UTARABOY BLOG

ALL ABOUT PERLIS

2010-02-15T15:09:00.000+08:00

Perlis may be the smallest state in Malaysia, but it boasts a wealth of natural, cultural and historical splendours that rival the bigger states. You may be mesmerised by the many quaint villages, picturesque scenery and centuries-old traditions wherever you go. In short, Perlis is the perfect destination to head for if you prefer old world charm instead of the hustle and bustle of the city, where life is unhurried and the environment naturally fresh and crisp.

Perlis lies at the northwestern tip of the Malay Peninsula; bounded by Thailand in the north, and by Kedah to the east and south. Its western coastline borders the Straits of Malacca. It measures approximately 810 sq km and has a population of 217,480. The state capital is Kangar while Arau, 10 km away, is the Royal town.

Although small in size, Perlis is not without its attractions, foremost among which is its serene beauty. Perlis, too, abounds with rustic rural scenes and rolling green fields of padi.
January to April the weather is generally warm and dry. Days are hot and windy but nights can become cold towards dawn. September to December is wet. The average annual rainfall is between 2,000 ml and 2,500 ml (80" to 100") and humidity is high throughout the year. Temperature varies little the year round, ranging from 21°C to 32°C.

History

Perlis was once a part of Kedah which the Thais conquered in 1821. When Kedah was subsequently restored to the Sultan of Kedah, Perlis was separated from it and established as a vassal state in its own right. The Anglo-Siamese Treaty of 1909 transferred Thai sovereignty over Perlis to the British but the Japanese 'handed it back' to Thailand during its occupation of the Malay Peninsula. After the Japanese surrendered, Perlis once again came under British protection until it gained independence under the banner of the Federation of Malaya in 1957.

Cultural Heritage

For leisure, the people of Perlis enjoy a variety of activities ranging from traditional dances to traditional games and pastimes handed down through generations. "Tarian Canggung" and "Tarian Ayam Didik" are examples of dances and equally irresistible feet stomping may still be seen today.

Tarian Canggung, a traditional dance, was brought from early historical times, and performed by the people as a form of celebration after harvest time. In fact, it is the people's dance where singing and exchanges of words in stanzas (called 'berbalas pantun') are freely and jestingly called for to the accompaniment of music.

Tarian Terinai, is yet another dance and musical presentation, performed specifically during a royal ceremony. The musical accompaniment is usually provided by the beating of Gendang Terinai (drums), normally performed by five musicians.

Awang Batil is akin to a 'story-teller' who tells of the glory and richness of life of the people of olden times. In a sense, Awang Batil is not much different from the minstrels of old England. Awang Batil is an expert with words, albeit colloquial, and as he proceeds with his story he beats a small drum and plays a tune on his flute as and when the story line demands. Such a presentation was normal during a big feast and during one form of festivity or another in times gone by.

Seni Silat is the traditional Malay art of self-defence. It has become an integral part of an official function as it is also performed by individuals, singly or as a team, as part of the festivities associated with the function. Silat takes on various forms, depending on the origin, body thrusts and artistic representations.

Tasik Melati

Tasik Melati is a small but picturesque lake located in a partially marshy lowland about 8 kilometres north of Kangar. The lake is shallow. More than 150 sandbar-islands may be seen all over the lake. Sampans can be rowed to these tiny 'islands'. Elevated walkways are also found over the waters of the lake, providing vantage viewpoints and seatings for visitors. There is also a parameter walkway as well as telephone kiosks and toilet facilities.

Snake Farm

Perlis is noted for its large population of venomous snakes, the limestone caves and crevices offering the best of natural habitats for the slithery creatures. The Snake Farm at Sungai Batu Pahat houses a large collection of 23 species of live snakes in large open-air enclosures. In addition, there is a crocodile and a fish pond.

Gua Kelam Recreation Park

Gua Kelam, Kaki Bukit refers to the 370-metre long limestone cave at the small town of Kaki Bukit. Its name literally means "at a foothill (Kaki Bukit) lies a dark cave (Gua Kelam)".

