Raleigh-ing for a cause

July MM - ROARed

2009-07-16T18:57:00.010+08:00

Raleigh first ever Amazing Race took place on 11 July 09 at Lake Garden..
it's totaly different from the version you watched on TV... it's a lot more outrageous + exciting + challenging + FUN!!

see, karlye is so excited about the race!

We flagged off with ice breakers + energizer

Next, Meeting = intro of new committe members, updates on PIW projects, expeditions, fundraising, Justin Bear (he's coming back from aussie this friday!!), other support groups..

then we started with Who am I? a warm up activities for the members... i bet that everyone knows each other better now... next, we witness the construction of the great wall of Raleigh... great effort, guys...

kesemangatan raleigh yang tidak terhingga =)

PUT me down

the infamous cucumber game... we had fun running up n down... eating cucumbers... passing bananas... looking for han sai por... answering random questions... n learning more about Raleigh n also the uniqueness of raleigh-ians =) now u guys know who likes peanut butter kit kat n corn... who built a kindergarten...

the teams

strangers - third runner up

Yak yak yak yak - second runner up

R - first runner up

R5 - Winner of USD 1 million (in monopoly lah, haha)

last but not least, the group picture... thanks everyone for joining the very first monthly meet after AGM 09/10... looking forward to August Monthly Meet which will fall on 8 Aug... more updates will be published in our blog and facebook soon...

hope to see u guys next month too =)

First post from Sabah!

2009-07-13T10:20:00.006+08:00

Want to have similar amazing experiences as the trio, not just hear stories about others but experience it ALL for yourself? Sign up for an expedition NOW!
Here are the dates:

http://www.raleighinternational.org/our-expeditions/gap-year/when-can-i-go

Contact expedition@raleighinternational.org.my to find out more about YOUR expedition!

Good Luck Sunbear Sulan, Water-girl Hui Yein, and Nomadic Shon Lee!

Live Opening Ceremony Update by Shu Woan - The Raleigh KL, KK Correspondent!

2009-07-08T16:23:00.006+08:00

It took me quite a while to find the place. As I stepped into the dining area, I saw Dino waving at me. The first letter I received during my expedition was from her. In a yellow colour envelope, on a piece of yellow colour A4 paper (had to put that in).

All three venturers from KL are now good friends with the Sabahan venturers, so much so that they plan to follow them back to Batu Puteh (where they are from, and where I did my environmental phase) after expedition.

Ed, the emcee from NZ

Venturers from Bermuda: exclusive presence only in Summer expeditions!

Since Kar Lye was waiting for my live report back home, I went straight to work. Dino will be working on a gravity water feed system in Pitas, Su Lan is going all the way to Sandakan to be with sun bears and Shon Lee will be trekking at Long Pasia with Pak Nooh. They also received the pos laju parcel of random things that Kar Lye carefully put together.

HCVs with flag

The venturers were then told to take their seats as the Pembantu Menteri was about to arrive. I was seated in the middle table with PMs and volunteer staffs. I got into an argument with Pete, PM in Imbak, who was also a PM in 08H. He said 09B was boring. I lost the argument when he mentioned that one of the projects was not completed.

the girl arh...

asking for tips on how to use the parang...

Here’s what I found out after a little chat with them when the speeches and performances were over.

None of them have leech socks
They manage to send a letter back
They do not have their mobile phones with them

Before they left for the hostel, Dino told me not to stay in Sabah forever. I am officially having Raleigh blues all over again.

Reporting live from KK,

Shu Woan 09B

KL venturers arrive-ed in Borneo!

2009-07-03T02:10:00.001+08:00

After this:

Training in Nuang

Airport send-off at 6.15am:

At McD's LCCT

Finally, they have reached!!

(Photo source: http://raleighborneo.blogspot.com/2009/07/first-lot-of-venturers-are-here.html)
Raleigh KL big "R" shirt appearance in Raleigh Borneo Fieldbase

(Photo source: http://raleighborneo.blogspot.com/2009/07/first-lot-of-venturers-are-here.html)
HCVs group photo with staff

For latest expedition jungle stories from expedition 09E, check out (you can also leave them messages on the blog):
http://raleighborneo.blogspot.com

If you fancy the traditional way with stamps and felt pen, here you go:

(Venturer name)

Summer 2009 Expedition,
Raleigh Borneo,
P.O Box 14182,
88848 Kota Kinabalu,
Sabah MALAYSIA

All the best, Su Lan, Hui Yein and Shon Lee!

July Monthly Meet - Raleigh Outrageous Amazing Race

2009-07-02T00:26:00.006+08:00

Hey folks,

This is the first Monthly Meet after the new committee was formed. You guys must be expecting for some RALEIGH fun from us. YUP, July Monthly Meet will be our very own Raleigh version of Amazing Race. Those who missed the FUN and NOISY BBQ dinner at Port Dickson, you should join us this time. Get the opportunity to meet the new faces of Raleigh KL as well as getting updates from PIW projects, international support groups, Borneo expedition, and a whole lot more of Raleigh news.

