PLACES OF INTEREST

CAPTURE 14 : Fish Pond

2011-03-30T09:13:00.000-07:00

Whatdo you do 'immediately' after a long stressful day at work? One is lucky if their workenvironment provides outlet to de-stress, such as mini-gym, cafeteria or smallgarden with beautiful flowers and plants. At my work place we have two optionsto de-stress ourselves, one is a mini-gym and another is to relax by the beautiful fish pondwith Japanese Koi . Fish pond is not just an ideal part of landscape designing, but also provides therapeutic impact on us.

While being in the gym helps me to sweat and reduce the mounting stress from the day’s work, my truest relaxation happens only when I spend time by the fish pond. The graceful motion of the fish, the gentle dance of the green plantsaround the fish pond and the soothing sound of the running water induces me into an experience so inexplicable. Though momentary, this break from the mundane life, spurs the energy for another day.

This fish pond provides anenvironment so conducive for me to relax my mind. It gives me immense bliss. In the quietude that dawn after working hours, I let the mind swim together with the fish while at the same time allowing my eyes to absorb the peaceful colors surrounding the pond. And, that moment in solitude is one of my best experiences, yet the hardest to express with words.

CAPTURE 13 : Gurney Drive, Penang.

2011-03-20T20:16:00.000-07:00

Gurney Drive or Persiaran Gurney as it is known in Malay, is one of the most popular tourist destination in Penang. This sea-front promenade serves as a vantage point to view sunset. Named after Sir Henry Gurney, the then High Commisioner to Malaya (1951-1950), Gurney Drive is one of the favorite choice for food lovers. To make it short I would say, it is an idle place for relaxation and time-out spot for families, friends and lovers. Here I would love to share some of the shots I took during my stay at a hotel nearby Gurney Drive. I will try get some shots of hawker stalls and many other interesting activities that usually take place here, soon.

Sunrise - view from Hotel Room

Clear morning

I Love this mansion- just next the hotel

As twilight sets in...

Time-out begins

Gurney Drive at night

Street artist and masseur

RM10 per sketch

Keychain with name inscribed on it

Under the dimly lit neon

Almost there..

CAPTURE 12 : Country's Tid Bits and Candies Cottage

2011-03-20T09:33:00.000-07:00

Thought of sharing this with blog readers. It is just about anything sweet and sour that you can find in Malaysia, especially in Penang. I will let the picture speaks the rest for you. Located in Queensbay Mall, Bayan Lepas, Penang, this outlet is certainly a place to savor the sweet 'n' sour things.

©cyclopseven. All rights reserved 200311.

Click on the pictures to enlarge.

CAPTURE 11 : Snake Temple (Hock Kin Keong)

2011-03-19T08:48:00.000-07:00

Main Entrance

Snake TempleThe Snake Temple is one of the oldest temples in Penang, Malaysia. It is located in Sungai Kluang, a short distance from the Bayan Lepas International Airport. This temple is built to honor Chor Soo Kong, a Buddhist monk who was believed to possess healing power and had rendered selfless service to the community around. His selfless action and wisdom made him a deified figure. The temple was built in around 1850 and the statue of Chor Soo Kong was brought from China and installed in the temple.

Symbol of power and protection

Symbol of Courage, Luck and Protection

From the outside there is nothing grand or unique about this temple as the architecture reflects almost the same designs with many other Chinese Temples in Malaysia. At the entrance to the temple there is a giant incense burner, and most of the time one can see incense burning in this temple. This is done as part of the prayers, to offer gratitude or to make petitions requesting for some assistance for a wish or desire to come true. Diversity is the law of life, thus goes the beliefs. It is believed that this monk once gave protection to the snakes around the area, and once the temple completed the snakes made this as their abode. Only God knows what prompted that. People come from many places to offer their prayers as petitions and mark of gratitude for request fulfilled. I believe he is still doing that service from beyond for those who choose to allow his healing energy to seep into their body-mind-soul. Of course, faith counts here. Do not judge or brush aside this tale as superstitious. This healing energy need no prove, but devotion and faith on the ability of the healer to direct the energy to achieve his/her goal.

