Turning passion into action ........

Another year has gone by.....

2011-12-31T23:41:00.000-08:00

Pic taken at Geneva lake with Mounia Ghazalli August 2011

Over time, we have come to accept things that we cannot change, and if we are smart enough, we will also live life without regret.. learn from the pass and move on for better..

The past "experience" ; is not something we can't let go. Although regret is something very unfamiliar to certain people. To regret means that part of ourself especially our soul is still lives in the past and doing so is not moving forward.As we grow older, we find it more important to live in a now.

As i get older, i realize that some things and people are important and some are not. I realize that truth and character are all that matters and those who truly loves you are to be cherished.

I also realize that success is made day by day, and accumulative effort that turns some one's passion into perseverance action. Tomorrow may never come and today maybe the last echo in time on one soul has to another.

I have no complaints at all of what transpired in 2011 for it was another phase of my life to be remembered and achieved, and one that forced me to learn some important lessons. Now 2012, i believe will be even a better and stronger year, as the past has made me better..

Picture taken @ Geneva with Mounia Ghazalli

Good Bye 2011, and hello 2012... Happy New year to all.. May the peace, calm and stress relieve Borneo vibes brings to you where ever you are in the world.

Benvenuto 2012 !

for girls only, more about Melissa alut lim

Memorable Authentic Italian Community lifestyle.Food for thought.

2011-12-25T01:50:00.000-08:00

I still have so much to share throughout my journey of discovery in Venice,Rome and Geneva, Switzerland. The beautiful and meaningful part about "homestay" did not just stop at what i did in Marco's house.

Sara, my master, preparing pasta for continuously since morning.

Marco's wife, Sara, is a mother of 4 and a chef for thousand people whenever there is a Bazaar or charity fiesta. Cooking for her is not just a passion, but it also enable her to get together with her mate and be merry while preparing dishes for guest. All income,be it drinks or meals will go into donation through the church.

I may have language difficulty with them however, each and everyone seems carrying their duty diligent and sincerely. So the food presented maybe simple, but it seems to me the best dish i ever had.

Check out the amount of drumstick and chicken breast to be barbequed. Check out the other side of chicken was the tenderloin beef and pork ribs. Imagine you are preparing this, so imagine standing in front of the charcoal for more then 5 hours.
Lucky the weather was cold. So the charcoal served 2 purposes. To keep warm and to cook.

So the preparation of charcoal is at the other end, no strong fire to the meat so there were no wastage of over cook chicken or burnt pork rib.

Young and old, father and son , all are involved in making this fiesta a success.You bring the fine charcoal and i will do the best pork ribs.

On the other hand, in the kitchen, the women are preparing wedges, chips, onion ring and each and every duty is being done diligently.

A wonderful side dish that went very well with my chicken BBQ. But i really cant remember what was the name. :(
I will ask Marco and re caption this photo.

The kitchen tool....

And wallah, here i was.. dancing through the night with the Cowboy dancers.. we had so much fun with the instructor.

Uno, due, tree, quattro ...girare... anchora anchora ..
So it practically means "1,2,3, turn, again and again", although language is the barrier but those steps doesn't seems hard and anyone can easily join in and have fun.

This is Martha and her husband.. they both are volunteers in the fiesta.

Martha daughter, with Deborah ( Marco's daughter) they are just naturally beautiful

Kiss kiss.... beauty

Thorn among the roses ? Nah... make a change "Rose among the thorns"

Experiencing the livelihood, community services and being part of the volunteers, enriching myself with life of Venitien community is one of most meaningful travelling experience i ever had.

"Anchora, grazie miller Chef Federico, Marco, Sara, Debora, and their beautiful family members of Micieletto"

Some impromptu photos during hitz FM Malaysia 1st anniversary

2011-12-13T02:02:00.001-08:00

Before i even enter, i caught JJ reading Firefly Menu, i guess he was super hungry , but then i know i may have to struggle with others to get him for a photo with me inside the party. So , being the naughty JJ, he immediately grabbed me over and asked Ean to take a sot.

There you go, Ean and his super look.

And off i left to the party.. and i was shock there were such a long que for entry.

The Big joy in Such Scarcity- An early Christmas gift for these foreign Kids

2011-12-13T01:32:00.000-08:00

On fine afternoon, as i was heading to office in my car, i saw the usual two little girls who use to walk to work in one of the factory nearby Kelombong, Industrial area, pulling a gigantic monkey with their bull strength. They dragged the monkey in such hurry, big smile on their face and of course, they were not able to carry the monkey butt even. it was just too huge ! I quickly pull my car over and turned to them. I braked and i actually came out and chase after them. For one moment they thought i was a cop .. then i ask them to smile ..... and cheeeekkchaaaaak... i got this photo of them.

"Dik, besar juga monyet ni, dari mana kamu orang dapat ni??"
( Hey Kids, this monkey is humongous, from where did you get it ? )

"Dari tong sampah kak sebelah sana kak"
( From the dumping area over there)

They look at me innocently, know nothing about their future holds and if they will be able drag this giant monkey home before the cops came and arrest them. Not because of stealing, but because of their unidentified nationality.

I tailed them.. and i was just wondering where are they heading...

Slowly, they went into the bushes, heading to the squatter behind the factory. I wonder, if the monkey is able to fit into their tiny house. As mush as i am concern..... police officers are just behind them....

Calling the Farewell with Breeze- Borneo's Premiere Lifestyle Magazine

2011-11-18T00:45:00.000-08:00

Since the re launching of Breeze 2011- Borneo Premiers Lifestyle Magazine; I was given the privileged to contribute my journey of discovery in Borneo. From down below, to mountain high.. Further from adventurous journey to relaxation sun, sea and beach. I may not be a good writer, but putting an effort and pen down my experience and share widespread about Sabah, North Of Borneo perhaps is what i can do for my home land. Marking this farewell, i want to extend my bundle of gratitude to

Mr. Dinoza ( The creative Director of Breeze) and

Mdm Noor Ali ( My precious editor, that must have been cracking her head for trying to empathy my article)

Here are some of my favorite write up in Breeze Mag. This magazine features the happenings in Sabah, personality of young successful Sabahan, local travel destination, events, movies, whats Hot ! and even gossips if you happen to read them.