What is Raleigh Outrageous Amazing Race?
Fun yet Crazy . Challenging yet Warm . Cute yet Cool . Bumpy yet Wet . Finger licking good yet cozy . RALEIGH but nothing else

Where?

Lake Garden Kuala Lumpur

When?

11th July 2009 (Saturday) @ 8am

Meeting point?

KL Sentral (KLIA Departure Exit)

Itinerary

8.00am (SHARP) Meet up at KL Sentral

9.00am Arrive at start point. Warm up.
9.10am Ice Breakers and Meeting.

10.00am Start RACE.

**Challenges include: Great wall of China, Put me down, Oh I see you, Coco Banana, Splash & Win etc.

11.30am PICNIC Raleigh style (No worries, no yucky Tomato soup)

12.30pm End. Transfer back to KL Sentral.

what to bring?
YOURSELF, you may also bring your favourite potato chips?/ cookies / sandwich / ribena to share with the folks during Picnic.

How much?

Raleigh KL members RM5

Non-members RM8
* small token fee covers light snacks and shared parking + petrol costs

To register, please send your details to skills@raleighinternational.org.my

and include:

1. NAME

2. TEL

NO3. can you drive? and offer the services of your car on that day?

Registration deadline is 9th July (Thursday) 11pm.

*All those who fail to register, and do not drive, will risk a 5km walk on foot to the start point, which is not very tough for a Raleigh-ian but you will not get your snacks.

See you guys there!

Cheers,

Lu Yi

AGM-ed!

2009-07-01T10:07:00.014+08:00

Greetings from Raleigh KL committee 09/10

Raleigh KL held it's annual general meeting (AGM) in PD last weekend. The past committee of 2008/2009 reported the society's accomplishments within their respective office for the previous term, as well as their personal thoughts and hopes.

A new committee for 2009/2010 was elected. Here's a short profile of the committee members with the expedition they joined or the Raleigh KL projects they had served in leadership capacity:

President - Vincent Tan Eng Seong
Sabah Autumn07
Secretary 1 - Farm Woon Chin
Sabah 08H
Secretary 2 / Membership Officer - Tam Kar Lye
Sabah 07F
Treasurer - Leong Chen Kang (CK)
Sabah 07F
Expedition Officer - Yang Su Lan
Sabah 09E (2 July 09 - 7 Sept 09)
Introduction Weekend Officer - Dennis Gan Chye Sheng
Sabah 08H
PR Officer - Chong Poh-E
Sabah 09B
PR Officer 2 - Ng Hui Mei
Sabah 08H
Logistics Officer - Woo Shi Wei
IWOct08 Camp Chief and Logs team in past few IWs
Fundraising Officer - Christal Loh Pei-Shan
PR Officer 07/08, PR Officer 2 08/09, RIMM08 observer
Projects Officer - Koong Hui Yein
Sabah 09E (2 July 09 - 7 Sept 09)
Skills Officer - Yap Lu Yi
Sabah Spring 08

Thank you for your service and commitment Committee 08/09. You will hear from us soon again!

Cheers,
Raleigh KL Committee 2009/2010

Adventures of Drake the Teddy II

2009-06-29T23:10:00.006+08:00

Teddy is in AUSTRALIA!!
Drake the teddy has landed in Sydney,
Seen here with Sydney Habour Bridge
Sydney Opera House The Babysitter & Drake the Teddy

Trailing my back all the way Drake had Pancakes! On the Rocks!!

Stay tuned for where next in Drake the Teddy's Adventures.

Adventures of Drake the Teddy I

2009-06-26T20:38:00.006+08:00

All packed.

& Ready to Fly.

to where? stay tuned.

Raleigh KL - AGM 09/10

2009-06-23T17:57:00.000+08:00

Dear Raleigh-ians !!!!

Raleigh KL AGM 09/10

Yes, this year, we will hold our AGM @ Port Dickson !!!!!

Date: 27 & 28 June 2009
Day: Saturday & Sunday
Venue: KM17 (Batu 10) of Jalan Pantai, Port Dickson
- we'll be staying in a 5 bed-ed-room bungalow *click here to view the place*

Things to bring: sleeping bag, beach/swim wear, sarongs, mess tin & utensils, cash & yourself !!!
Activities: AGM & follow with a fantastic BBQ dinner & games @ the beach !!!!
Transportation: car pool from KL Central to Port Dickson

Drivers/passengers: please email to Jeslie or Liza, indicate in your email during registration.

