e-borneo.com - Travel Borneo Blog

More international events to boost sports tourism in Sarawak

2009-11-10T19:25:00.000+08:00

KUCHING: Sarawak will have to organise international sport events to gear towards sport tourism, said Datuk Lee Kim Shin, the newly appointed Assistant Minister of Sports.

“We can organise international sport events to attract overseas participants and their families to come to Sarawak. This is sport tourism and it is a big industry that we should tap,” said Lee when interviewed at the sideline during the State Legislative Assembly sitting yesterday.

He pointed out that there were more than a hundred sports, for example, sport fishing, which the State could actually tap for sport tourism.

“I will work closely with Dato Sri William Mawan to get the job done,” he added.

Lee reiterated that sports had been an important part of the development of the State as it served as a way to unite people and increase interaction among the people.

“Sports can help to strengthen solidarity and enhance understanding among the people. It also helps to improve the general health of the people,” he said.

Lee said the Ministry would organise sport events at both international and national level to facilitate the participation of the general public.

Continue reading at: More international events to boost sports tourism in Sarawak
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Opening of the Orang Utan Conservation Colloquium, Sabah

2009-11-09T18:21:00.000+08:00

The Orang Utan Conservation Colloquium was recently officiated by YB Tan Sri Bernard Dompok, Minister of Plantation Industries and Commodities, at the Shangri-la Rasa Ria Resort. The objective of the Colloquium was to develop models and solutions for orang utan conservation in fragmented man-made landscapes. New results were discussed with relevant authorities and stakeholders–including the Malaysian palm oil industry–to minimise the negative impacts of agricultural development.

Source: Sabah Tourism

NOTE: Photo Copyright to Sabah Tourism
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Adventurers mesmerized by Sabah’s natural beauty

2009-11-06T18:31:00.001+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: The Mike Horn Pangaea expedition has chosen Malaysia for its third Young Explorer’s Programme. The group is currently sailing around Sabah, enjoying the region’s incredible nature, tropical islands and magnificent dive sites.

Members of the group, comprising expedition leader Mike Horn, his wife Kathy, nine young explorers as well as several crew members were met by Minister of Tourism, Culture and Environment Datuk Masidi Manjun at Marina Club Sutera Harbour yesterday.

Horn said Malaysian Borneo had infinite natural beauty. They were delighted to see that so much was being protected and they wanted to help with that, so that the next generation could continue to see it in the same way they did now.

“We have received wonderful support from the Sabah Tourism Ministry, who are helping us celebrate this beautiful region. We choose Sabah because of its rich bio-diversity,” he said.

He said the expedition was a remarkable modern day adventure over sea and land, which would cover all the continents as well as the North and South poles in four years.

Continue reading at: Adventurers mesmerized by Sabah’s natural beauty
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Heart of Borneo Initiative focuses on five key areas

2009-11-04T18:59:00.001+08:00

KUCHING: The Heart of Borneo (HoB) Initiative has attracted high profile publicity especially among non-governmental organisations worldwide.For Sarawak, the implementation of the initiative is in tandem with the state’s overall development agenda.

Speaking on the matter during the second day of ‘Regional Symposium on Orangutan Conservation’ at Four Points by Sheraton Hotel here yesterday, senior assistant director for international affairs in the state Forest Department, Sapuan Ahmad, said the project would focus on five key areas identified in the project document (PD).

These areas are sustainable agriculture; sustainable forest management; conservation of biological diversity (including transboundary biodiversity conservation area networks); community based/rural poverty eradication programme; and ecotourism based on culture, adventure and nature (CAN).

He further stressed that the initiative could benefit the state by attracting more bilateral and multilateral collaboration, providing platform for promoting Sarawak’s efforts in conservation and sustainable forest management; encouraging stakeholders’ cooperation through information sharing and implementation of joint activities; and enhancing capacity building through bilateral and multilateral collaboration.

The HoB Initiative is a conservation and sustainable development programme aimed at conserving and managing the contiguous tropical forest in Borneo.

Its objective is to conserve the last expanse of contiguous forest to maximise transboundary linkages; to promote the expansion of protected area network; maintain forest connectivity; and to ensure sustainable land use practices.

Continue reading at: Heart of Borneo Initiative focuses on five key areas
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Haunting ride to Keningau

2009-11-03T18:39:00.001+08:00

By Mohammad Abdullah

A town the size of Bangar Town in Temburong lies hidden in Sabah. Keningau, about 130km from Kota Kinabalu and about 300km from Temburong, is a town where not many venture to.

Reaching the town of Keningau, one has to take a turn at a junction near Sipitang. From there, the long and winding road takes travellers high above the hills of Sabah where spectacular views of the forest below can be seen.