Now back to the snake story. It is said that there used to be a big number of snakes in the temple. But now, the number of snakes can be literally counted. This can be attributed to the effect of modernization and rapid development in the surrounding areas. At first glance one may not see anything though the snakes are there coiled on the branches. They camouflage themselves very well. Though poisonous, there is no known cases of people bitten by the snakes. Rationalists claim that the constant burning of incense and joss sticks in the temple has a kind of hypnotic effect on the snakes. I am not sure of this, but I dare you to touch one and walk away alive. One uncle in the temple assured me that the snakes are not de-fanged or drugged.

At the back of the main prayer hall, is another prayer hall dedicated to Goddess of Mercy or Kuan Yin. It was quite and not many incense or joss sticks offered here. There was a serene aura prevailing in this hall, and I enjoyed being part of it. Between the two halls there is a small garden with a few trees, one of which is chikoo plant.

Chikoo

A round gate..not sure where it is heading to

On one corner of the roof...intricate design

There are number of souvenir shops on both sides of the entrance to the temple. Tourists get to see many pretty little souvenirs related to Isle of Penang or the temple itself, and also toys to mesmerize the children. Well, it is all about survival, right?

CAPTURE 10 : Reclining Buddha Temple - Wat Chayamangkalaram

2010-12-10T04:32:00.001-08:00

The serene face..entering state of Mahaparinirvana

33 Meter Reclining Buddha

Every place of worship carries some vibes that gives hope. This inexplicable energy permeates most places of worship. Perhaps the aura of the faithful congregation adds some positive energy, which suffuses the atmosphere there. I have always had similar experiences in the past, irrespective of which house of worship I entered. This time around, I went to a Buddhist Temple, which is famous for the 33 meter gold-plated reclining Buddha. This temple is located in Lorong Burmah, Pulau Tikus and opens from 6:00am till 5:00 pm. This statue of reclining Buddha is the 14^th largest in the world and with its mystifying aura, it is attracting countless numbers of devotees and visitors from all over the world. This temple is officially known as Wat Chayamangkalaram and was built on a piece of land donated by the then Queen Victoria to the local Thai community. A monk from Thailand mooted the construction of this temple in the year 1845.

Temple Stupa

Mythical Dragon Headed Serpent

This reclining Buddha statue shows Lord Buddha sleeping by turning his body towards the right side, placing the left leg over the right leg as he passed into state of nirvana. While, his head resting in the palm of his right hand to the North. This reclining Buddha statue represents Shakyamuni Buddha and this position is called Mahaparinirvana pose. Mahaparinirvana refers to the state of enlightenment.

Apart from reclining Buddha statue, there are many statues of Buddha in different posture as well as mudras. A mudra is a symbolic representation of self-expression used in meditation, yoga practices and also as part of healing therapy. Each mudra creates a reflex reaction in certain part of the brain, thus locks and guide energy flow in the brain.

The Guard at the entrance

In the temple courtyard one can see two guards, green in colour standing at the entrance to the temple, and two mythical dragon-head serpents.

Lotus design on floor tiles

Episodes depicting certain famous events in the life of Lord Buddha

The local Thai community celebrates traditional Buddhist festivals such as Sonkran and the Loy Krathong at Wat Chayamangkalaram.

CAPTURE 9 : Tua Pek Kong Temple, Taiping

2010-09-26T00:47:00.000-07:00

Entrance to the main prayer hall.

Temple flags...in the background is the Maxwell Hill or Bukit Larut


The main deity..Tua Pek Kong

Places of worship have always aroused my passion for matters spiritual. I always ponder the concept behind each, and try to understand the reasons that led to the building of many houses of worship that ranges from Chinese Temples, Buddhist Temples, Hindu Temples, Churches/Chapels and small shrines located in the surrounding areas. Since young, my fascination towards these edifices spurred me to visit and enjoy the all-peaceful atmosphere, which pervades these places. I cared a little about my faith in term that I do not worry or feel strange to step into different houses of worship, as long as I do not violate their beliefs and code of conducts. The important part of my faith in God is that my parents guided me from young age to exercise greater tolerance and respect for all houses or worship, other than the ones that belong to my professed faith. Though I go to Hindu Temples quite often, there are occasions where I go to Chinese Temples, Buddhist Temples and Churches and had the same blissful experience. It gives me a sense of freedom from many mundane things.

