PENCINTA ALAM - Malaysian Nature Society (MNS)

PENCINTA ALAM
NEWSLETTER OF THE MALAYSIAN NATURE SOCIETY
www.mns.my August 2011
Member’s Report
My unforgetable experience
at Tioman Island
I found out about MNS through the local newspaper.
So, I went to the MNS website to explore further
and found that they actually organise trips to local
places of interest. I decided on the Tioman trip and
started to write to the organizer, Hui Min. Eventually,
I signed up for the trip.
We reached Mersing around 5.30am on Friday,
1 July 2011. We took the boat at 6.30am to Juara Mutiara
Resort, reaching the resort around 9am. After
checking in and freshening up, we headed for an early
lunch. After that, we got our snorkelling gear from the
resort to practise at the beach before snorkeling from
the boat at sea the next day. We were very lucky to have
Adeline, an experienced instructor, to guide us on how
to snorkel and the do's and don'ts. It was an eye-opening
experience for most of us.
In the evening, we went for a night trek. Armed
with torchlights, we went into the jungle with some
local guides, hoping to spot some mousedeer and other
animals. At one point, the guide asked all of us to
switch off our torchlights. He showed us the reflection
of a mousedeer’s eyes from his torchlight. We were all
very excited. The trek was about 2 hours long and we
were all quite thrilled.
The next morning, we woke up in anticipation
for a fun day snorkelling out at sea. Our first stop was
the Marine Park jetty, followed by Coral Island. The island
took our breath away! The corals and fishes were
very colourful and beautiful. We developed an extremely
good appetite, and everyone enjoyed the BBQ
dinner.
The next day, we went to Kg. Asah waterfall
by boat. The cool water was very refreshing. With some
time remaining, we headed to the jetty for some
snorkelling. Unexpectedly, we saw many jellyfish in
the water and our instructor Adeline asked us all to
come out to avoid getting stung.
Then, around 3pm, we set off to look for the
famed Rafflesia of Tioman. The guide, Pak Lan, is very
experienced and explained to us about the various
plants in the jungle. We were worried that we would
not see a bloom, because these flowers only last for a
few days. However, we did see an amazing Rafflesia
flower. No words can describe the beauty of the popular
flower. Satisfied, we went back to our resort and did
a beach clean-up at the relatively clean Juara beach before
dinner. When we finished, we were shocked that
we had accumulated 7 large bags of trash which consist
of mainly of plastic, cigarette butts, tin cans, ropes and
styrofoam boxes.
On 4 July morning, we went to Tekek for some
duty free shopping and boarded the ferry back to Mersing.
It was indeed one of the most enjoyable experiences
for me and I will definitely be back!
- Article by Effendi Wong Bin Abdullah
AGM Annual Report goes green
In a somewhat delayed but more environmentally
friendly change from previous years, we
have now decided to provide the MNS Annual Report
2011 in electric format, in keeping with our
mandate as an environment NGO. This year’s Annual
Report can be viewed and downloaded from our
website at www.mns.my
1

Ricoh teams up with MNS
to rehabilitate KSNP
Ricoh and MNS have announced a forest
ecosystem conservation project entitled "Mangrove
Forest Recovery Project" at the Kuala Selangor Nature
Park with their partnership with Birdlife International
Asia Division.
To work toward achieving a sustainable society,
Ricoh isn't only working to reduce its impact
on the planet, but is also engaged in biodiversity conservation
to improve self-recovery capabilities of the
global environment. Since 1999 Ricoh has been
working in partnership with environmental NGOs
and local communities in nine countries, including
China, Ghana, Russia, and Brazil, promoting 11 projects
particularly focused on forest ecosystems where
biodiversity is richest. The "Mangrove Forest Recovery
Project" at the Kuala Selangor Nature Park is
another of these, making it Ricoh's 12th project in its
long-term support for building a framework for continuous
forest conservation.
The Kuala Selangor Nature Park, which is a
part of the North-central Selangor coast, has been
designated by BirdLife as an IBA (Important Bird
Area), and is home to 150 species of birds, small animals,
fishes, amphibians, and reptiles such as
Smooth Otters, Silvered Leaf-monkeys, Long-tailed
Macaques, monitor lizards, lesser adjutants, mudskippers,
and various waterbirds.
The local communities use the Kuala Selangor
area primarily for nature/cultural-based tourism,
recreation and fisheries. However, it is difficult to
preserve biodiversity along this coast because the
mangroves are impacted by illegal mangrove removal
and pollution.
While sharing the importance of mangroves
along with the local residents, this project which
Ricoh and MNS are implementing aims to rejuvenate
the mangrove forests in ten years by starting
with activities that focus on promoting and understanding
of biodiversity conservation
and mangrove afforestation.
Ultimately Ricoh and MNS
would like to construct an environment
where continuous mangrove conservation
activities are sustained by the local
residents, with the goal of registering
with the Ramsar Convention*1, which
works internationally to preserve wetlands
especially as waterfowl habitats,
and the Partnership for the East Asian-
Australasian Flyway*2.
Ricoh has dedicated a website
www.goecowithricoh.com.my to provide
happenings and latest news with regards
to the development of this project
with MNS.
- Maye Yap
*1: Ramsar Convention
This is an international treaty enacted in 1971 to
protect wetland ecosystems. Each country that has
adopted the convention designates wetlands
within their borders and has them registered with
the Ramsar Secretariat. Plans are then developed
and carried out for the appropriate use and conservation
of these areas based on designated
measures to promote the conservation of wetlands
and the plants and animals that inhabit them, especially
waterfowl.