July Issue on Animal- Birding With TG Osman in Borneo Rainforest

october issue on Art in Borneo - Borneo Art Tattoo

And the latest issue on "Voluntourism" in Borneo

Breeze is available for free reading at all lifestyle coffeeshop such as Starbucks, Coffeebean, The Core Fitness Centre, or you can even buy them at RM2.00 at any book store in town.

Kudos to Breeze for the revamp, making it a social networking magazine among locals and reaching out to Brunei and Sarawak , you guys work hard and stretch a lot to the neighboring land.

Ciao Breeze.. keep up the good spirit !

Tamu Besar, Kota Belud

2011-10-30T09:31:00.000-07:00

This Bajau Boy, leading his horse,in his utmost pride, marching into the centre of Kota Belud field.

Kota Belud- Generally reckon by the locals as the Cow boy town of Sabah, North Borneo. Tamu Besar, means the feast market which gathered everyone far and near around Kota Belud, to display their best products such as fruits, greeneries(vegetables), handicrafts, local desserts, or even battle nut leaves and traditional cigars collection. As far as i can remember, the last time i visited Kota Belud, when my grandpa was still alive and he used to hold my hand and walk around negotiating his marketing in Bajau languages. He is gone now and these Bajau traders has turn totally strangers to me, as i sometimes have totally no idea what are the traditional name of certain mouth watering fruits or local delicacies.

As the Bajau are generally also the "sea gypsies" especially those at the east coast, fisheries is also one of their expertise and survival income. Here, in the fish market, you can see, plenty of freshfish selling cheap and fresh, choices at your fingertips.

Of course, the prime moment of this Tamu Besar would be the Horse and Buffalo parade that became the centre attention of the crowd.

Parades Move on forming various patent to show symbolic of Bajau tribal victory.

As the horse parade went on, the Kulintangan team keep the rhythm
alive for the riders to follow.

A Bajau woman concentrating on her Kulintangan instrument.

Beside the Trojan horses, the buffaloes were also one of the main attention gather of the event. Buffalo were once a multi purpose animal especially to the paddy owners, it is not only as a working tools but also a gift for the bride's family if a guy is about to marry a Kadazan Dusun daughter in the family.

The buffalo race is no doubt the most exciting game to view. Taking into account of the heavy rice bag to carry along while controlling the buffalo, i suppose this is not an easy game to handle.

Last but not least, you also have a chance to savour a moment of being the Bajau queen. The whole world is looking at you, and your hero is the typical Bajau alike "SANDOKAN". Further to the attention from the whole town. What more can you ask for :)

Till we meet again next year! Yeeeehhhaaaaa....

Its been a while, i am back to Firefly

2011-10-24T10:15:00.000-07:00

Sorry .. not the Malaysian Domestic airline i am talking about. It is the one in Kota Kinabalu, North Of Borneo.A place where you can meet Gen-y to chill, enjoy lifeband and have some decent meal or finger food at your choice.

Its been a while.. and for certain reason, i need this shot for to jazz up again... The Borneon vibe is back. See you sometimes in FireFly Bar & Grill, KK Timesquare, Jalan Coastal, along Sutera Harbour Resort.

Salute !

Melissa Alut Lim

HOMESTAY- A Holiday with Purpose

2011-09-26T07:40:00.001-07:00

So, in Borneo ( where i was born and living la vida loca ) is a geographically well blended terrain where there is low land Dipterocarp Jungle, mountain high land and coastal of vertically unseen beach. With the compilation of 36 ethnic groups and more then 80 languages spoken here. Homestay is one of the most exciting and booming product in my country.

Nevertheless, a one month homestay in Manzan family, has given me a total change of my stereotyping mindset about the culture of Italy. Yes, they can be fashion up scale or food and wine critics, but their years civilization and enthusiasm in surviving skill has turn into world indulgence.

Woke up by dawn to feed the hungry animals, and plucking plants for the preparation of lunch and dinner; just like how the Kudat, Sabah ( our indegeneous folks are doing, same fundamental with the concept of " Building community capacity by utilizing natural resources" , i know , it sounds boring and tough... but this is how i can describe in the shortest form...

Feeding more then 20 rabbits at one go. Preparing for winter to come.

Goose, Chicken and duckling all lives in harmony

The little ones need to be protected or they will be the victim for the big ones.

Sara, counting her canary, and new incoming chicks ..

Even cultivating bee hive ( just like Kudat Bee farm) is one of the homestay activities.

Feeding Wendy, the only pampered cow in the farm.

Beside lots of healthy grain and mice, Wendy and her folks , the donkeys also being served 'silage" as their dessert.

Plenty of guinea pigs running around.

Turkeys ( Tukiny) finding a shade for themselves, avoiding the summer solar.

Louis, the donkey that woke me up with his " heeee-hoooo" every morning.

Even the piggy ( Roxy) get to eat quality cereals ( i mean mice, corn and micture of dried nuts and seeds)

So these are just some domestic farm animals that turned into meals during the winter, of course exclude te guinea pig and dogs if you could see Gulio is hiding behind at the second picture.

Further to that, these are only the farm management for the daily morning routine, i will post more on Sara's vegetable and grapes yard, her workmanship of sun dried fruits and grains.Judging at the time they spend in a day on food preparation,no wonder Italia has the top chef in the world.

