e-borneo.com - Travel Borneo Blog

Sabah hopes for visitors from peninsula, Sarawak to offset drop in tourists

2009-07-06T18:55:00.002+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is banking on visitors from the peninsula and Sarawak to offset an expected further decline in the number of international tourists to the state due to the economic crisis and the A(H1N1) flu.

International arrivals to Sabah had dropped by 3% between January and March compared to the same period in 2008, said state tourism, culture and environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjum.

“We are bracing for a further decline in the second quarter as the full impact of the A (H1N1) flu takes effect,” he said when contacted recently.

According to Sabah Tourism statistics, Sabah received 552,222 tourists between January and March 2008. Of this, 193,981 were international visitors while the remainder were Malaysians.

While there was a drop in international arrivals, Masidi said the number of locals visiting Sabah this year had increased slightly by about 1%.

Continue reading at: Sabah hopes for visitors from peninsula, Sarawak to offset drop in tourists
.
.

Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival - Rain on their parade

2009-07-04T18:56:00.000+08:00

The escalating costs of attending the Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival are giving fans the blues.

While the Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) is a major event for many music fans in Malaysia and beyond, the event is currently attracting attention for the wrong reasons: High costs.

Due in part to operators bent on profiteering, the costs of attending the festival have been escalating, causing even regulars to decide that enough is enough, and skip 2009’s event. This is despite the fact that some of these people have already paid several hundred ringgit for the air fare to Kuching (from KL).

There are several hotels in Damai, the festival area about 40km from Kuching, but the rates have been spiking alarmingly. Even the state-owned property, Permai Rainforest Resort, a basic, no-frills property popular with the locals, has doubled its rates this year.

Part of the reasons for this could be because the resort’s management has been leased out to the private sector. A similar issue arose recently at Mt Kinabalu in Sabah, where expensive accommodation is deterring many locals from climbing. Staying at one of Permai’s cabins during the festival used to cost about RM200 a night three years ago. Last year the rates were raised drastically to RM558 a night.

This year, it’s a whopping RM825. Consequently, many who have stayed there have decided either not to stay at Permai (once the cheapest place) or skip this year’s three-night event altogether.

Continue reading (incl. pics) at: Sarawak Rainforest World Music Festival - Rain on their parade
.
.

Sabah International Folklore Festival - 1Malaysia meets 1World

2009-07-04T18:49:00.000+08:00

Kota Kinabalu: No culture is better or less than another, only being unique in their own little ways, said State Culture, Tourism and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun.

"To be honest, competition is secondary, you don't come here to pick up the winners because I believe no culture is better or less than another as each country has a unique culture of its own," Masidi told a dinner for participants of the 4th Sabah International Folklore Festival at Shangri-la's Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, Thursday.

The true and overriding intent of the Sabah International Folklore Festival is building friendship and bringing nations closer together, Masidi stressed.

"Celebrating friendship in culture and finding new friends is the reason you are all in Sabah from many parts of the world," Masidi told the packed crowd of folklore troupes from Kazakhstan, China, India, Cambodia, India, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Brunei, Java, Kalimantan and Negri Sembilan.

Continue reading (incl. pic) at: Sabah International Folklore Festival - 1Malaysia meets 1World
.
.

Sipadan has got everything

2009-07-04T18:47:00.000+08:00

Scuba diving could be the best therapy to overcome depression which is on the rise in the country, said Deputy Minister of Tourism, Datuk Sulaiman Abdul Rahman Taib.

He said the country's seas and shores with its varied flora and fauna could reduce and even overcome a diver's stress.

Sulaiman said among divers' havens were the very popular islands of Sipadan , Perhentian, Layang-layang, Payar and Tioman.

"We have many attractive destinations for scuba diving therefore make good use of God's gift to overcome stress.

"Furthermore the water temperatures here are not seasonal so one could swim, dive or participate in other water sports all year round," he told reporters after officiating the Malaysia International Dive Expo 2009 here.

Sulaiman said the Tourism Ministry was actively promoting Sipadan Island like it was one of seven wonders of the world.

Continue reading at: Sipadan has got everything
.
.

Orang utan expert amazed at Sabah's conservation

2009-07-02T19:02:00.000+08:00

Kota Kinabalu: The world's leading orang utan expert, Dr Birute Mary Galdikas, is full of praise for the Sabah Government's conservation efforts to save the apes, one of the world's most endangered species.

She told Daily Express in an exclusive interview that Sabah is doing progressive work in orang utan conservation by making efforts to eliminate illegal logging and trying to find a permanent home for orang utans such as in the Malua forest reserve.

"I am also impressed to learn that the Government is going to create 'corridors' to protect wildlife. That's wonderful and I am not saying it just because I am in Sabah.

"I would say exactly the same thing in Indonesia or in the United States (where she is often invited to give lectures). We need to do more for the future and I am so glad that you are already doing it. We can all do better."

Last December, Chief Minister Datuk Seri Musa Hj Aman announced that 250,000 hectares of lowland forests in the Ulu Segama-Malua area would be set aside for the orang utans. It is estimated that there are more than 3,000 orang utans in the Malua forest reserve alone.

