Yellow Cruiser Adventure Diary

Charity drive to Pos Tohoi, Gua Musang (25 - 28 Nov 2011)

2011-12-11T21:50:00.145+08:00

For our charity drive we chose Pos Simpor, a orang asli settlement in Gua Musang, to receive the basic daily requirements. Encik Shamsul, a regular in visiting orang asli settlements, led the expedition organized by NGO and 4x4 gang.

With eleven(11)4x4 vehicles, we started our journey approximately at 9.00pm and re-group at R&R Behrang. 2 vehicles were overloaded and we had to redistribute some of the items to other vehicles. We then stopped at Simpang Pulai for re-fuelling and supper. When nearing to Lojing, we experienced thick fog with poor visibility and decided to stop. Coincidently one of our colleague was exhausted and rested, while some made coffee to keep awake and warm.

We reached Masjid Gua Musang in time for subuh prayers. After freshening up, we were called for a briefing. After breakfast we continued 60km to our destination, Pos Simpor. The journey itself was very challenging, the road leading to Pos Simpor was slippery uphill and downhill. A few days before our expedition it rained heavily and that explained the slippery road. Nevertheless all had a good time polishing up their skills on handling off roading.

We were about 20km to Pos Simpor when we met Jabatan Kesihatan staff who informed us that the road leading to Pos Simphor was impassable. Even with equipped vehicles they had to wait for 2 nights to come down. We still had another 20km to reach Pos Simpor and had a discussion with our group on the next plan. Everyone agreed when Encik Shamsul proposed for us to visit Pos Tohoi, a settlement which we passed through earlier. We made a u turn and proceed our journey to Pos Tohoi which houses 120 families with a population of 500 people.

It was Saturday late afternoon when we finally reached Pos Tohoi. Everyone sighed with relief, tired but determined to carry out the charity work. After arranging the vehicles, we unloaded the contributions to an allocated spot. While that was happening, some help setup the kitchen and cooked a simple dinner for the volunteers. Saturday night was wet, cold and after dinner most of us slept early to catch up on sleep and rest after a long tiring day.

Sunday was bright and sunny and a celebration day at the settlement. The orang asli were feted to coqcodok for breakfast(fried anchovies balls). After breakfast, our group packed ready the contributions and later the volunteers and orang asli assembled at the school hall to give away the packed donations. In the late afternoon, some of the volunteers visited their homes and had sessions with the children while other volunteers helped out to cook nasi beryani ayam for the special dinner. The orang asli were early and waited patiently for dinner time scheduled at 6.00pm. It was sheer satisfaction to see them enjoying dinner and felt really good to be able to be with them.

On Monday morning, we had early breakfast and dished out food to orang asli during breakfast. After eating, some volunteers and orang asli went round to ensure the areas are cleaned and rid of rubbish. Others packed and loaded their belongings onto the vehicles as we had to travel quite a distance back to Kuala Lumpur. Before we departed, we took photographs for memories and bade them farewell. We hope that some day we will be back to visit them again.

For more photos .......
https://picasaweb.google.com/PAKMID/CharityDriveToPosTohoi2528Nov2011TheBeginning

https://picasaweb.google.com/PAKMID/CharityDriveToPosTohoiGuaMusang2528Nov2011AndTheJourneyBegin

https://picasaweb.google.com/PAKMID/CharityDriveToPosTohoiGuaMusang2528Nov2011MakingThru40KmOffRoading

https://picasaweb.google.com/PAKMID/CharityDriveToPosTohoiGuaMusang2528Nov2011OrangKampongGetTogether

https://picasaweb.google.com/PAKMID/CharityDriveToPosTohoiGuaMusang2528Nov2011DinnerWithOrangKampong

https://picasaweb.google.com/PAKMID/CharityDriveToPosTohoiGuaMusang2528Nov2011TillWeMeetAgain

Ulu Bernam 09 - 10 October 2010

2010-10-14T17:39:00.049+08:00

It was much awaited trip after Ramadhan and Hari Raya holidays and was sure a memorable one.

A large signage was posted prohibiting 4x4 vehicles to enter the usual route and we had to find alternative route to go in. Luck was on our side as we were given permission by the resort's owner to cross the river and proceed to our destination. The resort's participants watched anxiously as each of the four vehicles took turns to cross to the other side of the river. Some resort to capturing it on camera as each vehicle glided its way in the river to land.

The route was pretty much the same except for the overgrown lallang and shrubs, a sign that the route has not being used for quite awhile. The second river crossing was tough as it has a soft bank with boulders in the way. One has to carefully manoeuvre the vehicle to free of the obstacle and continue journey. There were no other obstacles until we reached campsite.

We were here last year but this time around, the place is unkempt. We still made the best of it and had a good time with the gang. One of our friends actually drove all the way from Penang to join the outing and he actually had a good experience......

Please view the link below for more photos

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/UluBernam910October2010

KEMBARA - ASYIK KAMI PRIHATIN ("Kandek Sayeg Ma Nyob")

2010-06-12T15:20:00.063+08:00

Kembara.net and Asyik FM bonded together for community service of the Orang Asli at Pos Blau, Gua Musang, Kelantan. The objective is to donate food, improve education awareness, health and spirit of helping others.

We were given a rousing traditional welcome by the Village Head and villagers and enjoyed the "sewang" and groove to the music beat.

For more photos, please view the link below:

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/KembaraAsyikKamiPrihatinPosBlauGuaMusang56Jun2010

Endau - Rompin (Selai) Johor National Park, 14 Feb - 16 Feb 2010

2010-02-23T15:23:00.066+08:00

In conjunction with the chinese new year holiday, my family & I travelled to Endau-Rompin(Selai) Johor National Park for a 3 days 2 nights jungle adventure. The journey took approximately 4 hours from our place at Bangi to the campsite in Selai. We met up with Jazrin & family at the Management Office in Bekok, Segamat and other friends who were waiting to bring us to the campsite.
After registration, the four 4x4 vehicles, led by Jasin an Orang Asli, convoy to Lubuk Merekek Campsite located 26km from the office. The road is ok but very dusty due to the dry weather spell. The road will take you through the oil palm estate and re-settled orang asli villages.

Upon arrival, we saw other groups were already there but the campsite is big enough to accomodate all the vehicles. As usual, we setup our camp and relaxed as it was only about 4.00pm. The campsite is equipped with 2 cooking areas, a dining area complete with log tables and benches, separate common bathroom and a praying area. When we saw the river, certain part had a depth as it looked dark green and a shallow part for children to play in the river.

