of the big cage are build under the tree canopy thus it has minimum impact on the environment when it was build.

Please be inform that Matang Wildlife is not a zoo but a wildlife santuary thus do not expect all kinds of animal are hosted here.

The entrance to the Matang Wildlife santuary.

The Matang Wildlife sanctuary office. Matang Wildlife sanctuary will undergo face lift and some maintenance. Thus, if you visit this sanctuary but end of next year it will be different compared to the picture below.
The bird cage build under the tree canopy.
A deer in its pan.

The orang utan in its play pan. The park ranger call him Aman.

Another picture of Aman, the orang utan.

Aman is over looking the whole area. I guess he is interested with the female orang utan at the next pan. I will post more pictures of the animal from Matang Wildlife Santuary

Pictures Taken at Kubah National Park (part 2)

2009-08-17T02:18:00.001-07:00

Kubah National Park

You can't take anything except pictures, you can't leave anything except foot prints.

Diploma in Environmental Tourism Management having a good time.

The signboard to the summit trail and frog pond.

The entrance to the National Park.

The forest floor, dead Shorea sp leaves
Selunsor putih.

Kubah National Park: An Educational Field Trip (Part 1)

2009-08-16T19:10:00.000-07:00

Kubah National Park is situated in Matang, Sarawak. It is about 45 minutes by car to this wonderful nature from Kuching City. A road was build a long time ago to the top of Gunung Serapi before Kubah has been gazetted as National Park. For visitors, you can choose :-

To go up to Gunung Serapi
Kubah National Park
Matang family park

It will takes a few hours walking to go up to the top of Gunung Serapi which the RTM transmitter are situated. The scenery is lovely with the nice cool air.

Matang Family Park

Matang family park is managed by Sarawak Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) and it is a picnic spot with clear cold mountain stream water. Mount Serapi is actually a watershed area which have provided clear water for the communities around Kuching. Borneo Mineral water a company situated at Matang get its the mineral water from here to be bottle. It a usual picnic spot for familly. Matang Family park also provide BBQ pit for their visitors.

Kubah National Park

We conducted educational field trip for the students taking Diploma In Environmental Tourism Management. The students needs to understand what the importance of National park, its functions and roles and what can it be an attraction to the local and foreign tourist.

A view of the tip of mount Serapi from 4^th Miles Kuching Serian road.

The Kubah N.P which have facilities for tourist to stay and enjoy the scenery and experience Tropical rainforest. I would like to proposed for those kids who are being brought up in the urban and with sceneries of concrete forest. It might be an interesting experience for the kids and also for the family as a get away weekend escapade. The facilities included hostel, chalets, BBQ pit. Activities can consisted of hiking, picnic at waterfall and enjoy the scenery. The park also have frog pond especially if you are interested to know the type of frogs in the tropical rainforest and it has also a small natural garden of pitcher plant (Nepenthes sp.)

Over looking the hostel from the road side

The N.P head quarters.

The road that lead up to the top of Mount Serapi.

Sematan : A view from the sea

2009-08-12T01:17:00.000-07:00

The southern part of Borneo or Sarawak have not many beaches to go to. Samatan is one of the few beaches that has lovely crystal clear water and nice sandy beach. Sematan is a small town situated about 2 hours drive from Kuching city. To get to Samatan you will have to go through Bau Town and Lundu. It has a small wet market that sell fresh produce from the sea. Usually you can get snapper, jew fish, crab, prawn and more.

Moreover as a photographer, this is a nice place for retreat and capture those moment through you camera lens.

A view of the Samatan's Jetty from the boat.

The small Samatan town from the sea. A rather unfamiliar sight for most of the people.
The view of Palm Beach Resort from the sea. You can view the Palm Beach resort facilities from my previous post.
I will take some more pictures when I am there again.

Kite flying in Sarawak (Main layang-layang)

2009-08-10T20:11:00.001-07:00

Kite flying is a dying activity especially for the younger generations (Generation- I). Gen-I or Generation Internet which have been called especially for those who are born in this IT savvy world. The younger generation now is more on computer game, play station and internet comparing to those days back when kite flying was an activities with friends and cousins.

I still love kite flying and I was given an eagle kite by my cousin last year. Which up to this day, I have not fly it yet. I was thinking of flying the kite last weekend by unfortunately the weather was hazy as shown on the pictures below. What trigger me on this activity? Well, it is because of the Bintulu Kite Flying festival which is an international event.

The eagle kite which have not being flown yet.

The hazy weather, humid and hot tend to make everyone staying at home. The older generation will relate the red sun to the burning of forested land for agriculture or shifting agriculture.

Will have to find some suitable time to fly the kite and polish my kite flying skill.

Bau: A transformation from an old Gold rush town

2009-08-07T01:31:00.000-07:00

Bau Town, as i remember during my younger days is picnic at the 'Tasik Biru'. Bau has it interesting history as a gold producing town. The quarry is actually situated at the 'Tasik Biru' as the name 'tasik' in Malay means lake and 'Biru' in Malay mean blue. As the name suggested, the quarry now is flooded with water.

A few years back some private company have dried up the lake and try to quarry it gold. I guess it was not economically to quarry it thus now it is flooded with water. Nice and deep. How deep? just think of looking at a lorry at the bottom as big as 20 cm length.