On Tuesday, State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister, Datuk Masidi Manjun, said the State Government wants to purchase privately-owned land at zones neighbouring the fragmented Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary to ensure the long-term survival of iconic Sabah wildlife such as the orang utan, rhino and elephants.

A committee was set up under his Ministry to prepare the policy that will be known as Kinabatangan Corridor of Life (KCoL).

Dr Galdikas, 63, who is based in Indonesia, has been studying and living with the orang utans at a reserve in Kalimantan (Indonesian Borneo) called Tanjung Puting Reserve (now a national park) since age 25 in 1971.

She has worked ceaselessly to save orang utans, especially orphaned ones, and rainforests, and to bring their plight to world attention.

This was her second visit to Sabah, having been invited by the Sabah Government to attend a conference in 1990. She has been touring places of interest and one of the things that caught her attention was the gated checkpoint put up by the Wildlife Department at the Tabin Wildlife Centre to curb illegal poaching.

Dr Galdikas, who founded the Los Angeles-based Orangutan Foundation International (OFI) in 1986 and became its President, noted there are some 5,000 orang utans in the Danum Valley as calculated by scientists.

What fascinated her in the Danum Valley was also the diversity and richness of wildlife there.

"The forest (Danum) is awesome and just takes one's breath away. I am not joking. The only forest that comes close to the forest of Sabah that I saw in Danum are the redwoods in northern California. They are beautiful, breathtaking.

Continue reading at: Orang utan expert amazed at Sabah's conservation
.
.

MASwings and Sabah Tourism Board to boost Sabah’s tourism

2009-07-02T19:00:00.001+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: MASwings and Sabah Tourism Board (STB) forged collaboration to promote Sabah as an ultimate tourist destination with the launching of the in-flight entertainment (IFE) channel, beginning yesterday.

This is in line with MASwings objective to revitalise the local economy and tourism industry, and delivering its promise to connect the world to Sabah and Sarawak, MASwings regional head for Sabah, Shauqi Ahmad said.

“This is also in line with our interest and involvement in providing the highest standards of comfort and convenience to our passengers,” he added.

He said since the induction of the ATR 72 into MASwings’ fleet in September last year, their turboprop aircrafts were more comfortable with spacious cabin, fitted with leather seats and equipped with 20-inch LCD coloured screens spread throughout the cabin.

The screens are placed every two-seat rows, along both sides of the cabin. They operate on a drop down mechanism that does not require earphones as the audio comes from the overhead speakers.

Shauqi said the IFE channel would feature Sabah and Sarawak tourism board destinations footage as well as other useful information to travelling public, be they local or international tourists.

Continue reading at: MASwings and Sabah Tourism Board to boost Sabah’s tourism
.
.

More delights for Sarawak rainforest music fest fans

2009-07-01T17:36:00.001+08:00

KUCHING: Ardent fans of the 12th annual Rainforest World Music Festival at the Sarawak Cultural Village near here can expect greater comfort and new experiences.

A brand new main and secondary stage has been added so that fans will have a bigger space to move around to enjoy the music in the main performing area.

The timber walkway has also been replaced for the safety of concert-goers, all part of the RM5.8mil upgrading exercise for the village.

“Although the crowd capacity has been increased to 10,000 a night, we are capping it at 8,000,’’ Sarawak Tourism Board chief executive officer Gracie Geikie told reporters at Bangunan Baitulmakmur in Petra Jaya yesterday.

She had earlier briefed state Urban Development and Tourism Minister Datuk Michael Manyin on the final preparations for the popular festival, which kicks off on July 10.

Continue reading (incl. pic) at: More delights for Sarawak rainforest music fest fans
.
.

Sarawak Pandaw Cruise’s first journey today

2009-07-01T17:30:00.001+08:00

Historic launching seen as another milestone for state’s tourism development

SIBU: The first ever river cruise in Borneo, RV Orient Pandaw Cruise, officially starts today.

Minister of Environment and Public Health Datuk Michael Manyin Jawong described the launching of the river cruise as historic and another milestone for the development of tourism in Sarawak.

“As such, the onus now is on the people of Sarawak, particularly those staying in Sibu, Kanowit, Kapit, Sarikei, Song and Tanjong Manis, to be creative and ensure that the cruise will sustain,” he said at the official launching of the river cruise held at Burung Apu Wharf yesterday afternoon.

Second Finance Minister Dato Sri Wong Soon Koh, Paul Strachan, founder of Irrawaddy Flotilla Company, which manages Pandaw Cruise, and Datuk Tiong Thai King, chairman of Sibu Municipal Council Chairman were among those present at the launching.

Manyin went on to describe that it was easy to build or start a tourism product but to sustain it was another totally different story. He said it really needed concert efforts, from the taxi drivers to the shopkeepers, who must play their role to ensure that the cruise would be sustained for generations to come.

“We do not want the cruise to last for just one year only. We want it to last for generations to come, and believe me that is the difficult part.”