*2: Partnership for the East Asian-Australasian
Flyway
This is a framework for international coordination
and cooperation between major organizations involved
in the conservation of migratory birds in the East Asian
and Australasian regions. It was established in 2006 by international
organizations and NGOs such as the Ramsar Convention
Secretariat to construct an international network of
important bird habitats and conduct internationally collaborative
operations to promote public awareness and conservation
activities regarding them.
2

Green Living Column
Dishwashers
Vs Hand-Washing Dishes
According to a 2004 study from the University
of Bonn in Germany (Household Technology
department), automatic dishwashers, preferably new
energy-efficient ones, have a lower environmental
impact than hand-washing dishes in a sink. It was
determined that an automatic dishwasher only uses
50% of the energy and a small fraction of the water,
along with less soap.
This raises many questions and doubts. The
fact that the Bonn study project partners were dishwasher
manufacturers also means that we should regard
the study with healthy skepticism.
The study failed to take into account, for example,
the fact that dishwashing machine detergent
tends to be harsher on the environment, and earthfriendly
options are not as easily available as
biodegradable and environmentally-friendlier liquid
detergent (Brands available in Malaysia include Bio-
Home, Ligent, Ecover and Good Maid Bio).
Also, the study failed to note that it would
take a lot of energy and resources to make a dishwasher:
steel, plastic, packaging and transportation
costs, not to mention the electricity needed to operate
an automatic dishwasher.
No matter which method you choose, here
are green practices which will reduce your home energy
and water use when doing your dishes:
When using a dishwasher:
1. Studies show that most people pre-rinse dishes before
loading them into the dishwasher. Modern dishwashers,
certainly
those purchased
within
the last 5 to 10
years, do a superb
job of
cleaning even
heavily-soiled
dishes. Don’t be
tempted to prerinse
dishes before
loading.
Image credits: laundry-and-dishwasher-info.com
Simply scrape off any food and empty liquids and let
the dishwasher do the rest.
2. Load dishes according to manufacturer’s instructions.
Completely fill the racks to optimize water and
energy use, but allow proper water circulation for adequate
cleaning.
3. Wash only full loads. Use energy-saving options,
e.g. the "No Heat, Air-Dry" option. Turn down the
water heater temperature.
When hand-washing dishes in a sink:
1. When washing dishes by hand, don't let the water
run while rinsing. If possible, fill one sink with soapy
wash water and the other with rinse water.
2. Soak pots and pans overnight to make them easy
to clean without running the faucet while scrubbing.
Whenever possible, use once-used water, e.g. water
from washing one's hands or from soaking vegetables
and rinsing rice.
3. Wash glassware first, then the cleanest dishes,
leaving greasy dishes and pots and pans to the end.
This helps keep your water clean longer – and your
dishes grease-free.
4. You do not need to fill a sink with water to have
enough to wash a load of dishes. Setting an appropriately-sized
washbasin in your sink for dishes can
help keep the water you use to a minimum. Or fill
the sink only a few inches full.
5. Use a readily biodegradable dish soap to protect
freshwater resources.
6. Switch to a kitchen faucet with an aerator if your
water use is relatively high. Aerators reduce water
flow by about 25% and produce a water stream that
is every bit as good for washing dishes, hands, or
fruits and vegetables.
7. Do not install or use a kitchen sink waste grinding
and disposal unit. In-sink 'garburators' require lots of
water to operate properly, and also add considerably
to the volume of solids in pipes and plumbing, which
can lead to maintenance problems. Start a compost
pile as an alternate method of disposing food waste
instead.
No matter which method of washing dishes
you have chosen for yourself and your loved ones,
putting these environmentally-responsible tips into
practice will reduce any adverse impact on the environment,
as well as your utility bills.
- Wong Ee Lynn, wongeelynn@yahoo.com
3

Hornbill Conservation Project
Hornbill Volunteer Programme 2011
Book a spot
today!
Package [4D/3N]
Day 1 Arrival in Banding Island
Jetty, Gerik, Perak (3.00 p.m.) Boat
transfer from Banding Island to Kampung
Tebang. Introduction and familiarization
with the indigenous Jahai
community at village.
Hornbill monitoring (5.30 – 7.30
p.m.) in Kampung Tebang
Day 2 Hornbill monitoring (6.45 –
9.00 a.m.) Activities in Kg Tebang or
excursion
Hornbill monitoring (5.30 – 7.30
p.m.) in Kampung Tebang
Day 3 Hornbill monitoring (6.45 –
9.00 a.m.) Activities in Kg Tebang or
excursion
Hornbill monitoring (5.30 – 7.30
p.m.)
Day 4 Hornbill monitoring (6.45 –
9.00 am) Debrief by Group Leader
and Coordinator
Departure to Banding Island Jetty
Package 2 [5D/4N]
Day 1-3 Follows as per ABOVE
Day 4 Hornbill monitoring (6.45 –
9.00 am) Activities in Kg Tebang or
excursion
Hornbill monitoring (5.30 – 7.30
p.m.)
Day 5 Hornbill monitoring (6.45 –
9.00 am)
Debrief by Group Leader and Coordinator
Departure to Banding Island Jetty
(742912-V)
Website: http://www.mymountaingoal.com
Contact : Thong at goalus@mymountaingoal.com
H/P : 016-6375622 Off : 03-40248896
Annapurna Circuit trek from 08/11/11 to 23/11/11
Duration: 16
days. Maximum
Elevation:
5416m. Grade:
Medium / Hard.