Where is Bau? It is situated 45 minutes from Kuching City. It is the stronghold of the Bidayuh people. However, the community is consisted of Bidayuh, Chinese (Hakka mostly), Iban, Malay.

The modern part of the town.

Just in the town you will find some old shop house with it window as the pictures below.

The play ground next to the lake.

Rambungan: A small village by the sea

2009-08-04T18:18:00.000-07:00

Rambungan situated about 1 hour from Kuching City which go through Matang Wildlife Center.
It have a potential as a tourism destination especially it is situated by the sea side and a nice scenery over looking the river mouth. The jetty is about 300 meter into the river mouth and it is a spot for fishing.

I took this picture on the way to Rambungan just to show how the condition of the haze caused by open burning.

A view of the mangrove where it is the nursery for marine life. Without this beautiful mangrove forest we will not have fish, prawn or crab.

The 300 meter long jetty into the river mouth. The sea water is crystal clear. Some anglers casting their line. What do they catch? Travelly, snapper, 'Kembung', stingray and more.

The mangrove forest.

The Rambungan ferry, ferrying cars and lorries across the Rambungan river.

Took this picture by the ferry point. The kid is having a good time fishing.

landscape: A patch to relax at the garden

2009-08-03T01:58:00.000-07:00

After a hard day work or traveling. Home is always a place to recuperate, thus constructing a landscape with the ideas of BBQ, relaxation, good company, and minimum maintainance of the plant generated what you see in the pictures below.

The focal point of the landscape, still under construction.

The river rock to beautify the landscape and functions as walk way and area for BBQ.

The pearl grass planted as a green patch for the garden. Next will be the huge river rock and edge plant. The pearl grass still growing.

Still along way to go for a beautiful green patch to relax. What missing in the garden? garden chair, water focal point, palm or bamboo plant, nice lighting. Any suggestion????

Caterpillar: Beauty orThe Beast

2009-07-28T23:02:00.000-07:00

My house was decorated with plants which give us some sense of green and serene to relax and enjoy our time at home. However, recently a beauty or the beast invade the house...Caterpillar. I categories it as beauty because it with morp into a butterfly before it can be beautiful. It has to go through the ugly phase as the beast that eaten up my plant.

The leaves of my plant have been eaten overnight. Nearly gone.

Caught red handed, the caterpillar still have lunch on my plant.

Ugly, isn't it? or beautiful depending on the perspective you are looking at. For a landscaper, it a horrible thing. For a naturalist/ecologist/biologist, nature at work.

We removed it permanently from the plant. Hopefully, our plant will start to grow back to its glory days.

Characteristic of Plants for Landscaping/decoration

2009-07-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

Thinking of beautify your compound and in the house using plants.

Planning is needed to beautify you house. Thus, you needs to do some home work on the plants. Professional landscaper will looks at some of this feature of the plants:-

1. The Flower: colour, size and shape. Do it emit fragrant?

A species in the Zingeberaceae. Dark red and pinkish flower.

2. The leave colour, shape and orientation will makes your landscape or house looks nice. So choose wisely.

Leaves orientation and colour.

3. Size of The plant and the duration it mature.

Palm, a marvelous plant which can cover some portion of your area where you put the palm.

4. You should put into consideration of the space, sun-light orientation, focal point of the garden or leisure space, indoor or out-door type of plant that you want to use.

Please be advice, if you have limited time to spend on maintaining your plant then you should plant those low maintenance plant.

Happy Beautification of your house using plants

Fern: Multiple Use from It (Paku-pakis: Pelbagai Kegunaan)

2009-07-23T23:27:00.000-07:00

Fern: Multiple Use from It.

Ever think of the usage of fern? Some of the fern have been used since our ancestor either as vegetable or even used as medicine.

I have seen people in the village used it as medicine but I have no idea how effective it is and what the chemical compound it has.

The fern below used as vegetable but it has to be process it first. I have seen people used it as medicine.

Another view of the fern.

A close up of the fern.
A different type of fern leave. I have no idea what it is used for. I love it as a landscaping plant.

This fern are edible after frying it with chili and prawn paste.

PLANT Through DIFFERENT colour adjustment

2009-07-20T23:51:00.001-07:00

Ever wonder how do insect looks at plant and determine its colour?

I was adjusting and trying out the camera feature. thus, here is some of the pictures taken.

The Lantana camara at the backyard. Lantana camara is a shrub and will always flower throughout the years. I will have to trim it this weekend.

A different shot after adjusting the camera feature. it only capture red and orangy color as for the rest of the color it become shade of grey.

The bougainvillea or 'bunga kertas' as known locally. The actual color was redish pink, thus after the camera function adjustment. Wah lah... different color... maybe this is how the insect see it.

micro pictures: plants in the backyard

2009-07-16T22:59:00.000-07:00

We took this pictures a couple of months back at the backyard. I like to share it with all of you after i visited a nice blog which feature some lovely flower.

The pine needle of the 'christmas' tree.

Lantana camara or 'bunga tahi' ayam as the local call it. I love this flower as it bloom throughout the year.
another flower ... can't remember either it is a creepy plant (potato) or another type of plant.

A small type of fern.

Muara Tebas

2009-07-14T21:09:00.000-07:00

Muara Tebas is a small malay fishing village near Bako village about 40 minutes drive from Kuching City. Even a small fishing village, it is still busy with life: Fishing boat, ships coming in and out of the river mouth. Fishermen upload their catch of the day at the jetty. Fresh seafood are serve at the seafood restaurant. The price for a nice seafood meal is reasonable.