Continue reading (incl. pic) at: Sarawak Pandaw Cruise’s first journey today
.
.

Heart of Borneo needs extra monitoring

2009-06-30T18:30:00.000+08:00

Kota Kinabalu: WWF-Malaysia's Borneo Species Programme team has captured images of a female Sumatran rhino believed about 20 years old in the Heart of Borneo, further strengthening the need to sustainably manage the forest in this part of the region that is shared by Indonesia, Brunei and Malaysia.

Raymond Alfred, Senior Manager of the programme, stressed the importance of strong and coordinated enforcement in the forest reserves involving the Forestry Department, Wildlife Department and Sabah Foundation, with the support of the police, to ensure the survival of this endangered species.

The current enforcement and survey work in this area is supported by Honda Malaysia. Consistent monitoring of the rhino population here has so far identified the presence of two rhino calves.

Raymond said the future of the rhinos in Borneo now depends on how serious the forest reserves could be managed sustainably and how the enforcement and monitoring could be carried out effectively and be supported with appropriate activities.

WWF-Malaysia is now looking into how Forest Management Units (FMUs) could be sustainably managed since the forest stand and condition in most of the FMUs in Sabah are poor.

He said based on long-term field survey data, the rhino monitoring and survey activities in other forests by the programme shows that the home range of the rhinos is also affected by oil palm expansion near the eastern coastline of Sabah.

Continue reading (incl. pic) at: Heart of Borneo needs extra monitoring
.
.

RBA waives rebooking, rerouting fees for concerned travellers

2009-06-30T18:26:00.000+08:00

Royal Brunei Airlines, in a gesture of goodwill, is waiving rebooking and rerouting fees for customers who do not wish to travel due to concerns about the Influenza A (H1N1) pandemic.

The waiver programme is for RBA customers holding tickets that were issued on or before June 30, 2009 and are valid for travel before November 30, 2009.

Under the waiver programme, passengers may defer their travel up to December 31, 2009, subject to seat availability on their chosen flight.

The administration fees waived are for changes of passenger names, flight dates and destinations.

However fare differential charges may still apply for the selected new flight dates or routing, especially if passengers defer their flight to a higher season, in which case the seasonal fare difference applies.

For further information, contact the RBA ticketing office at 2225931 or RBA Service Centre at 2334465.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin
.
.

KL show to kick off Sarawak Rainforest World Music festival

2009-06-29T18:09:00.001+08:00

KUCHING: Red Chamber (Canada/China) and Asika (Malaysia) will perform in two preview shows in Kuala Lumpur in the run-up to the Rainforest World Music festival.

The first of the shows will be held at the Curve on Friday.

Sarawak Tourism Board (STB) chief executive officer Gracie Geikie said local music fans here would be entertained by four international and Malay-sian musical groups at the second preview show at the open-air amphitheatre at Jalan Taman Budaya on July 8.

The three-day festival, the 12th edition, will feature 13 foreign and four Malaysian groups at the Sarawak Cultural Village on the foothill of the legendary Mount Santubong near here from July 10.

The other international groups are from France, Tanzania, Korea, New Zealand, Finland, Hungary, Portugal, Morocco, United States, Portugal, Indonesia and Poland.

Continue reading (incl. pic) at: KL show to kick off Sarawak Rainforest World Music festival
.
.

RM150mil to upgrade Sibu airport terminal

2009-06-29T18:06:00.000+08:00

SIBU: Visitors arriving at the Sibu Airport two years from now will enjoy a bigger, fully airconditioned new terminal building and better facilties.

Sarawak Minister of Environment and Public Health Datuk Sri Wong Soon Koh told reporters here Monday that the building and its facilities would be upgraded at a cost of RM150mil under the second economic stimulus package announced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak recently.

The federal government was in the final stage of calling for tenders for the works.

The terminal would have, among others, three aerobridges so that passengers need not walk for long distances to and from the aircraft, he said.

Continue reading at: RM150mil to upgrade Sibu airport terminal
.
.

45 kms to Poring Hot Porings

2009-06-28T18:45:00.005+08:00

A view overlooking the memorial site

Colourful masks

The canopy walk

Local handicrafts up for sale at Pekan Nabalu stalls

Photos courtesy of and Copyright to Siti Hawa and Brunei Press Sdn Bhd

By Siti Hawa

The second day in Kota Kinabalu started with my mum ringing me up from the hotel room next door. It was 7am sharp so I was a bit groggy and tired after the shopping spree the day before.

"Get the kids ready!" ordered my mom, "We're going to have breakfast and then off we go."

I practically had to drag my two protesting children to the bathroom where they then refused to come out after busy playing and splashing away with the soap bubbles and imagining that they are superheroes fighting villains in the vast sea (bath tub).

Our tour guide, Ismail, was waiting for us at 9am. He briefed us on where he was going to take us that day. Mount Kinabalu, Hot springs and the Canopy walk at the Kinabalu Park, he said firmly. Little was he to know, the demands and how my family can be quite sidetracked if something catches our eyes.