Walk completely around the Annapurna massif. Trek through low land Brahmin
and Chhettri villages to the remote Manang village, and down the Kalkigandaki Gorge
(officially deepest George in the World). Cross a 5416m pass-probably the highest you
will ever get without climbing a mountain.
Two free training trip will provided for the trip. For further info, please sign
in:- http://www.mymountaingoal.com/AnnapurnaRegion.htm
MT Fansipan and Halong bay Expedition from 15/12/2011 to 21/12/2011
Fansipan is branded "the Roof of Indochina" at the height of 3,143m; Fansipan
is to be approved as one of the very few eco-tourist spots of Vietnam, with about 2,024
floral varieties and 327 faunal species. It takes 2 days to reach the 3,143m summit, the
highest peak of the Indochina Peninsula.
The Ha Long bay, dotted with 3000 limestone islets rising from emerald waters,
is the best known natural wonder of Vietnam. Because of their precipitous nature, most
of the islands are uninhabited and unaffected by a human presence. The site's outstanding
scenic beauty is complemented by its great biological interest.
One free Training trip will provided for the Everest Base Camp trip. Further
info please sign in: http://www.mymountaingoal.com/Vietnam_FanHasch.htm
5

Eco Kids
Aug 9: International Day of
The World's Indigenous People
The United Nations’ (UN) International Day
of the World's Indigenous People is observed on August
9 each year to promote and protect the rights of
the world’s indigenous population. This event also
recognises the achievements and contributions that
indigenous people make to improve world issues
such as environmental protection.
Who are indigenous people?
Indigenous peoples, sometimes referred to as
natives, are ethnic groups who are native to a land or
region, especially before the arrival and intrusion of
a foreign culture. They are generally regarded as the
"original inhabitants" of a territory or region.
Common characteristics
Many, though not all, indigenous peoples rely
on a subsistence-based way of life. This means they
may grow or raise their own food and other basic necessities,
or practice hunting and gathering food and
other resources. They lead mostly rural lives, away
from cities, although many have been displaced and
relocated to towns and villages. Some indigenous
people settle in a particular territory and are dependent
on it, as their forefathers have been. Others lead
a nomadic lifestyle across a large territory. Indigenous
people usually have a closer connection with
nature and their particular territory and land than
non-indigenous and urban people.
Orang asli crafts, beliefs and folklore
You may have seen a Semai (one of the subgroups
of Orang Asli in Peninsular Malaysia) rattan
IQ puzzle, known as a Jah Re Noi, before. It is made
from interlooped rattan ("chong"), fitted with a nylon
string. This string must be removed without cutting
or dismantling the rattan snare.
Legend has it that if someone is lost in the
jungle due to mischievous spirits confusing them, all
that person needs to do is make and leave behind one
Jah Re Noi puzzle and the spirit will get so engrossed
in solving the puzzle that it will leave its victim
alone.
The Hma’
Meri (or more commonly
spelled as
‘Mah Meri’) are
coastal dwellers and
fishermen, residing
mainly on estuarine
islands near Port
Klang such as Pulau
Carey, and around Tanjung Sepat, along Selangor’s
southwest coast.
The "tali jodoh" or "buai latep" is a traditional
Hma Meri's marriage puzzle that was used to
gauge the probability of one finding a life partner.
The object of the puzzle is to bring together the separated
pieces (representing the husband and wife)
onto the same string.
This International Day of the World's Indigenous
People, please take the time and make the effort
to learn more about the indigenous people of
Malaysia, their beliefs, their folklore, their culture,
and their struggles.
- Wong Ee Lynn, wongeelynn@yahoo.com
Eco Film Festival 2011 offers cash prizes in four
(4) distinct categories: Best International Film walks
away with a cash prize of RM5,000; Best Malaysian Film,
awarded to a film about, set in, or created by a resident
Malaysia takes home a RM3,000 cash award; Best Young
Filmmaker Film (RM1,000) is awarded to a film crafted
principally by a person under the age of 18. Additionally,
each film selected to screen at Eco Film Fest is eligible for
the Jury Award, which offers a RM500 cash prize. Each
winning filmmaker also receives a stunning, handmade,
pewter trophy.
Upcoming deadlines
August 15th, 2011 - International Submissions
September 15th, 2011 - Malaysian Submissions
Full details and online submissions at
www.ecofilmfest.my
6

Calendar of Activities
August
13
Sat Talk: “Agarwood (Gaharu) Trade in
Malaysia” by Lim Teck Wyn MNS HQ auditorium
at 10am.
Rising demand for agarwood (gaharu), problems
in monitoring harvests and a persistent illegal
trade threaten the future of the highly prized fragrant
wood says a report by TRAFFIC, the wildlife trade
monitoring network. Lim Teck Wyn presents the
findings of TRAFFIC’s year-long study on the agarwood
trade in Malaysia. Samples of (legal) agarwood
perfume, incense and medicine will be
presented during the talk.
Speaker Teck Wyn is a director of an environmental
policy advisory company he co-founding
in 2004. He is trained in forestry and has worked in
the government, private sector and non-profit fields.
He is honorary secretary of the Malaysian Nature Society
and has authored several publications on biodiversity
conservation. He is campaigning to protect
the Selangor State Park and improve forest laws
throughout Malaysia.
