Simple Words for you to remember

To those our friends who are planning to visit Malaysia soon, please do practise to speak in Bahasa Malaysia. It does makes a lot of different, Malaysian will be more than willing to help and even to provide your with their warm and friendly hospitality. It is just a bit of extra effort does makes a lot of different. Don't believe me, give it a try!

1. Can you help me? Bolehkah anda tolong saya?
2. How do I get there? Bagaimana hendak ke sana?
3. How long will it take? Berapa lama?
4. How much does it cost? Berapa harganya?
5. What is this? Apa ini?
6. What is your name? Apakah nama anda?
7. When? Bila?
8. Where? Di mana?
9. Why? Kenapa
10. A little Sedikit
11. A lot Banyak
12. Thank you Terima kasih
13. I am sorry Saya minta maaf
14. Shop Kedai
15. Eat Makan
16. Drink Minum
17. Go up Naik
18. Go down Turun
19. Left Kiri
20. Right Kanan
21. Front Hadapan
22. Back Belakang
23. Up Atas
24. Down Bawah

That's all for now. If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Colours of Malaysia Celebrations

It is the period of celebration everywhere in Malaysia right now. Just name it at shopping malls, Hotels, Airport and every where..

Tourist attraction places
i. Central Market - Traditional Music Gamelan - 27 May to 10 June (12pm to 7pm)
Culture Performance - 27 May, 2, 3, 9 , 10 June (8pm to 9pm)
ii. Saloma Theater Restaurant - Culture Performance - 27 May to 10 June (8.30pm to 9.30pm)
iii. Kuala Lumpur Tower - Traditional Music Gamelan - 27 May to 10 June (11.30am to 12pm) and Culture Performance - 27 May, 31-3 June, 8-10 June (4pm to 5pm)

Hotels
i. Equatorial Hotel KL - Perlis food promotion & local handicraft 26-30 May
ii. Berjaya Times Square - Baba & Nyonya and Portuguese food promotion, Dondang Sayang, Serampan Laut dances & handicraft demostration
iii. Grand Seasons - Kedah food promotion, Mat weaving demostration - 28 May-10 June
iv. Hilton PJ - Negeri Sembilan food promotion, Piring Dance, local handicraft - 26 May-10 June
v. Istana Hotel - Sarawak food promotion, culture performance, handicraft sale - 26 May-3 June

Shopping malls / airport
i. Sungei Wang Plaza - crafts sale & culture performance - 27, 2, 3, 9, 10 June (6.30pm to 9pm)
ii. Lot 10 - Street artists - 27, 2, 3, 9, 10 (2pm to 3pm/6 to 7pm)
iii. KLIA & LCCT - Culture performance - 27 May - 10 Juen (2.30pm to 3.30pm/6.15pm to 7.15pm / 8.45pm to 9.45pm)

In fact, Citrarasa Malaysia (Flavours of Malaysia) is also coincide with Colours of Malaysia. (from 26 May until 24 June)

i. Citrarasa Malaysia - East Coast Region
1 - 3rd June 2007 at Dataran Shahbandar, Kuala Terengganu.
ii. Fiesta Kuala Lumpur
8 - 10 June 2007 at MTC Kuala Lumpur
iii. Citrarasa Malaysia - Northern and Central Region
15 - 17 June 2007 at Pesta Pualau Pinang
iv. Closing Ceremony of Citrarasa Malaysia month
22 - 24 June 2007 at Miri, Sarawak

More info, please visit Virtual Malaysia

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Gunung Ledang, Melaka

Ledang from distance

Waterfall at Ledang

At the peak of Ledang

European explorers of old called it Mount Ophir, the legendary mountain of old. Tales tell of a princess with magical powers living on the mountain, who was wooed by a Malaccan Sultan. To dissuade his amorous advances, she set him seven impossible tasks to complete.

Whatever the legends may say, Gunung Ledang (1276metres) beckons all. King Cobras and pythons call the verdant slopes home, as do a variety of orchids and carnivorous pitcher plants. Walking past by the waterfall is so refreshing. It is one of the best waterfall in peninsular Malaysia. Ledang is arguably the most climbed mountain in Malaysia as it is accessible from major cities on the west coast of the peninsular. Popular routes start in the towns of Asahan and Sagil, the former being the easier ascent.