PACKAGE A:
27 & 28 June 2009
Member: RM 50
Non-member: RM 70
* inclusive of:
- Saturday BBQ dinner
- Sunday Breakfast
- accommodation
- transportation

PACKAGE B:
27 June 2009
Member: RM 30
Non-member: RM 50
* inclusive of:
- Saturday BBQ dinner
- transportation

Payment method: Please pass the cash deposit of RM50 to Liza/Jeslie/Christal or BANK-IN before 23 June 2009 (Tuesday)

Pertubuhan Raleigh International Kuala Lumpur
RHB Bank - KLCC
Account No: 2141-3800-0265-36
(please bring the bank-in slip to AGM for verification)

The AGM will be held on June 27, 2009 (Saturday).

At 3.15pm there will be a booth for the registration of members for the 2009/2010 term.
Raleigh membership Fee:
NEW Membership: RM50
(inclusive of a limited edition Raleigh Classic Logo Polo T-shirt)
RENEWAL Membership: RM 20

Other attractions with Raleigh KL membership:
Special Discounts with Lafuma & special rates on Raleigh activities all year round !!!!

TO REGISTER (kindly copy paste the below):
and email to jeslie_zheng88@hotmail.com or haszalizayacob@yahoo.com

Full Name:
IC Number:
Contact Number:
Transport: Driver/Passenger
- If driving: to include your car plate number, model & colour
Package: A or B
DO you plan to register NEW/RENEW your membership: yes or no

that's all for now !!!!
*if you need further info, kindly email or contact the registration girls*

Jeslie 012-916 1088

jeslie_zheng88@hotmail.com

Haszaliza 012-399 8729

haszalizayacob@yahoo.com

regards,
Christal Loh
PR Officer 2
Raleigh International Kuala Lumpur
m: +60 16 411 5335
e: pr2@raleighinternational.org.my
w: www.raleighinternational.org.my
b: http://raleighkl.blogspot.com/

Invitation to Participate in the AsiaWorks 11th Sponsored Basic Training (MSB11)

2009-06-22T16:57:00.005+08:00

Deadline: 30th of June 2009

The AsiaWorks Sponsored Basic Training is one of many educational and experiential courses conducted by AsiaWorks Training Sdn Bhd. It is a 40-hour workshop that provides an opportunity for participants to gain self-awareness and an understanding of their true potential, minus the self-limiting beliefs they grew up with. Participants will also have the opportunity to experience a shift in their ability to relate to others and themselves.

In line with this principle of being in service to our community, AsiaWorks is now offering a Sponsored Basic Training, at no cost, to full-time employees and volunteers of charitable and non-profit organisations.

Places are filled on a first come first served basis. Your registration must be accompanied with a letter from your organisation certifying that you are a full-time/regular volunteer.

The duration of this workshop is for three (3) days, beginning 7 August to 9 August 2009 at AsiaWorks Training Centre, Petaling Jaya.

We encourage you to participate in this Training. It is an excellent opportunity to meet friends who share the same cause in life.. to be in service to others and to live to make a difference in this world. By participating in this workshop as a group, you will definitely make a greater impact in your work and relationships, for the positive development of our community and the world at large.

For more information, please contact Hani Layali at AsiaWorks at 03-7956 9417 or 019-316 6442.

Raleigh KL members wishing to apply for participation in this Training can write to info@raleighinternational.org.my to request for a letter certifying your involvement with Raleigh KL.

Borneo Summer 09E Projects

2009-06-17T01:46:00.002+08:00

Very interesting projects lined up for Summer 09E Venturers and Staff.

Community:

Water gravity feed system at Kampung Pinapak

Construction of kindergarten at Kampung Mapan Mapan

Environment:

Sepilok - Borneo Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BRAND NEW PROJECT SITE!!)

[Image source: http://sunbears.wildlifedirect.org/2009/03/19/endangered-bornean-sun-bear-cubs-make-public-debut-at-san-diego-zoo/]

Look up more information on Sun Bear here: http://sunbears.wildlifedirect.org/

Imbak Canyon

Adventure:

Trekking in Long Pasia and Diving in Mamutik

For more details of the projects (origins, benefits to the community and etc), please log on to:

http://raleighborneo.blogspot.com/2009/06/summer-09-projects-offer-plenty-of.html

My Raleigh experience - Amy Roberton - venturer Borneo Jan-Apr 2009

2009-06-16T02:35:00.001+08:00

Raleigh KL: Repost with permission from Amy Roberton

Before joining my expedition with Raleigh I had dropped out of university and was working in a restaurant. At 24 I had experienced periods of depression, was frustrated with my lack of skills, didn’t particularly like my job and knew I wasn’t reaching my full potential.

I had always wanted to volunteer abroad with a charity but all the volunteer agencies I found seemed to require a degree or professional qualification, or were profit making companies. When I found Raleigh I rang them up immediately to sign up to an expedition! Raleigh attracted me primarily because of the focus on personal development skills such as leadership, teamwork and increased confidence that could be gained from such an experience, combined with the worthwhile work in developing countries.