Please register with Ilyas Sapiyan (email to
isapiyan@hotmail.com or sms to 012 617 5870)
14
Sun Bird Watching: Old Pump House Road
MNS Selangor Bird Group is organizing a bird
watching trip to Old Pump House Road, near Gohtong
Jaya, Genting Highland on Sunday morning
of 14th.Aug.11.The event is open to MNS members
only. Not member yet? You can sign-up & pay-up on
the spot to join.
Meet at the car park on the left just after the
Gohtong Jaya roundabout @ 7am sharp. For direction,
go to piedfantail.com/birdwatching_wheretogo.html
for the map.
Bring along a pair of binoculars, drinking
water & mosquito repellant. Wear dull-coloured
clothes, hat & comfortable shoes. Event shall end at
noon.
To register or to get more information,
call(after 8pm) or SMS(anytime) Mr Liung at 012-
3127998. Hope to see you guys there.
17
Wed Photogroup Sharing Session: Bukit
Tabur Far East MNS HQ auditorium at 8pm.
Open to all members.
Firstly, thank you to all who joined the photo
trip to Bukit Tabur Far East on 12th June! We hope
you have enjoyed the trip and managed to capture a
lot of memorable pictures during the trip. However,
the journey does not end there. We invite you to
share your photos of the trip and at the same time
enter our mini contest. We are sure that you, after
having joined a trip and shot photos, would be very
eager to share out the fruits of your hard work. And
what's more? The best 3 photos will be selected as
winners with prizes awaiting.
Secondly, here's how it is done. Please take a
moment to understand the following so that you will
have less headache: Select 3 of your best shots from
the trip. You may use a post-processing software to
tweak your photos such as cropping, brightness, contrast,
colours, saturation, HDR, panoramic stitching
and etc. but not introduce superimposition i.e. putting
other things there; or leave them as they are
All events, times and venues are correct at time
of printing. For latest updates, contact your
favourite SIG, check the MNS website regularly
or join the eGroup by sending an e-mail to
mnselangor-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
Don’t Leave Home Without It
All members are required to show their membership
cards to participate in any of the
Branch’s activities. New members who haven't
received their cards will be required to show
their membership payment receipts. Lost your
card? Contact Wee Chin at HQ.
without modification. Do NOT submit more than 3
image files; above that number will be ignored. Do
NOT place visible watermarks on the image files.
This is to avoid bias in photo judging. Use ONLY the
JPEG format. Any other format will automatically
be rejected and will not be entered into contest.
Please resize your image files to a maximum
of 1,024 pixels on the long side. If you do not have
experience in using a photo editing software, no worries,
we will resize them for you.
Photos will be evaluated based on: (1) Relevance
to theme, if any, (2) Composition, (3) Colour,
(4) Lighting and Shadow and (5) Creativity.
Email the 3 image files to photo_submit@mnsphotogroup.org
Please submit latest by 12 August 2011.
Image files submitted after that will be ignored.
7

20
Satt Visit to Pusat Pengurusan Penyu (Turtle
Management Centre) Kampung Padang
Kemunting, near Pengkalan Balak, Masjid Tanah,
Melaka. From 8:30pm to midnight.
Following the success of last year’s visit, a
second visit to the Padang Kemunting Turtle Management
Centre has been arranged, to see the work of
the Department of Fisheries, Melaka. It willl include
a talk about the turtles, access to the exhibition room
and viewing of hatchlings being released, if possible.
Please note, you need to wear dark clothing
for camouflage purposes, preferably long pants, be
equipped with insect repellent and a torch or flashlight.
Members are advised flash photography and
flash light will not be allowed during turtle watching
or hatchling release.
Numbers are limited, so this trip is initially
restricted to members only. So please book your
place before 13 August 2010, with the number of
members wishing to attend.
Meet at the centre at 8:30pm, co-ordinates
North 2° 18' 30.89", East 102° 4' 30.08"
Coordinators: Liza Jaafar on 013-2062525,
farol_cute@yahoo.com and Stephanie Bacon on
012-2175590, cooltek@streamyx.com
Full details are available at
www.MNS-N9Melaka.yolasite.com
21
Sun Talk: “Tropical Peat Swamp Forests:
What is their value?” by Sonja Raub MNS
HQ Auditorium, 2-4pm.
This talk was previously scheduled in July
but was postponed due a clash of dates with the
BERSIH rally.
Tropical peat swamp forests (TPSFs) are important
wetlands that occur throughout Southeast
Asia. Together Malaysia and Indonesia harbor 63%
of all TPSFs worldwide equalling approximately
70,015km2. Economically, TPSFs are valued for
their diverse tree species that can grow up to 70meters
tall, non-ecomonic values include enhanced
wildlife diversity to the presently more exploited
lowland tropical forests.
Tropical peat swamp are self-contained, fed
only by rain and are largely impenetrable due to their
near-surface waterlevels that create highly porous
surface structure which has previously protected
them from development. Hardy leaves and acidic
water-logged conditions slow litter break-down in
natural peat swamps, causing the accumulation of
large stores of detrital carbon, which leads to the formation
of peat swamp domes over centuries. When
TPSFs are drained by ditches for agriculture or timber
harvesting purposes, aerated peat decomposes
rapidly causing peat domes to subside. Drainage and
deforestation turns peat swamps into carbon sources
instead of sinks that release carbon dioxide, a green
house gas (GHG), which leads to global warming
and climate change. The release of carbon is accentuated
when deforested peat catches fire, resulting in
the large-scale emission of carbon into the atmosphere.