To get to Gunung Ledang, you can take the North-South Expressway to Sagil, Johor or Asahan, Melaka. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Jasin, Melaka and from there proceed via bus or taxi to Asahan. By train, head to Segamat, Johor. Sagil is just a bus-ride away. Climbing the mountain from start to finish takes between 2 to 3 hours from both Sagil and Asahan.

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Kenyir Lake, Terengganu

scenic view part of the lake

Enjoying the waterfall

fish your own supper

It is located in Terengganu, Kenyir is Malaysia's largest man-made lake. This is the prefect place for a quiet, idyllic retreat with nature. More than 8,000 species of flora can be found in and around Kenyir lake. Stay on a house boat is a must-place. Imagine you fish from your room for your supper. Interesting?

Snakeheads, giant gouramy and green arowana are abundant in the waters. Visit caves and small islets then cool off by bathing in the numerous waterfalls there. End the day watching the sun set over the branches of trees, long drowned beneath the waters of the lake.

Kenyir is only accessible via land transport. It is 55km from Kuala Terengganu. There are regular bus services to Pengkalan Gawi, the main access point for Kenyir. Express buses also run from Hentian Putra in Kuala Lumpur direct to Pengkalan Gawi.

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Fed Ex vs. Pistol Pete in Kuala Lumpur

I just don't believe it! My two all-time favorite tennis players are coming to town. Yes people, Roger Federer and Pete Sampras are heading to KL. The "Clash of the Times" will be happening in 22nd of November as part of our 50th Merdeka anniversary celebrations.

Recap, the two met at competitive level only once in their careers, in the fourth round of Wimbledon in 2001. Federer won in 5 sets, signalling the begining of the end of Sampras' resign as World No. 1, during which he won a record 14 Grand Slam titles. Federer now has 10 Grand Slam wins so far.

I'm yet to find out about the ticket, venue and the whole details. I will update again on this topic soon.

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Hooray!! Airport tax reduced by 30% to 40%

It is really a good new. Airport tax at LCCT i.e. Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu; is now reduced. This is announced by our Transport Minister today.

The airport tax at LCCT Kuala Lumpur for domestic is reduced from RM9 to RM6 and for international is reduced from RM41 to RM25. While the airport tax at LCCT Kuala Lumpur for domestic is reduced from RM9 to RM6 and for international is reduced from RM51 to RM41. This rate is effective from 1 June 2007. This means that more money for shopping... hooray!!

"This is a good move although it should has been made in January. I wonder whether AirAsia will refund back my money for my booking in August."

More info from The Star

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Another thumb up for Tioman Island

I have been posting quite a bit of comments in lonely planet forum Thorntree and recently I met Annie in one posting about Tioman Island. I found her comment was very interesting and would like to share with you guys..

"We have just returned from Tioman Is where we spent 4 nights from 4-7 May. We went over on the ferry from Mersing on the Friday after trying to book a place on the island before we set out. Because it was Friday, we were advised that accommodation was booked out for the weekend in Air Batang, Paya & Penuba - the 3 places we were considering. They could only offer a place in Salang - which the guide book said was overpriced - and we wanted a quieter village."

"After trying a number of agents in Mersing we found one (True Value) that claimed to make a booking for us for 3 nights and sold us a return ferry ticket. When we arrived at Nazri's - they said they only had the room for one night - consistent with the advice we received from an obviously more reputable agent at Kaunter 8 of the ferry terminal."

"We stayed the night at the Nazris chalet in a small aircon chalet (RM60) for the night and prepared ourselves for the possibility of having to move to Berjaya (more expensive than we wanted - RM400 per night) for the next 2 nights, since we were stuck with the return ticket."

"Luckily we walked around ABC village first, and found a RM70 room available at Bamboo Chalets for the next 3 nights - they had a late cancellation. The room was comfortable with just a fan as it was up the hill with a beautiful garden and view and all our anger disappeared. It turned out we were able to return to Mersing with our original ferry ticket even though it was a day late."