The town itself is accessible via two roads, one from Kota Kinabalu via Bukit Emas and the other through the junction prior to reaching the town of Sipitang. It takes about four to five hours to reach Keningau from Temburong, depending on the traffic in Lawas.

Many stories abound about the road to Keningau, which locals swear is haunted. They'd warn travellers never to stop for anything, not even to help motorists who are stranded.

There are lights on the road but because the road cuts through the virgin forest, it is a bit imposing, and could be terrifying in stormy weather. On our first trip to Keningau, we've experienced it all. We travelled at night during a storm and experienced a car break down.

What the locals say is true.

No one would stop to help out a stranger on that road, and because of the steep inclines and declines, the wet weather makes the road very slippery and becomes a tad dangerous. We didn't experience any 'x-files' though.

The irony is that the road to Keningau is almost perfect. The road is smooth and beautifully made. The winding road with the steep inclines and declines poses a little challenge for drivers and a haven for bikers, in particular those who wish to test their tenacity and skills.

Keningau was once said to be a cowboy town, where travellers hardly stay for long. The city of Kota Kinabalu pulls a stronger attraction than Keningau. However the town does have its own merits. Because of its relatively small size, practically everyone knows everyone, and news travel fast about a group of travellers staying in one of the only hotels in town, especially when they roll on two wheels accompanied by the sound of thunder.

People even cheered as the parade of bikers negotiates by the narrow high streets. What grabs is the number of natives who walk the streets, from the inner tribes of Sabah, who commute to Keningau to sell their goods.

The town is growing, but at snail pace, with pockets of rural living. This can be seen on the roads itself, as we approach the town herds of cattle walks leisurely across the road ignoring the traffic they hold up.

For adventure seekers, Keningau is worth a visit, a small town with great appeal as it is set on a backdrop of lush, virgin forests, to wake up to the muted sound of traffic and hustle and bustle of town life.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

First five-star hotel at foothills of Mt Kinabalu

2009-11-02T18:09:00.000+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: The first five-star hotel in Kundasang is set to be built on the foothills of Sabah’s iconic Mount Kinabalu.

The RM300mil Royal Kinabalu Mountain Resort will have 494 rooms and suites, half of them to be sold for private ownership akin to the time-sharing concept. Each unit costs between RM800,000 and RM1mil.

At the sales launch yesterday, only five units of the 280 hotel suites for private ownership were available following heavy bookings from a pre-launch marketing drive around the state.

“We have a waiting list of about 40 buyers,” Kinsabina Sdn Bhd managing director Francis Goh said at the launch by state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun.

He attributed the success to the guaranteed returns of at least 6% rental yield or profit-sharing from the room revenue pool in the next 15 years.

Continue reading at: First five-star hotel at foothills of Mt Kinabalu
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Sandakan Death March: Remembering the heroes whose lives we live today

2009-11-02T18:06:00.000+08:00

The recent Durian Fest in Kundasang Ranau which coincided with the International Climbathon at Kinabalu Parks attracted a fair crowd. Besides the usual haggling found in any traditional market, people were also looking at the Kundasang War Memorial sited just nearby the shophouses. A tourist attraction, it is a fort-like structures with Gardens situated on a hill overlooking the village of Kundasang.

The broodingly somber fort actually boasts well tended gardens visited by people who pose for photographs among the flowers.

During my brief meanderings around the grounds, I realize that only some sit quietly and ponder on the history behind this memorial or to wonder at this testimony of anguish and pain inflicted by humans on their fellow sapiens.

For it commemorates the Sandakan Death March which was a series of forced marches from Sandakan to Ranau by prisoners of war (PoW). Pushed forward beyond their endurance, the Japanese marched them to their death.

According to history, more than 3,600 Indonesian civilian slave labourers and 2,400 Allied PoW died in the marches. Only six Australians survived and even then it was because they had managed to escape.

The first series of marches occurred between January and March 1945. Four hundred and seventy prisoners were chosen to carry Japanese provisions for the conquering army who were relocating to the west coast. They reached Ranau but only five Australians and one British soldier survived.

The second wave occurred on May 29 1945 where 536 prisoners were marched off under the command of a Japanese captain. The prisoners were grouped by 50’s each, every group accompanied by Japanese guards. Twenty six days later only 183 prisoners reached Ranau and met with the remaining six from the first march.

Continue reading at: Sandakan Death March: Remembering the heroes whose lives we live today
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Sarawak keen to increase orangutan population

2009-11-02T18:03:00.000+08:00

KUCHING: Sarawak hopes to gradually increase its wild orangutan population through various conservation efforts and with a balanced approach to development.

State forestry director Datuk Len Talif Salleh said there were currently about 2,500 orangutan in the wild in Sarawak.