Main Gate for Entrance/Exit

Front Portion of the Temple...look at the designs on the pillars!

Spiral shaped Joss Sticks

Other minor deities inside the temple

Burning Joss sticks sends smoke signal to the gods that offerings have been made

Lights lit as a prayer for blessing and wish fulfillment

The atmosphere that permeates these places though inexplicably strange, yet very positive one as it makes one feel so energized and peaceful. The smell of burning joss sticks in the temples and the smell of burning candles in the church render my mind still for a brief seconds, enough to embrace the divinity and the subtle benevolence from an unseen dimension. Recently, I went to a Chinese Temple located nearby my house. I had never been there before. Unlike most Chinese Temples that I have visited in the past, where extensive cultural artifacts, which correspond to respective dynasty the temple, originated, the calligraphy and wall display of folk-customs displayed in various colors, this temple is relatively small with lesser display of wall paintings with very simple architecture, but displaying the typical religious architecture of China. According to the temple caretaker, this temple is 151 years old.

Good Luck Tortoise

A small shrine

A place to burn incense paper...believe can rid one of bad lucks

A lantern hanging at the main altar

Another shrine

Joss Stick for sale.....price goes by the size.

Lantern decorates the entrance to the temple

Head of the dragon

Painting on the pillar - dragon

Tiger......personification of war and fearlessness

Carrying tray full of gold bar......symbol of prosperity

History goes that Tua Pek Kong, was actually a man named Zhang Li from the Hakka clan. Due to bad weather condition, during one of his sea-faring journey to Sumatra, Indonesia his boat stranded in Penang Island, and he became a respected community figure for the locals. A few decades after his passing away, the local people began to deify him and subsequently started to built temples and shrines for him. He was given the honorific title of Tua Pek Kong, which means Great Grand Uncle.

Spiral Joss Sticks are used to pay homage to God of sky

CAPTURE 8 : Pengkalan Hulu

2010-08-11T08:44:00.000-07:00

Baling town, another small town before Pengkalan Hulu


The magisterial view along the way to Pengkalan Hulu

Have always loved this scene along the way to Pengkalan Hulu

Primary School - I studied here from 1972 - 1977. Landscape has changed a lot.

Used to be the main office


This school is located within Baling District in the state of Kedah.

The road leading to Pengkalan Hulu

Entering Padang Tamat - a small village before the town

Approaching the town

Amidst the hills, is the small quaint and rustic town Pengkalan Hulu; formerly known as Kroh, it is located in northern Perak, Malaysia, bordering Thailand and also the state of Kedah. The weather is a blend of moderate climates.

Pengkalan Hulu, at a glance it is just a small town...a stopover town


Only the combination of two rows of wooden and brick shophouses form the main part of the town

View from the opposite direction

Yonder amidst the misty hills, is the quaint and rustic little country town of Pengkalan Hulu; formerly known as Kroh; it is located in northern Perak, Malaysia, bordering Thailand and also the state of Kedah. This town and few other towns in Malaysia is well known for frequent curfews, imposed to counter armed insurgency by the notorious communist insurgents from late 60's till late 80's . As a kid, I eagerly anticipated that moment, because curfew means no school. Later, in the mid 70's till late 80's curfew period was shortened and imposed only from 10:00pm to 5:00am. And, 90's saw the complete removal of curfew, and people are free to travel without much worries.

The Esplanade

The route I frequently use to visit my friends

Outskirt.....appears quiet and lonely

Last Saturday, I visited Pengkalan Hulu, my hometown, the place that planted in me many memorable and wonderful part of nature’s diverse beauty. As I pressed the accelerator of my car, my thoughts were dashing rapidly. The heartbeats went out of rhythm. I missed that place so much, that every moment I think of that little town, feelings of being in an ancient land began to pour downright into my being. It used to be a town where residents meet people they know wherever they go. There are people who have generations of family rooted here.