"My impression is that the Island seems to be booked up on weekends. During the week I think it should be fine - not sure about June though. The general impression we got was the popular places in southern Malaysia were booked in advance for weekends. Lots of people seem to come up from Singapore or down from KL at weekends. We found the same thing at Melaka the previous weekend - we had made an advance booking there but the hotel was full so we had the worst room for the first night since we arrived last (the fact Labour day and Prophet's birthday were the same week didnt help either)."

"Cheap places in Singapore were also tricky to find 'walking up' but otherwise we had no problem. Our best investment was a DiGi prepaid phone card for our mobile (recommended by a poster here) which only cost RM30 and gave us the opportunity to call places in our guide book a couple of days before to be certain. Phone calls were cheap - we returned with almost half the credit still on it and that was after making several local and international calls. I think it is a good investment for peak season."

"We very much enjoyed our trip to Tioman and spent 4 relaxing days - we didnt even go diving! Compared with other places I have visited in Asia - Malaysia is delightfully untouristed and hassle free."

"For the information of others the things that impressed me (a travel veteran of more than 20 years throughout Asia) were:
- The range of holiday experiences available
- The friendy, easy going locals - who treat you as a person, not as a walking wallet.
- Fair first up prices - no need to haggle over everything
- The refreshing absence of opportunistic pursuit of mass tourism (i.e. the Angkor experience last year..)
- No visas
- Carried $AUD cash and got fair rates everywhere without commissions - no need to convert to $USD first
- Ability to drink tap water everywhere, no need to 'buy' water
- Easily organised, reliable, comfortable transport - alongside locals, rather than tourists.
- Beautiful, high quality, reasonable priced cuisine (from all the cultures making up the country) & decent western cuisine as well.
- Sense of personal security.
- This seems a bit odd, but the relaxed, considerate, normality of the other tourists - of all ages & cultures. (I can only put this down to fact that Westerners who see SEA as a place to 'get-on-the-grog' and act like absolute clowns, don't come here, and the place is all the better for it)."

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Our boatmen can now speak Japanese

An initiative by our electrical power supplier, Tenaga Nasional, in promoting Malaysia as the prime holiday destination. They are the boatmen who earn a living by taking tourists to see the famous fireflies of Kampung Kuantan.

A Japanese language teacher was brought from Japan specifically for this purpose. According to her, the boatmen learning process are progressing very well. One of the boatmen mentioned that they understand the important of learning the language as majority of their current tourists are from Japan.

They are planning to introduce Arabic and English classes soon.

More new from The Star.

"I hope that this initiative will be expand to other tourist front liner too, such as taxi drivers, melaka trishaw, boatmen to islands, bus drivers and others. Anyway, this is a good start."

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Malaysia airlines imposes limit on liquids

Malaysia Airlines (MAS) announced that they will follow United States, Britain, European Union nations, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and the Philippines, in carrying out the recommendation by International Civil Aviation Organisation, to impose restriction limit on liquids for all international flights departing from Malaysia. This is announced by Department of Civil Aviation director-general.

They plan to use a transparent resealable plastic bag as the carrier for a maximum one-litre capacity. The transparent plastic bag must be taken along by the passenger and presented to security personnel at the security checkpoint for separate X-ray screening.

The exemption is only given to those who were carrying infants with them. They would be able to bring baby formulae onboard.

The implementation date will be announced later. In the meantime, the relevant agencies such as Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd, airlines and retail shops are getting ready for it. I will update again when it is implemented.

News are also covered by : Channel New Asia; ANTARA; and The Star

Update:
This rule has been implemented effective from today, 22 May 2007 for all international airport i.e. KLIA, LCCT, Penang, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching.

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary, Pahang

Elephant ride

Visitor feed elephant

A visit to this elephant sanctuary will surely leave you feeling awe-struck. Elephants located here are rescued from the wild and taken for rehabilitation to teach them to co-exist peacefully with man. Children enjoy bathing with elephants; the experience starts with a ride on the pachyderm's back before plunging into the cool river. These creatures are well trained, very gentle and obedient.

Other activities include feeding and grooming these magnificent animals. Showers and toilets are on hand and rustic wooden houses are available as picnic and relaxation spots.