Pak Tunku arrived later in the evening, followed by another 5 more 4x4 vehicles and by nightfall, the campsite was like a festival. It was pure relaxation after dinner, talking and visiting friends at the other campsites. By chance we met our old friends 9W2JM - Pak Jani and his XYL 9W2ENA - Ena and their children.

Next morning after breakfast, my daughter and I along with Jazrin's family trekked to Lubuk Tapah Base Camp which is only 500 meter from our campsite. The Base Camp is also equipped with wooden huts, separate common bathrooms, kitchen and dining area.
We scout around and admire the surroundings. Jazrin and my daughter were busy taking photographs and found a suspended bridge. It was unfortunate that the bridge was out of bound for the public as it is faulty. By the time we walked back it was nearly time for lunch.

After a simple lunch, the children and families were lazing around and playing in the river. I went around the campsite and chatted with the crowd. Most of the groups left the campsite and by evening fall there were only 7 vehicles left. After dinner, we celebrated Jazrin's son birthday, complete with 2 cakes, ballons and even invited a chinese family to the party... The night went by quickly and we had a good night sleep.

Morning breakfast was heavy, my wife cooked nasi lemak and had french toast courtesy of Datin Gee. After breakfast, we cleaned, started packing and loaded our things into our vehicles. We convoy out of the campsite and headed straight to Jasin's village. When we arrived there, we saw ladies playing card while the men were welcomed us. We were given the honor to write in their guest book and each family pen a few words. We went round and at the back of one house, we saw a monkey and musang in a cage! Orang Asli gave Pak Tunku a fox (kept in cage) for him to bring back to JB. The kids were so thrilled to see the animals and they had a good time.
We said our departures with 4 vehicles heading back to JB and the other 2 vehicles back to Kuala Lumpur. I'm glad we made the trip and definitely will organize future trips to Selai. Appended below is the information on Selai with its tagline "Beyond The Ordinary."

please view ........
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/ENDAUROMPINSELAI14th16thJAN2010
Selai is the western gateway to the Endau-Rompin, Johor National Park and has an area of 29,343 hectares from the total area of 48,905 hectares. Selai is the land of countless waterfalls, great and small are found inside the park and visitors will be amazed by their magnificence and get to enjoy nature at its best. Selai is special, there is a sense of adventure in the air, exploring a country as yet unexploited. It is a place where the spirit of wilderness thrives-where the forbidding becomes the beautiful. Best time to visit is between February and October. The park is opened daily and entry is strictly by prior booking only and certain fees to be paid. For more info, please contact the Management Site Office as follows;

Endau-Rompin (Selai)Johor National Park
No.8 Jalan Satria 1, Taman Berjaya
86500 Bekok, Segamat
Tel : +607-9222875
Fax : +607-9222576
email : enquiry@johorparks.com.my
website : www.johorparks.com.my

Kerling 16 Jan - 17 Jan 2010

2010-01-22T18:49:00.116+08:00

I brought friends, this time, to Kerling for the weekend with Jazreen leading a convoy of 10 vehicles. The weather was fine and the road trail was alright with no obstacles even with 2 river crossings.

My daughter droved the whole journey and tested her skill crossing the river and meandering the corners and she did pretty well. We had 2 choices whether to camp at Camp Aircond or go further up, a new spot founded by Jazreen. After recee, we found the new spot unsuitable and a bit cramp for the whole group and decided to camped out at Camp Aircond. We started unpacking and as usual setup the base camp first, followed by the kitchen area. This time around, we used 5 stoves to cook dinner and usually dinner time is always the best.

The weather is cool and by no time most of us were asleep EXCEPT for a select 2 who began talking until the wee hours of the morning and someone else joined them.. hem..hem wonder who? The kids were already swimming and had to be called for breakfast. After breakfast, we cleared the kitchen and packed the balance breakfast into plastic wares for consumption after swimming. With the packing done and loaded into the vehicles, we braved ourselves for a dip in the river. The water is cold and could see the kids trembling in the water but they are having so much fun and could not care less about the coldness. The adult males bathed vigourously and avoided staying longer in the river.

The trip down was easy but we stopped at Kolam Air Panas for Suhaimi to check his vehicle. The problem was detected and he will stop at the nearest available workshop, for re-checking. We headed to Batang Kali for lunch but Suhaimi went straight to the workshop. After lunch, we break convoy and said our departures to all and thanked everyone for the trip.

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/Kerling1617Jan2010

Ulu Tamu Feast 1 Jan- 2 Jan 2010

2010-01-14T15:34:00.158+08:00

It's been a while since we have gone off-roading and during the recent new year holiday, we decided to camp out at one of our favorite spots, Kem Hamzah at Ulu Tamu. Our two friends Nordin & gang, Jazreen & family went there earlier to set up base camp and block the campsite. We reached the campsite in the evening, the males setup tents and females setup their kitchen area. After setup, we chatted with our old friend 'Bear' coincidently relaxing at the same place. Nordin, sponsored a whole lamb and brought Omar, the Chef, to specially cook beriani gam for lunch the next day.

My wife cooked my favorite dishes - asam pedas daging cincang and rojak tahu for dinner. We invited a family (they arrived quite late and was setting up camp) for dinner as they camped next to us. It was a simple meal, steaming rice with spicy asam pedas and rojak tahu, the ambience - cool and slight drizzle....imagine! After dinner the ladies peeled and sliced the onions, some cut the vegetables, others assisted Omar with the misc-en-place and frying. First, we cooked the lamb beriani and while its cooking, we cooked the dalca. When Omar sauted the ingredients for the rice (washed and drained), the smell engulfed the whole campsite - it was nearly 0130hrs. Omar showed the method of underlining a cloth (preferably muslin cloth) to separate the rice and the lamb beriani. After that we had to seal the pot circumference with dough (ensure that it is sealed properly) and let it cooked with low/small flame. By the time we did that, it was already near 2.00am....! I very glad that my wife managed to learn from Omar on the preparations and method of cooking beriani gam and would want her to try it out one day.

For morning breakfast, we had fried rice, bread, omellete with sausages. After breakfast, the kids had fun swimming in the river, while the men did some off roading to Kem Dubai. After all the excitement, the kids and adults enjoyed the balance of the breakfast spread. Everyone lazed and waited eagerly for lunch - nasi beriani gam with lamb beriani, dalca and ala minute fried chicken. Everyone commended Omar for the beriani gam and will always remember the wonderful hearty lunch.! After lunch we cleared the campsite and started packing our things. After enjoying ourselves in the river, we called it a day and set out home, the smell of beriaini still lingered at the fingertips.....