"merci beaucoup" (Masibuku).." How did i end up in France?? An unexpected adventure out of Venice

2011-09-11T15:33:00.000-07:00

The story began when my plan to Geneva, Switzerland is to visit my brother in Montreoux. This is my first time travelling solo in Europe and most of all, without knowing a words of French. ( generally the common language in Swizz and France is French). Before arrive Geneve, i have been trying very hard to get myself a backpacker lodge or bed and breakfast that could accommodate my budget. Clean, convenient and budget of course. Luck was not my side, just too bad, i didnt manage to get any room , even a bunk bed that i could shower and rest, till the last minute, Mounia ( a good friend of mine who had her intern in Sabah, please refer here)

My flight from Rome to Geneve was at 8 25pm arriving Geneve around 10 50pm. I was panic, wandering around Rome airport to get a WIFI spot that i could concentrate and search for a place to bunk in at least for a night upon my arrival.I mourn to everybody, i asked for help from anyone that i possibly could.There were no respond, none even from my brother.

Till the very last minute i depart from Rome to Geneva Airport, Mounia text me a hotel reservation number, and it was a total relieved.

The moment i arrived Geneva airport, i rushed to the information counter to ask about the address given. And i was recommended to take a cab as it is too late at night to go by train or bus. In my heart, i know this is going to be a challenging moment, due to language, absolute new to Swizz, plus no news from my brother upon my arrival.

I walked to a taxi, it was a Mercedez Benz ( all the taxi were luxurious, Peugeot, Citreon, Merz and Renault ) what else could i say, i have to go with the flow.... gosh, i got on with an Albanian ! " oh my, in my heart, i just keep hoping that i will not be slotterd, cheated or being brought to a place and being robbed or being told to stripped.. my mind was shallow, i was exhausted, my mind only needs to get to hotel, after a whole day transit in Rome airport.

He ( Hussein) the taxi driver speaks barely English, but he was trying to explain to me that, the address i gave to him is a Province under the country of France. I actually was shocked, how could it be? In the internet it said 12k from Geneva airport? And the address ended with Geneve..???? I started being alert, and keep my eyes wide open for the signage... but .. nothing is upon my creadibility. The French words are totally not understandable. I would just have to pray, and hope that i dont get kidnapped.

We passed through tunnel, exit highway, and then entering another province, and toll... the roads are getting dark and we are entering into a village area that has no street light. I was nervous and i told Hussein to call the hotel for the exact direction. He said " Madam, you are at FRANCE..."

" What??? FRANCE? NO .. NO.. im going to Geneva, you got it wrong...! please call the hotel " .. and so he did, but its 12am, no one pick up. And taxi meter charge rotating like a timer... i know . either i kill my budget, or i die in his hand...

After an hour of search and round robin, asking around some drunken lorry driver at the bar near by, security on duty and even some passer by... we found the hotel... it was a typical motel at the BORDER of FRANCE and SWIZZ. OH MY GOSH... the amount of lorry parking outside the hotel , and the campervan .... i know this is a typical , local tourist hotel, that any foreign tourist will never know.

View Larger Map

Hussein, assisted me in getting my reservation sorted with the machine ( since its almost 1am, reception counter was closed and i can only deal with a FRENCH speaking machine), and even reduced the charges of taxi fee for me.

That night, i was absolutely flat. Alone in this tiny room, I ARRIVE FRANCE OUT OF EXPECTATION, AND AM AT THE BORDER OF FRANCE AND SWITZERLAND. What an experience of my life !

The moral of this experience is "Never trust the internet information 100%".

Thank God i am still alive !

A 300 sq ft room, with bunk bed and a face wash basin, plus a small table and TV, No AC, with a big window facing the back yard ( car park).

A automated Self check In machine that only speak French. Making me stuck outside the hotel for more then 30 minutes during my first day.

F1.com hotel, located at the border of France and Geneva, surrounded by manufacturing factories and in the middle of no way.

Mounia, manage to have some fun while walking along the highway to get a "hitch-hike"- free ride.

http://www.hotelf1.com/gb/booking/map-search.shtml

Rugby World Cup Fever ; Me & The Rugby Boys

2011-09-09T02:50:00.000-07:00

The Rugby World Cup 2011 is held from 9th September to 23rd October 2011.

With the Rugby World cup fever spinning around Europe boys, it seems that every young woman will have to pick up a little about rugby jargon, or news in order to catch up a conversation with the "real" guys. So, here i am trying to get hold of what Rugby game is all about. Instead of learning the technique and match point.. i think i have learnt a lot more about the Italian Jargon during my first encounter as a totally unknown spectator.

Rugby- is a form of sport that developing a boy to a physical and mental fit man. In Treviso, Rugby is a passion for most of the man. Be it to themselves or developing it to their son at home. This is also a mode of developing the sense of belonging in a small community like Treviso.

Last week, I have the chance to watch a friendly match of UNDER-15 boys between Villorba and Oros of the neighboring district. They were humungous! Their size are double of most of the 15 years old boys in Malaysia. For one moment I thought, finally I will be able to see some “beautiful man” in action. Ha~ I was wrong, they are my little brothers whom Massi (the eldest son of Marco) will match with.

The boys marching out in their full uniform. Villorba which is my team is in yellow.

It’s a friendly match, but to them it’s an adrenaline “MUST WIN” competition, this is because Villorba team never lose in any game. They have been holding the champion for more than 8 years. The coach speaks in his hoarse voice, reminding, alerting and keep pumping the spirit of the young horses, as they were performing their warm up session.

Everything went serious, some drama session along the game, and check out the physio therapist, i know some some friend of mine might think , how nice if rugby game in Sabah to have a woman therapist:)

I like this part , lots of arm strength needed.

The game started with Villorba heading easily. I have no idea how this game is counted. All I can listen was each parent are cheering for their son’s best move. All I can hear is something like this:-

“ Dai, Dai, Dai… Nikola Dai… Va bene, va bene ! Sastansio …. SASTANSIO..Via ! Via!.... si! Si! Si! Ecolla, Bravo ! Bravo ragazzo.. Ballisimo!” ( claps with laughter )

Which literally translate to :-

“ Come on! Come on ! Nikola Come on.. OK, OK! Sustain…. Sustain …Go ! Go ! There it is ! Great ! my great boy ! Beeeeeeautiful! …..”

