Outdoor Life

Bukit Keluang

2012-02-21T19:57:00.005-08:00

Bukit Keluang in Besut, Terengganu

Bukit Keluang is an attractive place in Besut Terengganu with uniques beaches that is flanked with several hills; that is why it is called Bukit(hill) Keluang. For those who first heard its name might at first thought imagines Bukit Keluang as a green forested area in Forest Reserve with nice stream or on foot of a mountain. But that only half true.. because Bukit Keluang is actually facing the South China Sea with beautiful beaches and rock outcrop. This combination of beaches and rocky hill are what make this place so unique. While the beach is beautiful and good place for picnic and swimming, it is the hill that make this place so special. Climbing the Bukit Keluang hill will offer you a breathtaking view. Walking along the ridge with superb view and breezy wind is so peaceful. Climb of the Bukit Keluang would take around 30-60 minutes to the highest point. If you have more time to kill then proceed to hike the full trail..

seen is believing

the cliff is so high, even at my lens full zoom of 105mm, the anglers below still look so tiny

MAP.. HOW TO GO TO BUKIT KELUANG

Click here to view Bukit Keluang in a larger map

Visit Mount Kinabalu for a lifetime experience

7th Perak Ironbound 2012

2011-11-30T06:44:00.000-08:00

7th Perak Ironbound 2012 with its official name 7th Perak Columbia Ironbound 2012

Must be this time the main sponsor is Columbia.. hopefully got Columbia jacket in goodies bag he he.. check out the details at organizer official website here . This is one of happening adventure racings in Malaysia of course. Organized by renown and reputable organizer SNR Adventure, now for its 7th edition has carved name of IRON BOUND as SNR Adventure's most popular brand name beside those orienteering tournaments. Even without USD prize money, this adventure race do attract international participation.

In case you got issue to find the details at SNR Adventure website, I paste some information here for your conveniences :

To the “adventure racing" fans, the foremost adventure racing event in Malaysia IRON BOUND CHALLENGE to appear once again hosting the 7^th edition, this time it was more physical and mental challenge, this time the challenge will be hosted for 2 days in stages "weekend warriors", it will be held on 28-29 April 2012, the location set in Lumut, Perak, Malaysia.

The challenge was organized to commemorate the Perak visit year 2012 thisinaugural tournament was brought to the attention of adventure racing lovers every year, Perak Iron Bound Challenge has received awards by the MALAYSIA SPORT TOURISM COUNCIL, as the most successful sports in Malaysia 2003. @ The Palace Golden Horses.

What is certain is organized at this time is very interesting and different from the previous edition.

discipline at this time (adventure race TEAM only- 2 Day Race)

1. forest runoff
2. mountain bike
3. high ropes
4. discover scuba diving (DSD) ---> are you scared?..don't worry peeps!!
5. kayaking
6. orienteering
7. test mystery
8. river runoff

participants have a healthy body and should be competent in each discipline (skills test will be charged to each participant to ensure eligible to enter this challenge,COLUMBIA SPORTS WEAR will become the main sponsor in the tournament for the first time in Malaysia, the brand known for Eco Challenge series.

Categories offered (team two)

1. Open men (2 days race)
2. Open mixed (2 days race)
3. Ultra solo male / female (1 day race)

Offered cash prizes for both categories

1st place RM 5,000.00 + products
2nd place RM 4,000.00 + products
3rd place RM 3,000.00 + products
4th-5th RM 1,000.00 + products

Presents a special award.

- Courteous team
- Sporting team

Offered cash prizes for both categories of ultra-solo

1st RM 1,000.00 + products
2nd RM 800.00 + products
3rd RM 500.00 + products

Registration fee for the category team

RM 300.00 per team, the package includes

- Goodies Bag
- Event Shirt
- Finisher shirt
- Finisher medals
- Certificates
- Buffet breakfast 28th Dec
- Buffet Dinner 28th Dec
- Breakfast 29th Dec
- 29th Dec Hi Tea

Registration fee for the category of ultra-solo

RM 150.00, the package includes

- Goodies Bag
- Event Shirt
- Finisher shirt
- Finisher medals
- Certificates
- Buffet breakfast 28th Dec
- Buffet dinner 28th Dec
- Breakfast 29th Dec
- 29th Dec Hi Tea

RACE TENTATIVE

25-26 April 2012 : arriving international participant (shuttle from KLIA to LUMUT,PERAK)
27 April 2012 (10am-05pm) : registration/skill test @ Orient Star Lumut, Malaysia
27 April 2012 (08pm) : race briefing (day 01 - compulsory)
28 April 2012 (06-07am) : breakfast
28 April 2012 (09am) : first stage (day 01) flag off - COT 6hrs (first team finish)
28 April 2012 (07am) : dinner
28 April 2012 (08am) : race briefing (day 02 - compulsory)
29 April 2012 (06-07am) : breakfast
29 April 2012 (09am) : second stage (day 02) flag off - COT 6hrs (first team finish)
29 April 2012 (04pm) : prize giving / closing ceremony / culture performing
29 April 2012 (07pm) : shuttle to KLIA (international participant)

Free promotion to Abg Sham :)

SNR ADVENTURE CONSULTANT

Address:	14 Jalan Indah 2 Taman Desa Indah 34200 Parit Buntar, Perak Darul Ridzuan Malaysia

Telephone:	012-407 2495

Fax:	605-716 1731

SHAM - 6012.407.2495
ZUL - 6012.550.6244
ASWADI - 6012.447.6371

Hiker Dies In Sungai Bantang Forest Reserve Johor

2011-10-28T00:48:00.000-07:00

Aussie hiker dies while hiking in Sungai Bantang Forest Reserve, Bekok Johor

Out of respect to Late Chris Birchall, and request from his family.. I has removed my original post which was based on several newspaper reports due to inaccuracies of information reported. I think information given by his close friend and family in the comments is more accurately described of what really happened... May his soul Rest In Peace

Sungai Bantang Forest Reserve or Sungai Bantang waterfall is another entry point to Taman Negara Endau Rompin, a well protected rainforest sacntuary. Known also as Kampung Selai or Takah Tinggi Waterfall entry point. Visit this site at Flickr to view some photostream of this beautiful Sungai Bantang Waterfall. Check out also website of Majlis Daerah Labis for more information - charges, facilities, permit, contact no. of Forestry Department etc

Condolences to Late Mr. Chris Birchall, may his soul rest in peace...

Original Articles - link from nst: http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/AussiehikerdiesinJohorforestouting/Article/#ixzz1c3emgVOQ

See where is Bekok on Google Map here

Malaysian Has High Cholesterol

2011-10-27T08:23:00.000-07:00

1 in 3 Malaysian has High Cholesterol!!!