When I rang the staff at Raleigh with my questions about the expedition my main worry was my age. I would be 24 at the time of leaving for expedition and would celebrate my 25th birthday whilst in Borneo. The person I spoke to assured me that although I would be one of the oldest venturers that there would be a broad mix of people from different backgrounds and that my age and maturity would add to mine and everyone else’s experience on expedition.

I celebrated my 25th birthday on the day I found out where I was going for my first phase. It was truly the best birthday I have ever had. Everyone on the expedition wished me happy birthday and I felt so lucky to be with such an amazing group of people and knew on that day that deciding to go away with Raleigh was the best thing I had ever done.

My first phase was the environmental project which was amazing. The project site was in a conservation area in the middle of the jungle and our home was a camp that the BBC built to film the series ‘Expedition Borneo’. We were working and living alongside a group of rangers building a staircase to enable scientists easier access to study this precious area and keep it protected from destruction. The work was tiring and very hot and sweaty but the group had lots of fun while doing it, and we were lucky enough to have a shower under a beautiful waterfall at the end of a hard days work! Without television or even electricity we made our own entertainment, playing games, looking at the wildlife, learning Malaysian and the rangers taught us how to play their favourite card games.

The first phase showed me that being a little bit older than the other venturers didn’t matter whilst on expedition. Everyone who is taking part in a Raleigh expedition has come to meet new people that they wouldn’t normally meet and take part in new activities that they wouldn’t normally do. My age and life experience added to the group dynamic and I have made friendships with lots of younger people that otherwise I wouldn’t have met and I have also made good friends with some of the volunteer managers and Malaysian venturers who were around my age.

One of the best moments on expedition was completing a gravity water feed system on the community project and seeing the water flow for the first time when we turned on the tap. The community we were working with were so happy to see water returned to their village and it was a great feeling knowing that this project would not have been completed had it not been for Raleigh’s presence in Borneo.

The most challenging time on expedition was during the first week of the trek when it rained everyday and we were always wet! There were moments when everyone felt like they didn’t want to be in the jungle anymore and it was hard to keep smiling when we were cold and exhausted. We were all in the same boat and helped each other through the rain, and learning to live and trek in these harsh conditions whilst still enjoying myself has showed me that anything is possible.

Going away with Raleigh has taught me that I am a very caring, empathetic, hardworking and strong person and I discovered that I have very good communication skills and can form friendships with pretty much anyone. One of the most surprising things that I learnt was that I was a really good team leader which I would never have said was one of my skills. Being with a variety of people also taught me that different groups of individuals can live and work together happily as a team. Showing that age, nationality or personal circumstances really don’t affect this. If anything it is much better to have a diverse group as we all have different skills and strengths to share with each other.

My future plans have definitely been shaped by my experience with Raleigh. Before my expedition I was working in a job that I didn’t enjoy but didn’t really know what I wanted to do and didn’t know how I could progress. After discovering where my skills lie I am looking forward to a future working in the charity sector with other young people to help them progress and achieve their full potential. I am also planning to return to Borneo again next year with Raleigh as a volunteer manager.

Overall my expedition with Raleigh has definitely been the best thing I have ever done. My experience has and will affect my life positively for years to come. I have gained confidence, seen and done amazing things, formed lasting friendships and great memories that I will keep for life.

We all have an expedition within us. Find yours at http://www.raleighinternational.org

Raleigh KL: Register for an expedition NOW! Spaces are still available (limited though) for upcoming Summer and Autumn Borneo expedition!

IW June09 Group Photo, featuring Drake the Raleigh Bear!

2009-06-11T16:44:00.000+08:00

Shu Woan's third phase In Expedition 09B - Part 3 of 3

2009-06-10T12:04:00.006+08:00

“Rozi won’t be joining us here in Kg. Rugading. He has quit the expedition.” Fi broke the news to me.

I wasn’t upset at all. I only felt that it was his lost, he was one phase away from finishing. One phase away from being called a ‘venturer’.

Kg. Rugading is a deserted village. All the villagers that once reside here have migrated to the nearby Kg. Kinapulidan. Leaving their homes and their land behind. All because there is no water supply in Kg. Rugading. It has been 3 years. Nothing was done. There are only wooden houses yang hampir roboh and cows wondering around the village. And us living in a house that has an awesome view of Mount Kinabalu. Being the last phase, we had to complete whatever was left to do in the Gravity Water Feed System. Which include finishing the wall of the dam, laying out the pipes and water storage tanks, connecting the pipes and attaching taps. Generally easier than what I did in Batu Puteh.

Being the only HCV (host country venturer) around, and no other locals to interact with, I did not have problem ‘balancing my time’ between different groups of people. I did so much with this group that I’ve not done with my previous groups. Mafia after dinner. Mozzie net chats. Bedtime stories. Hide and seek in the dark. I was a carefree venturer.