For more pictures, please view .......

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/UluTamuFeast1110

Mekong Expedition 2 ~ 2008

2009-10-26T20:40:00.139+08:00

Day 1- 6, Thailand/Laos
Surat Thani, Ayuthaya, Cheng Mai, Chean Sean, Oudomkham(Laos)

This time around, we drove nearly 830km from Kuala Lumpur to reach our destination, Surat Thani in Thailand.

Daily briefing is compulsory to inform all of the route to the next destination and maintain convoy intact. Throughout the five days journey from Surat Thani to Ayuthaya, Cheng Mai and Chean Sean, we stopped to cook lunch, bought colorful hammocks, shopped at night market in Chiang Mai, visited the umbrella making factory, passed through a town selling silver jewelry, gemstones and surprisingly... we saw geysers. We also saw the carcass of a giant catfish with its head resembling to that of a goat's head. As time does not permit us, we only took pictures at the Golden Triangle and then boarded the ferry to cross border and stayed at Oudomkhom Hotel, Laos.

View pictures

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/Mekong2Day15Thailand
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/Mekong2Day6Laos

Day 7 - 9, Vietnam
Dien Bien Phu, Sapa

We continued journey to Dien Bien Phu in Vietnam and after the short ferry ride, we crossed 3 rivers to reach the immigration checkpoint. Phongsaly Province International Immigration Check-Point which is located high up in the hills, approximately 5600ft above sea level.

Our Vietnam agent is very hospitable, each time we stop for pee stop they'll prepare hot vietnamese coffee straight from the thermos and everyone looked forward to hot coffee in the cold weather... The visit to De Castrie Bunker at A1 Hill was exhilarating and fun. We noted the Vietnamese barely had weapons but they destroyed the biggest French camp which was above the hill. We also visited Dien Bien Phu Muzuem and learnt about its history.

The journey to Sapa was horrendous, the narrow and winding road with poor visibility of 50 meters. Everyone was cautious and maintained radio contact to inform of any obstacles. Having gone through the stretch, everyone sighed with relief!

Sapa is a beautiful place and my wife couldn't’t stop talking about it with her friends. The town itself is quaint, cold and quiet. The smell of coffee is so irresistible that we decided to check out the cafe and if you are a coffee lover, you'll love the thick creamy sweet coffee, marvelous.

The visit to the Tavan Village is mesmerizing and were amazed to see the terraced padi fields from the village. Walking through the village, we visited the houses to see how they lived, kitchen, living, bedroom all in one house. We also saw a house that stored maize and their apparatus for winter. We saw the buffaloes, ducks, hens and dogs in the village, just like hometown. It was fascinating to see their irrigation system and how it works. We crossed a long bridge across a beautiful river.

The village ladies kept following, convincing us to buy their products and will not stop until we bought something. Halfway through we stopped at a souvenir shop and had a good time shopping. Back on the bus, our friends were waiting eagerly for us to share our stories at the village. From our bus we could see the winding trek which we took and our agent informed that the whole journey is 5 km. It was good exercise in cold weather.

Sapa town is a beautiful hillside town and after lunch we headed for the CAT CAT Village. This village is more challenging, my wife trekked more uphill then downhill and nearly drained of her energy. The waterfall background for group photograph is definitely refreshing and relaxing. After the village trip, some decided to check out the town but we went back to the hotel for a rest.

View pictures

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/Mekong2Day7DienBienPohVietnam
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/Mekong2Day89SapaVietnam

Day 9 - 12, Vietnam
Hanoi, Halong Bay, Vinh

Hanoi is overcrowded with motorcycles and die hard drivers. When we arrived in Hanoi, we were shocked to see the city's chaotic traffic even at night and the brightly lighted shops. Back at the hotel, we had a scrumptious dinner and looked forward to the next day events.

At Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum we must observe silence all the way in and all the way out. You must abide by their rules to keep your hand by your side and must not wear any hat or cap even before entering, until you leave the door and away from the building. All observed silence when walking around the glass coffin of the late leader. After that we visited Ho Chi Minh's stilt house which is located in the same place.

We also visited the Sword Lake, Ngoc Son Temple and Vietnam Museum as depicted in the pictures. Dong Xuan - the famous shopping area in Hanoi was the next stop and we split into groups. After dinner we were treated to a puppet show the famous "Water Puppetry Show".

Halong Bay (has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site) is our next destination. From the hotel room, I could see Halong Bay from afar and just couldn't wait for the afternoon cruise. The boat passes by the limestone caves, in fact we visited the Dong Thien Cung cave which was colorfully lighted. We continued cruising and stopped to look at a fish farm but bought fresh fruits instead from a "sampan". While cruising, some relaxed on the top deck and took photographs with the cold wind splashing our faces and hair. The agent briefed us about the pair of roosters. We were enjoying our dinner on board while the sun sets which was beautiful and relaxing.

Night life is quiet at Halong Bay and with the cold weather its good to catch up on sleep after a hectic day.

It was cold when we arrived Namphao International Checkpoint and had to wait quite awhile for clearance. While waiting some made hot drinks while others enjoyed stove heat to warm themselves. To our surprise, the weather was warmer after checkpoint. We stopped by a viewpoint, sponsored by Theun Hinboun power company, and enjoyed the amazing scenery. Later we stopped by a local market and the gang bought a lot of stuff.

More pictures to view

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/Mekong2Day1011HanoiVietnam
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/Mekong2Day1213HalongBayVinhVietnam

Day 13 - 18, Laos / Thailand
Savanakhet (Laos), Nakhon Ratchasima,
Prachup Khiri Khan, Nakhon Si Thammarat,
Hatyai, Kuala Lumpur

We are in the last league of our journey and the last few days in Thailand was memorable from sun sets, meals, beautiful & cosy hotels to shopping, each face showed pure satisfaction. To complete the journey, we had a certificate presentation cum lunch at a floating seafood restaurant in Songkla. We stayed overnight in Hatyai before returning to Malaysia reminiscing the memories of Mekong 2, 2008.

More pictures to view

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/Mekong2Day14SavanakhetLaos
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/Mekong2Day151Thailand

My 1st 4WD experience, Lamarkoh - 1992

2009-10-21T23:04:00.038+08:00

I still remembered my first off roading experience in 1992. I was all excited when Ah Tee, Johor 4X4 Taiko invited me to join him in the Endau Rompin Expedition. The trip was rated as medium to hardcore, then, but now it is rated as XXX hardcore. For old timer off roaders, they will always remember the Bekok - Sungai Selai route or the railway track route as we used to call it.
I thanked Ah Tee for his teaching and guidance and took advantage of it by passing down the knowledge to our friends.