All my friends just be careful and aware of your lifestyles... fully aware of your health status too!! simple blood test to screen your health status now is advisable. Who know, you might get important info that might save your life! been skinny doesn't mean you are free from cardiovascular disease risk! furthermore if you are BOROI!!! he he... that include me too lah... my recent blood test show my cholesterol level on borderline! got to be more careful of what I chew after this.. and more exercise too... read this article about High Cholesterol Problem in Malaysia........... and How To Run Efficiently, next time you feel like running it will be more enjoyable ;-) hopefully

KUALA LUMPUR: More younger Malaysians are now suffering from heart disease due to high cholesterol levels.Statistics gathered by the National Cardiovascular Disease Database(NCVD) Registry also showed that Malaysians suffer from heart attacks at a younger age (mean age of 58) when compared with people in Thailand (65 years), mainland China (63 years) and Western countries (66 years).
Professor Dr Wan Azman Wan Ahmad, professor of medicine and cardiology at University Malaya Medical Centre, said a change in lifestyle routines and unhealthy dietary habits were contributing to the rise.
"Although the risk for cardiovascular diseases increases with age, in recent years, it has become common for younger people to suffer from heart diseases.
"High blood cholesterol levels, or dyslipidaemia, is prevalent among 28 per cent of Malaysians above the age of 40. Having high cholesterol puts them at a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases. The higher the blood cholesterol, the greater the risk of developing heart disease," he said in an interview.
The prevalence of high blood cholesterol levels, Dr Wan Azman said, ranged from 35 per cent when patients had acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and up to 73 per cent when they had to go for treatment (percutaneous coronary intervention).
"Although high cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, many are taking it lightly. Often it does not ring alarm bells. Only when their health is at stake that people start realising the dangers and consequences of high cholesterol," said Dr Wan Azman.
The NCVD Registry, he added, showed that more than 90 per cent of patients had at least one established cardiovascular risk factor, which included high cholesterol, diabetes and hypertension.
He also said heart diseases had been the leading cause of death in both men and women in Malaysia for the past three decades.
Consultant cardiologist Datuk Dr Khoo Kah Lin said patients who suffered from high cholesterol should change their lifestyle routines, especially if they smoked, or did not follow a healthy diet.
"It is best to quit smoking, exercise regularly, eat healthily and maintain a healthy weight. And it's important to bring low density lipoprotein cholesterol, or LDL cholesterol, to target levels via proper treatment."
Many patients, Dr Khoo said, had failed to reach their LDL cholesterol goals due to failure to take their medicine or non-aggressive treatment by their physicians. He said generally patients remained ignorant about the role of drugs in their cholesterol management.
The findings of the first Centralised Pan-Asian survey on the Under-treatment of Hypercholesterolemia Study (Cepheus), said Dr Khoo, showed that a substantial proportion of patients failed to take their medication diligently.
"About 54 per cent of the patients thought that missing a tablet once every two weeks or more would not have any effect on their cholesterol levels.
"Physicians play a role in explaining how these cholesterol-lowering drugs actually work. This will help patients understand better the necessity of taking their medication regularly and on time," said Dr Khoo.
The Cepheus study was the largest survey conducted on the current treatment status of high blood cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia)in Asia Pacific. It involved more than 7,000 patients from Malaysia, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Indonesia, Philippines, Hong Kong and Vietnam.
Only about 49 per cent of the patients participating in the Pan-Asian survey achieved their LDL-C goals.
He said despite more effective treatment available, both physicians and patients disliked changing their current method of treatment.
"A disturbing fact is that about 64 per cent of patients are still on the same lipid-lowering drug they were prescribed the first time" said Dr Khoo.
He also said anyone who had been tested and diagnosed with high LDL-C levels should seek early medical treatment.
"It is important for patients to understand their condition well and ensure that any treatment prescribed is always adhered to, regardless of whether their cholesterol levels are under control, unless otherwise advised by their doctor."

Hiker Fall at Bukit Tabur

2011-10-23T10:08:00.000-07:00

Hiker Fall at Bukit Tabur, Taman Melawati Sunday 11 Sept 2011

A man fell 25m down a slope at Bukit Tabur, breaking his left shoulder and right leg. The exact location of the accident is not clear whether at Bukit Tabur East or Bukit Tabur West. Previously most accident happen at Bukit Tabur West as it is more popular among hikers. This Bukit Tabur is not like Bukit Broga, while both places are popular among beginner hikers due to its proximity with city centre but Bukit Tabur is far more dangerous. Number of deaths here I think are higher than any incident at other mountains in Malaysia. I lost track of the number of falls here as it frequently reported in the media, it could be even more if we to take into account of unreported accidents. Most of it I think is due to high number of inexperience hikers that throng Bakut Tabur trail each weekend. Bukit Tabur is dangerous place, hike its trail with caution and respect. Do not over confident of your ability and watch your steps carefully. Do not run! any mistake could meant free falling far below the cliff. Back to this latest accident, the hiker Sundar Ramachandran, 28 from Bandar Sunway entered the hiking trail with three friends about 8am. Rescue team was informed at 9.14am and arrived at the scene at 9.40am. Sundar was rushed to Ampang Hospital after being found. I heard that the hiker later succumb to its injury days later at Hospital due to internal bleeding, please en-light me about this news if anyone know....

Observe those hikers on the Bukit Tabur West trail, they are actually walking on the edge of a high cliff

sources : New Straits Times

Astro Package Price

2011-10-11T03:39:00.000-07:00

ASTRO Subscription Package Price Calculator

I'm sure some of you have experience of difficulty to find Astro Package Price. Furthermore Astro website is not really user friendly. Surfing the website to find what is you new package price will be after upgrade or unsubsribe some channel could be frustrating sometime... link of this Astro Subscription Package Calculator is not directly display at the front page or at first level.. could try using search function.. but to make it easier here is the kink that you are looking for-

Here is link for you to calculate Astro Package Price .. Just Click On This Link

In case you need details of channels on each package .. Just Click on This Link lah

'Missing' American Tourist hiking in Gunung Tahan

2011-08-21T09:20:00.000-07:00

Assumed 'Missing' American Tourist Jacob Neil Boehm merely had gone hiking in Gunung Tahan Taman Negara Malaysia National Park

Another story of hiker gone "missing". This time the hiker not missing in the one million years old of Gunung Tahan Rainforest trail but just a "miss"communication with its family. What really happen is this guy forgot to inform those who really important to him; his family. Fortunately this group has registered with National Park Rangers Office and that has proven a wise move as that clear the "situation". Read More About The Story--- An American student, who was reported missing in Jerantut, Pahang after his arrival from Thailand last week, had merely gone hiking in Gunung Tahan.

The "Missing" American Tourist Jacob Neil Boehm

The American Tourist; Stanford University student Jacob Neil Boehm, 22, who was travelling through Asia during the summer holiday, had been keeping in touch with his parents back home on a regular basis.

The search for Jacob, who also holds German citizenship, started after last Sunday when his parents had not heard from him.

His parents Bruce Boehm and Nancy Luberoff had lodged reports with the US and German embassies in Malaysia, which then notified the Malaysian authorities and at least three Facebook pages were set up by family and friends to help in the search for him.

His friends had also started disseminating information on his missing on Google+ social network.

US embassy press officer Harvey Sernovitz confirmed that they had received a report from Jacob's parents saying their son was missing , and that the embassy was keeping in touch with the local authorities to locate him.

However, apparently, the 1.8-metre tall music student had gone to scale Gunung Tahan in Pahang on Wednesday and did not tell his family about it. National Park ranger Abdul Kadir Hashim said the US embassy had contacted them and checks revealed that the man had applied for a hiking permit at the mountain."From our record, Jacob and three other tourists had checked-in at the entry point to Gunung Tahan on Wednesday morning.

"He is not missing, as we had found records of him travelling and the accommodation where he stayed for the past week."Maybe he did not tell anyone that he was going hiking, and had made his family worried," he said.That was about 4pm. An hour later, checks with Kadir revealed that Jacob had arrived safely at the Kuala Tahan's park ranger counter."He arrived at our office in Kuala Tahan about 5pm, which is a lot earlier than we expected."When he arrived, our officers told him that everybody was looking for him, and that his family was very worried for his safety."Jacob apologised and said that he did not expect that his action would cause so much trouble," he said. A lesson learned for the "missing" american tourist. Something to learn also for other hikers, whether it is on Gunung Tahan Trail or on other less supervised trails; report your hiking trip to nearby police station beforehand is a very wise move.

Read More about Gunung Tahan Trail here about my 5 days expedition from Merapoh-Gunung Tahan-Kuala Tahan
Read more: 'Missing' American had gone hiking in Gunung Tahan http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/7missin/Article#ixzz1QL3o1pm9

Rainforest

2011-07-29T06:24:00.000-07:00

Rainforests

Rainforest are forests characterized by high rainfall, with definitions setting minimum normal annual rainfall between 1750–2000 mm (68-78 inches). The monsoon trough, alternately known as the intertropical convergence zone, plays a significant role in creating Earth's tropical rainforests. There are two types of rainforest, tropical rainforest and temperate rainforest. Malaysia located near equator are blessed with tropical rainforest.