For those anglers, they can rent a boat to go out fishing.

A nice scenery taken on the boat during my way back to the jetty

A fishing boat going out to sea.

Some visitors will visit the beautiful temple just situated at the hill of Muara Tebas village. The view of the temple was taken from the river. A view that are seldom seen by others.

KL : A Different Perspective

2009-07-12T23:02:00.000-07:00

Kuala Lumpur, have been widely known by all as a central of administrative in Malaysia. For those who loves shopping, it is a paradise. How true is the term 'shop till you drop' for this group of people. I have always project the nature of Malaysia surrounding thus here i shift my perspective toward city.

Hance, here i am portraying KL as through the lense of my camera.

The Petronas Twin Tower at night from my hotel room.

Another famous tower that you can see clearly. Usually at night.

A hectic down town, near bukit bintang. The forest are replaced by another type of forest: buildings.

The beer garden where I relax myself. A few bottle of San Migual beer should do the trick after a hard day shopping.

Love this place, in bukit bintang. Sitting and listening to the live band. The waiteress are friendly especially if there know you are from Sabah or Sarawak.

A view toward bukit bintang.

TOURISM SPOT: FAIRY CAVE, BAU

2009-07-01T01:00:00.000-07:00

Bau Town, what is there to see? some people commented.

Through history we know that Bau was a gold quarry town before and are full of interesting place to visit, namely the fairy Cave and Wind cave, the traditional Bidayuh village, its lime stone forest which are diverse in orchid, and plants. Picnic should be in the itinerary or just walk around the busy and rustic Bau town itself (some part of the town). You will find the jungle produce market an interesting place to visit.

If you fancy shopping at the border town: Serikin is the place. What can you get? Rattan mat and everything except KFC, McDonald.

Hance, here I highlight the fairy cave and wind cave. I have no pictures of the cave itself as this trip i did not go into the cave. The recreational facilities provided are excellent for picnic at the side of the cave. Here are some of the pictures for you to judge if it is worth the time to visit this place.

The ample parking space just at the mouth of the fairy cave and it is line up with trees.

A model of Baruk (traditional Bidayuh warrior house) which is the office used by SFC. Yes, you need to registered to enter the cave. The beautiful limestone on the background. Limestone have a high density of orchids.

The BBQ pits and picnic spot for families. Don't worry about the sun as it is shaded by the trees.

Another resting place.

The stream running besides the cave. It a heaven to BBQ and at the same time you can dip in the nice cold stream.

Fishing Trip at Tanjung Datu, Sarawak

2009-06-02T19:03:00.000-07:00

As my friends are preparing to celebrate Gawai. I spend the weekend, fishing at Tanjung Datu, Sarawak. The trip was planned by my good friend, Mr Chai and it has been a while i went out fishing with him. Mr Chai had been fishing at Tanjung Datu for 30 plus years using the same boat captain. He have scheduled and booked the fishing trip for the whole year.

We boarded the boat at 1 pm and on our way we go. with the sea breeze blowing and the sun baking on us. Fortunately, the boat have shade for us.

The destination for this trip is at the tip of Sarawak. If we go any further, we will be illegal alien in Kalimantan. The target fish for the afternoon is Great Travelly and parrot fish. Then at night, the targetted fish are snapper and jew fish... hopefully travelly using jig.

Picture above show where we are heading to.

During the journey, Mr Chai using a red head rapalla trolling lure or the local called it Marlboro (cigarrete). Why? Because if you look at the top of the box, it is red.
A view of the Tanjung Datu after we pass Teluk Melano. The sea was calm and the water was crystal clear. Hopefully, have fish.
I used prawn as bait thus i caught this parrot fish at 5.45 pm. after waiting for a period of time as a few of my friends hooked a few fish before me hooking at this parrot fish. It is always a feeling of either i am using the correct bait or cashing my line at the correct location when my friends started to hooked fishes in.
We spend the night fishing away and also caught squid. If you are fishing for red snapper, we advice you to use fresh squid.
A view during the day break early morning at 6.06 am. love this time of day. A small boat was fishing not far from us. Will write more on fishing trip.

Happy fishing! Be an angler and not a fishermen.

Bintulu a beautiful town with full of Tourism potential

2009-05-25T00:21:00.000-07:00

It have been ages since i visit Bintulu. It have turned into not a so small town anymore. Bintulu still is an oil and gas town with huge infrastructure development.

Driving is easy in Bintulu town as the street are properly planned and i love especially the road next to the old airport (Picture below). The old airport use to be situated in center of town but now have moved to the new location which is 30 minutes drive from Bintulu town.

My friend drove us to Tanjung Batu for a few cups of coffee, love the area as it have a nice coffee area and leisure area for family. The old temple in front of the Kemena River. The temple is situated in center of town.

Every where i travel, i always go along the river as to see how can i charter boat for fishing. hance, here a boat for hire for those anglers.

After an hour of going around center of town, we stop at 'Popular Cafe' shop to have some breakfast and coffee. The food is average. In Bintulu, i will recommend you to try fried mee in gravvy. Situated next to the coffe shop is a small landscape.

I will keep posting new things about bintulu as i still have much to say especially on travel.