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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5 most endangered species in Malaysia

I'm very very sad to hear about this new. World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) International released that tiger, Asian rhinoceros, elephant, a red and pink jewel-like coral species, Corallium borneense and orang utan are included in as most endangered species in the world.

Among the main reasons for their extinct are poaching, illegal trade, loss of habitat, forest conversion, over-harvesting and the destruction of entire colonies by bottom trawlers and dredges.

All these are caused by human, which is us. Thus, we can change this. Stop buying these animal as pets or for their horn or for their meat. We need to make that our children will be able to see these animals. What will left to them in the future?

Full story at New Straits Times


If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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5 ways to avoid Bad Taxi Driver in Kuala Lumpur

There has been so much complaints about taxi driver in Malaysia especially in Kuala Lumpur. It is number 2 top complaint that we received so far. Therefore, I would like to give 5 basic tips of how to avoid these kind of taxi driver:

1. Never talk to the touts when you arrive at KLIA. There are plenty of touts that come and approach you. Excuse yourself nicely and go straight to taxi counter to buy the ticket or you can opt for KLIA express for RM35 each way.
2. Never take the taxi that is waiting at the taxi stop especially at top tourist spots. Find a good spot beside of the road to stop a taxi. Taxi driver earn when they move around to pick passenger but not waiting for passenger. They are willing to wait in order to charge higher.
3. Always ask the taxi driver to use the meter. If they refuse, just step out of the taxi and wait for another taxi. It is illegal to charge passenger without using the meter.
4. Before travel using taxi in KL, make sure you check with your map; how far is your destination so you can estimate your journey. You don't want the taxi driver take you in circle before send you to your destination. Rules of thumb, anywhere in KL must not exceed RM20.
5. All taxi drivers are compulsory to wear clean white shirt, tug in, clean taxi and display your picture, name and taxi number in front of the passenger seat. If you find it differently, just step out and wait for another taxi.

I hope these points will be able to guide you on how to avoid bad taxi driver. If you face any problem with the taxi driver, just write down the taxi number and send your complaint to our police station. They have special unit called Tourist Police to deal with this problem.

Special thank to Dosh Dosh for teaching me to be a better blogger.

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Trusted Travel Blogs Network

From Darren's group project, I stumbled upon one community project called 'Trusted Travel Blogs Network'. It is independent travel blogs that consistently publish high standards of posting and their content is not influenced by lasting or undisclosed affiliations with third parties.

Currently, there are 12 blogs listed in the networks which are:

• Brave New Traveler - an online travel magazine unlike any other. They dedicated to publishing high quality content on the nature of travel in the 21st century.


• Ellipses - Web journal that explores the "dark matter" between the issues that the blogger write about as a journalist.


• Exposed Planet.com - a so-called photoblog, which is the visual variation of a blog


• Eyeflare.com - blogging about traveling in respect of eco-friendly, health, safety and security.


• GoBackpacking - share his experiences as a solo traveler including planning, strategies for saving, hopes and fears.


• in my All Stars - it talk about 'experience traveling' whom people that enjoy spending their free time traveling and through their experiences gain new insights into the fantastically diverse world we live in.


• Rambling Traveler - share her experiences and to recommend good websites and interesting books about travel.


• The Daily Transit - this blog as a creative outlet for reflections on current global events, poems, short essays, music and book reviews - all rooted in the central theme of travel, both real and metaphysical.


• Travel-Junkie.com - he is expert in diving; a PADI Divemaster on Koh Tao and as a Dive Instructor on Koh Lanta, Koh Samui and Gili Trawangan, Indonesia.


• Ubertramp.com - he is a backpacker who relays his passion not only through the written word, but with endless preaching to likeminded individuals, folk he corners, and those too polite to walk away.


• Vagablogging.net - he is best known for promoting the ethic of independent travel, and his book on the subject, Vagabonding: An Uncommon Guide to the Art of Long-Term World Travel


• Vagabondish - a story of Mike, a lifelong travel addict, on a two year journey ’round the world

This is what my blog is all about. To provide latest information to travelers who plan to visit my country, Malaysia. I share the same vision as this network i.e. to publish high standard content consistently and not influenced by any affiliations with third parties. Browse through all the blogs above and you will noticed they are different. Fresh new topic, independent and reliable source of information.