“What is important is that the figure has been stable for a number of years. This means that our efforts have been successul in stabilising the orangutan population.

“In fact, we want to increase the population to three, four or even five thousand in the years to come,” he told reporters at a regional symposium on orangutan conservation here on Monday.

The three-day symposium is aimed at gathering views and recommendations from experts and stakeholders on developing an “orangutan strategic management plan” for Sarawak. It was opened by Second Minister of Planning and Resource Management Datuk Awang Tengah Ali Hasan.

Len said greater public awareness on the need to protect orangutan had contributed to the state’s conservation efforts.

He cited the example of a member of the public who recently handed over a baby orangutan to the Matang Wildlife Centre after rescuing it from captivity as a pet.

Continue reading at: Sarawak keen to increase orangutan population
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Sabah wants to be at forefront on Heart Of Borneo success concept

2009-11-01T18:32:00.000+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah wants to be at the forefront on the success of the Heart Of Borneo (HoB) concept.

State Forestry Department Director, Datuk Sam Mannan explained that the HoB is mainly about sustainable forest management, good governance, and good environmental management.

He was responding to reporters during the HoB exposition held at 1Borneo yesterday. “We are small in comparison with the rest so we cannot compete in the basis of size, but we want to compete in the basis of governance, quality products and high value. Quality – that is what we have,” he said. HoB is an initiative of three countries – Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, to sustain about 250 sq km of area situated at the heart of the Borneo Isle.

“We want to use the HoB as our brand name because it is something which is recognized internationally and is something that is highly regarded,” he said. Sam added that the State has garnered a lot of positive response from foreigners who attended the Regional Forum on enhancing forest ecosystem connectivity and corridors within the HoB held recently.

“We had a few ambassadors and high commissioners here during the HoB forum recently – Among those who attended were the Singapore High Commissioner to Brunei, British High Commissioner to Brunei, the European Union (EU) ambassador to Malaysia and the Netherlands Ambassador to Malaysia. They were very impressed,” he said on Friday.

Continue reading at: Sabah wants to be at forefront on Heart Of Borneo success concept
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'Beauty and the Beast' way to boost support for orang-utan

2009-10-30T17:56:00.001+08:00

Kota Kinabalu: An Orang-Utan Awareness Week (November 9-15) will see a fresh UK "beauty and the beast' idea to jolt support for Sabah's beastly icon.

The beauty is Hayley Bagnall who sacrificed a lucrative London corporate social responsibility consultant job to inspire a permanent future for our famous "Man of the Forest" - the orang-utan.

Packing all the youthful zeal, Hayley will mount an assault on Mt Kinabalu on November 8-10, slot herself into a full orang-utan dress once she reaches the summit that is Low's Peak, gather all climbers she can rally around her to unfurl a large banner to launch the week-long campaign!

"The aim is to raise awareness and raise vital funds to help support the work of the Orang-Utan Appeal UK here in Sabah," explained Hayley in her new role as the Appeal's Liaison Officer.

The Orang-Utan Appeal UK, founded by businesswoman Sue Sherwood, has been working hand in hand with the Sepilok Orang-Utan Rehabilitation Centre since 2002.

Continue reading at: 'Beauty and the Beast' way to boost support for orang-utan
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Trekking to the roof of Sarawak, Gunung Murud

2009-10-30T15:17:00.000+08:00

It was past midnight when I woke up suddenly in a wooden hut at the elevation around 2,000 metres above sea level. As I opened the door to have a peep outside, the strong and cold wind was blowing right into me and I was chilled to the bone. I noticed the steam coming out from my nose while exhaling. Though I was wearing a thick windproof jacket, I still could not stand the cold and windy environment as the temperature was approximately 10 degree Celsius! I was standing on the roof of Sarawak, awaiting the sun to rise in order to climb to the highest peak of Gunung Murud.

Gunung Murud is the highest mountain in Sarawak. The summit of this sandstone mountain is 2,423 metres (7,946 feet) above sea level. It is located inside the largest protected national park of Sarawak called Pulong Tau National Park, on the boundary of Limbang and Miri division of north-eastern Sarawak. I was joining an international team consisting of 14 members from Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei and Taiwan to trek to the summit of Gunung Murud on the actual birthday of Malaysia, 16 of September. This trip was organised by Borneo Touch Ecotour Sdn Bhd and our expedition team was leaded by Mr Chua Eng Hin from Limbang. It was my honour to be one of the two members being sponsored by Sarawak Tourism Board to participate in this unforgettable trip to one of the most beautiful places in this land of hornbill.