40 to 75% of all species on the world's habitats are indigenous to the rainforests. It has been estimated that many millions of species of plants, insects, and microorganisms are still undiscovered. Tropical rainforests have been called the "jewels of the Earth", and the "world's largest pharmacy", because over one quarter of natural medicines have been discovered there. Tropical rainforest are well known for its medicinal plants and herbs. Rainforest are also responsible for 28% of the world's oxygen turn over, often misunderstood as oxygen production, processing it through photosynthesis from carbon dioxide and storing it as carbon through biosequestration.

There is misconception that to walk through rainforest is easy in believing that the undergrowth in a rainforest which is restricted in many areas by the lack of sunlight at ground level makes it possible to walk through, not like walking in the park though. Characther of forest floor or shrub layer not only determine by level of sunlight going through the canopy but also the type of soil. Granite soil would make it possible for a clear forest floor. Eventhough with a minimun amount of sunlight there would be vines plants tangle from forest floor struggle to rise to the highest canopy. Forest floor composition of dense, tangled growth of vines, shrubs, and small trees called a jungle is determine by level of sunlight passing through the canopy .

A hiker on Tropical Rainforest Trail beside a Small Stream. Click here for higher resolution photo

Tropical Rainforest

A tropical Rainforest is a biome found within (roughly) 10 degrees north or south of the equator. They are common in Asia,Australia, Africa, South America, Central America, Mexico and on many of the Pacific Islands. Within the World Wildlife Fund'sbiome classification, tropical rainforests are considered a type of tropical wet forest (or tropical moist broadleaf forest) and may also be referred to as lowland equatorial evergreen rainforest. Minimum normal annual rainfall between 1,750 millimetres (69 in) and 2,000 millimetres (79 in) occurs in this climate region. Mean monthly temperatures exceed 18 °C (64 °F) during all months of the year.

Photo of Tropical Rainforest

Temperate Rainforest

For temperate rain forests of North America, Alaback's definition is widely recognized:

Annual precipitation over 1400 mm

Mean annual temperature between 4 and 12 degrees Celsius. (39 and 54 degrees Fahrenheit)

However, required annual precipitation depends on factors such as distribution of rainfall over the year, temperatures over the year and fog presence, and definitions in other countries differ considerably. For example, Australian definitions are ecological-structural rather than climatic:

Plant in temperate rainforest are all predominantly coniferous, sometimes with an understory of broadleaved trees and shrubs. The conifer dominance is a consequence of two climatic factors: Although the region has high total precipitation, most occurs during the winter, and summers are relatively dry. During summer, moisture stress reduces the amount of photosynthesis possible especially for broadleaved trees. However, winters are very mild, and coniferous species are capable to carry on substantial amounts of their yearly photosynthesis during fall, winter and spring.

I would focus more on tropical rainforest as this is the kind of rainforest that involved and what I meant in all of my mountaineering endeavoring and bushing around.

Layer of tropical rainforest

A tropical rainforest is typically divided into four main layers, each with different plants and animals adapted for life in that particular area: forest floor / shrub layers , understory, canopy, and the emergent. Only the emergent layer is unique to tropical rainforests, while the others are also found in temperate rainforests. While plant in temperate rainforest are all predominantly coniferous, tropical rainforest are blessed with diverse plant species.

The emergent layer contains a small number of very large trees which grow above the canopy layer, reaching heights of 45-55 m, although on occasion a few species will grow up to 70 m or 80 m tall. Such species of emergent layer is Tualang tree.

The canopy is the primary layer of the forest and forms a roof over the two remaining layers. Most canopy trees have smooth, oval leaves that come to a point. It's a maze of leaves and branches. Many animals live in this area since food is abundant.

Little sunshine reaches the understory layer, so the plants have to grow larger leaves to obtain sufficient sunlight. The plants in this area seldom grow to 12 feet. There is a large concentration of insects here.

The shrub layer and forest floor will be dimmer than other layer. Few plants grow in this area, as a result. Since hardly any sun reaches the forest floor things begin to decay quickly.

All this layers can only be found on lowland Rainforest, as the contour change with increasing height the type canopy and layering also differ.

Related Articles
Malaysia Peat Swamp Forest
The Lost World of Maliau Basin
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Map to Hutan Lipur Chamerong

2011-07-20T07:56:00.000-07:00

Map on How To Go To Chamerong Recreational Park, (Chamerong Waterfall), Entry Point To Chamerong Waterfall, Mount Berembun & Lansir Waterfall

Read report and view photos of my visit to Chamerong Waterfall -> Mount Berembun -> Lansir Waterfall here

View Hutan Lipur Chamerong in a larger map

Chamerong Waterfall, Mount Berembun & Lansir Waterfall Photos

2011-07-18T22:10:00.000-07:00

A collection of recent photos during my expedition to Chamerong Waterfall, Mount Berembun, Lansir Waterfall on 9-11 July 2011 in In District of Dungun, Terengganu, Malaysia.. 3 days through magnificent Rainforest and Waterfalls

Photos of Chamerong Waterfall, Mount Berembun & Lansir Waterfall

at Car park area of Chamerong Recreational Forest, facilities provided is well maintained

At Chamerong Waterfall, Around 1 hour trekking from Park Complex, the Trail is well maintained and marked. half of the trail is cemented and the rest is normal with moderate difficulty level that include crossing hanging bridge and climb over big log. Just follow the stream and the trail will end up at the Chamerong Waterfall. You have to cross the stream for the trail to climb Mount Berembun and to Lansir Waterfall

Must have photo in front magnificent face of Chamerong Waterfall

Jumping into the deep pool at the feet of Chamerong Waterfall

Beautiful Waterfall with deep pool just below Camp Balak. The stream flow over Chamerong waterfall. Just a short walk below you will standing on top of Chamerong Waterfall

A group photo before leaving Balak Camp

Beautiful Rainforest view at trail toward Camp Y, with stream flowing beside a wall of forest tree and a unique mossy tree provide canopy filtering soft morning sun

Pose under mossy tree that become host of moss, ferns, weeds and parasite plants

Unique Pitcher Plant - Nepenthes that could be indigenous only in this Chamerong Forest with small, oval shape and no lid. While normally pitcher plant found hanging on its vine, this one could be found siting on forest floor

At hole tree located somewhere after Camp Y, This is not a dead tree trunk.. the tree grow healthily while create maze of hole on its trunk

Mysterious figure at inside "Hole Tree"

at Peak of Mount Berembun (1108 meter / 3405 feet)

Take shelter below a pine tree before Lansir Camp Site

One of Pools before Lansir Waterfall Camp Site

Lansir waterfall with bonsai tree - montane rainforest at the background

Lansir Waterfall Camp Site, Please preserve and protect Lansir Waterfall Campsite as what it is. There are sign of bonsai tree was cut down to create more camping area. Several big tree trunk at size of adult limb was left at the camp site, could have been used by previous camper on whatever purpose that puzzle most of us. Tins, bottles of not degradable type was left (burned) instead of bring back to the Park. Issuing limited permits per day for climbers could be a very good idea as what has been practiced by Sabah Park. One of respected, admired and proven successful State Park Authority in Malaysia maybe other State Authority in Peninsular Malaysia should learn one or two things from Sabah park on this aspect of preserve and protect our Natural Forest and Parks. More Climbers create more waste that could be difficult for organizer/Guide to manage and more area have to be cleared to create more camp site. Small number of climbers at one time are easier to supervise and discipline.