Still the same after so many years

Same old view

Heading to the town

We LOVE Malaysia...a single welcoming flag

Life is simple..prayers are simple...everything simple

Now, scanty developments have resulted in the influx of foreign workers and newcomers who were not born and bred here. The society here comprised of government servants mainly armed personnel, farmers, plantation workers, miners, small time traders and a small number of business owners. Life in this quaint town is still the same as it was when I left the town more than twenty years ago. A simple life with no big city’s glaring and blaring. The scanty developments have resulted in minor changes to the landscape and town’s topography. Apart from that, I didn’t notice any drastic development. It remains a town with two long rows of shop houses. For many people, it is just an insignificant small town associated with violence during the communist insurgency; for some, there is perhaps some historical significance related to Thailand, as it is a border town. Others may just ignore or care less to harness the beauty and pleasantness imparted by her. Though the Communists Party of Malaya had laid down their armed fighting in 1989 after signing an accord with the Government of Malaysia, like most small towns, Pengkalan Hulu, is developing at a very slow pace. It is a very small town, which not many travelers cared to remember or list down in their journal. Though strategically located, its economic significance not optimized to the maximum. Perhaps it is a boon for some that no rapid developments take place here, which might bring along unwanted elements associated with development, but it deprive many hundreds of job and other opportunities that come along with that. Lack of development narrows the scope of job opportunities, thus many people who don’t fit into any of the categories mentioned above are working in either construction areas or mining activities.

The District Office

The Information Department

My Alma Mater 1978 - 1982.

It is a stopover town for those traveling from West Coast to the East Coast and also to Betong in

Thailand

. For me it carries pages of wonderful stories. The skies across is a blessed firmament and the hills filled with virgin forests stretch miles and miles concealing within it various animals, birds and insects that render glorious cacophony of natural sounds. The hills and trees capture the essence of the town’s parameter. The tranquil atmosphere fenced by greeneries provides a soothing spiritual vibration. One, whose heart is engrossed with nature, surely will cherish the experience being in this town, even if it is only for a few hours. The natural lake known as Taman Tasik or Takong and the hot water spring located a few kilometers away are among the main attractions in this town.


The lake - Taman Tasik/Takong - I wonder if it is being maintained.

Floating Restaurant by the Lake, I used to frequent then.

Lake Garden

Nature is my preceptor - I spent a lot of time under this tree.

Government Rest House by the Lake

Playground

I do have my share of bitter memories while living there, but all that were overwhelmed by the sweetest and fondest memories that I had truly lived and enjoyed. Experience and being one with whatever one like or love gives one the inexpressible joy associated with it, and that depends too on the mind of the beholder. I am writing this because it gives me the joy of attempting to express the inexpressible feelings. It maybe far from money and fame, but not without subtlety of its virgin smile which is well preserved in my mind's reservoir.

I walked along this path to school. Then it was an unmade road.

I was there only for a brief moment, thus prevented me from taking more pictures of the surrounding area . Perhaps next time I will do some posting on interesting places in Pengkalan Hulu.

Some old stalls from late 60's

CAPTURE 7 : Oldest Protestant-Catholic Cemeteries in Penang

2010-08-07T09:57:00.000-07:00

Cemetery is not a place where everything comes to an end. It is a place where new view on life should manifest. Life begins somewhere, and ends somewhere. We know not where we will die and to die in a cemetery is a rare occurrence and definitely not even one among last few wishes that we may entertain. Somehow the mortal frame, if not cremated, needs a place of burial. A tomb marked with beautiful epitaph is a soothing description of the person whose remain exhausted in time. It is not a place where everything comes to a stop, but, it is a place that always remind us of our impending death, thus prepare us to face the unseen visitor dreaded by many, with a broader vision and part of the universe’s causative nature.