( I always thought that DAI .. DAI... DAI ... is "DIE." Dont get it wrong, it literally means Come on !" )

Drama goes on. ...

Parents putting hope in their children.... with all concentration and cheers.

The game finished with the scored 20-5. I am lucky to have Marco explaining to me a little about rugby game and technique. The parents are happy, so am i.. happy that such small occasion I indulged in the expression and action of excited Italian parents.

Till then.. Buona Notte ( good night ) to my Malaysia friends.

The "man" of Venice; i call them beautiful.

2011-09-04T07:04:00.000-07:00

Being in one of the most romantic city in the world. I can’t help but observed the “beautiful” man of this sophisticated “province” wherever I go; call me pervert or desperate ( or whatever you want), of course, without them noticing, moreover, being an Asian woman, I have a boundary issue with man, unless, meeting the person I love, i disappear into them. I am the permeable membrane.

Below description is solely my best ability to describe them, but pictures speaks a thousand words.

To my taste, the men in Venice are ridiculously, hurtfully, stupidly beautiful. More beautiful than the French woman, which is to say , no detail spared in the quest for perfection. In short, they are like show poodles or Shitzu. The men here, work as much as they can physically, then sitting in the office most of the time. Well, it’s the pleasure of their passion.. and turning their passion into action. Some of them, even at their 50’s are surprisingly mascular … hmmm

The mushroom man, Massimo, a good friend of Manzen family at Auronzo and his passion about mushroom getting me excited with the various mushroom for the meal of the day.

The neighbouring Hotel Owner, Massimo; who came by to say “ciao” at Roberto’s open house. And we spoke for a while.. I can’t even remember his name after that.

Dianele and his passion, making him trying very hard to explain to me on how passionate is him in equestrian.

Dianele - and his favorite horse

Dianele, The manager of a horse farm at Nerveso. Turning his passion into action. Managing a horse farm cum club and training center for the horse enthusiast. With his little tight fitting T-shirt and tight fitting leather pants, oh yeah.. and the boots….

Rudy. A young chap whom has been working as a pro trainer in Dianele horse farm. Quiet but timid. His passion about horse training, reminds me of my passion about canine obedient training in me. He talks to the horses more then he talk to the woman. Just like me before.

Nikola - The gentle boy

Last but not least, my favorite boy. Nikola, sensitive, calm and cute. Typical Italian boy who loves tranquility and doing nothing. His observation on all things.. makes me enjoy teaching him English at least 1 hour a day.

to be continue.....

Eat, Play, Laugh at Auronzo, Province Of Belluno, Veneto,Italia.

2011-09-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

The most happening dinner i ever had in Italy, with this guys chatting over wine and food.. and Italian joke that i couldn't even catch, they are marvellous people.

If you could recall the Novel written by Elizabeth Gilbert, on EAT, PRAY,LOVE.. or the movie on Julia Robert last November 2010, about her journey to discovery, that is how exactly i would like to describe the life (la vita) in Auronzo,Province of Belluno. Well, of course, nonetheless working hard for a living has been in the blood of a pressured economy in Italy; but the pressured and hardwork, plus the "family & friends precious time" is what made the fulfilled life of Venetia.

The continuous barbeque of pork chop, lamb got the guys excited :)

I have the privilege to attend Roberto (a good friend of Marco and Sarah) house warming. Talking about house warming.. There goes the food, (panne, funghi, yes.. the salami ) and of course the wine (Vino) and whole lots of barbequeue. The table were arranged bypass everyone to say "Ciao, me chiamo Melissa, piacerre".. and throw this Asian smile all the way.. (yes i like the feeling) but hey... at certain point of time i also escaped with Deborah to the quiet place of montana ( mountain) where you see the whole stretch of pine trees just along your eyes.

This is the kind of Pork chop i am talking about, solely porky, so you can imagine i come back with a tonnes of kilos gained :)

Sara, brings her passion anywhere she go, her kitchenette we set up in Roberto's house even !

Some private time with Deborah... Grazie Deb for this photo.

The fiesta went all day long, through the lazy afternoon and night where, the man sleep after getting drunk and we too went back for a refreshing shower and rest after the play at the scenery river with clean clear water and funghi hunt ( mushroom hunt ) at the Brusco( jungle).

At that beautiful night, Maoro (our fellow musician) performed his passion, the typical Italian acoustic and family music; the night went on with laughter.

Till then, Dolce Far Niente.

Meeting the Manzan family at Trivio, Italy.

2011-08-29T05:22:00.000-07:00

With only 3 days here, I am already drained.. not because of the work but because of the over excitement, jet legged and of course, exhaustion of expression (during conversation) to my family here. My first two day was overwhelmed, with superb hospitality from this warmth family, and whole lots of plan (work, fiesta, scenery, historical, photos to take)

Marco & Sarah: A generation –y couple that perfectly represent the typical family of Italia. Owns 4 acre farms that consist of everything of a village have had. In Borneo, when we talk about farm, we are talking about specific poultry farm or plantation. At Manzen family, it is more than just agriculture; it is a typical Old Mc Donald farm that you could never imagine.

Besides taking care of the four children, running chores for the family. Both Marco and Sarah are also taking care of a Wendy (cow), 3 donkeys, 3 goats (Elvis, Diana, Haedi), one pig (Roxy), tortoise, turkeys, duck, goose, rabbit and even many poultry, birds, oh yeah further with a lovely terrier mix doggie, Gulio. (Even their dog has a sexy name J )

little nikola and rachale

I have had a tiry day, I arrived with big smile, but smoky eyes… I was so tired, but I was so excited. And Sarah, Massimiliano, Nikola, and last but not least the two Bella that I could never resist their beauty and sweetness (Deborah & Rechale). ..

PS : THIS POST IS DONE ON THE BED WITH BAD INTERNET LINE. WILL REFINE SOON .