In an earlier one-to-one session with Fi, I told her that I wanted to be ‘mentally challenged’ this phase. I wanted to feel that I could ‘rise to the occasion and overcome any obstacle’. How innocent of me. This challenge came gradually, before I realise, I was overwhelmed.

It all began with translating between Uncle Jamirin (the person in charge there) and the PMs after working hours (while everyone else were doing poi, abs session, writing in their diaries...). Then day leaders would ask me what were we to do for the day. What tools do we need to bring along? How many people would we need for a certain job? Is the ground leveled enough? Are the poles a bit too high? I have no freaking idea! I felt like I was the Phase Leader. It got to a stage where I was so pressured I just cried in my mozzie net. Most of the time, I carried on translating or answering just so that the job will get done. A few days towards the end I begin telling people that I am only a venturer, stop throwing me with questions I cannot answer. Things became better.

On the day of the opening ceremony of the Gravity Water Feed System, quite a few journalists turned up. I have no clue which newspaper were they from. ~~Most~~ All of them were only interested in getting interviews from my non-Malaysian group members. But some were so shy to even ask for their names that they enlisted my help to get their details. When the news came out the next day, almost everyone’s name was mentioned in at least one newspaper. Except mine. Celaka betul! Geramnya...

Shu Woan

Editor's Note: If you had missed out on Phase 1, read on here for Phase 2, read on here. Want to experience the amazing experience Shu Woan had in Borneo? Expedition Summer09 July is still open. Contact Expedition Officer now!

dong dong Gunung Stong sTong !!!

2009-06-04T22:17:00.000+08:00

This is a fund raising effort by Hui Yein for her Raleigh Borneo Summer Expedition 09.
what is EXPEDITION? http://www.raleighinternational.org/

Longing for an escapade ?? Far from city! Get some fresh air! Be amazed by mother nature!
Then, the chance is here!

A hike to Gunung Stong at Kelantan will definitely take your breath away as it have the surprise-elements waiting for you to explore!!
-claimed, the TALLEST WATERFALL in south east Asia
-Great sunrise scenery as it is at the east coast region
-cooling sensation (as you know how hot KL has always been)
-not to forget, the dense forest that will just sooth your eyes and rejuvenate your mind, body and soul
-and many many more waiting to be explored
-it is also the time for you to challenge yourself

Below is the rough itinerary for the trip, it is still subject to changes

18 June 2009
- 8:30 p.m. >night train depart from KL sentral to Dabong

19 June 2009
- 7:47 p. m. >reach Dabong
- 8:00-9:00 a.m. >breakfast
- 10.00 a.m. > start hiking to base camp (Baha Camp)
- 1p.m. > unload stuff at Baha Camp, rest and lunch
- 2 p.m. > hike up to Gunung Stong
- 5 p.m. > reach peak, rest and take picture then hike down to Baha camp
- 9 p.m. > rest and dinner

20 June 2009
- 5 a.m. > watch sunrise
- 6 a.m. > breakfast
- 8 a.m. >trek to waterfall
- 10 a.m. >reach waterfall, maybe some light picnic there
- 12 p.m. >back to base camp, lunch
- 2 p.m. > pack
- 3 p.m. > hike down to Dabong
- 9 p.m. >night train depart from Dabong to KL sentral

21 June 2009
- 7:45 a.m. > reach KL

price is RM 250-280, notice will be out once final price is set. Look out for the event wall or notice for confirmation of price from time to time.
the fee include 1lunch/1dinner/1breakfast, fee for the ranger, park fee, train ticket (to & fro ) . Other expenses have to be borne by yourself.

Email huiyein@gmail.com for registration or inquiries.
Further details should be sent to you once participation is confirmed.

dumbo trip to Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary on 13 June 2009

2009-06-03T13:27:00.000+08:00

Day Trip to Kuala Gandah (Pahang) Elephant Sanctuary!!

get some EleFun !! bring your friends along !!

This is a Fund Raising effort for Hui Yein Borneo Summer Expedition 2009
What is EXPEDITION?? http://www.raleighinternational.org/

Date: 13 June 2009 (Saturday)
8.30 a.m. - assemble at the front of Hotel Vistana (accessible by LRT, stopping at Titiwangsa station)(going by bus)

9.00 a.m. - DEPARTURE (note that we must be punctual as there are only limited passes for visitors to play with the elephants - 100 passes per day)

11.30 a.m. - Arrival - registration - lunch

1.00 p.m. - Documentary film at Registration office

2 - 4 p.m. - EleFUN time (leave some donations for the sanctuary as they are desperate in need for funds and resources)

4.30 p.m. - back to K.L.
( Time line is subject to change )

Early bird registration fee before 4 June 2009 : RM 60.00
Registration fee from 5 June onwards : RM 65.00

Registration Deadline: 9 June 2009
Fast! Places are limited.