BBQ and Steamboat in Kuching, Sarawak

2009-05-18T22:16:00.000-07:00

BBQ and Steamboat

Travel and sightseeing have always been an exciting things to do. A quote by a friend is "Travel will exposed you to new experiences, reading a page in a book will only give you a page of knowledge".

If you travel, you need to eat too. Hance I highlight an eatery place near RH Plaza in BDC next to Four Point Hotel. It clean and cheap especially for those who love BBQ and steamboat and have big appetite. Why? Because, you pay RM 18.00 and eat all you can.

The informal atmosphere, open space dinning at the same time enjoying, laughing and eating. The best part is eat all you can, a variety of ingredient you can choose from for your BBQ and steamboat from lamb, beef, chicken, prawn, crab, fish ball, beef ball, vegetable, egg, friend rice, ice-cream etc.

Varieties of vegetables on the counter for you to choose from.

If you love seafood, fresh crab, prawn or fish. You can cook it using the hotplace or in the hot soup. You can choose either chicken soup or tom yam.

The picture above shows what is BBQ and steamboat. The size of lamb meat and prawn during my diner at this place.

Bon appetite!!! Do try it once if you never have BBQ steamboat.

Nice Place to Stay at Lundu

2009-05-13T23:20:00.000-07:00

It was early this year that we had our train the trainer course at a Resort called Bank Union Retreat in Lundu, Sarawak.

For those who are seeking a retreat for a short holiday. I proposed you to go to this resort. It have nice facilities that makes some of the 5 star resort look like a 4 star. You have a choice to choose from for accommodation. They have a few nice banglo for families and for those who can't afford the banglo, they do provide hostel like accommodation facilities. This resort do have a nice caffeteria which offer a wide range of foods and drinks. Some of us love black coffee and some of us love to drink beer.

The view to the sea is always a welcoming sight especially I looks forward to sunset and sun rise. The activities that we did are playing pool, swimming, photography, leisure walk and went to the Lundu town to taste the local delicacies by the local communities.

Some of my friends hobby is phototaking, thus you can see his camera at hand. It a nice place to take pictures.

We are on the bar counter watching a movie at the same time having nice hot coffee and chit chat.

A swimming pool is welcoming sight for those who loves water. The facilities also include a small pool for kids.
The swimming pool started to get full in 15 minutes as most of us just finish our course.

It in the evening that we started to sit around the pool to enjoy our time with friends.

There are a couple of resort around this area but not as modern as Union Retreat Resort. The nearest national park is Gunung Gading National Park that are always welcoming the visitors. One of the things that you must see during your trip to Gunung Gading National Park is the Raffesia flower. Some of the flower grow as big as 1 meter in diameter.

BIG BIKE SHOW

2009-04-27T22:18:00.000-07:00

Big Bike Show

Last weekend we were surprise by the arrival of big bike at one of the College Open day. It always been my dreams to have a big bike especially the sport bike. Hance, here is some pictures that i took during the show. The big biker are from Victoria Arm Big Biker Club in Kuching.

A rider, black, chrome and slick. Another bike which i love the yellow colour.
A dream of mine to have this sport bike.

Slick and fast bike...

FISHING AT SEA 1/2009

2009-03-29T21:17:00.000-07:00

First Fishing Trip of 2009

It the much awaited fishing trip since last year. I guess most anglers if too long did not go out fishing will miss the action of fighting a fish at the end of the fishing line. So 10 of us when out using the very comfortable boat with kitchen, toilet and bunk bed with air conditioning...heaven. We depart from Muara Tebas, Kuching, Sarawak to about 3 hours out to the sea.

The boat that we used to go out fishing as in the picture below . The first spot we went is about 10 meter deep and then we move to a deeper water about 20 meter. We have try a couple of fishing spots. The last spot are 40 meter deep.

Fishing is also about having a good time with friends, see how happy this few friends of us. The fishing rod line up on the side of the boat.

I always love this time of the day...sunset. Magic hour, for those photographer and videographer. It also magic hour for the anglers as this is the time most fishes will take your bait.

A friend of our, fighting a fish. We basically fishing throughout the night till morning.

Kip's caught a red snapper. I guess it about 3 - 4 kg. He used bottom fishing using fresh squid which he caught. Unlucky for us because we did not catch any squid thus no big red snapper for us.
David's got another snapper.
Another...fish by David... local malay call it ikan parang or ikan timah.
Chow Ming's caught a snapper. Bigger fish i guess. Still lots of fish caught during the night fishing maybe next article will publish it here.Morning came.. still stand at guard for any fish that are willing to take a bite.

At last, a garupa took the bait... this time it Bob's whose line was taken by the garupa. Bob is not the guy below with red shirt holding the fish.

That Bob below with his son. He is training his son to be the next generation of angler. According to him, when he get too old, his son will be able to provide him with fresh fish.
A beautiful sunrise at 6.25 am... serene, beautiful and peaceful. I love this time of day. Quiet and give us the opportunity to reflect and thanks the Almighty of giving us all this.

BBQ Ikan Keli (Cat fish) at Padawan stream

2009-03-24T01:32:00.001-07:00

Picnic with a wonderful lunch, beer and good friends

A much needed weekend rest was spend going for picnic with friends at Benuk stream. We start our journey after a hearty breakfast going to a friend house. To my surprise, my friend have a fish farm, mainly rearing cat fish or keli in the local language using the canvas system. how wonderful it is generating money using minimum space by rearing ikan keli using this system.