Access to the cave is by way of a suspension bridge. The uniqueness of approach, as well as the experience of walking along the bridge, make a visit to this place an intriguing and adventurous experience.

A subterranean stream flows in the limestone range near Kaki Bukit for about a quarter of a mile long. As in other limestone areas, the stream has built a long cavern over the centuries. This physiographic phenomenon was enlarged throughout the length of the underground stream in 1935 by a resident Englishman who saw it as a marvelous way of transporting tin ore from a mine located near the stream entrance through the underground cavern.

A wooden walkway hangs suspended throughout the length of the underground cavern providing a wondrous means of communication from Kaki Bukit to a valley on the opposite end - the Wan Tangga Valley.

INTERESTING PLACE IN MALACCA

2010-01-29T09:08:00.001+08:00

A FAMOSA

The hallmark of Malacca and perhaps the most photographed subject next to the Stadhuys. Built by the Portuguese in 1511 as a fortress it sustained severe structural damage during the Dutch Invasion. The British East India Company had set to destroy it but timely intervention by Sir Stamford Raffles in 1808 saved what remains of A Famosa today.

ST. FRANCIS XAVIER'S CHURCH

Built in 1849, by Reverend Farve, a Frenchman, who later became Professor of Malay in Paris. It stands on the site of an earlier Portuguese church built in 1553. The Gothic twin towered church is dedicated to St. Francis Xavier is well-remembered for his missionary work spreading Catholicism to South East Asia in the 16th Century..

THE STADHUYS

Built in 1650 as the official residence of Dutch Governors and their officers, the edifice is a fine example of Dutch architecture. Preserved in its original structure and form , it now houses the Historic Museum and Ethnography Museum. On display daily are fine traditional bridal costumes and relics from Malacca's glorious past.

INDEPENDENCE OBELISK

Located in Padang Pahlawan, the obelisk with the alphabet "M" which stands for Merdeka which means Independence signifies the place where the last British Resident Commissioner of Malacca, H.G. Hammet handed over the instrument of independence to the first local Governor of Malacca, Tun Leong Yew Koh, on 31st August 1957. On this very field with more than 50,000 locals welcomed Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al Haj(the first Prime Minister) and his entourage on the 20th February 1956 on their return from England after successfully negotiating for Independance from the British. In this field the joyous shouts of "Merdeka" was heard and holding a banner "Dibawah runtuhan Kota Melaka kita dirikan negara baru" which means "Within the ruins of the Fort of Malacca we form a new nation". One and a half years later the triumphant shouts of "Merdeka" were heard again in the Federal Capital, Kuala Lumpur.

PORTUGUESE CROSS CITY ( CITY CROSS )

Located near Padang Pahlawan, the iron cross was erected in 1954 by the Malacca Historical Society to replace an earlier cross made from wood. The site is the location of the legendary "St Francis Xavier's Rock". Legends says that St. Francis Xavier first set foot on this rock before landing in Melaka. Before the area was reclaimed, the rock was never covered by the sea during high tide. Portuguese historian Emanuel Godinho de Eredia drawings in 1613 attest to the location of the cross.

YOUR BLOOD GROUP

2010-01-28T23:58:00.004+08:00

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GREAT WALL OF CHINA

2010-01-11T19:16:00.004+08:00

The Great Wall of China was built over 2,000 years ago, by Qin Shi Huangdi, the first emperor of China during the Qin (Ch'in) Dynasty (221 B.C - 206 B.C.). In Chinese the wall is called "Wan-Li Qang-Qeng" which means 10,000-Li Long Wall (10,000 Li = about 5,000 km).

After subjugating and uniting China from seven Warring States, the emperor connected and extended four old fortification walls along the north of China that originated about 700 B.C. (over 2500 years ago). Armies were stationed along the wall as a first line of defense against the invading nomadic Hsiung Nu tribes north of China (the Huns). Signal fires from the Wall provided early warning of an attack.

The Great Wall is one of the largest building construction projects ever completed. It stretches across the mountains of northern China, winding north and northwest of Beijing. It is constructed of masonry, rocks and packed-earth. It was over 5,000 km (=10,000 Li) long. Its thickness ranged from about 4.5 to 9 meters (15 to 30 feet) and was up to 7.5 meters (25 feet) tall.