Fees should be banked in to Raleigh's account at RHB bank
Account number:
PERTUBUHAN RALEIGH INTERNATIONAL KUALA LUMPUR 21413 8000 26536

Bank slip must be kept and presented to Hui Yein on the day of the trip. Once fee is paid, contact Hui Yein for confirmation.
Contact: huiyein@gmail.com / 012 – 686 3457 for registration and inquiries.

Come and have fun with elephants!! Bring your friends! Make it an unforgettable trip!
Your understanding about the elephants is vital for their survivor!!
This is a Fund Raising effort for Hui Yein Borneo Summer Expedition 2009
What is EXPEDITION?? http://www.raleighinternational.org/

Countdown to Introduction Weekend June09

2009-06-02T23:30:00.000+08:00

Raleigh KL: Special thanks to Zhen Cui, Zen for the poster design!

Have you registered?
You can find the registration form here:
http://raleighkl.blogspot.com/2009/04/raleigh-kl-introduction-weekend.html

Raleigh IW in Media:

---

From: http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/5/10/education/3834247&sec=education

Camping trip

RALEIGH International Kuala Lumpur will be organising an Introduction Weekend from June 5-7.

The camping trip will expose participants to different skills and activities similar to an actual expedition. Closing date for registration is May 27.

For more information, e-mail iwjune09@raleighinternational.org.my, or call Woon Chin (012-661 4978) or Jeslie (012-9161 088).

---

Post Earth Hour 2009

2009-05-28T00:17:00.000+08:00

It has been exactly 2 months since Earth Hour 2009, are you still doing your part for the Earth, every day?

-
A meeting during Earth Hour:

Here's what you can do daily, for starters!

"Stern, Starboard, Port, Ballast. Jib trimmer, mast, tack…BOOM!

2009-05-24T16:35:00.003+08:00

"Stern, Starboard, Port, Ballast. Jib trimmer, mast, tack…BOOM!

These were the terms we learnt during May Monthly meeting!

The story begins: On Saturday morning we arrived at the Royal Selangor Yacht Club at Port Klang. Ai Li, the girl who once sailed for Malaysia and who is still engaged in sailing competitions gave us a brief introduction to sailing. We were introduced to various terms, the structure of the boat, taught us about the safety precautions and the various roles of the crew on board. Apparently, we do not need a cert to sail. Here’s a quick review:

Boat structure:

Safety precautions:
Watch out for the boom (The hard steel underneath the main sail)!
If your friend falls off the boat, don’t jump in as an attempt to save them. Instead, just stare and keep an eye on them while someone else throws in the float. Laugh if you must.

Crew on Board:
There's the skipper, bowman, maintrimmer, porttrimmer, starboard trimmer, and my favourite, the ballast (the person that balances the boat by running or climbing from one side of the boat to another)!

Anyway, after Ai Li's brief introduction, we had lunched and met out skippers. They were expatriates 'orang putih' that happened to owned some of the boats that we sailed on. There were 30 Raleigh-ians sailing on 5 different boats. Some big, some smaller. By 1.30 p.m. noon, we left Shih Chung and Zhi Yong Jr to watch over our bags and we were off to sea!

We got to man the boat! It was hands on with the basic stuff. We learned how to avoid the boom as it swung from one side to another and learned to change the direction of the sails as our boat gradually shifted its direction. Altogether 3 and a half ours at sea (though we can still see land). We also noticed a rainbow like a hallow circling the sun.

Mm...sailing is very much like Raleigh. Unique and fun. An awesome adventure i'd say.

PS: Shih Chung had vowed never to be a bag watcher ever again.

For those of you who would like to know more about sailing and its terms. Here are 2 links:
http://www.asa.com/asa_standards/standard_basic_keelboat_sailing.html
http://www.iidolphins.com/BASIC_KEELBOAT_SAILING_STANDARD.pdf
http://www.euphoriasailing.com/Images/Training/Boat_layout.jpg

Cheers,
Bee Li"

--
Click here for Group Photo.

Shu Woan's second phase In Expedition 09B - Part 2 of 3

2009-05-17T13:15:00.015+08:00

First changeover. Allocation to new Alpha groups. I prayed so hard that my name would be called out by the Imbak PMs. I was ~~quite~~ ~~disappointed~~ devastated when George called my name. Nonetheless, I walked up, hugged (or did I just shook hands with them? can’t really remember.) both PMs who were stationed in Batu Puteh. Not only was I in an Environmental project that was more ‘community’ than both Community projects combined, I won’t be able to go to Imbak, and I would not get to be with Lorna, who was my PM during trek & dive! I was seriously unhappy.