For more pictures, please view
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/MyFirst4WDExpeditionLamarkoh1992

KELAH OH KELAH

2009-09-18T22:52:00.019+08:00

Bersama rakan rakan mencari ikan kelah di Sungai Jengai, Kuala Jengai, Terengganu.

Sila lawat:

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/KelahKualaJengai

LENGA 1994

2009-09-01T22:28:00.064+08:00

Lenga Expedition, Bukit Kepong, Johor with Ah Tee, Tengku Wong, Ken Lai and gang. A memorable journey with excellent teamwork tackling obstacles.

For more pictures, please view:
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/LENGA1994

OFF ROAD - ULU BERNAM 0809

2009-08-20T23:16:00.056+08:00

Weekend trip before Ramadhan to Ulu Bernam on 15 - 16, August 2009.

For your viewing pleasure, please click below ;
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/UluBernam0809
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/OffRoadUluBernam15809
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/OffRoadUluBernam16809

MEKONG EXPEDITION 2007

2009-08-12T20:20:00.096+08:00

DAY 1 Hadyai - Ranong, Thailand (560km)

Seven 4wd vehicles with 22 participants started their Mekong Expedition 2007 journey from Hadyai after morning briefing and checked-in at Ranong about 5.00pm. Our friends (the particpants) checked out the swimming pool and jacuzzi and it is interesting to know that the swimming pool water is supplied from the hot springs around the Ranong area. Ranong is famously known for its hot springs, waterfalls, sandy beaches and popular with the Thai people to enter Myanmar through Victoria Point.

DAY 2 Ranong - Ayuttaya, Thailand (690km >>> 1198km)

Along the way, we stopped at Kra Buri, a small fishing town ovelooking Myanmar. There we witnessed alot of trading activities between the Thai and Myanmar people. We also passed the most narrow part of the peninsula that connects Thailand and Myanmar. We stopped for lunch at PTT at Thong Song. Everyone agreed the soup at the muslim restaurant is delicious. Reached Ayuttaya around 7.00pm and later went for dinner at a muslim community food court.

DAY 3 Ayuttaya - Nongkai, Thailand (570km >>> 1768km)

On the way to Nongkai, we passed through Nakhon Ratchasima where the SEA games was held, Khon Kaen and Udon Thani. We arrived Nongkai about 5.00pm and in the evening had our dinner on a board a tongkang which was cruising the Mekong River. Nongkai sits on the western bank of the Mekong River which inter-connect with six countries namely Thailand, Laos, China, Myanmar, Cambodia and Vietnam.

DAY 4 Nongkai, Thailand - Xiengkhong, Laos (400km >>>2168km)

After briefing, our Laos agent led the convoy to enter Laos but before entering we had to clear our vehicles at Thailand Customs and proceed to Immigration to exit Thailand. Once processing completed, we crossed the Friendship Bridge which was built in 1994. The Friendship Bridge brought a new era of economic and political harmony between the two nations especially after Laos has mobed forward after its communist past. Our agent prepared the necessary arrangements for our vehicles and passports and after completion, we proceed to Xienghkhong. We had to stop at Vientien because the lead vehicle developed some problems.
It was a blessing as we had the opportunity to explore the famous Patuxai, a reminiscent of Arc de Triomphe in Paris. We arrived Xienghkhong at 9.00pm after a long and winding journey and had dinner in the hotel itself. Note : The weather is very cold during this time of year.

DAY 5 Xiengkhong - Luang Prabang, Laos (270km >>> 2438km)

We toured the Plain of Jars at Phonsavan where huge jars of unknown origin are scattered all over the plain. There were quite a few theories on the functions of jars - used as wine fermenter, rice storage and even as a stone coffin as we were told. We spend about three hours at the plain and some explored the lower half of the plain.
The next destination-Luang Prabang and along the way we stopped to buy fruits, vegetables, snacks and souvenirs. We arrived Luang Prabang at 4.00pm and visited the Wat as it was still early. After dinner at the hotel, we boarded the local tranportation tuk tuk to the night market and had a great time shopping, shopping and more shopping all night.

DAY 6 Luang Prabang - Vientien, Laos (400km >>> 2838km)

After breakfast, we visited the Palace and did some last minute shopping after which we proceed to Vientien. Along the way, we stopped for lunch and arrived Vientien at 6.00pm. We had our dinner at an Indian Restaurant and were served Chicken Tandoori, Naan bread with dhall. This was the most decent meal after so many days and everyone enjoyed the dinner. Soon after that we checked in the hotel and some participants after freshing up, went sightseeing around town.

DAY 7 Vientien - Savannahet, Laos(530km >>> 3368km)
DAY 8 Savannkhet - Pakse, Laos (300km >>> 3668km)

We visited Pha That Lung Stupa - the most important National Monument in Laos which is a symbol of both the Buddhist religion and Laos sovereignty. After the Stupa, we visited Talat Market, the biggest market in Vientien, and more SHOPPING....... We arrived Pakse at 2.00pm and went straight to Khone Phapheng Waterfall or dupped as the Niagara Falls of South East Asia. The waterfall which is alongside Mekong River features a 13km stretch of powerful rapids with several sets of cascades. We watched until our hearts are content and moved to visit the Pre Angkor ruin of Wat Phou. We had to cross the Mekong River by ferry in order to reach the ruin site. We reached Villa Phasuam Resort around 8.00pm and had dinner first before checking in. We were treated to a good and delicious dinner with the owners personally looking after us. We were accompanied by the staff to our rooms and we could hear our friends talking loudly (sounded like excitement). My room had 2 single heavy wooden bed and an extra bed for my daughter complete with mosquito nettings. What I liked most was the toilet situated outside and open air...you could see the trees above! With our stomach full from dinner and the cool weather, we knocked off soundly.

In the morning,we could see a river flowing behind our room admist the resort's natural landscape and the view is breathtaking. Everyone was mesmerized with the resort, their rooms and requested to stay another day at the resort. Breakfast was good and hearty and went around checking out the resort. We found 2 waterfalls (manmade) in the resort itself, treehouses, walking trek, chalets, souvenir shop. All of us were sad to leave such a mesmerizing place and will make a point to return to the resort again.

DAY 9 Pakse, Laos - Surin, Thailand (400km >>> 4068km)
DAY 10 Surin - Bangkok, Thailand (457km >>> 4525km)

We went around Pakse town and did some last minute shopping at the market before crossing to the Thailand border. We crossed Laos through the Japanese Bridge and enter Thailand through Chong Mek. We stayed overnight at Surin and in the morning continued our journey to Bangkok. We checked into our hotel at Bangkok around 5.00pm.