Strecthing out the Cross Culture exchange ( Sabah vs Italy)

2011-08-21T02:23:00.000-07:00

It is finally working out.. my long planned mission... to travel and carry along my culture, and share with people on the other side of the world about my ethnicity, my land of Borneo as well as the simplicity of life i am in. Here i am... 48 hours time, it will be an experience of a life time.. good or bad... traumatize or enjoyable... i want to thank first of all the people who has connected me to this host family.. The Manzen.

Juliana Alut Lim - My sister whom has always encourages me to try and re try on any cultural exchange programme; and further recommended me various friends that has the same passion in life... ( Bringing the cultural over ; be it food, life, beer or even Socio Anthropology.

Chef Frederico - The x president of Chef Association Malaysia - Thank you for arranging and making this a reality. I have so much to share, at the same time i am hunger to learn.. the orthodox way of Eat, Pray, Love ( LOVE? ah no no not so much of that .. had a bad one before hahaha )

My mama, My beloved auntie, - Thank you... i know it may seems crazy, that i am so eager to leave this comfort zone after a tragic incident with the "BASTARDO" last year.. :) , "Mama, i am here for an enlightening transformation, i am here to do what i can for the people to endure, i am here to make you proud ( i hope ) and i am here to .... mmm maybe not now, one day to make you about my experience when i am back" .. thank Mama Mary and Aunt Angie .

My uncle"s" - Dr Weekiong, Uncle David, and of course my (blurred) Tun Mahathir (my dad)- you guys may be quiet for the MAN thing in you, but i love the way you behave ... mm " experience the CROSSS culture exchange!" hahaha .. guys are forever guys... dont you think so :)

My "geeky" super friend ( you now who you are ) - for being by my side when i am just so slow in social Media. And knowing the significant of this tool is to connect to the people i love. Thank you and i will keep that best part for you.

My collegues - willie Ki,Verus John, Jessica Peter and Nanie of Borneo Backpackers as well as Joe ( The Lundayeh Chap) , i still think you guys ROCK big time.. working through hell and heavan.. developing mental and physical muscle.. hmmm.. i have got whole lots to learn from you all. So i will definitely be back !

Learning to be a Geek.

2011-08-11T21:01:00.000-07:00

As much as i want to update my blog frequently, i am eager to transfer all my data into a more self owned domain. Thank to a friend ( you know who you are ) in helping me with this. After this, i just realize that i am not that "geek" after all...

Now, i have a new domain.; www.melissasy.com. It will be under wordpress and i reckon that wordpress is not that user friendly as blogspot. You agree? But i m learning to get hold of it, before my trip to Italy, before my tonnes of ideas, exciting moment fade away just right behind my mind.

Dear friends and family...

As much as i want to share with you whats happening in Borneo, i also want to share with you my religious experience in my extreme part of life. The enlightening and opening chakra of Holy Spirit visited me. ahhh.. some of you may know.. its the "alpha course" that i have attended; and the visitation of Tibetien Sammi to my village in Tuaran. I will update more once i m free hand.

Till then... Love peace, love humankind.

When the going gets tough; the tough gets going

2011-07-16T22:49:00.000-07:00

The first ever Outward Bound I have joint, wasn't with a bunch of tough fellows , hunk or even super tough cookies ; but being a compulsory team building event by this unique organization i am in. I have no choice, nor anyway to escape this 2 days "mental & physical stimulus" challenge to conquer the fear in me. OBS Kinarut Papar,is an international eco- adventure park, and non-profit organization that does not only provide physical and mental challenge but also the human team spirit in an organization.

The center is 25minutes drives from KKIA ( Kota Kinabalu International Airport), 30 minutes to the city of Kota Kinabalu, and 20 minutes to the largest army camp in the state.

Well, as usual pictures speaks a thousand words, photos below are expressions of my colleagues being snapped by our paparazzi in the house (Lawrie), Suzie, Roland and Joe ( They are unique Sabahan indigenous heritage buddies of mine with strong features and characters i will talk more about them one day if i have the chance) ... Suzie, one tough cookie- looking upon the challenges being assigned to them. Roland

( in black shirt) -deep thought on how to contribute his strength to the team, and Joe Bonaventure another Lundayeh boy from Tenom, which gives me a total different perspective of how a caliber nativity should be. :)

Susi, Joe & Roland- accepting task assigned

Rijel & Willie@ Giant Ladder Challenge

Well, at this point of time. self courage and trust ... mind over matter; nor matter over mind.

This is as high as a 30 years old Acacia Tree- when you are up there
the green as far as the eye can see and a quiet that's pierce only by the whizzing of the wind, telling you
"You enjoyed that didn't you?"

Beside the giant ladder climb, that challenged the fear in us; we also had a day of arms out stretched raft.. the canoe and Bamboo rafting- This put the megawatt expression on
everyone :)

This is the 2 hour canoe- and no joke i 've got hell of a muscle after the 2 hour intensive forward command by Suzie


There were Mr Crocs hiding while we were busy canoeing.. but he is tolerant enough to let us be.

"Kopeng" time.. where canoes are park side by side..

The

"Adrenaline Rush" - to die or to win faces :)

The "Crying Leader" - me being snapshot at my utmost shout !


The "Lost" expression .. ahh , i cant remember or he was just too exhausted !

Nevertheless, be in winning or losing " The satisfying Expression"

keep us warm from the cooling rain water.

Just as i was saying- The Expression of LOVE

This camp- its not about winning or losing, fit or unfit ; but it is about the development of teamwork,

the importance of our surrounding, and the significance of communication in our life.

This 2 days 1 night camp- has enable many of us to conquer our fear, from the giant within.

KUDOS !

Its Monday again...

2011-07-10T17:58:00.000-07:00

Times is Jealous...

Without me realizing it.. Its Monday again.. Flipping the calender without looking back..Its finally time to fly. Remember the upcoming event, if you ever have the time to cope, Borneo Eco Film Festival 28-30July, Music Festival@ Tip of Borneo, 16-17 July ... so much to cope with.