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Langkawi from the eye of Gitana

I stumbled upon a posting about Langkawi from a girl named Gitana. She was bred and born in Zurich on 28 February 1977 and have lived most of my life in a small town named Bulach which is in the 'Zurcher Unterland' in the northern part of Canton Zurich. I found her posting very real and sincere. She talked about her experience on recent visit to Langkawi.

"I arrived on Langkawi at around 11:30am after one of the worst ferry trips some people might have ever experienced. Half of the passengers if not more were vomitting because the sea was so choppy, and another few spewed up because they couldn't stand the smell. I was lucky, as I had taken a sea sickness tablet" she started.

"We booked ourselves into Gecko's, the only budget accommodation we've heard of, and not listed in any of the travel guides I have nor the accommodation brochure we were handed out at the ferry terminal on arrival. got myself a little A-frame wooden chalet with ensuite bathroom (note this is VERY simple...but ok) for 35RM a night" she recalled

"There's an Irish bar called Debby's Place which holds a loud welcoming ceremony everytime a new guest enters the premises, and does yummi pizzas for a reasonable price." she added

She went for island hopping; Dayang Bunting, Singa Besar and Beras Basah. She also went to the island's Art & Cultural Center to see how hand drawn Batik is made.

"I ended up buying a fairly big wall painting of sun flowers drawn on cotton which caught my eye as soon as I entered the gallery. It's just gorgeous! You have to come and see it once I figured out where to live!" she explained

She ended her post by "Long story cut short: Langkawi is a beautiful place!"

Full story please visit her blog here

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Bye Bye Regent, Welcome Millennium

Starting from 1 June 2007, Regent will be known as Milennium Kuala Lumpur. The hotel was took over by Millennium & Copthorne Group Plc, London-listed company before undergo a multimillion-ringgit makeover to re-flect the new brand’s style.

Under the refurbishment, all 468 rooms will be turn into new and trend looks that will become the trend setter for hotels in Kuala Lumpur. This hotel is preferred by the tourist who visited Malaysia due to its strategic location in the heart of the Golden Triangle, the capital city’s prestigious shopping and entertainment district. The hotel won numerous prestigious world awards i.e. Hospitality Asia Platinum Award for Service Excellence and the Hospitality Asia Platinum Award for Best Executive Club Lounge.

So be sure when you are visiting Malaysia, search for Milennium Kuala Lumpur insteads of Regent Kuala Lumpur. Full story in the Star here

Map:

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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YAHOO Messenger for travelers visiting Malaysia

YAHOO messenger is now on browser-based. What does this mean? Users can access their accounts without needing the PC application on the machine they're using. It can be accessed at http://webmessenger.yahoo.com/

YAHOO has launched this service in several countries including US, Brazil, India, the Philippines, Vietnam and off course Malaysia. However, the web messenger is lacking certain features such as web cam video transmission, file transfers, and voice communications.

On the other hand, Messenger for the Web has some features that the PC version doesn't have, like tabbed chat windows and the ability to save conversations on Yahoo servers, where the subscriber can access them and search their text later. Like the PC version, Messenger for the Web is compatible with Microsoft's Windows Live Messenger, so users from each service can engage in IM text chats.

"So no more reason not to contact your friends at home while you're in Malaysia. In fact, you will no longer need to buy prepaid card to call home. Just use web YAHOO messenger! Save your money for buying more souvenirs for your families & friends."

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Matt & Debs's experience in Penang

I found Matt & Debs's blog through google alert. This couple is from Norfolk, Great Britain. This is what they have to say about Penang:

"We chose Penang and its’ capital George Town as a good introduction to Malaysia, mainly because of its proximity to Thailand." according to Matt & Debs

Penang is situated on the north of peninsular Malaysia. It is an island which Captain Francis Light first landed and took possession of the island for the East India Company in 1786. There are many buildings which British style architect.