Due to these two events Indonesia ranks as the
3rd largest GHG emitter after the US and China. In
Malaysia 73% of all TPSFs have been converted to
other forms of land-use, primarily into oil palm plantations,
which require substantial draining of
swamps. Government subsidies for oil palm development
help hide the true costs of palm oil production,
where the uncalculated costs of environmental
degredation would make this crop economically unfeasible.
Malaysia’s remaining 27% of intact TPSFs
are now being threatened by illegal logging and further
developement for agriculture. Left unprotected,
functional TPSFs may soon no longer exist in Southeast
Asia.
What are the main issues? Presently we cannot
estimate the true value of functional TPSFs, but
only the marketable components that they provide us
with. Indeed, prices for forests and the services they
provide have grossly been undervalued, however for
most forest services there are no ascribed values.
Short-sighted econmic schemes only value tangable
products such as timber and cash crops without calculating
the real costs for loss of biodiversity, erosion,
disturbance to ecosystems, climate change,
altered precipitation, changes in hydrology, loss of
clean air and the list goes on.
An overview of tropical peat swamp ecology
and key issues facing Southeast Asian peatswamps
will be presented during this talk on tropical peat
swamp forests.
Speaker Sonja Raub is a PhD candidate at
8

Monash University, Malaysia studying the microbial
functioning and diversity of tropical peat swamp
forests. She holds a MSc in Environmental Science
from UNESCO IHE, the Netherlands and a BA in
Zoology & German from the University of California,
Berkeley, USA. Her interests lie in microbial
ecology of wetland systems. She has worked professionally
for over 15 years as an environmental and
experiential educator and has travelled extensively.
Please register with Ilyas Sapiyan
(isapiyan@hotmail or sms to 012 617 5870)
September
9-11
A Date with Turtles MNS Selangor Marine
SIG's Project Aware is back again. Instead
of the usual Beach Clean Up, we will be doing
turtle-related activities. Apart from snorkelling and
scuba diving, included will be a trip to the turtle
sanctuary at Chagar Hutang as well as a talk/turtle
awareness activity. Cost is between RM350 to
RM390 for snorkelling and RM500 to RM 540 for
scuba diving (depending on the room type). Price includes
room and meals as well as the boat ride from
the mainland and marine park fees. Places are limited,
so please book early. A booking fee of RM100
is requested before 9th August 2011 to confirm the
reservation. Travel to Terengganu will be by bus/car
pooling.
For more info, please contact Kana at
kkkana@yahoo.com or 012-6180024.
10
MNS 64th Annual General Meeting:
Langkawi
MNS Langkawi will be hosting the 64th
AGM of MNS. Location: Frangipani Langkawi.
There are various packages arranged for members to
consider. To book a place, kindly contact Leong Wee
Chin at 03-22879422 or email her at membership@mns.org.my
A) Package 1 (9-12 Sept 2011, 4D3N) &
Package 2 (9 – 11 Sept 2011, 3D2N)– AGM &
Langkawi Skybridge Tour & Mangrove Tour
The Langkawi Skybridge Tour takes you on
a cable car ride to the top of Gunnung Matchincang.
After the cable car, we drive to Kilim River Jetty, an
exploration of a lifetime takes you to an incredible
journey to Langkawi’s wetlands – the mangrove.
Discover the unique and pristine environment of the
mangrove. Wildlife is the abundant. Monkeys, Engles
and numerous others animal make the mangrove
their home to maintain the delicate balance of the
ecosystem. Shrubs, herbs, and unmistakably strangling
figs stretch their roots into the crevices on the
steep surfaces of the caves. Limestone caves in the
midst of the mangrove stand before you along the
coastline with breathtaking beauty. You will also explore
how mangroves become the perfect environment
for the fish farm.
(B) Package 3 (10-11 Sept 2011, 2D1N) – AGM
(Relax)
This secluded and eco-friendly resort is situated
on 400-metre stretch of soft golden sand along
Pantai Tengah. They are the first resort in Langkawi
to implement Green practices to preserve the environment.
Check out the surrounding views of this
resort at www.frangipanilangkawi.com/index.php/the-resort
10-11
Trip: Gua Kanthan/ Gua Kelawar
Those who are looking for a weekend
of caving adventure and education are in for a treat.
Malaysian Nature Society Selangor Branch Cave
group is organising a 2D/1N trip to Gua Kanthan and
Gua Kelawar in Perak.
Day 1 Gua Kanthan, also known as the
Cathedral Cave is located on a hill of the same name.
The descend to the cave itself is a sight to behold, an
9

enormous entrance that welcomes you to its underground
world. Dramatic displays of sunshine rays
can be seen at various parts of the cave. A stagnant
river runs through the grooved bottom of the cave,
adding mystery to the cave. A recently discovered
(1997) specie of trapdoor spider, Liphistius Kanthan
Mesothelae, is unique to this cave.
Participants will be staying at YMCA Ipoh
for a night before the next day's program. The
evening is free for all to enjoy the best of what Ipoh
can offer in its heritage and familiar delicacies.
Day 2 Gua Kelawar, is a combination of a
labyrinth and a chocolate factory gone wrong. The
combination of fun and adventure of this cave has
never failed to put a smile on faces of anyone who
has a "taste" of it!
Join us for this adventurous experience and
educate yourself on the importance of caves conservation.
Departure: Sept 10, 7:30am, meet at Mc-
Donalds Centrepoint, Bandar Utama
Fees: RM100 (MNS members), RM170
(non-MNS members). Fees include 1 night stay at
YMCA Ipoh based on triple sharing, insurance and
1-year MNS membership fees for non-MNS members.