So we were bundled in a 12-seater Urvan, my dad sitting next to the driver and the rest of my family, four garrulous kids and seven adults at the back. Up we went through the winding road, with mum occasionally reciting a doa, causing my brother-in-law and youngest sister to snigger especially when there was a long trailer with metal wires jutting out its back. I was also in a state of constant anxiety, fussing over my two kids whenever our van tried to overtake these long trailers. On the way up though, we noticed that houses are quite a distance away from each other and that there are a number of churches along the area. There are orchards and plantations, which explains the abundance of stalls selling fruits and vegetables.

After one-and-a-half-hours on the road, my family was getting restless. My son and nephew were forever asking, "Are we there yet?" similar to the donkey in Shrek! And similar to the troll, I got so fed-up that I threatened to leave them at the side of the road if I had to. The view, however, was breathtaking and fantabulous and we just wanted to get out of the van and get busy with the cameras. So dad finally told the driver to stop, which he did at Pekan Nabalu.

Pekan Nabalu is a small town where tourists usually stop by to get their pictures taken at the ridge overlooking the majestic and grand Mount Kinabalu. There are small stalls selling local handicrafts, food and the famous local honey; they are open to bartering. To attract visitors as well, a converted longhouse was used to sell all these mementos that can be brought back for friends and relatives. For those who need to replenish themselves with local delicacies, small restaurants also adorn the area.

I dragged my youngest son with me, scouring the local handicrafts with its pretty vases and colourful masks. I would have taken a much longer time if not for the drizzling rain that I found out was quite common up in the highlands. So we continued our journey upwards to the Mt Kinabalu Heritage Park.To enter, we had to pay a small fee. We took pictures in front of the "Selamat Mendaki" signboard with no intent of climbing. My pa asked some questions and was told that one would take nine hours to climb and that in the end a certificate would be given to verify the climb.

Next on the list was the Kinabalu National Park where in our minds, we'll have time to dip in the hot springs and enjoy a short canopy walk on the way. So off we went, till everyone complained of being hungry. We stopped at a nearby local restaurant which I eyed suspiciously having experienced a bout of stomach cramps the day before. But to my delight, the soup was totally yummy and the main dishes appealing. We filled our tummy with my pa making small talks with the local people and visitors alike. Tearing my dad from his chitchat, we then proceeded on our journey.

"Solat!" exclaimed my dad, so we veered off track again going first up to the Perkasa Hotel, to reminisce (we were there before 15 years ago) and then going down the trail stopping at a local surau where all the males in my family performed their prayers.

"Mum, I want salak now," I stated vehemently after seeing all the fruits being sold along the road.

So mum told the driver to stop and dad went out to buy me some 'salak' with my brother and sisters shaking their heads at my instant cravings. But then, my nephew popped his head out through the window and yelled, "Banana too! Nenek!!" at which point that means an added 10 minutes as my dad bantered happily with the locals. "We're near the Australian memorial park," said our tourist guide, "perhaps, we should stop by and have a look."

We all agreed. The sky was pouring so in the end it was just me, my seven-year-old son, my dad, my brother-in-law, my two younger sisters and of course Ismail, the tourist guide who hopped out of the van, determined to explore the site which is located at Mile 8, Jalan Labuk Utara, Kundasang. The fee was just RM3 each though at the gate, the price was stated as RM10. So we went in and were astounded with the charming garden and yet saddened by the history (we read the exhibits), which then led to the establishment of the memorial site. This memorial is dedicated to 2,700 Australian prisoners of war (POWs) and others (650 Britons) who died at the Sandakan POW camp and death marches in North Borneo in World War II. Only six Australians lived to tell the story while others died in various ways. One who tried to escape had his legs amputated while others were tortured and killed. We left the area feeling melancholy and relayed the stories of these marches to my mum, brother and sister-in-law who stayed back in the van.

"No more stops," declared my brother-in-law who understandably was quite tired of the various stops we made.

"45kms to Hot Porings," I stated happily looking out the window. So we passed Ranau, with me dozing off the rest of the journey. When I opened my eyes, I found out that we have reached our intended destination. With rain still pouring though lightly, I carried my three-year-old out of the van and then discussed with other family members of what we should do next. My sister-in-law opted to stay behind as my one-year-old niece was making a huge fuss. The rest of us, including my mum, who at this point was weak with exhaustion wanted to go to the Poring Hot springs where it is said to have medicinal values.

And lo, the sights that greeted us! The baths were literally packed with visitors and tourists alike, which dampened my mood slightly. Just as I was going to dip my foot to one of the baths, Ismail approached us and told us that we should do the canopy walk first before resting our tired bodies.

My mom refused but the rest of us were raring to go. So we trotted along the path and found out that we had to pay for the climb. My sister paid for everyone (Yay!!) and we struggled along the damped earth, which my three-year-old automatically rejected, crying, "Aiman shoes dirty!!" to my embarrassment. Luckily, our tour guide was not averse to little kids and went out of his way, chose to carry my little boy all the way up. Hand in hand, I yanked my complaining seven-year-old up to the top with him citing "if he had superpowers like Spiderman" all the way. Finally, wet and tired, we saw the canopy hanging from tree to tree.