On 14 of September, our members in two groups arrived at Limbang and Lawas town respectively and spent a night there. On the following day, all the fourteen members together with our drivers gathered in front of a coffee shop at Lawas in the early morning. After taking our breakfast and uploading our backpacks to our four-wheel-drive vehicles, we headed to the bus station of Lawas around 8am. We were greeted by Datuk Henry Sum Agong, MP for Bukit Sari at the bus terminal. After taking the group photo and the flag off ceremony, we waved goodbye to him and left the town for the Ba’Kelalan highlands.

Several minutes after leaving Lawas town, our convoy turned into a logging track from the main road of Lawas. Thanks to the fine weather, we arrived at Raven scout camp about 3 hours later. It is a small logging camp located about 109km from Lawas town. We took our lunch in a canteen there and rested for one and half hour; then we continued our journey to Lepo Bunga. Around 2.15pm, we reached Lepo Bunga, which was the trailhead of our trek to Gunung Murud.

At Lepo Bunga, four porters from the nearby Ba’kelalan village approached and helped us to unload our bags, foods and drinks from the vehicles. Each porter carried more than 20kg of our belonging, including foods and drinks up to the church camp from the trailhead.

Continue reading (incl. pics) at: Trekking to the roof of Sarawak, Gunung Murud
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Flavourful Barramundi at Kuching Grand Margherita Hotel, Sarawak

2009-10-29T18:26:00.000+08:00

Lunch at the Meisan Szechuan Restaurant of Grand Margherita Hotel recently was a healthy and intriguing affair. It was strictly an ‘all fish menu’ affair except for the Hong Kong Kale with Garlic that came almost towards the end of the informative and knowledgeable lunch about a fish called Barramundi.

In between catching up with the news and enjoying the dish of Barramundi among media friends, Assar Aquaquest Sdn Bhd Senior Farm Executive Awg Mohamad Farid Awg Fadzellah narrated about their project on the fish that they started about four years ago. His interesting and entrepreneurial success story helped to stimulate further our appetite. Well, if people ask me what do I know about fish and Barramundi, the least I can said is that the meat tastes good, thanks to the hotel chef and business vision of Assar Aquaquest.

Farid said that Barramundi is a relative of an Australian and Asian sea bass and their presence here would give us more varieties in the type of sea fish and seafood base dishes.

Looking at the menu that we had for lunch, he could not be wrong as we were served a dish called Hot and Cold Barramundi “Omega 3”. The fish cake was crunchy, crispy and juicy with mayonnaise fillings that melt in your mouth. That was good. The cold dish of Barramundi raw meat was done umai style. It was very flavourful with chilli, garlic and lemon grass. It went very well with roasted sago pearl.

According to Farid, Barramundi is getting popular here and has already made a name for itself in major supermarkets and leading hotels in the city. Its a matter of time, in the not too distant future, before its name will be mentioned by every housewife in the city.

Well, remember how we have slowly got use to one of Thailand’s greatest soup - The Tom Yam. We were also served a special Tom Yam soup with Barramundi.

Continue reading (incl. pics) at: Flavourful Barramundi at Kuching Grand Margherita Hotel, Sarawak
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Sabah has more than 1,000 species of orchids

2009-10-29T18:19:00.000+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is blessed with more than 1,000 species of orchids growing in the wild and is also famous for its Slipper and Butterfly orchids.

Yet ironically, Sabah remains a net importer of cut orchid flowers with florists and hotels displaying blooms that were likely to have originated from the peninsula, said Deputy Chief Minister, Datuk Yahya Hussin at the launch of the four-day orchid exhibition held at Star City here yesterday.

Hence, the Sabah Development Corridor (SDC) master plan has called for the acceleration of the State agriculture sector through an emphasis on high-value and high-potential products such as aquaculture, non-timber products and horticulture, which includes orchid cultivation, he said.

Continue reading at: Sabah has more than 1,000 species of orchids
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Balancing act in Sabah’s tourism promotion

2009-10-27T18:05:00.000+08:00

Malaysia and in particular, Sabah, have been promoted extensively as a tourism destination in this part of the world. There are contentions however that our tourism products have been hyped by the media to boost their marketing value.

New Sabah Times sought the opinion of Associate Professor Dr Ong Puay Liu, who is attached to the Institute of Ethnic Studies or KITA of the University Kebangsaan Malaysia recently.

Ong says, “I think each country and each place has its own beauty and something to offer. By ‘product’, you have put a commercial value to the destination, hence just as in commodities sold in the market, their saleable value depends on the demand, on what the customers want. Malaysia and especially Sabah, have much to offer to people who appreciate nature, culture, adventure, history. Sabah is a microcosm of what there is on Earth – you want mountains, there are mountains. Valleys, islands, forest, wildlife, flora, traditional cultures and mode of living-you have these all in Sabah. So I do not think the promotion of Sabah as a premier tourist destination is mere media or marketing hype.”