Talk to you tomorrow...

Good day ahead.

~Melis ~

KWICORP - Kinabatangan Wildlife Corridor Regeneneration Program

2011-07-01T20:04:00.000-07:00

I still remember, last year December as i was sitting in the class of Sabah Tour Guide Green Badge Course in Tawau Hillspark,The title of my interpretation was exactly on "The largest endangered mammals of Sabah- The Borneo Pygmy Elephant" at lower Kinabatangan area, and i presented about KWICORP- regeneration of pathway to the wildlife after deforestation.

Today, as part of the team of BEST Society, i have the privilege to get myself involved with this project,

Organizing an educational environmental awareness program in conjunction with the "World Environmental Day" with the theme : Forest nature at your services.

So, together with a few colleagues, we inherited the culture of Best Society- A tree planting activities that followed by a half day educational program with some fun and quizzes.This is a pretty simple awareness program i have run so far, nonetheless it is the most impact one i can see towards te little children of Sukau primary school.

The left over from SRL kitchen turned to useful nursery fertilizer

The short food waste composting demo, the "get down and dirty" tree planting activities, the "river cleaning" cruise along Kinabatangan River, and most of all the brain twisting quizzes that challenged the mindset of the children. I suppose education is the best way to safe the deforestation revolution.


River Cleaning along the way to KWICORP site


And of course the two SRL ambassador ushering us ( Brett from AUS & Donnie from South Africa )


Marvin- SRL staff (The Orang Sungai), trying to explain "This is not rubbish, this is our trap to catch fresh water lobster"

So, yeah with me holding the camera, this is the only me i could take. The Pua Chiu Kang boots, cool !


Offering helping hand to the little ones.


A simple group photo for all.


So, when event almost over, some Pongos were having fun at the back.

This trip, i get too excited about the project, i did not manage to catch any good shot on animals, especially the starring Borneo Pygmy Elephant, next trip down, i assure you, i will upload some good photos of this Female Kingdom mammals.

When chaotic blend of modern and contemporary -brings music to life

2011-05-26T21:16:00.000-07:00

I have nothing much to say.. Just post this up and hope you enjoy the ethnicity blend of this music played by Roger and Hazekiah, it was an instrument called "Sape" in Hazekiah's hand and Roger with his little "guitar" ( i m not sure what you call that) ; i took it with my D5000, from a distance away. It wasn't too good but this is the highlight and best moment i enjoyed during the Concert of Roger Wang & friends at Likas Trade Center. For more details on Roger A local pioneer guitarist and talent developer... visit his website at http://www.rogerwang.net

Volunteer + Tourism = Voluntourism

2011-05-26T01:53:00.000-07:00

Hi, for some friends who have been wondering why couldn't reach me while you were in Sabah. I am so sorry ( Especially @Jackie@Andrew@Anton & Catherine@Pilot Tom@Dwi), for you know i am currently very much involved with out reaching Community Projects, especially on building local community capacity. I sometimes travel to remote area, where the line are really bad.. Although the yellow man ( DIGI/ the leading Telco in Sabah) seems always with me, but somehow still a lot of you guys are complaining that couldn't get hold of me. Check out the organization that i am with,so whatever my organization do, its where i blend in all my passion and vision to eliminate the poverty in Sabah.

Check this article out where it summarizes what my organization did and still doing now :-

ECU on Ecotourism Study Tour

Being the contributor for TIES ( The International Ecotourism Society) under the umbrella of BEST Society.

On top of that, turning my passion to reality, i also write for Lifestyle magazine ~ Breeze. This magazine is free circulated every month in most of the cafe, fitness center as well tourism destination i.e lodge, restaurant and terminal? I am not sure ( but hey, they are cool stuff , check them out in facebook if you are not in town )

Being the contributor for Breeze ( A Borneon lifestyle magazine ) specializes in domestic Ecotourism Destination.

Ahh~ this one was featured this month ( for your information May is the Harvest Festival month, which means everyone is their culturistic and drinking mode :) )

And of course, i do still spend time with my three furkids... who can never leave me alone :) . In fact recently just brought Babe ( my eldest ) to Sully in Timesquare, KK for a Party Animal event, a fund raising event for SPCA KK. So this is for you Catherine, Jacqui Leong and Crystal Fetting, Caroline Anthony. I do remember you girls.

A gorgeous guest adoring babe...

Till then, amigo. :)

I am giving my boyfriend away !

2011-05-25T08:30:00.000-07:00

My Lazy Boyfriend - Bacho !

Hey...

Anyone of you need a good companion for drinking, looking after your house and mess up your living room...

Do let me know.

I am giving out my boyfriend Bacho! He is such a CLEVERRRR boy.. Aramaiti before the Harvest Festival !

When i am busy taking pictures for the Unduk Ngadau session in every district, he started his drinking session already, and when i am back.. he is like this ( above picture )

How can you rely on a sire like this to watch after your house.. thats why i call him a companion.

Useless dog.. i am giving my boyfriend away....

JUST FOR LAUGH ! TO ALL SABAHAN.... HAPPY HARVEST FESTIVAL !

Pesta Ka’amatan – What it meant to Sabahan nowadays

2011-05-10T01:48:00.000-07:00

The month of May, is the busiest and exuberant month for the indigenous of Sabah. In this joyous month, 32 tribes with more than 80 dialects will join together to celebrate this meaningful occasion. Pesta kaamatan generally means “Harvest Festival”. It is intricately connected with rice cultivation and with a cycle of life. Rice is Sabah golden crop, it is the grain of life and Pesta Kaamatan marks the end of the planting cycle. It is intimately related to the ethnicity ranging from culture, social strata and mostly of all religion. If you want a glimpse of Sabah’s origin and nativity, and at the same time capture the true spirit of the mystical “Land below the Wind” this is the time to visit us!