I was literally shaking as I then dragged my youngest behind me while my first ran happily in front causing the canopy to sway dangerously. My dad was the first one to finish it though with a big smile plastered on his face. Even in his advancing years he was the one who seemed tireless, and was the one who first reached the bottom of the track while I was predictably the last.

Poring Hot Springs? We were so tired then that we all opted to go home, that after ravaging the souvenir shop at the premise. Would we do it again? I am planning a second trip there with my hubby and kids this December aiming for the Labuk Bay site, the strawberry garden, the islands and perhaps enjoying more of the seafood delicacies that Sabah is famous for. A cheap and fun holiday for all!

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin
.

Pom Pom Island, Semporna

2009-06-27T18:19:00.000+08:00

With a name like Pom Pom, it’s hard to forget this gem of an island located on the east coast of Sabah. Our trip to Pom Pom Island was already an adventure by itself – The pelting rain followed us on the boat ride all the way from Semporna; by the time my team and I arrived, we were drenched but happy to see land! Thankfully, nothing but sunshine paved the way for the rest of our trip.

Pom Pom Island Resort is located some 40 minutes by speedboat from the town of Semporna, Tawau. Originally the island was named Pom Pong but over time, the name Pom Pom proved to be more catchy and easier to remember. The resort is built on 40 acres of land with an impressive frontage of some 28.5 acres. The long stretch of beach offers ample sunbathing spots for you to soak up the sun! However, the first thing that caught my eye was the huge dining and reception area. Never before have I seen such a massive wooden structure at an island resort - it is a beautiful piece of architecture and I was fascinated with the detail.

As I further explored the resort, I noticed the attention to detail in each of the structures. There are currently three types of accommodation: Water Bungalows, Beach Villas and Garden Villas. A combination of natural materials was used to construct the buildings, from coconut tree bark for the walls, selangan batu timber for the floors and for the ceiling, the very sturdy belian wood. I was also impressed with the tasteful décor in each room - simple with an elegant touch, giving the rooms a 'clean' look with very little clutter.

Our friendly guide Ronnie gave us a tour of the resort. The Beach and Garden Villas are for everyone, from travelling friends to honeymoon couples on - not only are they spacious but I loved the idea of having the beach literally at your doorstep. I spent a good portion of my afternoons falling asleep on a hammock, listening to the gentle lapping of the waves. But for the ultimate luxury, stay at the Water Bungalows. Imagine diving right into the ocean at your own personal 'jetty' and enjoy the marine life swimming right below you. Located nearby is a special bungalow that provides much-needed body massages and heavenly reflexology sessions. All this with a fantastic view of the sea!

Back on land, we were given a tour of the island's very own vegetable and fruit garden. Ronnie explained that the resort supplies its own fresh produce where possible. We saw a colourful combination of eggplant, chillies, bananas, papayas and even dragonfruit just begging to be on the kitchen table. Another unique aspect of the resort is the use of RO (reverse osmosis) water. This means that the water supply is filtered several times, making it purer than what is normally found in our household taps. According to Peter Loong, the owner of the resort, Pom Pom is the first resort to implement the use of RO water. We further traipsed the resort and found it well-equipped with a meeting room, a games room for a round of billiards and darts, a souvenir and convenience store and internet services. Plenty to do should you ever decide to peel yourself away from the lure of the beach!

Scuba divers are well taken care of by the experienced divemasters working here. Apart from the surrounding marine attractions of Pom Pom, divers can opt to explore nearby diving sites, such as those of Mataking, Timba Timba, Kalapuan, Pandanan and Bohey Dulang (which is part of the Tun Sakaran Marine Park).

As the sun begins to set, nothing beats a walk along the starfish-studded beach. Divers flock to the common area come dinner time to share their amazing underwater photos and exchange dive experiences. Need a drink? Nothing the friendly bartender can't fix. Whether you wish to explore the oceanic wonders of the East Coast or escape the humdrum of the city, the pleasures of Pom Pom will not disappoint.

Source: Sabah Tourism Newsletter

NOTE: All Photos Copyright to Sabah Tourism
.
.

RM69m for Labuan’s tourism

2009-06-26T17:39:00.001+08:00

LABUAN: The Ministry of Tourism has allocated a total of RM68.82 million for Labuan’s long term tourism industry plan.

Deputy Tourism Minister Datuk Sulaiman Abd Taib said that the allocation was under the Ninth Malaysia Plan and various development programs are being implemented.

“The Ministry also recorded a significant increase in tourist arrival into the island every year,” he said in answering a question from Labuan MP Datuk Yussof Mahal in Parliament.

He said that only tourism development projects are given priority to be implemented under the ninth Malaysia Plan, while less important ones to be brought up to 10th Malaysia Plan.

He said his Ministry would also be closely working together with local authority in Labuan to boost the tourism industry.

Meanwhile, Yussof Mahal said Labuan, being an international financial centre and hub for Oil & Gas industry should not be left behind in the national mainstream development.