On another question, Ong shares that Malaysia and Sabah have tried all possible means to promote their attractions both online as well as through printed media.

“The federal and State Government also organise trade fairs and participate in expos and cultural demonstrations overseas, where natives of particular ethnic groups are invited to come along and demonstrate the uniqueness of their respective cultures. The private sector is also working together with the government and local communities. One good example is Borneo Eco Tours in Sabah. If you look at its website, it is very appealing not only in the packages offered but also in the company’s interest in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities.”

Continue reading at: Balancing act in Sabah’s tourism promotion
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Determined Spaniard wins Mt Kinabalu climb

2009-10-26T18:18:00.001+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: A strong determination to win paid off for Spaniard Kilien Jornet Burgada when he clinched the top spot in the 23rd edition of the Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon.

The 21-year-old university student had just completed a gruelling 218km Tahoe Rim race in the US before coming to Sabah for the mountain race that attracted 173 participants.

“I was really tired from the Tahoe Rim race but I decided to give it my best shot for the climbathon,” said Burgada who completed the climb in 2:40:41.

Japanese Toru Miyahara repeated his last year’s feat by taking the second spot after completing the dash up and down the mountain in 2:41:49.

Continue reading (incl. pic) at: Determined Spaniard wins Mt Kinabalu climb
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Kota Belud Tamu Besar drawing crowds

2009-10-26T18:16:00.000+08:00

KOTA BELUD: Colourful and steeped in tradition while showcasing a harmonious blend of cultures and peaceful living, the annual Tamu Besar event never fails to attract people – locals and visitors alike.

The celebration yesterday drew more than 10,000 people turning this town, where the Cowboys of the East roam free, into a veritable carnival.

Ponies dressed in brightly coloured cloths with their equally fancy riders, beauties decked in traditional costumes and the gentle strains of the betitik musical ensemble all combine to make a truly unique festival.

Kota Belud district officer, Mohd Najib Muntok was definitely pleased to witness the large turnout of people.

“They have come to see for themselves how people in Kota Belud all live in peace despite our different cultures. It is a true example of the 1Malaysia concept,” he beamed.

Continue reading at: Kota Belud Tamu Besar drawing crowds
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Passport to Sandakan

2009-10-25T18:09:00.006+08:00

Once dubbed “Little Hong Kong”, this city of nature is a fusion of new and old. With its booming commerce, historical charm, exotic wildlife and sun-soaked coasts, the Sabah paradise is a playground for die-hard naturalists, beach-bunnies and culture vultures alike.

Journey to the Past

Unravel fascinating stories of interesting people and events through the various historical landmarks found around the city. Begin exploring the Heritage Trail at Masjid Jamek, a mosque which served as a refuge for Muslims and European officials during World War II. Walk to the William Pryer Monument and climb the Stairs with a Hundred Steps before embarking on a spiritual path. Discover the Gothic-inspired St Michael’s and All Angels Church that took 13 years to complete; and ask for protection, good health and educational success at the Sam Sing Kung Chinese Temple and Goddess of Mercy Temple. Tour the Agnes Keith House, the former residence of the Land Below the Wind and Three Came Home author, then head over to the English Tea House & Restaurant for a cup of steaming hot tea, scones served with jam and cream, and a traditional game of croquet.

Honour Fallen Heroes

Commemorate the tragedy of 1945, which robbed the lives of approximately 2,400 Australian and British prisoners of war. Visit the Sandakan Memorial Park, the POW camp where Allied servicemen were held by Japanese soldiers. The remains of an excavator, generator and boiler are sad reminders of the bitter past. Step into the shoes of the captives and traverse the trail of the notorious Sandakan-Ranau Death Marches. Be warned: even the fit and strapping have found it overwhelming to trek across this route that witnessed the demise of more than 1,400 soldiers. Most of them died of exhaustion, hunger and deadly diseases such as tropical ulcers and beriberi.

For more info:

* Sandakan Memorial Park, Sandakan Municipal Council, Tel: 089-275400 / 217343, Fax: 089-272112

Go Ape!

Swing by the largest Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre in Sepilok to witness the cheeky animals go about their daily business. Catch a glimpse of this protected species as they dangle from trees and dance along platforms during feeding time at 10 am and 3 pm. Established in 1964, the Centre aims to rehabilitate orphaned babies from logging sites, plantations and illegal hunting. Once equipped with the necessary survival skills, these hairy creatures will be released back into the wild. Get up close and personal with the peculiar bulbous-nosed and pot-bellied Proboscis Monkeys at the Labuk Bay Sanctuary. Although these primates search for food in their jungle habitat, they are also treated with snacks such as peeled cucumbers, long beans, and sometimes even pancakes. Originally intended as an oil palm plantation, the 190-hectare area is also home to the mischievous Silver Langgur and Oriental Pied Hornbill.