"Our first impression of Malaysian hotels/guesthouses is that they may be reasonably priced, but you certainly don't get the same standard of accommodation as you do in Thailand." said Matt & Debs

"we followed the highly recommended ‘Traditional Trades and Food Trail’ getting an insight into the variety of trades brought to the island from other parts of Asia. The tradesmen in general were very friendly, especially the Joss Stick maker, ‘Songkok’ maker (Muslim headgear worn for religious and ceremonial purposes) and Rattan weaver. Special mention along the food trail has to go to the ‘Ais Tingkap’ (window sherbet)" added Matt & Debs

"In total, we spent four full days in George Town and found it to be a fascinating city with an eclectic mixture of ethnic influences. The whole city is a combination of the old and new, with old crafts still being practised alongside modern industry and huge shopping malls." summarized Matt & Debs

Read more at Matt & Debs' Blog here..

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Top 5 To Do when visiting Malaysia

Actually Top 5 is not enough when you are visiting Malaysia. There is so much to offer. However, due to the Group Writing Project organised by Darren Rowse, I have to limit to Top 5 only. Here are My Top 5 To Do when visiting to Malaysia:

1. Visit Petronas Twin Tower, KLCC

The 88-storey building is the world's tallest twin structures. Located in the heart of the capital city, the crown of the Kuala Lumpur contains a complex of office buildings, conference halls, a sprawling park and an upmarket shopping complex.

Inspired by the geometric shape found in Islamic architecture, this mega-structure was designed by Argentinian-American architect Cesar Pelli. Stretching out to one side is the spacious and beautifully landscaped KLCC Park. Other attractions at KLCC are Suria Shopping Complex, Petronas Philharmonic Hall, Petrosains Science Centre, Petronas Art Gallery and Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, where The Aquaria Oceanarium is situated. Even, the "french spiderman" was very much interested at the twin tower, caught twice trying to climb the tower, 1st attempt in 1997 and 2nd attempt in 2007.

A Famosa

2. Join heritage tour at Malacca
The city of Malacca famous with its history. The Portuguese colonised Malacca from 1511 to 1641. The first thing they did was build a fort overlooking the river, calling it A'Famosa. A seven-month attack by the Dutch just about destroyed the entire fortress, leaving only the entrance façade and the structure of a church at the top of the hill. The Dutch then built The Stadthuys in 1650 as the official residence of the Dutch Governor and his officers, it is a fine example of Dutch architecture of that period. It is believed to be the oldest Dutch building in the East. Then came Chinese leaded by one of the great Chinese explorer, Admiral Cheng Ho. They slowly adopted Malay culture and now they are known as the Baba and Nyonya. Today, they have become the main uniqueness of culture in Malacca. Other attractions are Jonker walk, kampung mulu's mosque, portuguese square, St. John Fort, St Peter church etc.

3. Climb the Mount Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu is South East Asia's highest peak at 4,095 m. Within its boundaries are found lowland rainforest of the tropical zone at its lower level, the montane oaks and fig trees, the rhododendron shrubs and wild berries of the temperate zone at its medium level, and the conifers an other alpine-like associations of the summit zone at its upper level. Where else in the world can you find a complete ecological system such as this, compacted in one small area? The best time to visit the park, especially for climbers, is during the March and April dry season.

4. Live like local at Sarawak Culture Village, Kuching
The Cultural Village is located at Pantai Damai, Santubong, just 32km from the state capital, Kuching. It is the perfect place to get introduced to local culture and lifestyle. There are about 150 people living in the village, demonstrating traditional daily activities like the processing of sago and the making of handicrafts. They wear traditional costumes and also put on dances for visitors. There are replicas of buildings that represent every major ethnic group in Sarawak; longhouses of the Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu, a Melanau tall-house and a Chinese farm house. The village also has a theatre, where you can enjoy a multicultural dance performance. You can even get married at the Sarawak Cultural Village, in traditional Iban, Malay, Bidayuh or Orang Ulu style.

5. Snorkelling at Perhentian Island
The island is situated 21km off the coast of Terengganu which consists of the islands of Pulau Perhentian Besar and Pulau Perhentian Kecil. The island has superb white sandy beach, cristal clear water and unspoilt jungle. It is a sanctuary for fishermen, migratory birds and tourists.
Located just off the edge of the Pulau Redang Marine Park, Perhentian got excellence underwater seascapes for snorkelling and scuba diving. Tourist also enjoy windsurfing, sailing, canoeing and deep-sea fishing.