During the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), the Great Wall was enlarged to 6,400 kilometers (4,000 miles) and renovated over a 200 year period, with watch-towers and cannons added.

The Great Wall can be seen from Earth orbit, but, contrary to legend, is not visible from the moon, according to astronauts Neil Armstrong, Jim Lovell, and Jim Irwin.

10 SHOPPING DESTINATION IN MALAYSIA

2009-12-22T18:34:00.004+08:00

1. 1 Utama Shopping center - located at Bandar Utama, which the locals called 1U. It is one of the best shopping malls in Malaysia where one can see the best finds. There are so much to see here like wardrobes, furniture, home wares and a lot more. There are also places around the mall where one can enjoy various activities like bowling and fitness centers. One can also find the best variety of delicious foods in 1U shopping center.

2. The Mid Valley Mega mall - located in Kuala Lumpur that is a mega complex with office buildings and hotels. There are lots to find here with such as local and international goods. One will always find the things he need and even the interesting things he never would expect to find.

3. Suria KLCC - located Kuala Lumpur, at the foot of the very famous Petronas twin towers. One may not only get to find the latest and most interesting finds, but also to see one of the most beautiful and tallest buildings. There is also a park outside the Suria KLCC where is an ideal place to rest after a whole day of shopping.

4. Sunway Pyramid - located in Bandar Sunway. This shopping center is famous for its unique Egyptian theme. You probably know this as the place in Malaysia with a big replica of a lion's head at its main entrance. Other feature that makes this shopping center is famous for is because it has an ice skating rink inside, and is the first in Malaysia having a skating area within a shopping mall.

5. Star Hill Gallery - located in Kuala Lumpur, has items that are made by both local and international designers. There are also dining stores where one can rest and eat after a tiring but exciting shopping spree.

6. China Town - located in Kuala Lumpur, along the Petaling Street and is a lively marketplace where one can find lots of Chinese goods and products. There are lots of things being sold here such as medicines, herbs, electronic products, home wares and other interesting stuffs. The street is quiet very crowded from late afternoons until the late evenings.

7. Low Yat Plaza - found in Kuala Lumpur, and a very well known place to find IT products and materials. Everything that involves IT stuffs is found here. From computer parts to graphic cards with all the latest and premium brands, Low Yat Plaza is where you can find all of them.

8. Mid Valley Mega Mall - located in Kuala Lumpur and is one of the biggest shopping malls in Asia. A very wide variety of shopping stalls and outlets are found here including bookstores, dining stores, and entertainment sections. The mall also is very artistically designed with modern quality that is so much adored by shoppers.

9. Berjaya Time Square - located in Bukit Bintang in Kuala Lumpur, one of the latest shopping malls in Malaysia. The building id quiet very spacious with its large area that is almost like a tower-mall.

10. Sungai Wang Plaza - also located in Bukit Bintang Kuala Lumpur. A vast variety of stores are found here with several dining shops and cafés within the mall.

ONE MALAYSIA

2009-12-20T19:53:00.001+08:00

The 1Malaysia is not a new concept or formula from our Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Najib. Rather, the ultimate goal of 1Malaysia, which is national unity, has been the main vision of our country’s leaders before, and has been interpreted in various shapes and forms over the span of five decades of Independence. If we truly study it, what has changed is the approach and implementation according to the ever-changing times and generations.

In other words, 1Malaysia is a concept to foster unity amongst the multi-ethnic rakyat of Malaysia, substantiated by key values that every Malaysian should observe. The approach is not independent of the Government’s policies thus far , instead it complements them to further reinforce our solidarity in order to guarantee stability towards achieving higher growth and development for Malaysia and other people. This means that 1Malaysia is a formula conceptualised as a precondition in ensuring the aspirations of the country to secure a developed status by 2020 are met, if it is inculcated in the minds of the Rakyat and practiced by the entire community. If the idea of "Bangsa Malaysia" which was engendered through Vision 2020 becomes the final destination, then 1Malaysia is the roadmap that guides us towards that destination.