DAY 11 Bangkok, Thailand (0km >>> 4525km)

We split into 2 groups, Ghazi brought 1 group to the floating market and I brought my group to the 4x4 shop for some accessories. We regroup at the hotel in the afternoon to visit the Bangkok Safari. For dinner we had seafood followed by a certificate presentation and my daughter was applauded as she was the only female driver and had driven about 6500km despite an earlier sprained ankle. Later after dinner we went to Suanlum night market which houses 3000 units of shops and it was good exercise walking the streets of shops.

DAY 12 Bangkok - Chumphon, Thailand (465km >>> 4990km)
DAY 13 Chumphon - Hadyai, Thailand (485km >>> 5475km)
DAY 12 Hadyai, Thailand - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia(505km >>> 5980km)

We continued our journey to the south staying overnight at Chumphon and Hadyai before continuing our journey back to Kuala Lumpur. We were grateful that the expedition was smooth and as arranged and everyone was safe and sound. The journey back was long and tiring but the memories and mesmerizing moments kept our spirits high and looking forward for the next overland trip.

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/MekongDay123
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/MekongDay456
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/MekongDay789
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/MekongDay101114

Pak Hasan (9W2CCW) 50th Birthday

2009-08-08T23:57:00.016+08:00

Pak Hasan's birthday dinner held on 08.08.2009 was attended by family, close friends and neighbours. Everyone enjoyed the food which included Pak Hasan's favorite "fried calamari or sotong goreng tepong". It was hilarious when Pak Hasan blew the candles on the birthday cake and shared light moments with all.

Most romantic was when Pak Hasan's wife "suap" the first cake slice to him.

Pak Hasan and Family

Pak Raja YE5RA daughter's wedding at Batam, Indonesia

2009-08-05T15:15:00.046+08:00

Evi and Didin wedding reception was held on 2 August 2009 at Batam, Indonesia. My family and I along with other friends attended the wedding (daughter of Pak Raja YE5RA) which was the highlight of the Batam trip. We savored the different food (taste is different) and finished off with ice cream and longans.

I joined my family who stayed at the Goodway Hotel, room is spacious with a king leisure bed. I flew in from Kuala Lumpur via Fireflyz direct to Batam on Saturday morning. Hired a car complete with a driver to chauffer us around for the two days and the price is quite reasonable. We had a great time shopping at the Nagoya Hill and bought mobile fridge, jeans and teeshirts. Before departing for Malaysia, we did a last minute shopping at Batam Centre while waiting for boarding.

The journey took about 1 hour 30 minutes from jetty in Batam, Indonesia to jetty at Stulang Laut, Johor Bahru. It was great meeting up with old friends from Indonesia and Malaysia and our hope is meet up with all again.

Please view:

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/BatamWedding

LATA BEREMBUM (18 JULY 2009)

2009-07-21T16:24:00.057+08:00

My friends and I were excited about this trip as we get to indulge good durian fruits as this is the season in Raub. My last trip to Lata Berembum was last year, 20 July 2008, also during the durian season. We stopped along the way for any last minute groceries and after a few kilometers, stopped by the roadside for durians. The gang loved durians, ate some and bought some for our dessert. Man BJ helped out to pick the best by sniffing and rattling the durians and loading them onto his roof rack.

Seven vehicles climbed up the steep and narrow slope, approx 10 km from the base. A new member Rizal driving a standard kembara (a memorable experience) had to go through several obstacles and of course, with assistance from the big boys. Rizal's kembara had to be towed because he landed on a boulder and also in a mud hole. After all the excitement and obstacles, we arrived early, setup camp, had late lunch and lotsa of lazing around. In the meantime, a big convoy from the Redah Club arrived and we are so lucky to get the campsite first. While waiting for dinner, some went swimming, chatting or just lazed around.

For dinner, we had a mixture of food - kebabs, baguettes, rice & dishes and for dessert durians...durians...durians. The guys were busy chatting their favorite topics over hot drinks. Rizal was anxious to know more about 4x4 vehicle to gain knowledge (he even brought photographs). He was busy photographing vehicles and the campsite so that he knows what to bring for his next trip. Weather was cold and most had their jackets on and everyone had a good sleep.

We had a hearty breakfast- french toast, baguettes, fried and scrambled eggs, sausages and fried rice courtesy of new comer kembara - Rizal. After breakfast, some headed to the waterfall and the rest bathed near the campsite. The water is cold and it took a good 10 minutes to get used to the cold water to bathe.

After bathing, we packed the last few items and start getting ready to leave the campsite. Hj Dahlan led the convoy out, followed by the rest and everyone is cautious going down. The jungle taxis were ever so kind to let us through the narrow and steep hill and there were several of them with their guests. On the way down, we managed to overcome the obstacles and looked out for the kembara. We took group photographs at the bridge for remembrance.

We again, stopped by the roadside to buy durians, to eat and bring home for the loved ones. Our friend, Suhaimi, had a tough time fighting the durian smell in his jeep and had to open all the windows. We stopped at Bentong for lunch and bade farewell as we are all taking different routes.

More pictures please view:
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/LataBerembun180709

CROSS NATION OVERLAND ADVENTURE CAMBODIA 2006

2009-07-11T15:11:00.136+08:00

This journey brought alot of memories especially my family and friends. We had an amazing journey and full of appreciation for the warm hospitality of the countries we visited. The photos I'm sharing speak for itself and are beyond words.......

All the places of interests we visited were wonderful and all of us had a great time exploring the places. Kanchanaburi is the historical place famous for the bridge on the River Kwai, is where the Death Railway stood. We walked on the railway track and the view from the bridge is just awesome and breathtaking. An old green colored train was seen passing through the railway with passengers. We just can't imagine how the workers managed to dig the limestone hill to construct the railway track, minding in mind that the tools were not as sophisticated then. Next we went to the World War II Museum and we saw how the POWs was forced to work as laborers for the railway track. It's sad to see much pain in their eyes and how thin they were (as depicted in life size figures) and their "home".

We left our sadness and headed to the Safari Park. We drove slowly into the park and looked around for the animals. There were 2 bisons (don't want to get near), monkeys, lions and others but the most hilarious was with the giraffes. We were allowed to feed bananas, and the giraffes were just waiting to be fed. Some had their windows halfway (feeding time) and the giraffes (trying to get the bananas) were licking the windows with their long tongue hanging in between... They had a hard time trying to ward off the giraffes from licking the windows and sticking their necks inside the vehicles. We could hear laughter and screams from every vehicle and that was real fun and hilarious.