We tour the farm and to my surprise they also conduct training for those interested and give a very professional and good advice on cat fish rearing. After looking at their ikan keli, I pursuade my friend to contribute some of his cat fishs for BBQ and cook it using the traditional style of bamboo cooking or 'pansuh'.

Here some of the Ikan keli in the canvas pond. It seem that when i was at the farm, a few people came and purchase the ikan keli for their meals or for rearing.

The ikan keli fry about 1 inch long for sale to the public. They do conduct course on ikan keli breeding method for those who are interested.

The canvas system of rearing the ikan keli.

After the tour, all of us when to the crystal clear river stream for BBQ and their kids was having a wonderful time. Seem like ages my friend's kid playing/swimming in the river or catching river snail. Kids... all about fun.

My friend's daughter start to swim before we even ready the tent for the picnic.
BBQ ikan keli, lamp chop and pansuh ikan keli with 'tempoyak' (traditional preserve durian) for lunch. Yummmy... i guess my stomach was bigger after lunch.

BBQ ikan keli...only bone left after lunch. The ikan keli are sweet and tender after BBQ.

Friends having a good time, fishing for river fish. Unfortunately caught none.

Having a good swim at the river. We will venture up river just to experience the wonderful stream in the near future. Just wait for it.

Artificial Lure for Fishing

2009-03-11T22:19:00.000-07:00

The time is now, the days are clear and sunny. Fishing will be on our monthly agenda.

The time has comes for all anglers to be happy as the monsoon season are over in Sarawak. Hence, a fishing trip is being plan for on 28 March 2009. The boat has been booked for us. we will be departing from Muara Tebas, a small fishing village at Bako, Kuching. Hopefully will be a good outing which doesn't really on the catching of fishes but more toward the enjoyment at sea.

I always feel that after the fishing trip, i am always refresh and ready to takes on the world again.

Here is some of the artificial lures that I am thinking of using it during the fishing trip.

The trolling lure that i use. Have caught a few fishing using this lure. Most people call it as 'Malboro' because of the red head of the lure which resemble the red package of the Malboro cigarette.

The surface popper that attract surface predator fish.

This is a unique lure for fishing squid or 'sotong' in Malay.

Another favourite trolling lure that i have use.

Hopefully, we will catch some big snapper by using bottom fishing method or jig. Jigging is another method that we always use in certain location. Hopefully, I can capture those wonderfull moment when an angler fishing it fish that hook on its line. A wonderfull sunset... watch out for the coming post of the fishing trip.

FUN DAY AT PALM BEACH RESORT, SAMATAN

2009-03-09T17:53:00.000-07:00

A lovely Saturday was spend with friends at Palm Beach Resort. My blogger friend (Mr Willie) was together with us. Nice place to visit with marvelous scenery either you going on day trip or staying over night.

Looking across the sea to two beautiful island. You can chartered the boat for snorkeling, diving or fishing.

The compound with lots of chairs and tables for beer or coffee during sun set or at night. They do have chalets for rent.

If you just want to sit and enjoy the scenery or read a book then you can sit and sip your drink(s) at the cafeteria.

You can rent mountain bike, jet ski, canoe or kits. Some will just have beach games or swimming at the sea. After the activities, Ice lemon tea is a welcoming to quench the thirst.

Canoe.
Mountain Bike.Jet ski.

A group of people having a nice time at the beach. We will be going there again and this time will be staying for a night.

The Serene and Beautiful River at Kampung Tellian

2009-03-06T00:49:00.000-08:00

Mukah is a beautiful, small and yet a modern town with its own historical values which has its tourist attractions. The Melanau culture, folklore, belief and historical items which makes it interesting. Of course, the nature too.

I was staying at Lamin Dana so call 'homestay' which is situated next to the Tellian river.

What is interesting? you can see the hanging coffin, the 'jerunai' or burial pole of the Melanau people (pole is an understatement, more like a standing huge log). Sorry, I was not able to provide any pictures as my old note book was stolen with all my document.

You really needs a local guide to explain or tell you the stories of the tellian's river, the hanging coffin, 'jerunai' and the local belief to appreciate the Melanau culture.

The Sago log being float down the Tellian river, to be process as sagu.

The young local kid, padling skillfully. If i paddle, i guess the small canoe/sampan will go zig zag.

The beautiful reflection from the water of Tellian river.

Macro picture of flower

2009-03-03T22:17:00.001-08:00

Fooling around with the camera and took some macro pictures. not that macro. I am saving some of the nice pictures to be frame up to be display.

BEAUTIFUL JAPANESE POTTERY

2009-03-02T16:50:00.001-08:00

Japanese Pottery Exhibition at PUSTAKA (Sarawak State Library)

I was lucky when I was in PUSTAKA to see the Japanese Pottery Exhibition at PUSTAKA Sarawak. The exhibition under the theme ‘The Rising Generation from Traditional Japanese Kilns’ was presented by the Japan Foundation engages in international cultural exchange activities, focusing on the understanding of Japanese arts and culture through the visual arts. (Japanese foundation, 1999).

The exhibition really given me an artistic view of the pottery from Japan as I always has been exposed to the pottery from Sarawak. As Sarawak pottery are beautiful and the high demand from my friends from oversea including west Malaysia.