Sunrise at Lansir Waterfall.. Sun rise over hill on the left and a unrecognized mountain on the background

Our Group simple expedition log

09/07/11 (SATURDAY)

00.05 Start our journey to Chamerong park from Gombak LRT station

05.30 Reach Masjid Al Muktafi Billah Shah – pick Hazim (member FB)

Continue our journey towards Rimba Rekreasi Chemerong

06.30 Rimba Rekreasi Chemerong

09.30 Start Trekking

11.00 Chemerong Waterfall

12.00 Leaving Chemerong Waterfall

15.00 Balak Camp– Camp site – Tiruk, swim, dive

10/07/11 (SUNDAY)

09.45 Leaving Kem Balak

10.15 Found new pool – tiruk, swim, dive

11.00 Camp Y

13.30 Mount Berembun

14.00 Leave Mount Berembun's

Peak

15.00 Found new pool on the way to Lansir Camp Site – Tiruk, swim, dive

15.30 Again found a new deeper pool Tiruk, swim, dive till 17.30

17.30 Gerak ke kemsite Lansir

17.35 Lansir Waterfall Campsite – open fly and ground with Riverview tip top….photos shoot session

11/07/11 (MONDAY)

10.00 Leave Lansir Camp Site

10.30 Found deep pool with crystal clear water and high wall on the both side make it ideal place for Tiruk, swim, dive

11.15 Moving towards Gunung/Bukit Chemerong

13.30 Bukit Chemerong

13.45 Pokok Seraya Besar

14.00 Arrive at T junction between Camp Y dan Camp Balak. Follow downstream towards Balak Camp

14.15 Lunch beside stream before a beautiful tree on the way towards Camp Balak

14.45 Continue trekking

16.30 Area Chemerong Recreational Park – Tiruk, swim, dive

18.00 At parking lot– EVERYONE HAPPY , THANKS GOD, NO INJURY

18.30 Move out from Chamerong Recreational Park – Dinner at R&R in front Petronas petrol station and Masjid Al Muktafi Billah Shah

20.00 Start our return journey to KL – Arrived at Toll Gombak 01.00 am 12/07/2011

Related Articles
View Chamerong Waterfall and How To Go There on Map here
Magnificent World Heritage Site Mount Kinabalu Malaysia
The highest Waterfall in Malaysia, Jelawang Waterfall

Sunset At Salang Beach

2011-07-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

Sunset at Salang Beach Tioman Island

Facing west over mainland of Malaysia Peninsular, Salang Beach at Tioman Island rewards visitor with beautiful sunset

Silhouette - Tioman teenagers playing Sepak Takraw

Beautiful sunset at salang beach

Bukit Tabur West Revisited 2011

2011-06-29T08:28:00.000-07:00

Revisit Bukit Tabur West Once again with Haidy and Deuter Air Contact Trekker DAT Group at the early cloudy morning on 11th Jun 2011. Now at the last peak, someone has put up a Malaysian Flag.. make it a good background for photo shoot and show some patriotism....

Video of Beautiful Kador Bay Tulai Island

2011-06-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Tioman Island - Beautiful Kador Beach and Kador Bay, Tulai Island Shown in Video

Tulai Island is one of many small island around Tioman Island and it has a beautiful beach that are kept not so isolated but also not so accessible too. It have so fine white sandy beach and crystal clear water that must be the most beautiful beach that I ever seen for this time being at least. Just short motor boat journey from Salang Beach and located inside Tioman Marine Park, Kador Beach is supposed to be well guarded and protected. But its coral off the beach have sign of destruction that look like caused by boat, there are some part of its coral break in straight line that seem like has been run over by boat that must be bring tourist and visitor there. Unfortunate that this kind of accident happens even if not intentional must be avoided. There is a lot of Sea cucumber here and some coral fish too. Not really a best site for snorkeling but just around 50 meter off the beach located Kador Bay which is one of dive sites around Tioman Island.

View Kador Beach Tulai island in a larger map

Barefoot Running Training

2011-06-04T07:39:00.000-07:00

Barefoot Running Training and Technique

Barefoot Running has a lot of benefits such as it reduce risk of your getting shin splints and gentle on your knee. After start run using barefoot running technique my run getting more comfortable and better. No more niggling sensation on my shin as would normally came with heel strike run. Thus I could last longer and cover more distance and more important is I start to enjoy my run. I am not promoting run with naked feet here, but the technique and motion that naturally come with barefoot running, this is more or less quite similar with my post of how to run efficiently. Minimal cushion and cover up is encouraged to protect your feet from environment for safety and hygiene, unless you are Masai warrior that run barefoot chasing antelope is in your daily job description or you never run on route other than on rubber track, treadmill and from bed to toilet. As other ordinary Joe and Sally you need training and practice to master proper technique of barefoot running technique same as other barefoot run beginner. Hope these Barefoot Running Training lists would help you to train better and faster to experience and master barefoot running technique:

Keep you thick cushion trainer /running shoes in shoe rack and go out with your naked feet, if this is too extreme then opt for shoe with thinnest sole as possible.
Start by walking around barefoot. In first week, run no more than a half a KM and a KM every other day. Then increase your distance by no more than 10% per week.
Make mental note of how much or how little, it is bouncing up and down or left to right. The goal is just to move forward and keep in straight line.
Keep vertical torso, bent knees, relaxed ankles, Bent forward from your heel not from your waist and land with your feet under your body (your center of gravity). If you land with your foot in front of your body it will create braking effect and bad for your knees. Your body should be moving in front of the foot when it strike the ground.
Gently bend your toes up, this will stretches the skin on the sole of the foot before landing. Land on front half of your feet not on your toe and not on your heel because you are not walking and you are not ballet dancing either. Specifically land on the ball of your foot under the fourth and fifth metatarsal heads.
At landing keep your ankle slightly extended then let your heel down gently. This will act as natural absorber and the most forgiving dynamic. This will reduce the amount of shock travelling through your body.

Saga Hill

2011-06-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

Saga Hill Map, Cheras Kuala Lumpur

Located just on the fringe of Kuala Lumpur city centre, Saga Hill is the ideal place for riadah and sport activity, for mountaineer to practice before big expedition, white man and Eskimos to experience natural tropical rainforest, urban dweller to change skin for a jungle warrior, a place to meet up for get together activity with long not to see hiking gang, or simply want to meet with the uncles and aunty that conquer this Saga Hill every weeks, that is why this Saga Hill got its other name = Bukit Apek / Apek Hill. If these uncles and aunties climb this hill 1-2 rounds in a morning then more will for all of you fitness buff.

May be not as popular as Broga Hill that offer unique view of lalang and unobstructed view. This Saga Hill does offer unique attraction such as waterfall, shaded trek, and real trekking experience minus crowd like Bukit Broga / Broga Hill. Going to Saga Hill you don’t have to wake up early in the morning to avoid hot scorching sun as the trek is fully covered by rainforest tree canopy, I even suggest for you not to be too early to climb Saga Hill as the trek could be not so well lighted due to well covered canopy and morning mist. Furthermore, it is located nearer to Kuala Lumpur City Centre than Broga Hill. Don’t believe all I said, follow this Saga Hill map and enjoy Saga Hill trail by yourself! Pack your breakfast and have it at the camp on one of its peaks, then proceed to explore its entire trails. From foot of the Saga Hill to its peak took nearly 45minutes to complete for average climber. Saga Hill have several routes that was named as route A, B, C & D which is need around 1 half day to complete or take it easy to come another day for a different route. Enjoy Saga Hill!!