After all the excitement, the next best and quite scary too, was to sit next to or touch a live TIGER for a photo shoot. This resulted in oohs and aahs from the members but the photo shoot was a breeze, a warden was there to oversee. We left the park with a mixture of feelings - fun, scared and hilarious and closer bonding amongst us.

The next place of interest was the Floating Market at Damneon Saduak. We were taken for a ride in a long wooden boat enough through the market and boy, they have everything there from food..food..food....fruits, clothes, ornaments, souvenirs. We had an amazing time shopping from the boat and the drivers are skilled manoeuvring the boat in the busy market river.

We had to cross borders, Thailand at Chom Chom and Cambodia was Kapcheong. After finishing all border procedures, we continued journey to Siam Reap about 7.00pm. The journey was long and winding and we had to endure 200km of off road track. It was pitch black with 23 vehicles convoying and had to stop for our meal as the time was already about 2.00am. Finally we arrived at the hotel at 5.45am and all slumped to sleep. After much deserved sleep we headed to the historical Angkor Wat. We were so proud to have set foot and the ruins were so amazing. My daughters climbed the steep steps to the top and they had a good view of the surroundings. They found out that climbing down was harder than climbing up. Next was the place (tree with enormous root amidst the ruins) where one part of The Tomb Raider starring Anjelina Jolie was shot.

We had our dinner at the muslim community village and after dinner some of the members donated Quran, surat yassin and carpet to the mosque.

The next day we headed to Thailand. After crosing the border I was rushed to Surin hospital as I experienced shortness of breath and was admitted for 2 nights due to pneumonia. Our convoy friends visited us before continuing their journey and our two daughters were sad to leave us behind but had to follow the convoy. Pleaded to the doctor for release but on one condition, had to be re-examine by a doctor in Bangkok. We took an ambulance from Surin Hospital to Ubon Ratchathani (200km journey) and arrived just in time for our flight. We arrived Bangkok Airport and booked us the next flight to Kuala Lumpur. I ignored the instruction to be re-examined and remained quiet throughout the flight. Requested for a wheel chair once landed at Kuala Lumpur International Airport.

At the airport, our friends were waiting and whisked us to the Putrajaya Hospital. I could remember someone helped with luggage, another wheeled me to the vehicle and off we went with the siren whaling followed by the convoy. I stayed at the Putrajaya Hospital for a whole one week.

My second overland trip was an experience and a memorable one and I'm glad I was able to organize more trips.

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/TransCambodia20061
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/TransCambodia20062
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/TransCambodia20063
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/TransCambodia20064

Yellow Cruiser Trans Overland Diary 2005

2009-07-03T14:22:00.001+08:00

My first overland trip began on 10 February 2005 covering Thailand, Laos, China and Myanmar. A total of 15 4x4 vehicles participated and the whole returned journey covered was approximately 8000 km. I had a marvelous time, tiring but definitely worth the effort as it was an incredible and unforgettable experience driving to other countries in a convoy.

DAY 1 (10 February 2005)
Sungai Buloh, Malaysia - Surathani, Thailand (880km)
We started our journey from the Rest and Recreation area Sg. Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia and headed towards north to Bukit Kayu Hitam, Kedah, Malaysia.Proceed to the border, Sadao checkpoint at Thailand and after border clearance, proceed to Surathani, Thailand and checked in the hotel approximately at 8.00pm.

DAY 2 (11 February 2005)
Surathani - Ayuthaya, Thailand (720km)

After the morning briefing, we started our journey to Ayuthaya and stopped at Hin Chang Spirit House or famously known as Elephant Path at KM453-454. Some participants prayed and offer offerings (lighting up fire crackers available for sale at the house)for a safe journey. It is a custom that drivers honked their horns when passing by the spirit house. Along the spirit house there are several stalls selling all banana delicacies and snacks.

We continued our journey and stopped for lunch at Prachuap Khiri Khan (a town situated by the beach).).. After lunch proceed to Ayuthaya bypassing Bangkok city. Arrived Ayuthaya and checked in the hotel at about 8.00pm followed by dinner.

DAY 3 (12 February 2005)
Ayuthaya - Chiang Seam, Thailand (800km)
Headed for Chiang Seam passing through Nakhon Sawan, Kamphaeng Phet and stopped at Tak for lunch (restaurant by the riverside).

After lunch continued journey to Chiang Rai and took right towards Chiang Seam. Reached Chiang Seam at 8.00pm and stopped for dinner at Mekong riverbank and later checked in hotel.

DAY 4 (13 February 2009)

Chiang Seam - Chiang Khong, Thailand - Luang Namtha, Laos (270km)

Visited the Hall of Opium at Chiang Seam and then proceeded to Chiang Khong to exit Thailand.

Crossed the Mekong river with a ferry to enter Laos via Houeixai and drove 200km off road to Luang Namtha. Along the journey we stopped at the village
to donate some food, snacks, exercise books and stationeries to the children. Arrived Luang Namtha around midnight.

Visited the Hall of Opium at Chiang Seam and then proceeded to Chiang Khong to exit Thailand.Crossed the Mekong river with a ferry to enter Laos via Houeixai and drove 200km off road to Luang Namtha. Along the journey we stopped at the village to donate some food, snacks, exercise books and stationeries to the children. Arrived Luang Namtha around midnight.

DAY 5 (14 February 2009)
Luang Namta, Lao - Mohang - Jiang Cheng, China (340km)

The process was completed in about 2 hours. After that we started our journey to Jiang Cheng which was a long and tiring journey. We were lost, and along the journey we had to stop at a small village nearly at midnight for our meal.

We literally had to wake up the house owner for assistance to boil water for our cup noodles. After the meal, we proceed to our destination and finally arrived at the hotel at 3.00am.

In the morning visited the wet market at Luang Namta, Laos and proceed to Bo Tan, a border town between Laos and China. After the customs and immigration clearance in Laos, entered China through Mohang after which we proceed to Mangla, China for lunch and later proceed to the road and transport department. In order for us to bring in our vehicles, we are required to undergo vehicle inspection and also, all drivers are to attend a short briefing on China road rules and regulations. Once completed, we are issued with China driving license and car registration number. Note : International or Malaysian driving licence and Malaysian car registration number is not valid in China.

The process was completed in about 2 hours. After that we started our journey to Jiang Cheng which was a long and tiring journey. We were lost, and along the journey we had to stop at a small village nearly at midnight for our meal.