Continue reading at: RM69m for Labuan’s tourism
.
.

Sarawak protects orang-utans: Conservationist

2009-06-25T18:35:00.000+08:00

KUCHING: A leading orang-utan conservationist stated yesterday that Sarawak has done a great job protecting the orang-utan population, countering negative criticisms hurled at the state by foreign environmental groups.

Indonesia-based Dr Bruite Mary Galdikas, regarded as the world’s foremost authority on the orang-utan, said she was impressed with Sarawak’s progress thus far.

“The government of Sarawak is doing a very good job in protecting the orang-utan … when I was last here in 1998, the Chief Minister had created a reserve specifically for orang-utans. As you know, orang-utans are difficult to conserve because they need large areas and they are deep forest animals.

“I’m very impressed by what I’ve seen here. There are other issues but I will not want to talk about that,” she told reporters after visiting the Semenggoh Wildlife Centre, which houses 24 orang-utans.

The Canadian-born Galdikas, together with her American collaborator Irene Spencer, were in Sarawak to identify sites in the state for the proposed joint tour programme that will enable visitors to see orang-utans in Sarawak, Sabah and the Indonesian province of Kalimantan Tengah.

They also visited Lanjak-Entimau in Batang Ai and the Matang Wildlife Centre on Tuesday.

According to Galdkas, the joint tour programme, which is expected to commence next year, will create greater global awareness on the protection and conservation of the orang-utan.

A primatologist by training and now regarded as an educator on orang-utan, Galdikas has spent 38 years raising public awareness on the protection of the orang-utan, particularly from Camp Leakey, Kalimantan Tengah, which is currently rehabilitating 330 orang-utans.

She rose to fame when Hollywood actress Julia Roberts did a special documentary on her work many years ago.

Continue reading (incl. pic) at: Sarawak protects orang-utans: Conservationist
.
.

Green Brunei's eco-tourism potential

2009-06-24T18:39:00.001+08:00

COMMENTARY
By David R Smith

As Brunei continues to develop and expand, some have raised concerns about what effect this has on the local environment, and rightfully so.

With massive deforestation elsewhere in Borneo, Brunei's efforts with the Heart of Borneo project have become essential in combating the destruction of her incredibly rich flora and fauna.

With over 70% of Brunei's land covered with primary rainforest, Brunei is one of the most densely covered countries in the world, with hundreds of species of animals native only to Brunei.

Unlike other countries, a visitor only has to take a boat ride down the Brunei River, or even a short walk into the jungle to encounter thick mangroves, proboscis monkeys or maybe even the occasional crocodile.

One of the most beautiful things about Brunei is the way in which its wildlife seems to blend in with the new man-made environment.

Take Mabohai's famous monkeys for instance, built just in front of a thick jungle, the troupe of monkeys that frequents have probably been there for longer than the supermarket itself. Rather than utterly wiping out their habitat, people do their part by feeding them and it's not uncommon for shoppers to see the occasional monkey swinging from a lamp post or casually strolling around the parking lot.

Whilst the occasional monkey might be an appealing feature for some, similarly, the monkey population is strong enough to steal fruit off of fruit trees in residential areas. Easily remedied by putting black plastic bags over the fruit, this relatively mild response is symbolic of the easy going relationship here in Brunei between humans and wildlife.

With such bountiful natural gifts, Brunei is a prime target for a booming eco-tourism industry.

Well situated as a mid-way point between Europe and Australia, Brunei received up to one million foreign tourists in 2003, most staying for little more than three days as part of a stop-over.

If Brunei were able to harness this vast number of tourists it would open up an enormous amount of employment which would indirectly address a number of social ills, the biggest of which being simply boredom.

Fifteen years ago, Temburong's eco-tourism industry was massively underdeveloped. Host to the occasional intrepid explorer and small groups of students on school excursions; Temburong has come a long way. With the Outward Bound Centre freshly renovated and a slew of other eco-lodges established in recent years, Temburong is fast becoming a hot destination for tourists in Brunei seeking white water thrills and incredible rainforest beauty.

At Brunei's current rate, she is fast fulfilling her goal to increase the number of tourists visiting Brunei by 7% annually, the average Gadong-goer would be helpless to agree with hundreds of tourists from as far away as Japan and Australia descending on shops at least once a week, snapping up DVD's and emptying restaurant's kitchens.

So far the Brunei Government has done an excellent job in tapping into what will soon become a key industry for Brunei. In the next fifty years, it would be of utmost importance to ween Brunei's economy off of crude oil and natural gas exports as supplies begin to dwindle.

Eco-tourism offers to be the next brightest natural gift that Brunei has to offer the world.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin
.
.

Sarawak to have nation’s first e-tourism portal

2009-06-24T18:36:00.001+08:00

MIRI: Sarawak will be the first in the country to have an e-tourism portal to market and promote the state’s tourism products.

“Such a marketing and promotion application is not yet available in the country. We will be the first to introduce such a portal,” Minister of Urban Development and Tourism Datuk Michael Manyin Jawong disclosed to the reporters during a visit to Borneo Tropical Rainforest Resort here yesterday.