View Bukit Saga in a larger map

The main prize of Saga Hill trail - A small but beautiful waterfall that flow on big rock flat face with beautiful landscape and small area for picnic. Very ideal place for picnic and photoshoot if you have the place all for you.. but most of the time this "small" place is crowded with hikers

Nikkor 18-105mm

2011-05-05T08:45:00.000-07:00

Shoot Macro with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR - D7000 kit lens

This AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR kit lens for Nikon D7000 DSLR is a very basic lens. The reason that I bought this one is simply because it is kitted with Nikon DSLR and become so cheap compared to the one that sell individually. After bought my Nikon D7000 with all other kits and this NIKKOR 18-105mm lens for RM5,403, I have no more money left. Have to wait for my next year bonus if I really need to upgrade this lens otherwise this lens will be my only baby, but before that it is worth to master all the tricks and capability of this NIKKOR 18-105mm lens and improve my skill. Hope by the way I outgrow this NIKKOR 18-105mm lens I would find out what is the next lens that suitable with my skills and need.

Shooting macro is what most photographers love to do and that include me too but this NIKKOR 18-105mm lens is not built with that love specifically. One principle in life to ensure peace of mind is you have to love and live with what you have. With closest focus range of 0.45m (base on Nikon website) getting close up focus is difficult and magnification is limited. From my experience I could get closer focus range by zooming closer while holding shutter release halfway to maintain focus and using AF-S or AF-A in single focus point. By using single focus point you could select the correct target to focus and to avoid messy things around subject to interfere with focus. Ensure AF assist illuminator function is on would help focus easier. I has able to take decent macro photos this way with NIKKOR 18-105mm lens even though not as good with specialized macro lens such as AF Micro-Nikkor 200mm f/4D IF-ED (>RM6,000!!)

a close up shot rather than micro?

Nikkor 18-105mm lens give good bokeh too

Adidas Adizero XT

2011-04-04T10:37:00.000-07:00

Adidas Adizero XT Trail Running Shoes Review

Adidas Adizero XT Trail Running Shoes is magnificent for what it is built for, it is exaggerating if I say that it is of No Compare quality but in overall Adidas Adizero XT is indeed excellent. This shoes is light while at the same time provide excellent cushioning and protection. Its body / upper part built with quick dry material and comfortable mesh. Drainage of water should be no issue. Its have running shoes design and have good flexibility that give the good rolling feeling, and it is light that not only let you trekking trails safely but run fast too. Its outsole is designed for muddy trail with mud fighting design. The sole is broad and wide give good stability. Wearing this shoes give you sense of confident that it will protect your feet from hard pounding on root and rock while ascending and much more on descend. Specifically design for wet muddy rainforest trail, but Adidas Adizero XT will not lose face on granite, rocky hard trail. It cushion's sole made of sturdy rubber that is so strong to withstand abuse on hard trail. I trek Bukit Tabur granite Trail ( the longest quartz outcrop ridge in the world) 2 times with my Adidas Adizero XT. Even after 2 times trekking on the jagged rock and hard trail this shoes outer sole surprisingly is not really affected in comparison to my Columbia boot which badly damage on the same trail. This is shoes for trekking in rainforest, If you love this shoes then reserve it just for muddy slippery rainforest trails, even Adidas Adizero XT can survive at hard granite trail but it is wise to let specifically built hard alpine trekking shoes like Adidas Terrex do the job. You don't drive Ferrari Car on off road don't you?

Mine after completing 3 trails

Adidas Adizero XT and Adidas Kanadia Trail Running Shoes are becoming popular among hockey players

Bukit Tabur East

2011-03-16T00:41:00.000-07:00

Bukit Tabur East or Tabur Hill East Taman Melawati Kuala Lumpur

Bukit Tabur East is a lesser known trail of Bukit Tabur Quartz Ridge compare to its more popular Bukit Tabur West trail. This is mostly due that Bukit Tabur East is more difficult and more dangerous to climb. In contrast with Bukit Tabur West that you will have gradual climb where the trail is not so steep, this trail have more steep incline straightaway meters into the trail. Bukit Tabur West have better view of Kuala Lumpur City Centre while Bukit Tabur East that sit further far at North Eastern side have good view of lush rainforest reserve and Klang Gate Reservoir. Bukit Tabur West offer scenic view of sunrise with Bukit Tabur East as prop at the foreground. Bukit Tabur East starting trail is facing north east with the ridge blocking morning sun ray would make the trail quite dark at the early morning. There will be a few rope to assist climb to reach at first View Point. Highest peak (fourth peak) of Bukit Tabur East is at 900 feet just around ten feet higher than Bukit Tabur West at 850 feet. Other than the first shaded rest point which offer good view of Klang Gate Reservoir and Forest Reserve, the rest of the trail on the ridge is quite exposed to sun light other than some parts that descend into some small forest. To reach the fourth peak of Bukit Tabur East hiker have to climb a nearly 75% steep wall. Small rope is fitted there to assist climber but I would prefer to climb without it for a more stabile and balance climb. Before the fourth peak there are small alternative trail for climber to descend that going through some small forest and exit beside some bungalow houses. Extra precaution should taken on passing through second peak as you have to climb on jagged boulder while going beside it is quite dangerous which you have to walk on narrow ledge with very high cliff below, hike here during night time and bad visibility is dangerous. Descending toward forest trail from first peak should be done in orderly and sensible movement as any mistake at some cliff would bring your fall more than 20 meters below and at some parts it could be higher. There are a lot of fall accident here wether reported or unreported incidents, so taking extra precaution is advisable.

View Bukit Tabur East and West Kuala Lumpur in a larger map

Park you car here to climb Bukit Tabur East, there are ample space to park 10-20 cars

Starting Point of Bukit Tabur East at the end of small road along big water pipe

First Part of the Bukit Tabur East trail have a denser forest compare to Bukit Tabur West with denser undergrowth and bigger tree

"Good Virgin" Tree

steep trail up to the first peak

Raw quartz that you will find on the middle of the Bukit Tabur East Trail - The Longest Quartz Ridge in The World

First View offer direction of Klang Gate Dam Reservoir and Bukit Tabur West Ridge

view of Bukit Tabor West, On close up you could see hikers on the ridge

Zoom over hikers on Bukit Tabur West

other formation of quartz on way up

At the first Peak of Bukit Tabur East. Suitable place for rest before proceed to other higher peaks. Surrounding tree offer cool shade for a good rest point and having hot tea and view from here is magnificent. A good spot for group photo too :) .. one group of hiker that we met

View From Resting Point

Wall Climbing At the Highest Peak of Tabur Hill East

At the peak of Bukit Tabur East with Bukit Tabur West on the background

looking East from the highest peak of Bukit Tabur East at more jagged peak of the quartz ridge,

Dangerous cliff on the way down just before the first rope, if you trip your feet here, you will fall 20m down below. I know one guy who free fall from this cliff, luckily he fell on his backpack and survived with not so serious injury

Bukit Tabur West Trail

List of Highest Mountains in Malaysia

Running Tips - How to Run Efficiently

Know More About Malaysia Tropical Rainforest

Adidas Adizero Tempo

2011-03-08T05:56:00.000-08:00

ADIDAS ADIZERO TEMPO RUNNING SHOES REVIEW

As what its name ADIZERO suggest, this running shoes built with philosophy of lightness, even not as light as the lightest in ADIZERO family like Adidas ADIZERO Mana, Adidas ADIZERO Adios, Adidas Adizero XCS, Adidas Adizero Rocket, Adidas Adizero Ace and the newest one Adidas Adizero F50. Weight at 270gm, Adidas Adizero Tempo is slightly lighter than Adidas Adizero Boston which weight at 274gm. Categorized as “performance stability running shoes” – what can be interpreted with this term? What I assume based on simple theory of assumption is that “performance” means Adidas Adizero Tempo is light even it hold position as the heaviest in the ADIZERO range, but not light enough to be categorized as “racing”. “Stability” means it has support of all round cushioning from heel to forefoot which transform into a slight thick cushion and firm built around ankle. Both Adidas Adizero Boston and Adidas Adizero Tempo would be in this same category but built for different foot motion mechanic. Adidas Adizero Tempo is built for Overponation while Adidas Adizero Boston is built for Normal and Underpronation foot motion mechanic.