DAY 6 (15 February 2005)
Jiang Cheng - Yuan Yang, China (280km)

After a good night sleep, we continued our journey towards Yuan Yan at 10.30am and stopped for lunch approximately 3.20pm. Along the way, I had a minor accident with a van, accidentally grazed the side mirror which eventually broke and had to fork out US100.00 for the damage. Before reaching Yuan Yan, we stopped at the terraced paddy fields where the fields are terraced from the foot of the mountains onto the very top. During February to early April and September to early November, when water is filled in the paddies after harvests, a natural grandeur of thousands of mirrors are formed when the sun is low near the horizon of both ends of the days (0500-0630 and 1700-1800). Locations to witness
this spectacular scene are Lao Ying Zui (Eagle's Beak), Sheng Cun, Duo Yi Shu and Ba Da. Arrived Yuan Yang at 8.00pm

DAY 7 (16 February 2005)
Yuang Yang - Qui Bei/Pu Zhu Hei(400km)

Departed Yuang Yang for Pu Zhe Hei and stopped at Jianshui a town 220km southeast of Kunming. It is a 1200 year old town with vast collection of historical heritages and we went for a tour of the complex and courtyard just before lunch. We felt very honored to have had our lunch at the Zhu Family Garden. Continued our journey and arrived Qui Bei around 8.30pm. The hotel is situated next to the lake. After dinner we were treated to a cultural performance by the locals and one participant bought fire crackers and we had a great time becoming kids again that night.

DAY 8 (17 February 2005)
Qui Bei/PuZhe Hei - Luoping(172km)

In the morning before leaving for Luoping, we stopped by Pu Zhe Hei, scenic area consisting of group of lakes, peaks and karst caves and took a boat ride to enjoy the scenic view. This area is located 15km from Qui Bei city. We continued our journey and arrived in Luoping in the evening. The Head of Luoping Tourism Department welcomed us and later took us for a visit to the rapeseed plantation. Luoping is located eastern most Yunnan adjoining Guizhou province. Their landscape is similar to Guillin with small hills and river meandering through. Luoping is one of the major rapeseed producer in China and yellow rapeseed flowers are in full bloom in February and March.

DAY 9(18 February 2005)
Luoping - Kunming(250km)

After a hearty breakfast and short briefing, the convoy left for Kunming. The journey was tough because visibility was less than 30 meter as at 10.00am and slowed most of the vehicles when negotiating sharp bends.

We stopped at the Forest Stone - an extremely rare geological phenomenon dating back 270 million years. It has 80 hectares of of karst limestone pillars in fantastic shapes resembling a forest. The Stone Forest is also home to the Sani Tribe who are renowned for their diligence, embroidery and dancing. We continued journey and arrived hotel at Kunming approximately 5.30pm. The vehicle owners had to find time to service their vehicles, they have driven for almost 5000km. We went for dinner and a cultural show and later brought to the night market. The ladies had a great time shopping and the males were waiting anxiously in the coach.

DAY 10 (19 February 2005)
Kunming - Simao(397km)

In the morning, we visited the Kunming oldest mosque estimated to be 500 years old. Particpants contributed cash and food to the mosque and we were pleasantly surprised to note that the mosque community are knowledgeable about our country leaders. They liked our former Prime Minister YAB Tunku Abdul Rahman and also the rest of the other prime ministers.

We went shopping around the city and had lunch at one of the famous muslim restaurant. Afer lunch we continued our journey to Simao and along the way, passed through a bridge crossing the Yuan river. The height of the bridge is 165 meter and a length of 810 meter, supported by 7 pillars. We also passed the Tropic of Cancer and a 3.37 meter tunnel. we arrived Simao about 10.00pm.

DAY 11 (20 February 2005)
Simao - Keng Tung(347km)

Started our journey early heading towards Myanmar and along the way stopped by to buy tea. W arrived Jianhong city at 12.15pm and stoppd for lunch and continued our journey to Myanmar border after lunch. We reached China/Myanmar border at 4.00pm and did our normal immigration and customs clearnace of both countries. There was a minor problem as one of the participants, a Brazilian, did not have a visa to enter Myanmar. We continued our journey only at 7.10pm and arrived Keng Tung (lies in Shan state) at 10.00pm.

DAY 12 (21 February 2005)
Keng Tung - Lampang, Thailand (465km)
We visited their wet market and proceed to visit the hill tribe village. There we were welcomed by the locals and we had a great time watching the locals persuading our group into buying their products. After that we proceed to Trachilek, a border town between Myanmar and Thailand. After finishing all the relevant immigration and customs procedures, we entered Thailand through Meisai. We stopped for dinner and arrived hotel at Lampang around 1.30am. The next morning we departed for Bangkok and arrived at 1.00am.

DAY 13 (22 February 2005)
Lampang - Bangkok (599m)

DAY 14 (23 February 2005)
Bangkok

DAY 15 (24 February 2005)
Bangkok - Surat Thani (644m)

DAY 16 (25 February 2005)
Surat Thani - Kuala Lumpur (834m)

We had a good night sleep and only woke up at 9.00am. After breakfast at the hotel, we took a taxi and went shopping in town. We had our dinner on board a boat cruising the Chao Praya river and a certificate presentation after dinner. We bade farewell to everyone as we will go separate ways after tomorrow, the police team and I are leaving for home.

We drove from Bangkok and stayed overnight at Surat Thani. We continued our journey to Sadao, entered Malaysia through Bukit Kayu Hitam and arrived Kuala Lumpur at 10.00pm.

Please view
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/TransAsia05

Cuti Cuti Malaysia / Thailand 8 June - 13 June 2009

2009-06-16T11:44:00.000+08:00

The recent school holidays, we went for a holiday at Paka, Kota Bahru, Kangar and Hat Yai. We started our journey early, about 6.30am to beat the Monday traffic jam. We arrived at Chukai approximately 10.30am and went around town. We stopped at the famous Hai Peng Kopitiam to enjoy their roti kawin with kopi O "kow".

We reached Residence Resort Paka 40 minutes later and stayed for one night. We took a ride around town and had fried seafood at Dungun. At a small Kerteh town, we had fresh & grilled oysters, oysters fried with eggs for dinner and it was simply marvellous.