During dinner that night, I spoke to Huub and Juicy, both went to Batu Puteh in the previous phase. They had nothing but praises for that place. They made really good friends over there, spotted loads of wild life and cried so hard during their last night there. Sounds interesting. They even gave me tips on where to sleep in the goat shed, so that the leaking roof won’t bother me. OK. I was less unhappy.

“Because tonight will be the night that I will fall for you

Over again, don’t make me change my mind

Or I won’t live to see another day, I swear it’s true

Because a girl like you is impossible to find

Is impossible to find”

“Fall For You”, Secondhand Serenade

This song was sung repeatedly by the guys in Batu Puteh, since day 1. From the moment work commenced, until we went back. We hated it, loved it. Hated it again, loved it again. Halfway through the phase, we were singing along as well. We carried rocks, sand and gravel from the jetty to the boat. Unloading every single bag at the platoon of the Eco Camp. Carry them through the pathway into the Eco Camp, across the mud all the way beside the reed bed. Emptied the bags. Started all over again. The reed bed functions as a filter, to filter out whatever that goes from the toilet into the antiseptic tank before it enters the river. Hence the need for rocks, sand and gravel. Sounds tough. It actually is. We enjoyed lifting every single bag. We had breaks in between which was termed ‘Sabah time’. It has now become my motto. It signifies working hard, but taking time off to reflect on what you’re actually doing.

There were some individuals in the group that were less diligent than others. Maybe it was the weather. Maybe it was the food. Maybe it was the long working hours. Maybe there was a breakdown in the way we communicated. It did affect the group dynamics. Everyone felt it, but we couldn’t figure out how to get it sorted. Our analytical skills were slightly impaired for some reason. Although we had a schedule written out, things were just not as smooth as my Adventure Phase. I talked about it with George during my one-to-one sessions with her, on a lovely sunny day, at the Eco Camp (after we camped overnight at the Eco Camp). All we had to do was voice it out. Everyone felt something but no one said anything. Another lesson learnt.

When the guys from Batu Puteh made a special appearance at the Closing Ceremony of Expedition Borneo 09B, one of them played the guitar and ALL the venturers (and the two PMs) who were at Batu Puteh at some point of the expedition, sang ‘Fall For You’ together. I couldn’t be happier that I was allocated to Batu Puteh.

Shu Woan

Editor's Note: Watch out for Part 3, phase 3, new challenges, Mount K views everyday, plus photos as well of course, all that all that... ~to be released soon! If you had missed out on Phase 1, read on here. Want to experience the amazing experience Shu Woan had in Borneo? What's YOUR first challenge to expedition? Introduction Weekend! Register now! Cheers!

Sail-ed!

2009-05-14T13:17:00.000+08:00

Photo credits to Eric Ho.

Raleigh-Outbac Sports Camp

2009-05-12T20:05:00.003+08:00

Hello!

We’re organizing a sports camp as part of our fundraising for expedition. Some of us have not confirmed which expedition exactly but we’re trying to go for the soonest one possible within our means, earliest being the July 09 Borneo Expedition, whilst others are helping out with the fundraising efforts.

The sports camp is for secondary school students during the coming school holiday. Yes, I know most of us may no longer be in school. Please help us out by forwarding this email to anyone you know that might be 13-17 years young or anyone you know that might know anyone in that age group. Family, friends, colleagues, etc, etc. Yes, I know you'll get the idea. Basically anyone and everyone in your contact list. Just click forward. ; )

Your help and support is much needed to make this camp a success. Thanking you in advance. : )

-Angel, Li Ern, Hock Soon and Hui Yein-

RALEIGH-OUTBAC SPORTS CAMP

School holiday will be here soon! Come join us to learn a few sports and pick up some physical skills. We are organising a Sports Camp from 2-5 June 2009 at OUTBAC, Broga near to Semenyih. The camp is open to anyone between 13-17 years old who is interested in sports with no prior sport experience/involvement needed.

The sports included are softball, touch rugby, floorball and tchoukball. Although most of these sports are not commonly played here and may be new to some people, they are tremendously fun, enjoyable and satisfying, especially when played with real game rules. Besides the sports mentioned above, there will also be a night hike on one of the days. If you already know how to play those sports, feel free to join us to make new friends and enjoy the camp as there will be more than just playing sports. During free time, recreational activities will include flying fox, frisbee, kayaking, biking, archery and rock climbing.

The sports sessions will be conducted by people who are well trained in their field of play and basic Sports Science will be incorporated in the learning process. The Sports Camp is designed in such a way that you will get to learn A to Z of all the aforementioned sports from the fundamental skills to real life game situations.

Kindly refer to the attachments for more details. Please fill in the form and email to atls3@hotmail.com for registration. Closing date for registration is on 25 May 2009. The camp fee is RM350 per person. For further details, kindly contact Angelina at 017–698 4925 / atls3@hotmail.com or Li Ern at 016 – 360 4886 / frenzy_chill@yahoo.com.