Adidas Adizero Tempo looks good for a running shoes

My Adidas Adizero Tempo running shoe is in Black and Orange color scheme looks good. With black you have little worry about dirt and cleaning regularly. Its fabric material is light and seems to dry quick and breath. Unlike my Nike free run+ running shoes which have narrow shape that wrap tight, this one give ample space for wide feet like me and it is very comfortable too.

Adidas Adizero Tempo have Higher Ankle Collar than Nike Free Run+

Adidas Adizero Tempo ankle collar even higher than Adidas Adizero XT

Adidas Adizero Tempo running shoes has mark of “full forefoot” on its sole that I think meant for wide forefoot sole that to improve stability rather than to do with cushioning. Adidas Technology in this shoe are; Ground-adapting FORMOTION moves with your motion and the TORSION SYSTEM keeps responses fast and provides adaptive midfoot support; adiPRENE® under the heel for superior cushioning at impact and Pro-Moderator medial support device prevents overpronation, which result Adidas Adizero Tempo have higher level of cushion on inside arch sole. I easily realize this aspect at the first time wearing this shoe. With all these enhancement around ankle and heel Adidas Adizero Tempo running shoes promotes heel strike. I’m not saying that you can’t strike with your mid / forefoot strike with this shoes but it feel not as free as Nike Free Run+ running shoes for me to practice mid /forefoot strike running motion. Adidas Adizero Tempo’s sole around heel not as thick Adidas Supernova, AdiStar or Adidas Cushion. This not so thick sole help reduce it weight which deserve Adizero Tempo for “performance” title. Height drop from heel to forefoot is there but not higher than Adidas Supernova or Adidas Cushion thus give ample possibility for forefoot strike motion. High top collar around ankle apply some restriction on my ankle to flex for forefoot strike but this give a good firm, tight feeling around heel and promote stability which is missing in Adidas Adizero Mana. This is why I regarded Adidas Adizero Tempo as Heel Strike Shoes which is good for what it is built for. Frankly at the first time testing this Adidas Adizero Tempo running shoes I really contemplating to sell back this shoes simply because it high collar around ankle hurt me and prevent me from practice the forefoot strike running motion that I love with Nike Free Run+ running Shoes. But all this has been blessing in disguise. I decided to give several test run with it and started to like what I found out. To overcome pain / irritation that cause by high collar ankle, I have to land my feet as close as my centre of gravity as possible and offset the lost stride range by pushing my stride backward as far as possible, this is what really should be of How to Run Efficiently. While Nike Free Run+ running shoes help me to discover forefoot strike mechanic, Adidas Adizero Tempo has help me to refine it. By landing as close as possible at my centre of gravity I have further reduce the braking effect of front foot over stride and make it easier for my body to tilt forward and create forward momentum. Adidas Adizero Tempo’s high heel will not cause much problem on flat surface even though I do unintentionally heel strike when fatigue set in and posture is broken. The high heel would grab the ground when you are running on descending ground, this will create braking and further broken your rhythm. When this happens the excellent cushioning and stability around heel area will give proper support that you need.

Nike Free Run+ is lighter than Adidas Adizero Tempo with cushion kept at minimum saw off that extra weight and with better flexibility. Nike Free Run+ also looks better - good for running and would also looks good for sight seeing

Adidas Adizero Tempo Forefoot cushion is excellent, it offer protection that you need even for a long distance run. This is a level of excellent forefoot cushioning that I’m looking for. For each step I almost could feel the cushioning effect and not hard on my forefoot – but not too soft. Its foam is firm enough to provide a solid base for toe-off. Only if this running shoe is flat with minimum drop from heel to forefoot, Adidas Adizero Tempo would be my top choice running shoes. The thick heel sole part spoilt my forefoot strike motion which also becomes unnecessary excess weight. For forefoot strike runner or minimalist runner like me would prefer flat running shoes with excellent cushion in forefoot area rather than thick sole at heel area which should be kept at minimal.

Whether you will opt for Adidas Adizero Tempo for your marathon or race is depend on your personal choice. Some would prefer lightness over cushioning for faster run while some may prefer proper cushioning for protection to endure constant pounding on long distance. It is a quest of finding perfect balance that varies from person to person. It may involve distance and your running objective, for me this Adidas Adizero Tempo offer good protection for long distance run, for a race up to 10km you may opt for lighter race running shoes such as Adizero Adios or Nike Free Run+ , however Adidas Adizero Tempo would do the job just fine if you not really particular about going fast and winning first prize. This shoe is perfect for my training shoes and even good for competition but if you looking for light racing or flat running shoes there are others that could fit the term better. I bought this for RM306 from Al Ikhsan Alamanda, I think the price is justified for a performance running shoe that lighter and better than average RM100-200 thick heel sole running shoe but if you just looking for jogging shoe and believe that heavy shoes exercise you better than just buy a cheaper one.

Lata Belatan

2011-03-01T08:17:00.000-08:00

Nikon D7000 Photography Outing To Hutan Lipur Lata Belatan, Terengganu

This beautiful waterfall located in Besut District, Terengganu. Far from hustle bustle of the city and located some 15km from Jerteh Town and 100km from Kuala Terengganu City. Lata in Bahasa Malaysia means stream with small rapid that could have not regarded as waterfall, but Lata Belatan do have 1 level of waterfall that I consider high enough. What make this Lata Belatan so unique is its water have so beautiful green azure colour. Looking at this stream make you feel so refreshing and enticing enough for you to dip in its pools. Lata Belatan sit inside Gunung Tebu Forest Reserve. One of trails to scale Gunung Tebu (Mount Tebu) start at Lata Belatan. Beware if you enjoy its trail along the streams because you might end up in the midst of Gunung Tebu Trail. Gunung Tebu is beautiful mountain and so is its stream that run beautifully at its feet. Lata Belatan welcomes you to its peaceful tranquility where cool and refreshing ambience awaits you every time you set your foot here. Enjoy the cool stream flowing from waterfall that meanders through this recreational rainforest and enjoy my photo here :)

Crystal Clear Green Colour of Lata Belatan Stream

upper stream of Lata Belatan

Read Nikon D7000 review

Nike Free Run+ Running Shoes

Malaysian Elephants

2011-02-26T05:25:00.000-08:00

Rainforest Animals Wild Malaysian Elephants
Malaysian Elephants in Peninsular Malaysia are in same species of Asian Elephant (Elephas Maximus) while its siblings in Sabah Borneo Malaysia is a little bit smaller in size and known as Sabah Pygmy Elephants (Elephas maximus borneensis). Asian Elephants of Peninsular Malaysia, Thailand, Myanmar and India (Mainland Asia Continent) share same characteristic and categorised as Elephas Maximus, other recognized sub categories are Sumatran Elephants ( Elephas maximus sumatrensis), Sabah Borneo Pygmy Elephants (Elephas maximus borneensis) and Sri Lankan Elephants (Elephas Maximus Maximus). Elephants on these islands of Borneo, Sumatra and Sri Langka have distinct characteristic from Asian Elephants and may have seperated from mainland in hundred thousand years ago. Malaysian elephant or Asian Elephants are much smaller than African Elephants and have distinct different of smaller ear that have staright shape at the bottom. Population of wild Malaysian Elephants in peninsular Malaysia can be found left scattered in isolated forest reserves. Deforestation of Malaysian Rainforest , construction of electrical hydro dam, clearing up of rainforest for plantation and development have cause fragmentation of rainforest and reduce suitable habitat for Malaysian Elephants.