Here, in due respect to all the artists involved in the exhibition. I salute you by sharing your artistry to the world. I know friends which are from other division of Sarawak and the rest of the state in Malaysia might not be able to visit this exhibition thus, hoping with this feature it will encourage all of you to visit this exhibition.

According to the arrangement of the pottery: Bluish-toned transluscent glazed jar with daylily motif by Shinno Iwao, Jar with geometric motif and spattered slip by Shimizu Ichiji, vase with linear motif and spattered slip deco by Shimizu Ichiji, Sound of the wind by Ichino Masahiko and Vessel with linear motif (Ichino Masahiko)

Large plate with peony motif and rectangular plate with lotus flower motif by Machizuki Shu.

Blue-glazed vase with wave motif and Blue-glazed bowl with linear flower motif by Miyanishi Atsushi and the ceremonial vessel, Ohi glaze by Ohi Toshio.

Triangular blue and pop plate and blue and pop bowl by Shiba Masamitsu.

There is some more beautiful pottery which I will not be displaying, this is to ensure that you will make an effort to visit the exhibition at Sarawak State Library.

A calm and relaxing day at PUSTAKA (Sarawak State Library)

2009-03-01T22:35:00.000-08:00

A hidden location to unwind after a hard days work, at the PUSTAKA negeri (Sarawak State Library). It have been a while since I put my foot at the state library ground. The last time I was there was for jogging and aerobic at the huge garden that surrounded the huge lake. I seen people bringing their family in the evening to feed the fish at the lake. Big fishes which consisted of Tilapia, Japanese Carp and other carp that I don’t know what its name. Seem like a paradise to anglers but be warn the garden are patrolled by the library security and fishing are prohibited except during the fishing competition organized by the Library.

It a nice place to just walk and sit around to relax. If not you can go into the library to read book or accessing the internet. Internet access you need to be a library member.

The garden patio, just sit at the garden patio especially in the morning to enjoy the view and listening to birds chipping away. I have not have the skill yet to identify birds from it sweet melody.

Nice place to enjoy the scenery and the jogging path. It was 10 am that I took this picture thus nobody in the correct mind to go jogging.

The library is facing the lake. The lake is surrounded by pathway for visitors to walk and also for jogging.

You can enjoy your meal or coffee sitting in side the cafeteria or outside of the cafeteria. It depends if you want air-conditioning or just the natural breeze. I have sit here just to read books or accessing the internet for hours which translated in a few cups of coffee and fruit juice.

Another view of the garden at the Sarawak state library which I really likes the greenery of the surrounding and its peaceful.

On my way back home from the library, I took this picture. Driving here also give me a refreshing view of modern Kuching.

Waterfall: wong musuh at Kampung Nyukat, Sarikei

2009-02-27T18:34:00.000-08:00

Beautiful Waterfall at Kampung Nyukat, Sarikei

I have spend a bit of time in Sarikei with my friends doing reccee to find suitable place to conduct the Localised Nature Guide course. Hance, we were invited to go to Rumah Panjang Nyukat (rumah panjai (iban) mean long house). It is actually an Iban long house. The invitation actually was from another group of friend doing recce to certified this longhouse as homestay. One of the activities that was planned was a hike to the waterfall called Wong Kepala Musuh. The name itself have some legend or folklore story in it as explained to us by the community there. During the hiking to the waterfall, we came across the paddy field (padi bukit) planted by the people of Rumah Nyukat. for me it beautiful and relaxing just to sit there and enjoy the breeze blowing.
Throughout the hiking we came across a lot of beautiful plants, snail and scenery. The picture below show a type of snail which is 7 cm in diameter. I have no idea of the local or scientific name for this snail.

We basically have to do some crossing on the stream during our hike. Unfortunately, during our hiking it rained and the supposed to be crystal clear water became milky colour because of the siltation. What to do! The small make shift bridge from a fallen tree. That will do for now.

A scenery duirng the trail to the waterfall. Palm trees, and nice trail...the palm trees not the same as at the seaside.

For about 40 minutes, we reach the waterfall as in the pictures below. This is just stage one of the waterfall. Because of our friends who is tired thus we did not proceed to the next stage of waterfall which is just above this one. As it require us to do some steep hiking.
A friend of mine enjoying the waterfall. all of us want to swim but it cold as it is raining.

On the way back we stop at a small hut belong to one of villager of Rumah Nyukat. Lunch was prepared in a traditional style by cooking using bamboo. It chicken and fish are cook in the bamboo. Giving out a nice aroma.

All of us are having a nice lunch consisted of cook chicken and fish in bamboo. Young shoot of palm trees (nibong). Rice rape in the leaves from the forest. Well, the problem we were facing is how to get going after lunch as all of us are full and satisfied.

It is a day worth of experience that I will never forget. Do join me for other trips. Hopefully, i will be going back to this waterfall when it is not raining to enjoy the crystal clear water.

Sarikei : Sebangkoi Country Resort

2009-02-23T19:45:00.000-08:00

Sebangkoi, a place to unwind and relax.

If you do drive using the highway either from Kuching to Miri. You will surely pass through Sebangkoi Country Resort which is approximately 30 minutes from Sarikei Town on the way to Kuching. We were conducting a Localised Nature Guide course to 14 potential to be license tourist guide.

Sebangkoi still have it clear water stream, flora and recreational area for visitors and yet have all the facilities needed by the visitors such as BBQ pit, pathway and it clean and clear which for parent can still monitor their kids running around.