This definition is built upon the argument that in order achieve the status of a developed nation in the predetermined time frame, the key requisite is a strong and stable country, which can only be achieved when its people stand united. The 1Malaysia national philosophy can be extended to the concept of 1Region and ultimately 1World. This would be the next logical extension of the philosophy based on mutual trust and respect between all communities. This was the right formula not only for national harmony but also for enhancing regional and global peace.

On the other hand 1Malaysia values and respects the ethnic identities of each community in Malaysia, and proudly regards them as an asset or advantage....

TAJ MAHAL

2009-12-18T18:59:00.004+08:00

Taj Mahal is regarded as one of the eight wonders of the world, and some Western historians have noted that its architectural beauty has never been surpassed. The Taj is the most beautiful monument built by the Mughals, the Muslim rulers of India. Taj Mahal is built entirely of white marble. Its stunning architectural beauty is beyond adequate description, particularly at dawn and sunset. The Taj seems to glow in the light of the full moon. On a foggy morning, the visitors experience the Taj as if suspended when viewed from across the Jamuna river.

Taj Mahal was built by a Muslim, Emperor Shah Jahan (died 1666 C.E.) in the memory of his dear wife and queen Mumtaz Mahal at Agra, India. It is an "elegy in marble" or some say an expression of a "dream." Taj Mahal (meaning Crown Palace) is a Mausoleum that houses the grave of queen Mumtaz Mahal at the lower chamber. The grave of Shah Jahan was added to it later. The queen’s real name was Arjumand Banu. In the tradition of the Mughals, important ladies of the royal family were given another name at their marriage or at some other significant event in their lives, and that new name was commonly used by the public. Shah Jahan's real name was Shahab-ud-din, and he was known as Prince Khurram before ascending to the throne in 1628.

Taj Mahal was constructed over a period of twenty-two years, employing twenty thousand workers. It was completed in 1648 C.E. at a cost of 32 Million Rupees. The construction documents show that its master architect was Ustad ‘Isa, the renowned Islamic architect of his time. The documents contain names of those employed and the inventory of construction materials and their origin. Expert craftsmen from Delhi, Qannauj, Lahore, and Multan were employed. In addition, many renowned Muslim craftsmen from Baghdad, Shiraz and Bukhara worked on many specialized tasks.

The Taj stands on a raised, square platform (186 x 186 feet) with its four corners truncated, forming an unequal octagon. The architectural design uses the interlocking arabesque concept, in which each element stands on its own and perfectly integrates with the main structure. It uses the principles of self-replicating geometry and a symmetry of architectural elements.

Its central dome is fifty-eight feet in diameter and rises to a height of 213 feet. It is flanked by four subsidiary domed chambers. The four graceful, slender minarets are 162.5 feet each. The entire mausoleum (inside as well as outside) is decorated with inlaid design of flowers and calligraphy using precious gems such as agate and jasper. The main archways, chiseled with passages from the Holy Qur’an and the bold scroll work of flowery pattern, give a captivating charm to its beauty. The central domed chamber and four adjoining chambers include many walls and panels of Islamic decoration.

The mausoleum is a part of a vast complex comprising of a main gateway, an elaborate garden, a mosque (to the left), a guest house (to the right), and several other palatial buildings. The Taj is at the farthest end of this complex, with the river Jamuna behind it. The large garden contains four reflecting pools dividing it at the center. Each of these four sections is further subdivided into four sections and then each into yet another four sections. Like the Taj, the garden elements serve like Arabesque, standing on their own and also constituting the whole.

GENTING HIGLANDS THEME PARK

2009-12-09T17:29:00.010+08:00

Dubbed ‘City of Entertainment’, Genting Highlands is a well-rounded, one-stop holiday destination situated some 2000 metres above sea level.

Founded in 1965, this multi-award-winning highland resort is highly accessible from the city centre; it is only about an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur.

Throughout the years, Genting Highlands with its cool mountain climate remains a firm favourite amongst both Malaysians and foreigners.