Wild Malaysian Elephant being transfered to National Park after encroaching into Plantation

Habitat and Diet of Malaysian Elephant

Malaysia Elephants natural habitat is in lowland rainforest below 300m sea level. Elephant is attracted to moonlight and love to see view of landscape from higher place and It is well known for Malaysian Elephants to climb up to peak of Mountain such as Bintang Mountain, Chamah and Ulu Sepat Mountains in Peninsular Malaysia. Aluminium panels that erected on these peaks used to be uprooted by Malaysian Elephants because it is reflective and attract Elephants' attention. Even with its big size, do not suprise that Elephants could climb with ease. Malaysian Elephants need vast area of lowland rainforest to meet its need for foods and ample space for it to roam, live and breed. Malaysia Elephants are forest herbivores. One adult can eat up to 150 kg of vegetation per day, feeding mostly on species of palms, grasses and wild bananas. In Malaysia Peninsular, Malaysian Elephants can be found in forest reserves around Bintang Mountain Range, Titiwangsa Mountain Range (concentrated especially on the northern forest reserve such as Grik, and Temenggor) , Tahan Mountain Range that lies in Taman Negara National Park (Most of its roam in the area of Tasik Kenyir border and Kuala Tahan / Jerantut), Endau Rompin National Park at south of Malaysia Peninsular and Gapau Forest Reserve in Kuala Klawang Negeri Sembilan. While Sabah Pygmy Elephants largely found in Kinabatangan Valley of Sabah Rainforest.

Ecology of Malaysian Elephants

Social Structure Elephant’s societies are matriarchal, led by a female in small groups. Family groups consist of mothers, daughters, sisters and immature males. An adult male usually remain solitary while sometime join with main herd which is essential for their reproduction and survival. Asian and Malaysian Elephant could live for up to 60 to 80 years. One calf is born at a time and female Asian elephants have about 7 calves in a lifetime. They give birth about every 4 - 6 years and gestation / pregnancy period is between 19-22 months and Elephants Calves suckle for 3 - 4 years. Elephants have very good sense of awareness of its surrounding and good memory. Elephant that is protecting its cub and mating would be very aggressive. Defensive measure should not be taken lightly when entering Elephants area, hikers normally use firecracker to give warning or simply to let the Elephants know that human is in the area thus avoid direct encounter.

Conservation and Sanctuary

Depleted lowland rainforest has draw more encounter between Malaysian Elephants and human. This has become inevitable as human plantation and development has encroaching more and more on elephants habitat thus create human-elephants conflict. Malaysian Authority has come with several applauble measure such as setting up of Kuala Gandah Elephant Santuactry at Temerloh Pahang through its Wildlife Agency , and Gazetted of several Forest Reserves through out Malaysia. This sanctuary is the only center in Malaysia dedicated to locating, subduing, translucent problem Malaysian Elephants from areas where their habitats are constantly being encroached by plantations, to Malaysia's National Parks such as Taman Negara. This sanctuary also shelter orphan elephant that got separated from its herd and injured elephants. The Role of this sanctuary is essential in managing and controlling the increasing human-elephants conflict that sometime reported in newspaper. Visiting Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary is fun which you have opportunity to get close and personal with these Malaysian Elephants.

Sabah Pygmy Elephants - from WWF Malaysia

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Bukit Tabur

2011-02-19T08:48:00.000-08:00

Map / Peta to Bukit Tabur West Melawati Kuala Lumpur

This map is to show direction from Highway MRR2 to starting point of Bukit Tabur trail. From MRR2 exit at junction of jalan Genting Klang and Jalan Kolam Air. Take direction toward Jalan Kolam Air. You have choice whether to go straight until the end of Jalan Kolam Air or take right to Jalan Taman Melawati until roundabout of Taman Bukit Mas. Take direction of 9 o clock until reach back Jalan Kolam Air and take right. From here you will notice that the road will be narrower into single lane through housing area and hilly jungle. The road is not so good and you will passing by some small waterfall on your left. The road will end at entry point of Klang Gate Dam. Starting point of Bukit Tabur trail start 20 meter before the Dam's main gate marked by small cement stair. View this map to Bukit Tabur Kuala Lumpur through Google Maps. Choose satelie view for more clear direction.... Wish you all Have a Nice Hiking Trip at Bukit Tabur.

View Bukit Tabor Kuala Lumpur in a larger map

me at Bukit Tabur

Broga Hill Semenyih

Magnificient Gunung Kinabalu

Hiking Tips

Running Tips - How to Run Efficiently

Shoes for Hiking in Rainforest

Trek the oldest rainforest at Gunung Tahan

Broga Hill

2011-02-19T08:10:00.000-08:00

Map How To Go To Broga Hill aka Bukit Broga Semenyih

It's quite amazing that A barren Broga Hill with all its original tree burnt, not exactly known cause of the fire whether by accident or simply deforested for agriculture, could transform into a quite unique landscape. What normally happen to rainforest after clearing would never restore itself to its former stage unless it is rehabilitated or just wait for thousand years. It could turn into bush of "resam" (large fern) or field of "lalang" cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica) like this Broga Hill /Bukit Broga that is why it is also called Bukit lalang . What make this landscape a becoming public attraction is Broga Hill offer view! human love view of landscape, even elephant do. What normally hill with lowland rainforest is full with high canopy tree and thick layer of plants would block view and with temperature / humidity rising with sunrise, I beg not everyone love to be there :) .. Cleared rainforest hill with nice view come with a price, the sun will shine bright directly to you, even pass 9.00am it will becoming harder to handle unless you are a tough nut with hard shell. Bring an umbrella will not make you like aunty or uncle going to market, moreover others will salute your wisedom he he... Hiking up broga hill is fun. Fun to see many kind of people there, from though and fit mountain climber to excited sissy squid, from baby to old people. All seem to enjoy Broga Hill so will you.. so this map of how to go to Broga Hill aka Bukit Broga, hope will be a beneficial guide to you to go there.

From Kuala Lumpur you can take either PLUS highway, exit at Kajang Toll or SILK highway from Cheras to Semenyih. From either route go to Bandar Semenyih. From jalan Semenyih heading to Seremban (old road), look for Raja Muda Mosque on the right, just after Police Station on your left, go straight, 200meter after Petronas Station turn left to Broga at juncntion toward Broga Town. Several km forward you will able to see Broga Hill from afar on your left. Around 2km after University of Nottigham campus look for small patch of palm oil plantation on your left and rabbit farm on your right... park your car by roadside or in the plantation for a charge RM2 per entry :)

View Bukit Broga / Hill Semenyih in a larger map

From Raja Muda Mosque on the right, just after Police Station on your left, go straight, 200meter after Petronas Station then turn left to Broga at juncntion towards Broga Town

If you like hiking on Broga Hill trail you might also like to hike Saga Hill Trail. In contrast from Broga Hill landscape and vegetation of cogon grass (Imperata cylindrica), Saga Hill still have its protected natural lowland and hill dipterocarp rainforest. The rainforest provide complete canopy over the trail. While it is hot on Broga Hill after 9.00am, there at Saga Hill is still envelope with mist and cold breeze.The hill is located at fringe of Kuala Lumpur City Centre is easily accessible through Taman Saga or Taman Ceupacs. One of attraction at Saga Hill is its waterfall. While it is just a small waterfall but is worth it after hours of hiking. Read more about Saga Hill here.

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Maliau Basin

2011-02-15T08:11:00.000-08:00

The Lost World of Maliau Basin Tawau Sabah

The Maliau Basin is a place set on a sprawling 588.4 square kilometers land in Tawau, at the South Central Part of Sabah. The area of Maliau Basin is bordered with crater like wall that fall hundred meters down that make it a separated area from the rest of rainforest which is why it's called Maliau "Basin". The isolated habitat has naturally protect its biome from human touch for so long until 1981 and nurtured the unique species of fauna and flora that exist there. Because of this condition Maliau Basin got its other name "The Lost World of Malaiu Basin".