A lot of horror stories and movies are associated with cemetery. Movies have produced tremendous impact in the minds of people by strengthening their fear and shaped their concepts of cemetery accordingly. Most people tend to see cemetery as a place to be shunned and many people prefer not to talk about it. A well maintained cemetery can bring about a tranquil atmosphere; and well written epitaph can give deepest satisfaction on the meaning of life, existence, gratitude and appreciation. The memory of our loved ones or some prominent figures whose remain were buried there allow us a glimpse of the history associated with them. Cemetery is not just a burial ground but a place that can silence the agitations of the mind and bring about an introspective change in us.

Sadly, not all cemeteries are well maintained. Some cemeteries have the tombs removed, and some had been vandalized by grave diggers or drug addicts. These are the main fears associated with cemeteries; the dark forces represented by humankind themselves. Apart from these two main issues, I belief there is nothing else to be feared of. One can enjoy a brisk walk amidst the sleeping dead, stop and read the epitaphs. Some of the epitaphs speak of deep appreciation and loss of the loved ones with very rooting expression. The Greeks called cemetery as ‘sleeping ground’. Yes, it is an eternal sleep for the mortal frames laid therein. The Hindus call it ‘as the place in-between’. A place between the seen and the unseen worlds. Whatever one may choose to call, cemetery is certainly a place apart and an open book that carries interesting chapters that belonged to various characters. Unusual indeed, for people to admire cemetery, overwhelmed by the inexplicable serene atmospehere and choose to frequent there to free the inner chattering.

Penang is, no doubt, home for many heritage sites. Recently I went to two oldest Christian cemeteries in Penang. One is a Protestant Cemetery, while another is Catholic Cemetery. Most of the tombs were built in squarish shape. Some people built massive and luxurious tombs for their loved ones. Many factors such as social status, wealth and prominence determine the sizes and types of tomb built. It kindles the earnest appreciation of the loved ones over a life well lived by the deceased and their contributions towards the betterment of the society, thus their wish to build such tombs. Though cemetery means nothing for many people, it is something for some people. Enjoy the touch of yore and heritage in this picture. The cemetery was created during British settlement when Captain Francis Light's first landed in the island in 1786. Then it was used until the late 19th century. One of the oldest graves one can see here is that of Captain Francis Light.

Also, next to the Protestant Cemetery is the oldest known Catholic Cemetery. It lies hidden beyond the grayish wall that forms the border for both cemeteries. Unlike the well maintained Protestant Cemetery, the Catholic cemetery which is under St. Xaviers' Church Catholic, is in an abandoned state.

The separating wall....eternal dilemma of humankind!!

CAPTURE 6 :Lenggong Archeological Museum

2010-07-29T11:32:00.000-07:00

Welcome to Lenggong Archeological Museum

Museum View from the hill top

Entrance to the Museum

Lenggong Archeological Museum is located within an oil palm estate in Lenggong, a small quaint town in the northern region of Perak or Ulu Perak. Surrounded by hills and thick forest this small town is one of the most important archeological sites in South East Asia. It can be reached via a trunk road interconnecting it with neighboring towns and pass through a number of small Malay villages. One can see oil palm estates and fruit orchards along the way. It gradually gained importance in Malaysian history since the discovery of archeological sites in the surrounding area in the year 1938. Many Malaysians are not aware or perhaps never heard about these historical sites in Lenggong.

The team of archeologists

Some of the archeological sites

Display of Excavated Site

Believed to be one of the Paleolithic sites in Malaysia, the excavations in the surroundings have significantly proved existence of human settlement from the Paleolithic age. The excavations carried out by a team of archeologists from Universiti Sains Malaysia, have uncovered many hidden facets of Lenggong. Various discoveries such as jewellery, cave drawings, ancient jewelry, pottery, weapons and stone tools undoubtedly indicates strong evidence of human dwelling in this area since Paleolithic period.