With a multitude of attractions which include theme parks, a casino, a shopping mall, a horse ranch, an 18-hole golf course and a world-class entertainment centre, this popular resort promises a good time for everyone regardless of whether you’re here with the whole family or with friends.

Also located within its grounds are a superb collection of hotels so that visitors never have to leave the area if they don’t want to!

This sprawling, multi-million-ringgit attraction consists of an indoor theme park, an outdoor theme park and a water park. Featuring over 40 fun, exhilarating – and sometimes hairy-raising – rides, the Genting Theme Park is one of Genting Highlands’ signature attractions.

Definitely not just for small kids, the Genting Theme Park also features some attractions which are so stomach-churningly challenging that pregnant women and those with heart problems are prohibited from going on them! One-day unlimited ride passes are also available for unlimited access to most of the rides in the theme park.

First World Plaza is perhaps the coolest shopping mall in Malaysia – quite literally!

Housing over 90 retail outlets, this shopping mall also contains a bowling arena, a cineplex, an indoor theme park, a man-made winter wonderland and a Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! Museum.

This shopping-mall-with-a-difference also has plenty of dining options within it, from fast-food joints to gourmet restaurants, where patrons can fuel up after a long day trawling the shops and visiting all the featured attractions.

Covering a distance of 3.8 kilometres, Genting Skyway is South East Asia’s longest skyway and, at a maximum speed of 6 metres per second, is also the world’s fastest skyway. Running from the Genting Highlands station to the Gohtong Jaya station, taking a ride on the skyway provides plenty of opportunities to feast your eyes on some of the best views on the mountains and of the areas surrounding it.

Aside from having buses and car-parking facilities readily available, the skyway stations also provide added convenience in the form of luggage check-in services for hotel guests. Visitors can also opt to ride the skyway all the way up to the Genting Theme Park.

An impressive entertainment venue in a class of its own, Arena of Stars has played host to some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry over the years. Jim Brickman, Richard Clayderman, Kitaro and The Black-Eyed Peas are just some of the international acts who have graced its halls.

Boasting a colossal amphitheatre which is fully-equipped with state-of-the-art sound systems and stage lighting, the Arena of Stars can accommodate up to 6000 persons at one time, making it an ideal venue for international concerts and performances.

MALAY FOOD

2009-11-30T15:36:00.000+08:00

Variety is the spice in Malay food. The traditional culinary style has been greatly influenced by the long-ago traders from neighboring countries, such as Indonesia, India, the Middle East, and China. Malay food is often described as spicy and flavorful as it utilizes a melting pot of spices and herbs.

Malay cooking incorporates ingredients such as lemon grass, pandan (screwpine) leaves, and kaffir lime leaves. Fresh herbs, such as daun kemangi (a type of basil), daun kesum (polygonum or laksa leaf), nutmeg, kunyit (turmeric) and bunga kantan (wild ginger buds) are often used. Traditional spices such as cumin and coriander are used in conjunction with Indian and Chinese spices such as pepper, cardamom, star anise and fenugreek. Seasonings play an important role in Malay cooking as they often enhance the food taste and flavors. Many of the seasonings are not dried spices but are fresh ingredients such as fresh turmeric, galangal, fresh chili paste, onions, and garlic. A combination of fresh seasonings and dried spices are normally pounded together to make a fine paste and cooked in oil. Fresh coconut milk is often added.

Rice is the staple diet in any Malay meal. It is often served for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and supper too. Most meals are eaten by using your fingers, and eating utensils are kept to a minimum. All dishes are served at the same time, accompanied by a refreshing drink. Fish is popular in Malay cooking, as with other seafood such as shrimps and cuttlefish. Beef and mutton are very popular choices but never pork as it is against their religious beliefs to eat pork. The other popular white meat is chicken.

One of the most unique Malay dishes is the "roti jala" (lacy pancakes), which sometimes replaces the staple rice. Roti jala is an ideal accompaniment to any dish with lots of rich gravy and is often served during special occasions. It is made from a mixture of plain flour and eggs, with a pinch of turmeric powder and butter. Desserts are a must for any Malay meal. Easily available at most local restaurants and roadside stalls, Malay desserts are invariably very sweet and include ingredients such as coconut milk, palm sugar, and flour.