Your participation is our pleasure. Do pass this on to your friends and family too. Looking forward to seeing you at the camp. Be sporty and healthy this school holiday!

* This is a fundraising effort by Raleigh Venturers with co-operation from OUTBAC. For more information on Raleigh International Kuala Lumpur, please look up www.raleighinternational.org.my.

Ba-tu Pu-teh

2009-05-12T09:18:00.004+08:00

Doing environmental conservation work by the side of Kinabatangan River? Is that what you have been yearning to do?

Wait no more! There are still spaces left for the July09 Borneo Expedition, email expedition@raleighinternational.org.my for more details. Spaces are running out fast! Get out there!

Shu Woan's first phase In Expedition 09B - Part 1 of 3

2009-05-03T17:57:00.011+08:00

Two days before I was being deployed into the jungles of Long Pasia, I broke my toe nail on my left foot while playing Raleigh Olympics. After Dr. Simon pushed my toe nail back in (I would need 2 jabs to get the whole nail out, I opted for the less painfull way), he mentioned that I might not be able to go trekking with my newly allocated Alpha group, I might have to switch groups. No way! I liked my group. It’s just a broken toe nail, no big deal.

The medics and my PMs somehow forgot about it (I think) as no one brought that matter up again. So there I was, on the bus and the 4x4 to Long Pasia. I had a serious misconception about Long Pasia, no thanks to CK Leong. He convinced me that it was TEN times more difficult than going up and down Gunung Nuang with 10kg of weight in 10 hours. I seriously thought I would die in Long Pasia. But seeing how some of the other venturers trekked during Jungle Camp, I felt reassured. Even if I were to die in Long Pasia, I would not be the first.

Trekking turned out to be quite enjoyable. I did not have any sore muscles throughout the 12 day trek. I enjoyed building fireplaces every time we arrived at a new campsite. Besides two insoles and one side of a sock (mine!) got damaged, nothing else got burned. There were even stakes around the fireplace for everyone to dry their boots. Even the guides were impressed!

Occasionally my rucksack felt really heavy, especially on days where we trekked for 7 hours. On those days, we only had crackers for lunch. If I recall correctly, we had 2 packets of crackers between 14 people. Cracker lunch was alright for me, we had different toppings each time. We got to chose from cheddar cheese, peanut butter, choc spread and tuna. Of course, we rationed every single meal beforehand. Having pasta for fre*king SIX nights in a row, that I cannot stand. I felt so weak without having rice. One night in Bamboo Camp, Lela (Sabahan venture) and I went over to the guides’ fireplace after dinner just to chat. To my surprise, two of them just came back from FROG hunting!!! Not quite sure how they cooked it, but anything with rice tasted like H-E-A-V-E-N at that moment. It was so lekker! From then on, I knew where I could go to whenever I wanted a fix. Food was never a problem anymore. I still eat my porridge in my mess tin at home!

Not being able to do a night dive was pretty sh*t at first; I was looking forward to it very much. Finding out that my buoyancy was better than I thought it was, priceless!!

It was a bit difficult to balance my time between the locals (guides, dive masters to be...) and my group. Mainly because my group was not exactly excited about hanging out with the locals, something I quite like to do. I know I can get a lot out of these people. I was also constantly translating (queries and actual conversations! Celaka betul!) between certain people. I don’t mind showing off my linguistic skills, but it can be frustrating when people become lazy and kacau me whenever I am doing something. Or when I am not doing anything. It annoys me the most when they don’t even try. Sabar saja... That was Phase 1, did not know how to tell people off......politely.

Shu Woan

Editor's Note: Watch out for Part 2, phase 2, new challenges, serene environment, plus photos as well of course, all that all that... ~to be released soon! Want to experience the amazing experience Shu Woan had in Borneo? What's YOUR first challenge to expedition? Introduction Weekend! Register now! Cheers!

Raleigh KL - Introduction Weekend

2009-05-01T08:12:00.000+08:00

Hey all,

Been wondering what's the hype of Raleigh expedition about? Can't wait to get out there? Here you go:

Raleigh KL's Introduction Weekend is back (5 - 7 June 2009) !!!

Application forms can be obtained at: MEDIAFIRE

or at the mirror site:

RAPIDSHARE

This document is your application to participate in the Raleigh International Kuala Lumpur Introduction Weekend.

Please return the completed form to us via email by May 24th, 2009. Please note that incomplete applications (incomplete fields, lacking a referral or photo) will not be considered.

Should you require more information, do feel free to contact us:

Contact persons:
IW Secretariat - Woon Chin +60 12 661 4978
Jeslie +60 12 916 1088

Email: iwjune09@raleighinternational.org.my
Web: www.raleighinternational.org.my

Blog: raleighkl.blogspot.com

Yours Sincerely,

Vincent Tanes

Introduction Weekend Officer