Payment can be made via Maybank
514084066953 to Miss Yeoh Yin Tuan. Please e-mail
mnsyyt@yahoo.com once payment has been made.
Closing date of registration: 23th August
2011, limited to 20 pax.
Transport is by self-drive and carpooling.
Essentials: Helmet (construction/bicycl e), torchlight
This trip is suitable for both beginners and
experienced cavers. For more information please
contact: Mariam (012-3932160/mariam_milatu
@yahoo.com) or Dayana (019-2282284/
dayanamn@gmai l.com)
21 Sept Talk: “Underwater Photography” MNS
HQ auditorium at 8pm.
Want to know how photography under the
sea is like? Wonder no more. An evening of sharing
on underwater photography will be conducted by Mr
Stewart Forbes, who will share with us his vast experience
from the sea. Block your date/time for the
evening and keep a look out for more details at
mnsphotogroup.org.
Further down the road
Oct 14-19
Chumphon Raptor Watch, Thailand
(Selangor Branch Bird
Group)
The Isthmus of Kra in Thailand serves as a
crucial land-bridge for raptors flying away from the
northern winter to warmer climes in Southeast Asia.
During this autumn migration, two of the best sites to
view the raptors are to be found near the town of
Chumphon, namely Radar Hill and Pencil Hill (Khao
Dinsaw). From the top of these hills, the raptors can
be seen flying above, below, as well as at near eyelevel.
The journey starts Friday night from KL on a
train to Haadyai and then connecting van to reach
Chumphon on Saturday afternoon. Return on Tuesday
will be also be by overnight train from
Chumphon to Haadyai and then a 24-seater express
bus to reach Puduraya Wednesday evening.
Cost: RM500 per person which includes all
land transportation and twin-sharing accommodation
(meals not included). For non-member: RM595 (includes
a 1-year MNS membership). Contact Omar
Abdullah (012 218 6718) or Lee Oon Teik (017 889
7510) for more details. Booking is on a first-comefirst-served
basis with full payment. Cheque to be
made out to Omar Abdullah or direct debit to CIMB
TTDI branch A/c 1415 000 632 8085. Please SMS
Omar after payment. No refund for cancellation by
participants.
Pre-trip meeting will be held on Tuesday, 4th
Oct at 8 pm at MNS HQ Auditorium.
Nov 5-7
Photography cum Camping Trip:
Cameron Highlands
Ever thought of combining photography with
leisure camping, travel and food? The end of year
photography trip features exactly that. What's more?
You do all that at the cool and away-from-hecticcity-life
Cameron Highlands... during the holidays! A
multitude of photography themes is available for this
3D2N highlight trip including landscape, nature,
macro and street. Moreover, this leisure and relaxing
photography trip means you can bring your family
along. Did we say we included in it free-and-easy
slots? Imagine taking a few shots of the tea plantation
in the cool, breezing air while having a hot cup
of English tea.
Interested? Then block off your calendar with
the dates. More details coming soon... watch this
space and keep a lookout for updates at
mnsphotogroup.org.
10

Member’s Report
The Rafflesia of Ulu Geroh
Rafflesia is a genus of parasitic flowering
plants. 27 species can be found in South East Asia,
Malay Peninsular (Peninsular Malaysia and South
Thailand), Borneo Island, Sumatra, and the Philippines.
The biggest flower has no stems, leaves or true
roots. This parasite flower spends most of its life as
a chain of cells inside the tissue of its host vine.
The forests surrounding the Semai Orang
Asli village of Ulu Geroh are rich with Rafflesia
Cantleyi species.
One of the feature of Rafflesia Cantleyi is its
ability to form flowers on the aerial portions of its
host Tetrastigma. Tetrastigma is a genus of plants in
the grape family, Vitaceae.
5 September 2010, together with 8 members I travelled
to Gopeng to see the flower.
The journey to Ulu Geroh takes about 45
minutes from Gopeng town. Preferable a 4WD to get
there. From the Rafflesia Centre, the Semai people
lead us to a jungle trek. The trail is call Pacat Trail
and it is difficult trek going up steep slopes. The 45
minutes trek into the forest, finally lead us to the
flower. There was only one (1) full bloom flower but
Love adventures?
Enjoy peace of mind… for you and
your family by writing your Will today!
that was good enough. It had a diameter of 18 inches,
the biggest I have seen so far. We spent about 1 hour
taking photos and studying the flower. On the way
back, I spotted few Rajah Brooke Butterflies flying,
however didn't see any of them at their site. We
ended the trip with a delicious lunch at a Gua Tempurung
restaurant.
- Photo and write-up by Wai Kong
Do you know that all our Assets including banks’ accounts will be frozen upon Death? With OR Without a WILL!! How
do you “unlock” them? A Grant of Probate or Letter of Administration from the High Court. This process applies to
Muslims and Non Muslims.
18 inches in diameter
Due to the short life span of the flower, the
trip to see the flower could only be confirmed one
(1) day before the departure date. This was because
I wanted all the participants to witness a flower in
full bloom. The Orang Asli searched for the full
bloom flower and informed me it was good to go. On
If you pass on without having a VALID WILL….this is what happens…..
1. Your Family
• Your spouse & children will face cash flow problem because all your bank accounts including joint accounts will be frozen.