“We are now actually getting some input from outside and getting those who have the expertise to brief us on this concept. We need RM3 million to RM4 million to create the portal,” says Manyin, adding that the application has been successfully implemented in other countries such as in Singapore and Europe.

Asked on how soon Sarawak will come out with the portal, Manyin said it depends on the capability of the experts which include all the technical aspects.

“I don’t want people to do it half-heartedly. Through the portal, tourists will be able to plan and make bookings at the comfort of their homes, 24 hours a day. They can book directly through the internet without having to go through any agency,” he added.

Continue reading at: Sarawak to have nation’s first e-tourism portal
.
.

Sabah Dragon Boat Race - Farmers No.1 in boat race

2009-06-22T18:22:00.001+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: Despite only training for two weeks, a group of farmers from the Farmers Federation of Tuaran managed to beat five other heavyweights to grab the biggest prize at the 24th Sabah Dragon Boat Race.

Team leader Jamaluddin Ibrahim, 37, said although the team had started training in earnest just two weeks before the competition day, their natural ability and teamwork managed to give them the edge.

The team edged out runners-up Terayung by a mere 0.01 seconds to land the Sabah Head of State's trophy.

The team of 20, aged between 20 and 43, won the cup last year and came in second in 2007.

Continue reading (incl. pic) at: Sabah Dragon Boat Race - Farmers No.1 in boat race
.
.

Notice: Canopy Walkway in Poring Hot Spring

2009-06-22T18:21:00.001+08:00

Greetings from Sabah Tourism Board!

Please be informed the Canopy Walkway in Poring Hot Spring will be partialy closed for works maintenance as stated below:-

Date: 1st July 2009 untill 31st August 2009

Should you need any clarification please do contact Sabah Park office at Tel: 088 211 881 for further enquiry.

Thank you for your kind attention.

Robin Chin
Tourist Assistant
Sabah Tourism Board
51 Jalan Gaya,
88000 Kota Kinabalu,
Sabah, Malaysia.
Telephone: +(6088)212121
Fax: +(6088)212075, 219311
Website: http://www.sabahtourism.com
.
.

Beauty and the beast at Bisaya festival

2009-06-20T18:39:00.001+08:00

By Hj Minor Absah

LIMBANG - The Bisaya Association of Sarawak with the cooperation of the Resident's Office of Limbang Division recently organised the 'Babulang' fiesta and buffalo race 2009.

Many 'rakyat' (people's) sports and Bisaya traditional dances were highlighted this year. Also held were a remote control boat race, Iron Man contest, Borneo top spinning competition, tug-of-war and cooking buffalo meat competition.

Other highlights included 'Ratu Agak Babulang' or Miss Babulang beauty contest and 'Ratu Kebaya Badoro' or Miss Kebaya attire contest.

Buffalo racing is a popular sports in the Bisaya community and the Sarawak Tourism Ministry agreed to include it in its calendar of events.

The Bisayas are an ethnic minority residing in northern Sarawak, mostly in Limbang and Baram districts such as at Linai Bukit, Batu Belah, Long Terawan and Padang Kerbau in Marudi.

Though they are a minority group, their culture is rich, especially their music, dances and songs.

Among those, 'anding' is an artistic culture that is very popular and synonymous with the Bisaya community.

'Anding' is a traditional song of the Bisaya in Limbang and usually played along with musical instruments such as 'Dumbak' and viola.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin Weekend
.
.

Kota Kinabalu International Airport expected to be ready by year-end

2009-06-20T18:36:00.000+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: The Kota Kinabalu International Airport is expected to be fully completed by the end of this year.

Currently, it is 86 per cent completed, said Chief Inspector-General of Sabah, Datuk Amir Kahar Tun Datu Mustapa after attending the project’s progress briefing by KLIA Consultancy Services Sdn Bhd manager Mohd Fadhil Ramli yesterday.

Amir Kahar said efforts are under way to overcome existing problems affecting the RM1.4 billion KKIA extension works on the 101.89-hectare land.

“Even the economic gloom did not affect the operations that much…for now, we are slightly ahead but we cannot predict that the project would be completed earlier as there are other issues to be considered such as the unpredictable weather,” he said.

Amir Kahar has been given the responsibility to audit and inspect the various projects and developments being undertaken in the state so as to ensure that all are completed on time and on budget.

“In my position, I have been monitoring many projects within Sabah, especially those that have the ability to create outgoing employment and to increase the standard of living and economic opportunities for the people and businesses in the state,” he said.

Continue reading at: Kota Kinabalu International Airport expected to be ready by year-end
.
.

Best of Sarawak cuisine

2009-06-19T19:31:00.001+08:00

WANT to have a taste of Sarawakian cuisine without having to travel across the sea?

At the Rajah Brooke Café, co-owned by husband and wife Kenneth Kuan and Yvonna Jee, a bowl of Kolo Mee or Sarawak Laksa is just an order away.

A 2.9m portrait of Rajah Brooke adorns the interior of the café.