For more info:

* Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre, Sandakan Wildlife Department, Tel: 089-531180, Fax: 089-531189

* Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary, Tel: 089-672133 / 672177, Fax: 089-672136, Email: labukbay@proboscis.cc

Hit the Trails

The Rainforest Discovery Centre, one of the most accessible rainforests in Sabah, sits by a lake at the edge of the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve. Walk along the 800-m Rainforest Discovery Trail and become acquainted with green giants such as the menggaris tree. Be sure to also keep an eye out for darting civets and flying squirrels. Climb to the top of the observation towers and take in the breathtaking view from the 150-m long and 28-m high steel canopy walkway. 250 species of birds reside within the Centre including the Banded and Rufous-collared Kingfisher; Hooded and Black-and-Crimson Pitta; Scarlet Minivet; Red-bearded Bee-Eater; Banded Broadbill and Diard's Trogon. Patience is a virtue, especially when trying to spot the trophy Bornean Bristlehead!

For more info:

* Rainforest Discovery Centre, Tel: 089-533780 / 533781, Fax: 089-535201, Email: rdcsepilok@yahoo.com

Hit the Beach

Attempt to find Nemo and other underwater creatures such as the yellow-tail barracuda, humphead parrotfish and guitarfish in the blue-green waters surrounding Lankayan Island. Non-divers can snorkel along the reef, kayak or just lie back on a hammock and enjoy the beautiful sunset and ocean breeze. Witness Green and Hawksbill turtles landing to lay eggs at the Turtle Islands Park, which is dedicated to the protection of this endangered species. Gazetted in 1977, the Marine Park consists of three islands, Pulau Bakungan Kecil, Pulau Selingan and Pulau Gelisan. A friendly tip: Go during the months of March–September to avoid the north-eastern monsoon windstorms.

Ride the River

Travel by open boat along the Kinabatangan, the longest river in Sabah which flows 560 km from the Crocker Range in the southwest down to the Sulu Sea in the east. With its tributaries and oxbow lakes, the Lower Kinabatangan is the largest floodplain in Malaysia and one of only two known places on earth where 10 primate species including the orang utan, proboscis monkey, maroon langgur and macaques can be found. Keep an eye out for other spectacular wildlife along the riverbanks such as the Borneo pygmy elephants, bearded pigs, wild cats, sun bears and crocodiles, just to name a few. The endemic Bornean Bristlehead, rare Storm's Stork and endangered Oriental Darter have also been spotted in the area.

Source: Sabah Tourism Newsletter

NOTE: All Photos Copyright to Sabah Tourism
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With MASwings will travel

2009-10-25T18:01:00.001+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: In conjunction with MASwings second anniversary, the airline is offering discounted fares from as low as RM2 to RM29 for online booking.

Beginning Oct 24-31, a total of 150,000 seats within Sabah and Sarawak and between these two neighboring states were put for grabs at a discounted fare for travel period from Jan 1, 2010 until June 30, 2010.

The seats offered are more than 20% of the total seats available on MASwings flights between and within Sabah and Sarawak for the half year period.

Acting head of commercial, Azlan Awang Tanjung said, “The seat offered were part of MASwings’ effort to show appreciation to all MASwings’ loyal and supportive customers.”

He also stressed that many customers perceived that MASwings fares were expensive but on the contrary, its fares were relatively reasonable and affordable to many East Malaysians and “even lower if the booking is made via the internet.”

“The anniversary offer is a real deal as MASwings will give out ample seat allotment for customers who are willing to make advanced plan for their travel. For eight consecutive days beginning Sunday this week, MASwings will be offering unbelievable discounted fare never before offered to our customers. What they need to do is to log on to MASwings website and choose any date they wish to travel,” he added.

Continue reading at: With MASwings will travel
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Huminodun - The mystical origin of the Kadazandusun people

2009-10-24T18:16:00.001+08:00

By HERMAN SCHOLZ, The Flying Dusun

First, there was nothing but Kinoingan and Sumundu. Together, they created man and the universe, the earth, and everything seen and unseen, known and unknown.

In the beginning, all was well in the Heavens, and the world was pure and beautiful. But one day, Ponompulan, Kinoingan’s son, rebelled against his divine father, and he corrupted the hearts and minds of the humans on earth.

Disappointed and angry, Kinoingan banished Ponompulan from the Heavens and cast him to Kolungkud . Then, to punish mankind for their sinful ways, Kinoingan sent seven plagues. The last plague was a severe draught, and famine threatened to destroy every living being on earth.