Some of the tools use for excavation

Though many artifacts were found and being preserved, the highlight of the finding is, actually the complete skeleton of Perak Man believed to be 11,000 years old. This discovery took place in the year 1991. Though extensive research and excavations are going on, up to-date Perak Man is the oldest human skeleton ever found in this region. It is located at Gua Gunung Runtuh situated in Bukit Kepala Gajah. The skeleton with a height of approximately 157cm, and about 50 years of age was buried in the fetal position. There were no other burials found in this cave. The archeological team also found deposits of animal bones and stone tools around the body. Further excavations carried out yielded another positive result in the year 2004. A skeleton of about 8000 years old, believed to be a woman (labeled Perak Woman) with the height of 148cm in her 40s, was found at Gua Teluk Kelawar in Lenggong.

Though I didn’t have the opportunity to see the Perak Woman’s skeleton, I managed to obtain permission to enter the room where Perak Man’s skeleton is well preserved in a glass casing inside a temperature controlled room. And, then after the tour of the museum my friend and I headed to Gua Gunung Runtuh to get a first hand look at the Perak Man’s burial ground. It was not an easy task to get to the cave. We had to drive through what seemed to be truly backdated villages cluttered amidst hills before we reached a forked road without a proper signage to take us to the cave. Not knowing which way to turn to, we stopped and asked for direction. Thank God, the youth was kind enough to guide us to the cave. According to him it is not an easy task to go there as one can easily get lost in the jungle. Not wanting to waste our time, we ‘hired’ him to take us. We drove a short distance, after which the road is not accessible by car. Thus, we walked for a few hundred meters, when we saw a young couple who had apparently been searching for the cave headed towards us. We accommodated them, thus three become five. The more the merrier. The hike took us across a small bridge, an orchard, then across a small stream. After the stream, we had to wade through path abandoned and the hike began.

The Skeleton of Perak Man

Newspaper clippings about the finding

Ceremonial burial of Perak Man

The Hill - Perak Man's burial place is located

Heading towards the cave

Perak Man's burial spot

I am inside the burial hole

It was not very steep but enough to drain us of our energy. After about two kilometers of walking and climbing the hill, we reached Gua Gunung Runtuh. ‘Gua’ means ‘cave’ in Malay language. It was raining; the earth covered with dried leaves, thus a little slippery. We could see what was slightly larger than a grotto. We thread the rocky slabs very carefully; one little mistake could land our bumps on the sharp edges of the slabs, eroded and sharpened by frequent flow of rain water. We managed to reach the mouth of the cave, I sighed with relieve anticipating some thrilling experience. Alas!!..though we were thrilled that finally we have reached the cave, the dire state of the historical site saddened me most. The area was not gated and easily accessible by everyone. I understand the locals used to enter the cave to get the bat droppings for their vegetations, and this definitely causes disruption to the whole historical scenario. I could see the burial ground, the tapes used to protect the area, the markings made etc. The cave was a very small area with an opening above the cave, and the burial ground is just slightly more than 1 meter depth. The thick foliage blocks immense light from entering the cave through the opening. I would say it is our fault that we didn’t carry headlight nor a torchlight because being a historical site, I assumed the necessary infrastructure might have been installed there, but the situation is still primitive there.

Small opening above the cave allows some light

Out of the cave...and felt so relieved!

After spending a solid two hours in and out of the cave, we decided to return. Though the rain had stopped by now, going downhill we exercised extreme caution so that no one will be injured. We reached the foot of the hill safely. We were exhausted and drained to the last drop of sweat. We each paid our ‘guide’ RM10.00. So he made RM40.00. Good enough for a student, and we were grateful to him for taking us to the cave and provided some useful insights about the cave as well as the people living in the vicinity.

Tasik Raban/Raban Lake

We moved out from the area at about 3.30 pm. Stopped awhile at Tasik Raban for lunch; rested for about 1 hour. Then we continued our journey back home. I will go once again, but this time around to explore the jungles and other caves scattered around the Lenggong town.

Errors under your tender care.

Mistakes are mine.

Corrections are yours.

CAPTURE 5 : Late post on Sarawak's Beauty and Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2009

2009-09-16T09:40:00.000-07:00

Last July I was part of thousands of local and international crowd who thronged the annual Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF). It was held from 10-12 July. The event was held at the tranquil Cultural Village in Santubong, Sarawak. The myriad colors, language and music added luster to win through the rainy days.