A Short History of Pesta Kaamatan

The life of the people in Borneo, essentially that of hunters, subsistence rice farmers and wild fruits collectors. The livelihood which involve everyone from youngest to the eldest, man and woman was a hard one. Preparing rice fields, collecting firewoods, weeding, prepare seedlings, planting, watching out for crops to harvesting ripe crops involved back-breaking process. But it wasn’t just the labor intensive nature that caused such veneration for the crops; a natural disaster such as flood, drought, and herbicides has become the main obstacle, not enough rice meant famine. Over decades of years rice cultivation superstitious and taboo sprung up, no one thanks God for rice more gratefully then the humble farmer.

"Huminodun"- by Yee-I Lann, produced the rich historical of Photographing was exhibited at the national Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne.

The Mengavau Ceremony

“Mengavau” literally means to recover what one has lost, by whatever means, it is a thanksgiving ritual, led by a female religious priest called “Bobohizan”. When the Bobohizan cuts the first shoot of ripe paddy grains to mark the beginning of the harvesting time, a long beckoning prayer is recited to invite “Bambaazon” to return home to the household rice barns to rest until the time comes for selecting the grains to be sown anew.

Nowadays, such festival is open to all, merry making feast take place and “The natives” celebrate them in more of a joyous way. “Tapai”, which is a formed of rice wine were served in a small bamboo cups or a big ceramic jar. When one is salute with the word “Aramaiti”, it means “cheers” to the festive. As the non-stop "Tapai” pouring goes, the spirit of sharing, forgiving and fellowship is practiced, the harmonious mingling and interactions of the Kaamatan celebrates who come from all walks of life, from various colours, creed and cultural tradition. The continuous bit of gongs and Sumazau dance to the joyous rhythm continue for days. “Sumazau is the traditional kadazanDusun that every generation of the origins has learned to live.

The Cultural dance- Mengunatip has become an international

performance each varies from 32 tribal of North Borneo.

Little "Unduk Ngadau"

From Ethnicity to Nationalism

Nowadays, we do not solely rely on rice cultivation nor we have such plentiful land where we can plant rice but we celebrate Kaamatan every year to embrace our tradition. In the capital of Sabah, kota Kinabalu city, everybody works in government offices or private company and so on, it varies so much. However in the individual context, people from all walks of life come together and interact with one another in order to nurture and strengthen friendship (silatul-rahim), which was established among us without distinguishing between ethnic group and religion. Be it differ in colour, culture, language and even religion. The community of Sabah has never deviate from the “1 Malaysia” concept.

My beloved Kadazan Family

Aron, Charmaine and Zachary Mobijohn

Taking this opportunity, i wish you all " Kotobian Tadao Tagozo Do kaamatan" ; Aramaiti! and have fun with the "Tapai" ",Sumazau" dance as well as experience the "Bahar" "Lihing" and "Montoku" !

My next blog will feature one of the Unduk Ngadau winner from Tuaran District- Caroline Anthony ....

Tapai Session with David Kitingan

2011-04-26T08:23:00.000-07:00

I have been outstation a lot lately, due to the happenings and preparation of kaamatan (Harvest Festival) next month. so many events been happening, so many ideas in mind, so many photos to shoot and so much "Tapai" to taste ! I write for Breeze, Borneo Travel Blog as well as BEST Society. In my blog, i would love to write about something behind the scene, something i don't have to care so much if it is relevant, but something came from the back of my mind.

The most relaxing assignment i came across was having a session with David Kitingan. The Operator of the Tapai Factory Tambunan Village Recreational centre (TVRC). Knowing its a TAPAI ( rice wine) factory.. all my family members couldn't help but offer all sorts of assistance they can give. Juli ( my sister) offer to gather input so she can follow,Alut (my dad) couldn't be more happier then being my driver to Tambunan, you see.. this is how a kadazan gin in us.. as the saying in us " With Wine and Hope; Everything is Possible ! " ...LOL

"The wooden Tapai Factory, humbly located at the end of Tambunan Village Recreational Centre, we went in through the back door, and found David quietly reading newspaper in his Tapai kingdom. "

"David , preparing his humble table for our little Interview"

Well, i do not want to describe so much on the factory as you will be able to access various information about TVRC Tapai factory through google search, all i endure is my "Lihing" session and deep chat with David- a retired sergeant and currently an operator of this Tapai factory.

Me: " David, this Tapai jar looks old, are they still usable?"
David: " Yes, we custom ordered from Tuaran, ceramic factory, all of them are capital investment and all of them are kept for future use.

Me: " But they look so old.. so ermm.. "
David : " No before we use we have to boil them, soak them in a big stainless steel pot and boil them, this not only eliminate germs and it also helps to preserve the rice wine in order not to turn sour.. "

Me :" So, can you tell me a little about process of making Tapai?"

David : " Today we do not have production, its pretty simple. Rice grain is smashed in this smasher called "lesung padi" to separate the husk from the grain..the rice is put in the centre and smashed using the 'wooden smasher'..i don't know whether to call it smash or squeezed or what - or even if it is the correct word to use..but whatever it is ..the usage is almost like in the mortar used in labs the other almost-oval-shaped 'thing' is called the tampi...which is woven from thinned bamboo sticks..the function is to let the husk fall while retains the rice grain in it..the mechanism is simply by moving the 'sifter' up and down..preferably in windy condition.."

Me: " Hmm... too bad you don't have production today ( it was Sunday when i met him), i really would love to see some action in this factory.

David :" No.. no.. no.. no.. today i just want to drink, with your dad .. and you.. and we talk, we tell story.

Me: " OK... :) OK.. i like that..
"Tan Sri Joseph pairin Kitingan- Huguan Siu of kadazanDusun community in Sabah"

Me: " So, tell me.. you are the elder brother of our "Huguan Siu", Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan.. tell me more ..

David: " Yes i am.. i am the elder brother, but i don't like to be a public figure. This TVRC is founded by my other brother Jeffrey and i am in charge specifically on this wine factory." i tell you what.. take some of this Lihing.. and you try and see you can taste the different...