But at last, the people on earth realised their sin, and turned back to Kinoingan, to ask for forgiveness. Ponompuan, Kinoingan’s only daughter, entreated her father’s mercy to forgive the people of the world and consented to Kinoingan’s proposal that she be sacrificed, as a symbol of the greatest love of all.

Kinoingan sacrificed His only daughter so that the people could have food. Her body parts were planted as seeds and became the food resource of the world: rice. Ponompuan’s spirit dwells in the paddy, and is the seven-in-one Bambaazon (Bambarayon), the spirit of the paddy. Red rice is the most sacred of all, because it was from the flesh of Ponompuan.

Ponompuan, who is often called Huminodun, is in essence the soul of the paddy. During harvesting time, the Bobohizans (Bobolians) usher the seven-in-one soul of Bambaazon to dwell in the Tangkob (Toguruon), at home, until the next planting season is due.

Bambaazon is embodied in every part of the paddy and its related products. During the course of its seasons it is inevitable that the paddy is damaged, be it naturally, unintentionally, innocently or through abuse and neglect. Also, during the harvest itself, parts of the spiritual components of Bambaazon are separated. Thus, it is of utmost importance that immediately after the harvest Bambaazon’s dispersed mystical spirits are collected by the spiritual specialists, brought home, re-united, healed and appeased.

The Bobohizans perform the Magavau, Modsuut and Humabot Ceremonies, travelling though the different levels of the spiritual world to rescue the severed and strayed Bambaazon. Whole again, Bambaazon will ensure that the next harvest is equally bountiful.

To thank Kinoingan for Bambaazon’s gift of a good harvest, the Pesta Ka’amatan (Harvest Festival) is held. The Kadazans forgive each other, restore and strengthen peace and harmony – not only on a worldly level, but also between nature and the spiritual world – and play the gongs, sing songs and dance to the ancient rhythm of life.

To commemorate the greatest love of all, Kinoingan’s sacrifice of His only daughter, the Kadazans idolise Huminodun and select the Unduk Ngadau (lit: zenith of the sun; Harvest Beauty Queen) in order to remember that Ponompuan was perfect: she was of total beauty of the heart, mind soul and body.

Source: New Sabah Times 'In' Sites
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Sabah Tourism Upcoming Event: Pesta Gong Kudat

2009-10-23T18:10:00.000+08:00

Date: 25 October 2009

Celebrate the backbone of traditional music in Sabah as the Kudat Rungus community assembles for the annual Gong Festival held on 24 and 25 October at Kampung Sumangkap, Matunggong. Titillate your eardrums as participants battle it out in the gong beating, singing and traditional Mongigol Sumundai dance competitions. Witness the crowning of the Gong Queen and adorable children strutting down the catwalk during the kids fashion show contest. Stalls selling food and other local goods will also be set up for the convenience of visitors.

For further enquires, contact Zachary Mobijohn (Sri Pelancongan Sabah) at 088 232121/zachary@sabahtourism.com or Arnold Joibi (Matunggong District Office) at 088 613762.

Source: Sabah Tourism

NOTE: Photo Copyright to Sabah Tourism
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Sabah – paradise and a paradox

2009-10-23T18:06:00.001+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is a paradox – it is a land blessed with many resources yet remains poor.

That is how Prof W. Chan Kim, co-author of the best-selling Blue Ocean Strategy, sums up the state.

“When you have so much natural resources you are comfortable to sell what you have (but) what you have will one day disappear,” he said.

The professor, who co-authored the Blue Ocean Strategy with Renee Mauborgne, said there was a need to exploit the state’s resources in areas which are untapped.

Noting that Sabah was home to the third largest rainforest in the world, he said it was important that the state made itself known to the world as Asia’s rainforest tourism destination.

The main areas of economic growth in the world are pharmaceuticals, bio-science and telecommunications, he said, noting that the rainforest provided 25% of the ingredients for modern pharmaceutical use.

“I see Sabah as a powerful state especially compared to a place like Dubai which had nothing apart from a desert, goats and some oil and gas and today is a big tourist spot.

Continue reading at: Sabah – paradise and a paradox
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F&B a major tourist attraction for Sarawak

2009-10-23T18:05:00.001+08:00

If somebody asks me what is it about Sarawak that makes people come back again and again – at least once in their life time - my answer is that it depends on the person. Each traveller has his own needs and wants. I am not a marketing expert but like other any tourist destination Sarawak has something at par to offer travellers from around the world.

When someone browse through holiday brochures he is quite certain to see the words such as “It’s a must see and must go” place printed on the brochure or leaflet. It is almost a certainty that the holiday makers or travellers would form some rough ideas of their destinations.

Sarawak in general is beautiful and has a huge potential to be a tourist destination. It has numerous tourist products and there is no denial that it is a paradise with its picturesque flora and fauna, and a landscape that only exists in this part of the world.