The along the journey by road, there are beautiful scenery to look at. You can stop to takes beautiful scenery pictures. The highway between Sibu and Sarikei with a view. If you drive, just roll down your car window for the cool air going through your hair. If you are bald even better, cool head…J.

You can stop by at Jakar, a small town from Sarikei to Sebangkoi to have big prawn noodle. If you know certain Iban longhouse then you can find some hidden treasure such as beautifully weave basket from fine strips of bamboo (this handicraft have been exported to Japan). Which longhouse? Celestine Kias Longhouse about 10 minutes from Jakar town.

The corner to Sebangkoi resort and recreational park. The road is lined up beautifully with trees and also palm trees.

Sebangkoi Resort with its two hornbill welcoming you. The resort also have a canteen, hostel with 10 double deck bed that cost RM 18 per pax per night, VVIP room that cost about RM 250 which is a bargain as the room consisted of 3 smaller room and a private bathroom. It also have a huge function room for various activities.

In the recreational park, visitors can dip in it cool stream, BBQ at it allocated BBQ pit. Please take care of cleanliness. Or just hike along the beautiful path that are surrounded by flora (species in the family of Dipterocarpacea, Moraceae, Aracaceae, Anacardiaceae, etc) and you can experience the cicadas singing a nice melody in the forest… for most of us it a beautiful music.

After a long hike the cool and clear water are tempting. Through out my stay at Sebangkoi Resort, a lot of the local people especially from Sarikei Town went there for a quick dip with friends.

Nice fern that grown on the tree. The local name for it, is ‘paku tanduk rusa’. Direct translation mean ‘deer horn fern’.

Sarikei: small but developed town/ Sarikei dan penarikan

2009-02-11T20:24:00.000-08:00

Sarikei: small but developed town. A potential town.

It have been raining and the sun are shying away from us as it is the worse week in the monsoon season. It was also a week that I am away reccee with my fellow colleagues going to Sibu, Sarikei and Betong.

What have we been doing? Well, we have found hidden treasures of the Sarawak people. Is it money? Gold? Nope … it is the beautiful nature of Sarikei. What have we found?

Well, one of the interesting morning we went to a shop for breakfast and we come across a very yummy soup noodle and another yummy bun. The soup noodle is called ‘Luk Mee’ and I have no idea what the breakfast bun are called. All this can be found in a not so small town called Sarikei.

Luk Mee with beef slice and egg. Very nice and you should try it. To tell you the truth I have not taste it… the Luk mee is the picture was ordered by my good friend.

The cold raining morning with hot milk coffee…’you can smell the coffee when you go into the coffee shop.  wonderful and nice kaya and butter spread onto the bun. Who can complaint a nice breakfast …I know my friend didn’t.

Sarikei town, with the river at the background. Nice nature as the riverine are still cover with flora. Hance, you won’t believe the price of prawn … prawn in your fried rice …not just 1 or 2 but lots and big too. How much I pay for the fried rice… MRY 4.00. Sarikei is small but big enough and I have not walk around town yet.

A view of Sarikei town. Who say Sarikei is a small town.

A nice place to cool down after a hectic day of work. I guess during a good day we will see a few prawn anglers casting their line in the beautiful river.

Fishing Dream 2009

2009-01-28T21:47:00.000-08:00

Dreaming of Angling 2009

It has been months since I went out to the sea for fishing. My though of the boat riding the wave and the wind blowing my hair and face and no worries of work and just pure relaxation. The hope of all anglers that the big fish will hook on their line and the envy of other anglers watching you fighting the 'forever' fighting fish. I use a small reel and 25 – 30 lbs main line and 50 lbs tracer line for fishing. Which always got an forever unruly looks from my friends. and will get friendly advice of using bigger poundage fishing line. It all about anglers showing their skill in reeling in the big fish. It all about the trill and skill during reeling in the fish and not the fish alone. A lot of people doesn’t understand that.

Thus, during the weekend I took out my rods and reels. Look at it, toy with it and start planning for the fishing trip for the year 2009. The monsoon season is nearly over, fishing season start… WOW that the event to look forward. It will be in March or as early as the end of February.

Some of my equipment use for the fishing.

The ever lucky Abu Garcia Big Game 7000cl reel that I have used since 2004. Have caught Travelly, Baracuda, Garupa, sea Bass, red snapper and more with this reel.

The fishing finder that I used for river fishing from smartcast wireless fishfinder RF 10 which I bought from USA in 2005. The portable fish finder have helped me to determine the contour and river bottom. It have save me time from fishing a fishless river.

The much needed sun glass for the fishing trip but I have used it for all the adventure that I have done using this sun glass.

The one equipment that I am always using when I am on the go. It is a GPS from Garmin (GPSmap 76 CSx) a colour screen and it is sensitive enough to receive the satellites signal even thought it is cloudy or under tree canopy or under roof. It help me to find my way and to plot new road that have not been updated yet.

Beautiful Park in Kuching

2009-01-19T18:54:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, I need time to reflect what have I been doing for the past weeks but do not have the luxury of time to go out of Kuching for a retreat. Hence, I have found a park which seldom frequent by people and the best of all it situated in Tabuan Laru, Kuching and are surrounded by beautiful houses.