The next morning after a hearty breakfast we left for Kota Bharu which was about 4 hours journey. We have earmarked Penarik, a place overlooking the sea, for fried seafood . The food was good, the scenery relaxing and it was just very homey being in the east coast again.
We checked-in Ridel Hotel Kota Bharu in the late afternoon and took a nap after long drive. For dinner our friends bought nasi kukus (steaming hot rice)and we ate dinner at their bungalow. We had coffee and dessert outside at their lawn - spacious and relaxing environment.The next morning we went to the market (Siti Khatijah) to shop for batik and it is the same as before.....Vendors having a good time as it is the school holidays and people were everywhere bargaining..................!
We then proceed to Kangar and along the way stopped at Changlun to collect our hotel voucher for New Seasons Hotel at Hat Yai and Thailand car insurance. We reece the town and later had grilled fish and fried squids for dinner. After a good dinner, we had a sound sleep to prepare ourselves for the next day journey.

The road to Wang Kelian is winding with sharp turns and it was challenging manoeuvring the road. We reached the border (Wang Kelian/Satun) to validate our passport and custom formality for our vehichle to enter Thailand and straight proceed to Satun town which is quite similar to Hat Yai. We reece through the town to look out for interesting places and eateries. We went around the market and proceed to Hat Yai.

We stopped at Amazon Cafe for fresh coffee and continued our journey to Hat Yai. We had lunch at Chekka which is famous for their deep fried mackerel with soya sauce. We checked in New Seasons Hotel and later went around as usual.

For dinner we had "Teh Tarik" and "Nasi Lemak" (Thailand Style) and went around again looking for things to buy.We went shopping at Bazaar the next morning and later in the afternoon we went to Robinsons. Normally during Malaysian school holiday, Hatyai will be packed with Malaysian tourists but to our surprise this time around Hatyai was very quiet. In the evening, we met Tok Janggut and Alfa Romeo with their families at the Hotel both families had just arrived from their tour of Southern Thailand.

Before leaving for Kuala Lumpur we stopped at Hatyai 4X4 to collect Hi - Lift jack which I ordered and then proceed to Danok for lunch. We cross Thailand/Malaysian border at about 5.00 pm and reached Bangi around midnight.

For more pictures, please view
http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/PakaKBKangarHatyai813June2009

Off-Road Adventure at Kerling (23 - 24 May 2009)

2009-05-26T21:28:00.002+08:00

After a long absence and due to the fact my vehicle was not ready, last weekend we went off roading in a jungle at Kerling, Selangor. 2 4x4 vehicles went in on Friday afternoon to block the place as it is a popular spot for off roaders. Luckily they did so, if not the rest of the group would not have a spot to camp for the night.

We stopped at Kerling for re-grouping, a total of 5 vehicles, I, Pak Mid-Pajero, Yee-Kembara, Ferom-Kembara, DJ-Hilux and Anak Badak-Suzuki. The journey itself took almost an hour to reach the campsite from Kerling. Just before entering off road track, all vehicles stopped to engage their 4 wheel but unfortunately I was not able to do so coz' I encountered difficulity engaging my 4 wheel. I was worried that without the 4 wheel engaged, I might not be able to reach the campsite especially when climbing up hill and going downhill.

Before reaching the first campsite, we have to check whether to use the bridge or the river to cross over, and upon checking, we found that the bridge was not stable and the only way was to cross the river. I was worried that our new friend, Yee might encounter difficultlities as it was his first time going off-roading and I was glad that he handled himself well.

I was amazed that despite with only 2 wheel, I managed to manoeuvre the mud holes and ruts without any difficulities and arrived safe and sound. In fact everyone was pleased with some "geli-geli" actions before reaching the campsite.

There was a total of 10 vehicles at the campsite, 5 came in earlier, Tunku-LC, Don-Pajero, Nurul-Kembara, BJL7-Kembara and Koy-Hilux. While setting up our camps, 3 more vehicles arrived at the campsite, Alpha Romeo-Landrover, Hasan-Frontier and Habib-Pajero. We said our hellos and everyone was busy setting up their camp and preparing dinner as it was already evening and we could hear the thunder.

Just then, another vehicle came in, Manja-Pajero with his 4 children just as Nurul and BJL-Kembara accompanied by Koy-Hilux departed from base camp as they had plans. After we finished with our chores, it started to rain and luckily everyone was under the tent ready to eat dinner (I brought kebabs to share with everyone). Halfway through dinner, another 2 more vehicles arrived, Rommel-Kembara and COQ-Kembara. They shared dinner with us and it was raining quite heavily. Couldn't do much work due to the rain, so all of us were just lazing and talking, breathing in fresh air.

Right after dinner, 3 vehicles, DJ-Hilux, Alpha Romeo-Landrover and Hasan-Frontier, left base camp and headed for home. We bade them a safe journey home and to take care while driving back.

Koy-Hilux arrived back at campsite about 9.30pm and related their experience driving back to base camp. Just before bedtime, another vehicle, YET-Kembara arrived at campsite and he too related how he had to steer his vehicle up the hill and manoeuvre the downhill slope due to the slippery road. Eventually, one by one quietly slipped into their tents or camp beds for a good night's sleep.

The morning was cool and misty, the ladies were busy preparing breakfast and the smell of food was circling the air. The kids were already in the river, screaming, playing and bathing, they were having a really good time despite the cold water.

After breakfast, the men talked and the ladies went about clearing and packing things. 3 vehicles COQ-Kembara, Ferom-Kembara and Koy-Hilux left after their breakfast as they had to be in KL by 2.00pm. Later, Tunku-LC and Don-Pajero departed about 11.00am as they had to rush Tunku's wife to the nearest clinic due to a wasp sting she had the day before.

My family and I went to the river (the kids were having a jolly good time) to take our bath and wow...the water's cold.

We played with the water first to tune to the coldness of the water and then vigorously splashed water nonstop on orselves. After a good bath, we dressed up and finished the last part of packing, loading and got ready for departure.
I aranged the vehicles in such a manner that the big boys will be able to rescue the smaller vehicles should the needs arised. Leadin the convoy was Manja-Pajero, followed by the rest, Yee-Kembara, Pak Mid-Pajero, YET-Kembara, Rommel-Kembara, Habib-Pajero and sweeper Anak Badak-Suzuki. I informed the convoy to be extra careful when climbing uphill and descending downhill due to the slippery road. So far the journey out was okay until we arrived at a stretch where the the road was really slippery and how good you controlled the steering wheel, it will just turn by itself. I could see the vehicle behind (YET-Kembara)"dancing" at the stretch and that was fun.....Luckily the rain stopped in the morning or else we would have encountered difficultlities getting out to the main road.

We reached the main road at about 2.00pm and went straight to a restaurant for a hearty lunch. After lunch we bade our goodbyes and break convoy.

To view more pictures please visit

http://picasaweb.google.com/pakmid/Kerling2324May09