• Your children’s welfare may not be taken care of by the people of your choice
2. The legal Process
• Delay in distribution due to the legal process (2 - 6 years)
• 2 guarantors / sureties required (amount equal or more than deceased’s estate)
• Much more costly resulting in financial burdens to your family
3. Your Asset Distribution (As per Distribution Act 1958 amended in 1997) or (Distribution under Faraid)
• The law will decide on the distribution of your estate such as house (s), Businesses, bank accounts, shares, etc.
LOVE YOUR FAMILY, WRITE YOUR WILL TODAY AND ENJOY A PEACE OF MIND wherever you may be… Travelling,
Trekking, Caving, Mountain Climbing, Diving, Biking, Camping, etc.
Why leave to chance….for more information, please call……
MARY OOI Professional Estate Planner (Rockwills Corporation Sdn. Bhd.), Islamic Estate
Planner (as-Salihin Trustee Sdn. Bhd.) H/P: 012-3379906 or email: mary_3_ooi@hotmail.com
11

MNS HQ
JKR 641, Jalan Kelantan,
Bukit Persekutuan, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
(just before the Seri Perdana turn-off on
Jalan Mahameru).
M-F 9am-5:30pm.
T: 03-22879422. F: 03-22878773.
mns@mns.org.my www.mns.org.my
Membership: Leong Wee Chin
MNS Library
A modest collection of books and periodicals
is housed at the MNS Headquarters.
Only fully paid up members may borrow
books for a period of two weeks. This period
is renewable. Periodicals are for use
only in the library. Readers wishing periodical
articles may have them photocopied.
A small, but growing collection of books
for young readers is also available.
JOHOR BRANCH
c/o Prof. Madya Dr. Maketab Mohamed,
No. 90,Jalan Pulai 50,
Taman Pulai Utama, 83100 Johor Bahru
www.mnsj.org.my
Chair Vincent Chow
019-7557755, vkkchow@yahoo.com
Vice Chairman Wee Soon Chit
012-7112112, soonchit@hotmail.com
Secretary Zalinah Sarpan, 013-7722229
zalinah.sarpan@my.lafarge.com
KEDAH BRANCH
Belakang Hospital, 09300 Kuala Ketil,
Kedah
kedahmns@yahoogroups.com
Chairman Kalaimani a/l Supramaniam,
019-4733505, maniria@yahoo.com
Vice Chair Nordiana Binti Zainordin
012-5377914, nz1808@yahoo.com
Secretary N Ravintharan A/L Narayanan
013-5056603, jovialravi@yahoo.com
KELANTAN BRANCH
204, Jln Sultan Yahya Petra, 15150 Kota
Bharu, Kelantan E: shown@tm.net.my
Chairman Tan Kee Leong, Michael
012-9538858, mike1958@streamyx.com
Vice Chair Mohd Razali B Che Ali
017-9386015, calmoraz@yahoo.com
Secretary Wong Mei Lin
019-9109073, meklawa@gmail.com
KUCHING BRANCH (SARAWAK)
E: mnskuching@gmail.com
Chairman Cheong Ah Kwan
019-8349499,
kwan_indutek@hotmail.com
Vice Chair Yeo Siew Teck
012-8876160, yeosiewteck@gmail.com
Secretary Sunita Sara Gill
012-4370050, sunitashamsul@gmail.com
LANGKAWI BRANCH
mnslangkawi@yahoogroups.com
Chairman Eric R. Sinnaya
019-4499142, morahols@streamyx.com
Vice Chair Teoh Cheng Kung
013-4881013, wildlifeplanet@gmail.com
Secretary Zuraidah Zainal Abidun
017-5600384, hajahzuraidah@yahoo.com
MIRI BRANCH (SARAWAK)
E: mnsmiri@yahoo.com;
Blog: mnsmiri.blogspot.com
Chairman Faye Osman
012-3202301, faye.osman@yahoo.com
Vice Chair Anura Dason
012-8783217, anura.dason@shell.com
Secretary Puteri Shariza Megat Khalid
012-4604609, teraphoenix@yahoo.com
NEGERI SEMBILAN/
MELAKA BRANCH
c/o Cooltek, 350 Jalan Woodland, Tiara
Melaka Golf & Country Club,
Ayer Keroh, 75450 Melaka
Web: mns-n9melaka.yolasite.com/
Chairman Lim Ming Hui
012-2760327, limmel05@yahoo.com
Vice Chair Kok Chow Hioong,
013-2929418, kchioong@live.com
Secretary Stephanie Bacon
012-2175590, cooltek@streamyx.com
PAHANG BRANCH
F-4-4, Jalan Padang Golf,
25050 Kuantan
mnspahang@yahoo.com
Blog: mnspahang@yahoogroups.com
Chairman Datin Narimah bt Daud
012-7205383, dnarimah@yahoo.com
Vice Chair Noor Jehan bt. Abu Bakar
019-9525588,
versed_anggerik@yahoo.com
Secretary Chow Mee Foong 0199515169
chowmeefoong@yahoo.com
PENANG BRANCH
Nature Information Centre (NIC),
673-B Jalan Kebun Bunga,
10350 Penang. T/F: 016-4840747
Open Mon–Sat, 7.30 am – 11.30 am
(Please phone before visiting).