But tourists do not come here for just the landscape or filling up their digital camera memory cards. They want something different that could not be found from where they come from. They want to experience something – other than snap shots – that they can remember for a life time.

Singaporean actor cum gourmet expert Moses Lim, who is the Sarawak Food Ambassador in the republic since Sept 1 this year, said personally he sees Sarawak as a very interesting destination with numerous tourist products to promote. Moses explained that for many years people form Singapore and the Asian region had not heard much about Sarawak and East Malaysia.

“I knew Sarawak in the 1970s when I was involved in my late father’s automotive business. I travelled to this part of the world. I used to travel at least 21 days a month around East Malaysia and came to know the many interesting places and food that people would love to experience.

“In the middle of this year, STB ex CEO Gracie Geikie approached me and asked me whether I would like to promote food like laksa since I have such gourmet experiences and laksa is one of the food loved by Singaporeans. I believe we should promote Sarawak through the varieties of authentic food and beverage products,” he said.

Continue reading (incl. pics) at: F&B a major tourist attraction for Sarawak
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E-BORNEO.COM's New Office Location

2009-10-22T18:22:00.000+08:00

For those who had missed out on our recent Relocation Notice, please take note that our office had been relocated to the following new location:

Lot No. 7, 2nd Floor, Block C
Lintas Jaya Uptownship
88200 Penampang
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Malaysia
Tel/Fax: +6-088-722606

Our operating hours will be as follows:

* Monday - Friday : 8.30 am to 5.30 pm

* Saturday, Sunday, Public Holidays : Closed

Looking forward to serving you at our new premises.

Management
E-BORNEO.COM TOURS & TRAVEL SDN BHD (862652-M)

URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/
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23rd Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon

2009-10-22T18:19:00.000+08:00

Date: 24-25 October 2009

Come 24 and 25 October the hills, or rather the mountain, will come to life with the sound, smell and taste of sheer determination to conquer the steepest marathon on the 7-series Skyrunning World Championship circuit. Billed as the World’s Toughest Mountain Race, the 23rd Mount Kinabalu International Climbathon will decide the ultimate champions of the 2009 Men’s Open, Women’s Open and Men’s Veteran categories.

Mountain runners must sprint through 21 kilometres of craggy terrain up steep steps and paths to the summit of Mount Kinabalu (4095.2 m) and back to the Kinabalu Park headquarters to complete the race. While the average mortal takes two days, the herculean contestants can reach the finishing line in approximately two and a half hours.

Although the first Climbathon was inaugurated in 1987 to scout for an adept rescue squad, it has matured throughout the years into a significant sporting event that attracts participants from more than 40 countries including Japan, Switzerland, Mexico, Spain, Italy and Great Britain—a majority of which are members of the World Mountain Running Association (WMRA), whose patron is the International Amateur Athletic Federation (IAAF).

Bystanders can join in the excitement at the TM Fiesta and participate in a multitude of activities including the colouring and drawing competition, games and lucky draw. Transportation to the Pesta Kubis (Cabbage Festival) in Kundasang will also be provided on 24 October by the organiser from Kinabalu Park to Kundasang and Ranau town to Kundasang.

For more information, contact Zachary Mobijohn (Organising Secretary) at 088 232121/zachary@sabahtourism.com or visit http://climbathon.sabahtourism.com/2009/.

Source: Sabah Tourism

NOTE: Photo Copyright to Sabah Tourism
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Sabah's wildlife lures US TV celebrity

2009-10-22T18:15:00.001+08:00

Kota Kinabalu: Zoologist and television personality Jack Hanna is here with his film crew to capture Sabah's pygmy elephants, sun bears and orang utan on film to be shown in the Into the Wild television programme in the US to heighten the world's awareness of the animals.

The famed Director Emeritus of the Columbus Zoo in Ohio, was pleased with the warm welcome he, his wife, daughter and film crew received and would be here for six days.

During the period, they would be going to Sepilok to see orang utan and sun bear conservation.

"Also we will be going to Sukau River to see the pygmy elephants and orang utan as well as the Kinabatangan Orang Utan Conservation project and Labuk Bay Proboscis Sanctuary," he told reporters at Pacific Sutera, Wednesday.

He also would look out for some nocturnal creatures and hoped to shoot two or three 30-minute programmes during their stay.

"Our primary aim is the orang utan, sun bear and pygmy elephants but we hope to see also proboscis monkey, leaf monkey and cobra," he said.

After Sabah, Jack and his crew would be going to Bako National Park outside Kuching and do some filming at the Sarawak Cultural Village.

Continue reading at: Sabah's wildlife lures US TV celebrity
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