Special thanks to Tourism Malaysia

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Another innovative idea from AirAsia

Frankly, I am impressed with AirAsia. Although they have reputation of being delay flight, I still think that they are good in what they do. They just come out with an new service, web check-in. You can find the link to web check-in on their website bottom left hand corner as circled in the picture above.

You are now no longer need to be at the airport at least 1-2 hours before. Just log-on to their website, read the necessary instructions, terms and condition, agree to the T&C, key-in your reservation number which is in the itinerary, print out the boarding pass and finish. You can now go to airport and straight to the gate to depart without having to queue for boarding pass. You can time yourself to be at the gate 10 minutes before the departure. It saves you a lot of time and effort.

However, this arrangement is applicable for domestic flight only. Only one piece of cabin baggage is allowed to be carried on board provided that it does not exceed the dimensions of 56cm X 36cm X 23cm and provided that it does not weigh more than 7kg. You can check-in 6 hours prior and up to 2 hours before the scheduled flight departure time. Expectant mothers, passenger travelling with infant less than 8 days old, passenger that require special assistance and passenger travelling alone below 16 years old, are not allowed to use this facility.

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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No show of Orang Utan (Wild Man of Borneo)

Semenggoh Rehabitation Centre was once full of orang utan being feed by the qualified trainers. Every their feeding time, the visitors would be able to see a number of orang utan that come and eat, near to the feeding centre. The orang utan even build their nesting near to the feeding area. The visitors would be able to watch how clever this creature is. Thousand of picture and video are captured as their souvenirs.

But, now there are no many orang utan around there anymore including during the feeding time. Is it good or bad sign? I would say it is a good sign. Thank to the successful of rehabilitation programme. These orphaned or rescued primates no longer depended on humans to provide shelter and sustenance. They have begun to be self-sufficient and are able to look after themselves and their progeny independently. Therefore, it is indeed vital that we fully understand the concept of conservation and rehabilitation.

I hope that "Orang Utan" will have a promising future!

When To Go

The Semenggoh Nature Reserve opens from 8.30am until 3.45pm. While feeding hours are from 8.30am to 9am and 3pm to 3.30pm, the orang utans do not necessarily make an appearance. The feeding area is a 20-minute walk from the main entrance. Adults pay an entrance fee of RM3 while children pay half the amount.

How To Get There

Visitors opting for public transportation can take STC Bus No. 6 from Kuching. It costs RM2 one way and stops right outside the main entrance.

If you need further information on this topic, please leave in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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Malaysia Authority to put back Mulu on the world map

Mulu Cave

Landscape in Mulu

FAX currently handle this route

Good news guys! Malaysia Authority has just approved MAS' new low-fare carrier, Firefly, taking over rural air services in Sabah and Sarawak from Fly Asian Xpress (FAX). All the problems of flight delay, flight cancellation and flight connection, will be soon resolved.

The Mulu National Park, regarded a priceless jewel, used to be a favoured tourist destination among tourists, but has been experiencing a decline in the number of visitors after FAX, a subsidiary of AirAsia Bhd, took over the majority of domestic routes in Sabah and Sarawak and the whole rural air services in the two states from MAS following the latter's restructuring last year.

"Thumb up to the authority for making prompt action in saving Mulu. We should not let business decision caused our heritage and nature attractions disappear from the world tourism. I hope Firefly will serve this route better."

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Nyonya Kebaya in Melbourne, Australia

An exhibition on Nyonya Kebaya was opened to public at the Immigration Museum Melbourne, Australia on last Thursday, 3rd of May 2007. Nyonya Kebaya is normally worn by Peranakan in Malacca. The exhibition of Nyonya kebaya is richer in culture and knowledge about Malaysia. It is part of the Malaysian government efforts to promote the world to visit Malaysia.

The exhibition is the dream of Datin Paduka Seri Endon Mahmood, the late wife of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, to see the Malaysian traditional attire displayed in more places overseas. Endon died in October 2005 of breast cancer.

A nyonya kebaya is a work of art, a labour of love, a heritage, a traditional costume that is timeless. An attire for all occasions, it is elegant, feminine, alluring, sensual, glamorous and fashionable for all ages.