INTERESTING PLACES OF KEDAH

2009-11-24T14:05:00.000+08:00

LANGKAWI
Kedah’s economic trump card is Langkawi Island. Langkawi draws tourists all across the world each year that come to enjoy its beaches, shopping and sights during the holiday season.

ALOR STAR
The best place to start exploring Kedah's cultural heritage is in its capital of Alor Setar, with its many handsome old buildings like the Balai Besar, Balai Seni Negeri, Masjid Zahir, Courthouse and General Post Office, all of which define the atmosphere of colonial rule.

PEDU LAKE
This lake was created by making a dam out of a water catchment area deep in the jungles of Kedah to supply paddy farmers with water. Now the lake also doubles up as a peaceful retreat, famous for its ‘tualang’ trees and honey from bees.

SUNGAI SEDIM
Sungai Sedim is a fast-flowing river that contains a 17 km stretch for white-water rafting. Access is through Kampung Lindungan Raja in the Kulim district, roughly a 2-hour drive from Alor Setar. You can also kayak or trek in the jungles here.

BUKIT HIJAU
Situated in the heart of the Gunung Inas Virgin Forest Reserve in Baling, the Bukit Hijau recreational forest has an incredible variety of flora and fauna. Many people come here to swim in its streams fed by a seven-tiered waterfall famous for its pure, crystal-clear waters.

BUJANG VALLEY
Bujang Valley is located near the town of Sungai Petani and was the scene of a once thriving Hindu-Buddhist civilization dating to the 5th Century. Over 50 archaeological sites have been discovered here containing the ruins of Hindu and Buddhist temples. The Lembah Bujang Archaeological Museum was built here to display some of the findings, including pottery shards, ceramics and stone carvings. Indian tridents and gemstones from the Middle East are also displayed.

TRADITIONAL GAMES OF MALAYSIA

2009-11-24T13:34:00.000+08:00

Wau (Kite Flying)
See the dazzling display of kites gliding and swooping across the azure sky! Once played by farmers on leveled ground after post-harvesting season, it now attracts people from all walks of life. Over the years, kite festivals have encouraged creativity in kite-making, thus resulting in kites that are designed in the shape of a fish, cat, caterpillar, and bird. But the Kelantanese wau-bulan (moon-kite) still remains as popular as it was years ago.

Sepak Raga Bulat (Rattan Ball Game)
Once a game of village youths, sepak raga bulat has become a popular sport among the young urban males. Players standing in a circle keep a rattan ball aloft with any part of their body except their hands. The ball is kept in constant motion without hands touching it.

Gasing (Giant Top Spinning)
Giant top spinning is no child’s game! Each gasing or top weighs approximately 5kg. It calls for strength, coordination, and skill. The gasing, if expertly hurled, can spin for as long as 2 hours. Top spinning competitions are an annual feature in the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia especially Kelantan and Terengganu.

Congkak (Board Game)
Congkak is a game of wit played by womenfolk in ancient times that required no more than holes in the earth and tamarind seeds. Today, it has been refined to a board game. It consists of a wooden board with two rows of five, seven, or nine holes and two large holes at both ends called “home”. Congkak, played with shells, pebbles or tamarind seeds, requires two players.

2012 SYNOPSIS

2009-11-24T13:06:00.000+08:00

Disaster movie maven Roland Emmerich (Independence Day, The Day After Tomorrow) crafts this apocalyptic sci-fi thriller following the prophecy stated by the ancient Mayan calendar, which says that the world will come to an end on December 21, 2012. When a global cataclysm thrusts the world into chaos, divorced writer and father Jackson Curtis (John Cusack) joins the race to ensure that humankind is not completely wiped out. Chiwetel Ejiofor, Danny Glover, Amanda Peet, Thandie Newton, and Oliver Platt round out the cast of this end-of-the-world thriller co-scripted by the director and his 10,000 B.C. writer/composer, Harald Kloser. ~ Jason Buchanan, All Movie Guide