Me: " OK, OK.. ( i sipped on the Lihing ) .. wow.. it taste sweet and smooth.. i think its good to cook my favorite Chinese dish "The Drunken Chicken" , Do you have more? i want to buy...

David: " No Mel, i can't produce too much as the demand is not there, and this wine cannot be kept too long, it will turn sour and it will waste all my time and ingredient." Some one need to market, some one need to do a lot of publicity about this wine production. We are under utilize and we can produce up to 50 Tajau in a production. Just to bad the demand is not there, we have compete with the individual home maker.."

Me : " Well, i understand that, marketing alone is not enough, we need to also involve a lot of operational cost, maintenance, even inculcate the cultural element in this Rice wine making.. It has to be not just about the wine, it has to be about the culture, the visitors who endure the history and such veneration on the Rice Wine making.

David :" Yes.. exactly, come "aramaiti"... next two week Monday you can come, i have production.

Mel : " Production? oh.. how many people are working ? "

David :" Two, plus me.. three .."

Mel :" ohh ok, how does the job function goes....?"

David : " well... there are three of us.. 2 of my staffs will be complete the Tapai preparation untill the end. One time production we produce around 30-50 jar.. so .. my job is to taste them."

Mel : " To taste?! Wow, thats pretty interesting and cool job function.. by the end of the wine tasting, you are gone.. hahahaha"

David : " Yes, sometimes i have to make sure the rice is not over cook, its not too sour or its at the right temperature for fermentation; my tolerance is high.. it taste even better with the Guinness in it."

Mel: " Hahahah, obviously that not wine tasting already... thats Monginum :) !"

David :" Well, you know our culture, our people and our weaknesses... we can refuse, but we can resist." He said it with a calm smile. OK, ok, let's come to the back kitchen, i have some good old wine and Lihing.. thats my secret drinks.. only for you guys...

and so the day went dozing off with continuous pouring of wine...

"Dad, counting his Lihing... happily displaying on the table..."

The district kaamatan celebration in Kg.Teranaan, Tambunan is on the 21st and 28th May 2011.Do feel free to come visit the Tamu market and you will be served with various local native delicacies and cultural exposure...

The RUNGUS Tribe in North Borneo

2011-04-08T02:55:00.000-07:00

The Rungus, is one of the most ancient indigenous tribe in Borneo. The are mostly concentrate in the North Borneo, Kudat. By right they are actually a sub group of the kadazan-Dusun, however due to the pride and modernization of the indigenous mindset, Rungus are known to have their own uniqueness in terms of their traditional accustom as well as distinctive attitude ( which is their pride, dignity and..... ignorant at times.) During my community project reached out last month, i discovered that Rungus lasses are simply unique, they have small, fine chinese looking eyes ( in malay we actually call SEPET), thick lips, broad shoulder, and high forehead.

" The Rungus girls proudly presenting their traditional costume"

The event that led me here was actually a community development programme being done by the foundation i am attached to ;BEST Society. A" Living Water Project" that benefits more then 80 household in a village named Terongkongan Laut & Darat... ( well i have difficulty pronouncing this village name before, it absolutely feels like a tongue twister, ain't it :)? )

The Rungus dance performance came in during the prime of the event. We were all sitting in the multi purpose hall which was made of traditional raw material. The thatched roof was made from tidy weaved of dried nipah palm, and the solid house frame were the best quality timber called"Berlian" and the flooring was elevated platform of split bamboos giving the hall a great ventilation and ample of sitting area. Oh, and the wall were partition by a kind of tree skin, which eventually helps to absorb moisture that cause fungus to the building structure. No wonder Rungus are so proud of their talent and arts, I salute !

" The Rungus Dance, smooth and charming"

When the soothing gong orchestra starts playing, a row of charming young dancers led by a male lead dancer,stepping out in raw with their feet in sequel ( pretty much different from Sumazau) each with the bell anklet on their feet. Wrapping around them were colourful handmade beads, and criss cross through their shoulders were the long bead bands. Now i know why Rungus were reckon as the best handicraft maker among the Sabah Indigenous people.

"Simple and inspiring chat with Samoil"

While enduring the breeze and cheerful crowd, i took the time to meet Samoil, whom is the wisest and most respected village headman, also the owner of this piece of land we are sitting on, Samoil told me" Our lives are simple, we have experience in many fields but limited income,” his sparkling charm peeking through in a glance and seriousness, “we like to be self– employed , and have our freedom from “disturbance” ; however to capitalize our strength as a RUNGUS, we have to accept CHANGES. Because of PRIDE, many of us are resistant to change the mindset and carry the attitude of arrogant and preserve, we have to open up and CHANGE , or else we will be leftt behind modernization.” Judging from his words, i now know why he has serves the village as a headman for five series.

"A good caption with my team mates before leaving the local community"

I feel lucky to be here today. To endure the joy of young kids being splashed by clean water after the launching of Living Water Project, years of clean water supply shortage has given an alarming health hazard to them.I am enlightened by Samoil, a simple down to earth man but created significant impact not only to his community but also to me... People who are resistant to change, is always left behind the evolution ......so to my indigenous friends ; come out from your comfort zone, and accept the challenge to come, no one can help you beside yourself.

P/S: Some pictures courtesy by Joebonaventure. Thanks Joe... :)

Bid farewell to Mounia

2011-04-06T00:00:00.000-07:00

If you happened to browse through my blog about a Dutch girl named Mounia, on the title "Her first attempt to Sabah, Asia Indeed..." regretted to say that she left Sabah and only be able to stay put for two months here in KK.

Well, i am not quite sure the main reason she left. Somehow her tears during our farewell session to her shows that " she does love us, SABAHAN :) " Here are some pictures of her ....

Mounia, crying her way out when asked to express herself during the farewell session...

Mounia,the wonderful people Of BET would like to say

"May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of his hand. "

~Ciao Mounia~