For my readers who are from Melbourne, don't miss this opportunity to see Malaysia close to your home. Please go and see the exhibition. The exhibition will run until 15 September 2007.

News from The STAR

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Roti Canai - Malaysian breakfast

Roti Canai is a form of puffed bread served hot with curry or dhal. Tastes best when taken for breakfast or tea time. Most of Malaysian eat with the hand which accompanied by curry or dhal and washed down with strong, hot, sweet black coffee.

Roti canai or roti chennai is a dish unique to Malaysia, which has its origins lost in the Indian community of those countries. Roti means bread in Hindi (and Malay) The term 'canai' comes from 'channa', a mixture of boiled chickpeas in a spicy gravy from Northern India which it was traditionally served with.

There are many type roti canai served in Malaysia now. Roti telur, roti planta, roti sardine, roti tisu, roti bawang, roti tampal, roti banana, and many more.. even I can not remember all of them.

It is a must for you to try roti canai if you are in Malaysia. Take it with dhal or even plain if you can't stand the hot. You can see roti tisu in the video Simple Life of Malaysian. It is truly Malaysian style.

Check this recipe of how to make a roti canai here or you can find roti canai in United State at this link

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New English-Malay dictionary from Oxford

*This is not a sponsored post*

The dictionary was launched to mark 50th year its existence in Malaysia. It has over 50,000 references covering current English and Malay words as well as general and specialist words and terminology used in different subjects such as sports, science, technology, geography, economics, history, language, literature and culture.

There are an additional 1,000 new entries consisting mainly of ICT and science and mathematics terms, new words, phrases and expressions. It also has 330 attractive illustrations to help clarify meaning, including diagrams relating to technical subjects.

The dictionary is also user friendly with accurate translation with proverbs and idioms related to specific words to help increase the English and Malay vocabulary.

"Everyone is using 50th anniversary as a promotion gimic for their sales. For me, I buy things when it is necessary eventhough sometimes abit pricing. I bought quite a lot of things from Shanghai recently. I already plan to buy all the stuffs. They are for my kids, wife, my mum for Mother Day, my sister, my brother, my nieces, my nephews and my father in law. I hope they will like my gifts."

Buy from your English-Malay dictionary Amazon.com:
Oxford Fajar: Advanced Learner's Engilsh - Malay Dictionary

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New Reality TV Show

Based from new that I got from SCI FI Channel, they are coming out with new reality show, "Destination Truth" . It is is a weekly adventure series that invites viewers along on one man's search for the truth while investigating stories of the unexplained across the globe.

Every week, Josh Gates, a world adventurer and eager truth-seeker and his small crew of production buddies visits a different destination around the world that is home to notorious, supernatural and mysterious stories, such as the Fire Worm of Mongolia and the Chilean Chupacabra. As well as some lesser-known phenomena like the dinosaur-like creatures reported in the skies over Papua, New Guinea, a haunted village in Thailand, pontianak in Malaysia, or the wolfman of Argentina. Josh searches for evidence to either prove or debunk these stories by talking to witnesses and experts and immersing himself in the local culture.

"This is as reality as it can be. Malaysia has a lot of these stories from pontianak to toyol. Some you can still find it here. The national Museum has once exhibited evidence or stories about supernatural. Currently, central market and museum negeri sembilan at seremban are exhibiting the same stuffs. This is a good way of introducing Malaysia to the rest of the world."

If you need more information on KL Tower, please leave it in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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BASE Jumping off Kuala Lumpur Tower

It has been 5 days since my last posting. I was actually not in the country. I went to Shanghai, China for company trip. I just came back last night. I am not feeling well, I got food allergy and is recovering right.

I plan to write on my experience to Shanghai comparing Kuala Lumpur and Shanghai based on my perspective. I'm compiling my information and picture right now. Make sure you come back to read on my review soon.

Before that, I found this video on BASE jumping at Kuala Lumpur Tower. It is really good. It shows a bunch of guys jumped from the top of the tower, with nice view of skyscraper of Kuala Lumpur as the background. Enjoy!

If you need more information on KL Tower, please leave it in the comment. I will revert back in the same comment column.

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