With almost 17 bands from Poland, Canada, China, Portugal, Hungary, New Zealand, United States, Morocco, Finland, France, Chile, Tanzania, Korea, Indonesia, and Malaysia’s very own bands made the event a dazzling array of lights, music and dance. Oudaden from Morocco, Zawose Family Africa, Noreummach of Korea and Sarawak’s Lan-E-Tuyang stole my heart. They were not just dynamic, but unique in their presentation. Highly energetic, they captured the hearts of all present. Overall they created an euphoric atmosphere that sent people crazy.

I enjoyed not just being part of the world music festival but also the display of Sarawak's Cultural uniqueness at the Santubong Cultural Village.

I stayed at Sarawak Village House with offers home stay concept.....

Some of the vegetarian dishes served....and unique lighting.

Some of the bands that participated in
Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) 2009

Wrist tag...the entrance ticket to the event
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Sarawak’s Lan-E-Tuyang

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Noreummach of Korea
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Oudaden of Morocco
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Zawose Family Africa
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Workshop sessions by the participating bands
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A look at the exhibitions in Cultural Village

Sarawak indigenous Woodcarving

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Bamboo Carving
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Claypot Making
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Weaving Mat
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Pua Kumbu Weaving
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Natural Dye used in dyeing
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Sarawak's finest handicraft at display
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Traditional warrior displaying
the art of using blowpipe
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Traditional blower used in sword making
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Dunno..what statue is this..sorry guys
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The famous Santubong Hill

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Houses of Sarawak's natives....

Rumah(House) Bidayuh

[Bambo Bridge to Rumah (House) Bidayuh]

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Rumah Iban

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Rumah Penan

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Rumah Orang Ulu

Long Corridor..

Design on the wall..

Oars on display

Things at display inside the house

Steps made of tree trunk
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Malay House

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Boat Trip Along Santubong River

A Malay Village along the Santubong River

Not able to take a shot better than this....am satisfied with this :)
Proboscis Monkey..only to be found in Borneo
The above picture is taken from http://hellishhumor.com/Proboscis-Monkey.jpg

CAPTURE 4 : Teluk Batik Beach

2008-11-01T06:35:00.000-07:00

Teluk Batik is one of the famous beaches in Malaysia. It is located in the state of Perak. The long stretch of golden sand attracts many visitors, mostly locals. One can expect big crowd during peak seasons especially during school holidays and festive seasons. The clean beach and clear water provides ideal spot for contemplation and relaxation. Water can be murky during high tides.

With recent development in the infrastructures especially the increase in the number of chalets and lodges, food stalls, toilet facilities and parking spaces have really boasted the number of tourists.

©cyclopseven. All rights reserved 011108.

CAPTURE 3 : CAVE OF DARKNESS AND WAN TANGGA VALLEY

2008-10-11T23:30:00.000-07:00

A lake along the way to Gua Kelam

A quite stretch on the way to Kaki Bukit

Entrance to the cave

Hanging Bridge

History
Sir John Campbell, an Englishman who was also a miner, discovered the Kelam Cave in 1935. He realized that the cave is rich in tin. So, he made use the available natural resource, the stream that flows through the cave, to transport tin ore in a much effective and productive manner. Story goes that he hired the skill of a Chinese tin miner, Loh Ah Tong to build the hanging bridge to the tin miners. Gradually, as time went by, the mining operation ceased and the cave was used by Communist guerillas who were waging an undeclared war against the then Malaya, and during the later part by smugglers to smuggle things in and out of Thailand.

My Trip
Last Sunday, 5 Oct. 2008, I had a chance to visit the tranquil atmosphere of a cave in the northernmost part of Malaysia. Gua Kelam or Cave of Darkness is located at Kaki Bukit (Foothill), 33km to the North of Kangar, the capital of Perlis (one of the smallest states in Malaysia). The cave is not dark anymore as the name implies, as spotlights have been fixed along the way from the entrance to the valley which is located on the opposite end of the cave. If one expect any mysteries and strange occurring , you can forget it, as the shine has already killed whatever mysteries one can expect in a cave.