This park run through a small river which I sometime see those anglers casting their lure during high tide and kids riding their bike with their parent just relaxing. A few frequent joggers use this park to their benefits. I have never seen people doing BBQ or picnic yet but definitely I will do that in the near future. A friendly advice: please keep the park clean.

The beautiful landscaped plants placed strategically in the park are maintained by the good Samaritans that are staying opposite the park.

A beautiful water plant

A view of park of the park with nicely placed track.

Potted plants that makes the park beautiful

A different View of the park

Nice palm trees and Cycas planted at the park

Trip To Nanga Sumpa: Nature beauty of Lubuk Antu

2009-01-11T20:28:00.000-08:00

Experience the Nature around Nanga Sumpa, Batang Ai

A wonderful experience to Nanga Sumpa an Iban village situated up river in Lubuk Antu.

The journey from Kuching took around 3 hours to Batang Ai. From Batang Ai jetty, we took a long boat ride about another one hour 30 minutes to reach Nanga Sumpa Village.

I never imagine the huge clear water lake and beautiful surrounding of Batang Ai Hydro electric dam during the long boat ride going up river to Nanga Sumpa. As we go on further reaching the tributary river, with the tree canopy covering the river and the crystal clear water than enable us to see the bottom of the river. Certain location of the river we need to disembark to push the long boat as the water was too shallow. Some area along the river have small rapid which is interesting and scary to ride through using the long boat.

Nanga Sumpa river is beautiful as shown in some of the pictures below. The activities that we done during the trip for 3 days 2 nights are:-

Traditional Iban Ngajat
Hiking across forest to Wong Enseluai Waterfall
Cooking fish in Bamboo (‘Pansuh’ in Iban language)
Fishing
The boat ride is also a wonderful experience.
Swim in the clear water river.

A view from the long boat in Batang Ai Dam

Long boat ride up river to Nanga Sumpa

Navigating the shallow river

Navigating the Rapid

A view from the long boat

Crystal clear water to Wong Enseluai Waterfall

Catching fish using cast net.

The boatman ready to cast net to catch fish to be cook using bamboo at the Wong Enseluai Waterfall.

Traditional dance – the Iban ngajat at Nanga Sumpa longhouse.

A trip across the river to start our hiking through forest and paddy field.

A group picture at Wong Enseluai Waterfall

2009-01-07T19:34:00.001-08:00

free invisible web counter

JOurney tO Kpg Long Atip and Kpg Long Bemang

2009-01-06T18:27:00.000-08:00

ADVENTURE TO LONG ATIP AND LONG BEMANG : MODERN KAYAN KAMPUNG

Celebrating Christmas 2008 at Kpg Long Atip and Kpg Long Bemang at Ulu Apoh River. It took us 6 hour travelling using 4 X 4 off roadvehicle. It a holiday that I look forward too as it in the interior of Sarawak in Baram thus no hustle of the city life. No email, no phone...pure relaxation.

Long Atip is a Kayan village with modern facilities such as generator for electricity for the village (only operating from 6 pm - 12 pm). However, individual house have their own generator to generate electricity. School, Church and graviti water filter for the village. Each of the house is nicely deco with parquet wall and cement floor. It is like a terrace house in a big city. The people there are wonderfull, always cheerful and helpfull. Comfort at a serene interior. That life!

The activities during Christmas -

1. Christmas dinner

2. Games

3. Traditional dance

4. Long dance

5. Meet friends and families

The trip is an adventure itself. Going by using 4 X 4 through secondary forest and plantation... basically off road for 6 hours. Going through Long Lama Town. Then reach Long Atip Village.

Coming back to town... that another adventure as we use 4 X 4 for 1 hour to Temalak camp (Timber camp) and use the express boat to Marudi.

Nice trip that we have. will post more information in the coming days.

PICNIC at Benuk, Padawan, Kuching

2009-01-05T18:51:00.000-08:00

PADAWAN PICNIC SPOT, VERY SERENE AND WONDERFUL

It have been a long time since i venture into the nearest part of Kuching for picnic. It seem that all the places that i have been to have been commercialised. Fortunately, to my surprise Padawan area still have the best clear water river that are fantastic spot for picnic and it is safe for kid to play in the river as it is not that deep. The pictures show an area near Kpg Benuk and it is about half and hour drive from Kuching.

With few friends and family...we BBQ, have fun, catch those small river fish (ikan seluang, ikan daun) and tekoyong. Of course, we have a few beers.

It reminded me year ago, when i was very...very young with my family going outing at Red Bridge in Matang or Ranchan pool in Serian. We have fun during those outing. Now it seem that this area is not that nice anymore as it is not as virgin as it use to be. I hope that all of us frequent all this picnic spot will keep it clean and maintain it.

Have fun at this picnic spot. We might see each other there.

ulu baram waterfall 2

2009-01-04T21:58:00.001-08:00

Sela'an-Linau, Ulu Baram... Serene View

The ulu Baram view from Kelesa Camp in the morning. Almost every morning it is misty.

The Kelabit maiden with the kelabit full costume.

Sela'an Waterfall. With it legend of how its' got its name. The legend is from the penan people.

Who wouldn't be happy reaching a serene and nice waterfall which seldom visited by people.

nice waterfall

ulu Baram wATERFALL

2009-01-04T20:19:00.000-08:00

one of the best waterfall that i have visited. It an adventure just to travel there by 4 X 4. the cristal clear waterfall and with it's own legend. The name of the waterfall is Sela'an Waterfall.