Maliau Basin contains an unusual assemblage of 12 forest types, comprising mainly of lower montane forest dominated by majestic Agathis trees, rare montane heath forest and lowland, and hill diperocarp forest. The highlight of the adventure is to trek the majestic 7 tiers Maliau Falls.

Keen visitors must, however, obtain a permission to enter the Maliau Basin in advance from Yayasan Sabah. Also bear in mind that Maliau Basin is a remote, atavistic and isolated area with limited access, communications and safety facilities.

Activities & Tariffs

Nature explorers will simply love the Maliau Basin as it is an excellent site for jungle trekking and bird watching. At night, visitors may also take a night drive for wildlife spotting. Water babies can also take a dip in the beautiful waterfall.

Trips to the Maliau Basin are best done in large groups. A 5-day, 4-night stay at Maliau Basin costs RM2730 nett for 2 pax adults (Malaysian) and RM3610 nett (non-Malaysian). For a group of 8 to 12 people, the rate for adults is RM1450 nett (Malaysian) and RM2270 (non-Malaysian).

The rates in Ringgit Malaysia (RM) are inclusive of meals (breakfast, lunch and dinner), returned transfer (overland – Tawau to Agathis Camp), conservation and user fee (Campsites), rental of VHF radio, forest ranger cum radioman and guide.

Sime Darby offer help in SAFE project

Sime Darby has play its part towards environment and rainforest conservation by offering help in SAFE project and at the same time help lifting its Corporate Image as responsible company that know its responsibility towards environment other than enlarging its palm oil plantation at place of rainforest.

Deep in the heart of the Maliau Basin lies a lost world awaiting to be discovered by scientists and thrill-seekers.It is home to the largest ecological experiment ever established in Asia, and dubbed the Stability of Altered Forest Ecosystems (SAFE) project. SAFE is a 10-year project funded by the Sime Darby Foundation in collaboration with the Royal Society- Southeast Asia Rainforest Research Programme (SEARPP) and Sabah Foundation, which manages the Maliau Basin.

The SAFE project basically takes an in-depth look at how biodiversity is affected as forests undergo changes (from a primary forest to an oil palm plantation) which cause disruptions to ecosystem processes and services such as carbon sequestration, decomposition and pollination. And it is a huge task, considering that the Maliau Basin is as big as Singapore -- at 58,840ha. This is also the reason why it will take scientists at least 10 years before they can come up with the findings.

Sime Darby Foundation, which kicked off SAFE in January last year, is taking a big leap of faith in the project as the results may prove or dispel criticisms from environmental proponents that plantations are the destroyers of biodiversity.

Whatever the results, Sime Darby Foundation chairman Tun Musa Hitam, at the launching of SAFE, said they would serve to improve Sime Darby's commitment to conservation and sustainable development as the company was prepared to make the necessary changes to its management policy if need be.

For this purpose, Maliau Basin has a Research Studies Centre providing facilities to nature researchers and nature education programme participants. There's an office building equipped with a library, mini-theatre, reception and souvenir shop. Housing is also available in the form of dorms and plush VIP houses. There is also a laboratory where certain researches are conducted.

However, most of the actual research work takes place in the field at several satellite camps established within the Maliau Basin. Right now, scientists are working hard at finding the answers. In the meantime, scientists are on a gradual exploration of the Maliau Basin, which is also said to hold many "secrets".

Yayasan Sabah Group conservation and environmental management division group manager Dr Waidi Sinun said: "Maliau Basin is touted as a 'lost world' because the first successful human expedition to the area was only made in 1981.

"To date, scientists have only uncovered 20 per cent of the area, discovering a diverse range of flora and fauna."

"For example, more than 1,800 plant species have been identified, including six species of pitcher plants and more than 80 species of orchids. The rare rafflesia tengku-adlinii has also been found in Maliau Basin, one of only two known localities in Sabah."

"But more outstanding are the waterfalls. The uniqueness of the Maliau Basin is in its geology and the shape of the basin which creates an enclosed ecosystem. We have discovered more than 40 waterfalls.

"Among the most spectacular is the seven-tiered Maliau Falls. There should be more due to the shape of the basin."

Dr Waidi said scientists also discovered two new species of small fish, palm tree and several types of insects.

"We still have more space to cover. We hope that as we venture deeper into the basin, maybe in the next 50 years, we will be able to find new species of larger animals," he said.

The Maliau Basin is located near Tawau. From Kota Kinabalu, the Maliau Basin is a five-hour journey on logging roads by four-wheel-drive vehicles.

The Takob Akob Waterfall At Maliau Basin

Getting There

Maliau Basin Conservation Area is reachable by road either via Tawau or Keningau. The journey is on four wheel drive and depends so much on the weather as most of the journey is on logging roads to reach the Maliau Basin Security Gate.

Journey from both Tawau and Keningau to the Security Gate of Maliau Basin Conservation takes 5 hours; the distance from Tawau to Maliau Basin Conservation Security Gate is 190 kilometers.

Flying is another fabulous option should you have extra allocations for this luxury. There are several helipads available which can be used for emergency evacuations or by visitors who prefer to fly rather than walk.

Further Information:

For further info, do pre-arrange with

Borneo Nature Tours Sdn Bhd (KPL/LN 3719)

Block D, Lot 10, Ground Floor,

Sadong Jaya Complex,

88100 Kota Kinabalu,

Sabah, Malaysia

http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/15mmb/Article#ixzz1E2eJi5fG

Sumatran Rhino

2011-02-13T08:20:00.000-08:00

Pregnant rare rainforest animal - Sumatran Rhino spotted in Borneo

KOTA KINABALU: Wildlife experts here remain hopeful about the future of the highly endangered Sumatran rhino following a rare picture of a 20-year-old female that is believed to be pregnant.

The picture of the female sumatran rhino was captured by remote camera trap devices set up jointly by the Sabah Wildlife Department and WWF-Malaysia.

The picture was considered rare as there were estimated to be less than 30 sumatran rhinos left on the entire island of Borneo.

The pregnant female rhino captured on remote camera trap

International Rhino expert Dr. Terri Roth said she was hoping that the female sumatran rhino was indeed pregnant.

"There are so few Sumatran rhinos left in the world that each calf represents a lifeline for the species, she said here Tuesday.

Sabah Wildlife Department director Dr Laurentius Ambu said the department was working with WWF-Malaysia and the Borneo Rhino Alliance (BORA) to finalise the Rhino Action Plan that which would be expected to be ready for full implementation by August this year.

The plan would address the conservation plans of the viable population including isolated rhinos, Dr Laurentius added.

He said his department intended to take a "different" approach in managing the viable but isolated sumatran rhino population in Sabah rainforest.

Habitat protection and enforcement have been recognised as the main strategy in order to ensure the survival of the viable sumatran rhino population in forest reserves, while a breeding programme has been identified as the key strategy in order to address the conservation plan for the isolated sumatran rhinos, Dr Laurentius added.

The rhino breeding programme is currently supported by Sime Darby, the Malaysian federal government and WWF-Malaysia.

The future of sumatran rhinos in Borneo now depends on how seriously the enforcement and security work in the forest reserves can be implemented and coordinated, said Raymond Alfred, Head of the Borneo Species Programme, WWF-Malaysia.

The monitoring and survey work in the central forest of Sabah is currently supported by HONDA Malaysia, WWF-Netherlands, WWF-Germany and USFWS since 2005.

WWF-Malaysia is working with the department and the Sabah Forestry Department to look into reinforcing the security of the forest reserves that are the key habitats for the animals.

Alfred noted that that data from an ongoing rhino monitoring and survey programme showed that the animals' home range was affected by oil palm plantation expansion near the state's coastal areas.

The research also indicated that sustainable logging activities had minimal impact on the rhino population while conversion of forests especially those located adjacent to key rhino habitat into other mono-crop plantations such as oil palm would further worsen the fragmentation of the rhino population.

http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/4/20/nation/20100420143528&sec=nation

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