Mother Nature's artwork
Stream at Wan Tangga Valley

At Wan Tangga Valley

This 370 meter long limestone cave is accessible by way of a suspension bridge. It was a thrilling experience to walk across the suspension bridge. I admired work of nature sculptured on the walls of the cave, the stalactites and stalagmites as well. The underground stream that flows out from the limestone range provides a cool dipping place for children and adults. The sound of water flowing under the suspended bridge provides a soothing music for the ears. If one is observant, one can see the water dripping from stalactites and stalagmites. The constant erosion and effects of water running through the cave thousands of years ago have left indelible impact on the surface of the walls. Beautiful formations of rocks and designs can be seen along the way.

The lushes green valley at the opposite end of the cave gives one an experience of paradise with its wonderful trees and cooling breeze.

On the way back

Sunset bidding farewell to me

©cyclopseven. All rights reserved 121008.

CAPTURE 2 : MATANG MANGROVE FOREST

2008-08-02T10:23:00.000-07:00

Among the attractions in Taiping is the world famed Matang Mangrove Forest, Kuala Sepetang, Taiping. It covers an area of 40,000 hectares that is nearly half the peninsular's 101,877hectares of mangrove swamps. It is reputed to be one of the best-managed stretches of mangrove swamps in the world. To add to its reputation, it has won numerous international awards. It is one of the famous tourist attractions in Taiping. Visitors come from both around Malaysia and also from other parts of the world.

The mangrove forest is a sort of life wire and acts as support systems in various fields such as forestry, medicine, food, fisheries and nature conservation. One can find huge number of various tree species, migratory birds and marine life within the heart of the mangrove forest.

Apart from providing food, medicine and wood, Mangrove forests too provides natural habitats for fish and shellfish, preserve the shoreline from erosion, as a shield to protect from strong wind, a stop-over area for migratory birds and provide resources for charcoal production. Boardwalks take us closer to the mangrove swamp, which allow us to experience the mangrove swamp from closest angle possible.

CAPTURE 1 : TAIPING LAKE GARDEN

2008-07-28T18:33:00.000-07:00

Taiping is where I live. A place I find solace and inspiration. It was once the old capital of Perak (one of the biggest states in Malaysia). Known as heritage town, it boasts being the town with many firsts in our history, numbering more than 30. In the beginning it was known as Klian Pauh, then the name was changed to Taiping. Taiping originated from a Chinese word Tai Peng, which means Eternal Peace. I believe as long as the hills, trees, and good-natured people remains here, peace will eternally prevail.

Among the many places of interests in Taiping, the TAIPING LAKE GARDEN holds a special spot in my heart. It is located nearby the Bukit Larut ( previously known as Maxwell Hill). Within the heart of the garden is the man made lake. It was an abandoned mining pool, now converted to beautiful lake.

Taiping Lake Garden is a 62-hectare park and one of the oldest lakes of the country, operational since 1880. The spectacular natural beauty, the lake, is surrounded by trees that speak the history better than us. Another unique thing is that it also houses the Taiping Zoo, the oldest zoo in Malaysia. People from various parts of Malaysia and the world visit this lake and enjoy the scenery as well as the plants, trees without forgetting the birds.

As explained earlier, the Taiping lake is actually an old mining pool, which underwent some landscaping and redesigned to form the lake. One can feel the freshness of the air as one enters the lake garden. It is an ideal place for relaxation and provides escapism from the hustle and bustle of the city life.

The uniqueness of this lake is that one see and marvel at the stretches of ancient Angsana trees with their drooping branches that seem to bow down to quench their thirst. Pictures speak a thousand words. Enjoy the sceneries.

Overall, the Taiping Lake is the ideal place to relax and rest far away from the petrol fumes and stress of city living, you can come here to rejuvenate your spirits leaving beyond the hectic schedule of daily life.

This link will be of some help

www.TaipingTalk.com/photos