Jee, who hails from East Malaysia, named the outlet after the historical figure “so that people can relate it after Sarawak”.

The café also uses Rajah Brooke’s motto “Dum spiro spero”, which means “While I breathe, I hope” in Latin, as its tagline.

She is proud of her Three Layer Tea (RM3.80), the café’s signature drink, which she feels is the best in town.

“The Sarawakian drink is made from tea, milk, and “attap sugar” which tastes like gula Melaka and is imported from Sarawak. Some say it tastes like cendol,” she said.

Sure enough, the sweet and fragrant drink was refreshing and does somehow taste like cendol.

Continue reading (incl. pics) at: Best of Sarawak cuisine
.
.

Sabah Tourism Upcoming Event: 24th Sabah Dragon Boat Race

2009-06-17T15:56:00.001+08:00

Date: 20 & 21 June 2009

Venue: Likas Bay, Kota Kinabalu

Fast and furious dragons glide over the South China Sea to the pounding of drums this June during the 24th Sabah Dragon Race. The Dragon Boat Festival or Duan Wu, which originates from China and dates back to the 4th century, falls on the fifth day of the fifth month of the Chinese lunar calendar. This is when the Chinese pay homage to their ancestors and appease the Dragon (Controller of the Water) to ensure adequate rainfall to ripen their crops. The race also commemorates the Chinese poet and countryman, Qu Yan who threw himself into Milo River to commit suicide. People began to row out in boats to search for his body and they threw rice dumplings into the river to console his spirit. The throwing of dumplings or chung tze into the sea is now a symbolic gesture and marks the start of the event each year.

Initiated by the Sabah Chinese Cultural Association (SCCA) 19 years ago, the Race was placed under the responsibility of the Sabah Tourism Board in 1996. The race was then briefly under the organization of the Ministry of Youth & Sports in the years 2002 and 2003 but is now (since 2004) back in the hands of the Sabah Tourism Board with the support of the SCCA.

This year, some 50 teams are expected to participate, both local and foreign, including teams from Brunei, Kalimantan, Singapore and China. Teams will be vying for nine trophies:

Sabah Head Of State Trophy – International & Top Malaysian Men’s Teams* Sabah Chief Minister Trophy – Malaysian Men’s Teams

Sabah Dragon Trophy – International & Malaysian Mixed Teams

SCCA President Trophy – Chinese Men’s Teams

SCCA President Trophy – Chinese Mixed Teams

Kinabalu Dragon Trophy – Junior Team Under 21 Years Old

Men’s Team Open 200 Metre Race – Open to all Men’s Teams

Mix Team Open 200 Metre Race – Open to all Mixed Teams

Charity Race – Open to all teams

The newly-introduced Charity Race is a unique category in which teams select a charitable organization to represent. The name of the organization must be incorporated in the team name when registering for this event. All cash prizes of the winning team will then be donated to the respective charitable organisation. This year, the total cash prize for this year is RM43,000. The Heats for all categories take place on the 20th of June while the Finals are held the following day.

In between races, enjoy the spectacular dragon and lion dance performances and a 24-Chinese drum presentation. On the 20th of June, visitors can also participate in a host of events at Likas Bay including beach soccer matches organised by KK Futsal Centre, canoeing by the Sabah Canoe Association and sailing activities by the Kinabalu Yacht Club and Sabah Sailing Association. Come and catch the excitement this June at Likas Bay! The event kicks off at 8:00am.

For more information, please contact Zachary Mobijohn (Organising Secretary) at +6088-232121, fax +6088-265540 or e-mail zachary@sabahtourism.com. Visit the website at http://dragonboat.sabahtourism.com

Source: Sabah Tourism

NOTE: Photo Copyright to Sabah Tourism
.
.

MASwings is enhancing services in Sabah and Sarawak

2009-06-17T15:49:00.001+08:00

KOTA KINABALU: MASwings will strive to continue providing safe, reliable, affordable and excellent services for the travelling public to Sabah and Sarawak, its managing director, Mohd Salleh Ahmad Tabrani said yesterday.

Speaking at a media briefing here, he said MASwings is undertaking a major fleet renewal programme this year and the next with a view to improving its rural air services (RAS) in Sabah and Sarawak.

Four new 68-seater ATR 71-500 aircraft have so far been acquired and they are being deployed to serve domestic routes in Sabah and Sarawak, said Mohd. Salleh.

Three more will be delivered before the end of this year and by March next year, MASwings will have 10 ATR 72-500 serving the Sabah and Sarawak regions, he said.

With the acquisition of ATR 71-500 aircraft, the existing eight Fokker 50 aircraft will gradually be phased out, he added.

Mohd. Salleh said the decision to purchase ATR 71-500 instead of jet was that the former is 60 per cent more fuel efficient than a 70-seat jet. “ATR 71-500 emits 50 per cent less carbon dioxide per passenger/kilometer, and is 50 per cent quieter than modern jet; thus, providing better customer comfort,” he said.

Continue reading at: MASwings is enhancing services in Sabah and Sarawak
.
.