E-mail: mnspenang@yahoo.com
Web: www.mns.my/state.php?stid=8
Chairman Tan Choo Eng
019-4484344, chooengtan@yahoo.com
Vice Chairman James Ooi Teik Kok
012-4452340
Secretary Ang Wai Sheng 012-5138319,
terence_ang01@yahoo.com
PERAK BRANCH
8 Jalan Virgo, Star Park, 31400 Ipoh
E: mnsperak@gmail.com
Blog: mnsperak@yahoogroups.com
Chairman Leow Kon Fah 019-5634598,
leow_kingfisher@yahoo.com
Vice Chair Lee Ping Kong
016-5655682, lpk682@yahoo.com
Secretary Tham Yim Fong
012-5220268, georgi8tham@yahoo.com
SABAH BRANCH
P.O. Box 12377, 88826 Kota Kinabalu,
Sabah
E: mns_sabah@yahoo.com.sg
Chairperson Anna Wong
016-8318339, anna888@ums.edu.my
Vice Chair Omar Abdul Kadir
019-8110125, omar_kadir51@yahoo.com
Secretary Maria Joy Rowan
019-5348772,
mariajoyrowan@yahoo.co.uk
SELANGOR BRANCH
c/o MNS HQ address
E: mns.selangor@gmail.com
www.mns.org.my/selangor
malaysiannaturesociety@yahoogroups.com
Chairman Gary Phong
013-3836288, garyphong@netscape.net
Vice Chairman Wong Ee Lynn
013-2286812, wongeelynn@yahoo.com
Secretary Gan Li Li
012-2074840, pat_ganll@hotmail.com
TERENGGANU BRANCH
1926 Bukit Kubang Jambu,
20050 Kuala Terengganu
E: mnsterengganu@gmail.com
Chairman HjWan Md Adnan
017-9861926, wadnan@streamyx.com
Vice Chair Anuar Abd McAfee
012-9864177, anuar@ms.kusza.edu.my
Secretary Dr Chong Ju Lian
013-3055190, julianchong78@gmail.com
12

Pencinta Alam is a monthly newsletter made
possible by dedicated volunteers and contributors
from the Malaysian Nature Society.
Accuracy is the contributor’s responsibility.
The Editor reserves the right to edit for
length and content.
Advertising rates: Classifieds: RM5 per
column inch. Quarter page ad: RM30. Half
page ad: RM60. All payments must be made
to “Malaysian Nature Society Selangor
Branch”. Please bank in cash or cheque to
Maybank MBB account no 014150307352.
After banking in, please scan the slip and e-
mail it to Bernadette Chin at
berniechin118@yahoo.com or fax her at 03-
51928191 (Attention: Bernie Finance).
Discount Rates
For advertisements paid in advance:
3 adverts paid in advance – 5% off;
6 adverts paid in advance – 10% off;
9 adverts paid in advance –15% off;
12 adverts paid in advance – 20% off.
Submissions: Articles including the author
and photographers’ names (max. 500 words),
advertisements, digital images (100 dpi & no
larger than 640x480 pixels & separately
from article), etc. must reach the Editor by
the 13th of each month (unless noted otherwise)
via the following e-mail address:
tapir2005@gmail.com.
Editors
Iska Hashim 03-20732355
Kay Lyons 03-79814271
Khor Hui Min 017-8817714
E-copy
Help the environment and opt to download
the newsletter from the Selangor Branch
website (www.mns.org.my) or the Selangor
Branch e-group: groups.yahoo.com/group/
To open the pdf file, you’ll need a pdf reader,
such as Adobe Reader (downloadable for
free at www.adobe.com).
Computer Recycling Collection
Centre (Penang)
The MNS Nature Information
Centre (NIC) is a designated recycling
collection centre for old computers and
computer parts by the Penang City
Council. Please send your unwanted
computers and parts to the NIC to be
send for recycling by DOE approved recycling
establishment. Contact Kanda at
013-4537992 for more information or
check out Penang Branch web pages
Nature Owlet - The MNS Shop
T/F: 03-2287 3471
tapir.shop@mns.org.my or natureowlet@yahoo.com
Open Mon-Fri 0930-1730 hrs, Saturday 1000-1300 hrs. Closed
on Sundays & Public Holidays as well as during major MNS
events (e.g. Raptor Watch etc).
Offers a growing selection of books for the nature lover
(kids included) and MNS Publications The Malaysian Naturalist
and Suara Enggang; MNS apparel; outdoor gear (from
TURN YOUR TRASH
INTO CASH FOR THE NEEDY
Recycle your trash at the following welfare
homes and you stop good money
from going to the landfill. Please donate
your aluminium cans, plastic containers, steel cans & paper
(glass not accepted) at the following locations anyday from
8am-7pm, unless stated otherwise: Klang Rumah K.I.D.S.
(3373-3400). Klang St. Barnabas Home (3372-8191). Klang
Pusat Kasih Sayang (3372-1723). Klang Pusat Cahaya Kesayangan
(3379-9440). Petaling Jaya Spastics Centre (7958-
2393). Puchong Pure Life Society (7782-9391). Selayang
Rumah Amal Cheshire (6138-7118).
You may also exchange your recycleables for redemption
coupons at the following locations: Petaling Jaya Taman
Jaya, Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays , 4:30-6:30pm. Johor
Baru Giant Cash & Carry, Plentong. Everyday except Mondays,
1-6pm.
Please clean and dry all your cans and bottles before
depositing at these centers. Please bundle and tie all papers.
TrEES (03-7876 9958)
treateveryenvironmentspecial@gmail.com
www.trees.org.my
Buff, Coleman, Maglite, Campingaz, Leatherman,
Deuter, Mora); sport optics and supports (from Leica,
Minox, Meade, Nikon, Swarovski & Manfrotto) and
more.
Members who show their membership card
receive a discount for most items.
13