Pencinta Alam - Malaysian Nature Society (MNS)

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PENCINTA ALAM
NEWSLETTER OF THE MALAYSIAN NATURE SOCIETY
November 2012
OF RAINFORESTS,
TURTLES AND
MANGROVES
Trekking in the jungle
RAINFORESTS
I've read a story where the main character wondered
how a creature the size of a car managed
to stay undetected for so long on an island where
countless expeditions had been made. One important
factor was that it was a tropical island teeming
with trees.
The main ways of journeying on Earth are
by water, air, and land. These ways have served us
well for centuries, but things get somewhat limited
when it gets to rainforests. Take for example the
helicopter – it has the ability to hover in the air
until the fuel tank is empty, and it allows a bird’s
eye view of the forest below. However, there would
not be much to see except the obstructing canopy
since everything else would have gone to hide at
the sound of the ‘giant hummingbird’.
During the recent Biodiversity trip to Terengganu
led by the Nature Guides SIG, we experienced
travelling by water and by land.
The river is the highway of a forest – it
cuts a path through the more complicated terrain
and is usually running at speeds faster than your
average walker. It also provides a few glimpses
of the sky above, while tunneling its way through
the rainforest. That’s what we did on the first day
of our adventure. We travelled by boat on Sungai
Perlis (Kampung Shukor), with little effort except
when it hit shallow
water and we had
to push it along.
All around us
were trees, butterflies,
and a good
amount of fungi,
if you knew how
to look for them.
However, a river
doesn’t offer much
if you have to
change your route.
Sometimes, a river
can prove impossible
to maneuver
through. So you
might be forced to
Eric Thin
walk if you want
to see the rest of the forest, as we did by trekking
the old logging road by Sungai Lansir.
TURTLES AND MANGROVES
It has been claimed that around the 1960s, there
were over 3000 leatherbacks nesting in Terengganu
annually, but forty years later, in the year 2000 –
zero. Along the beach of Ma’Daerah Turtle Sanctuary,
the most frequent visitor has been the green
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Green turtle nesting on the beach Mangrove tree planting activity
turtle, and that is probably the only species any
casual observer can expect to see at present.
We arrived there in the dark, maybe a little
late according to schedule, but were treated to a
warm welcome and plenty of luck later in the night.
At the briefing, we were told that our trip was a
bit late in the season, and that it was possible that
we would leave with the ‘see sea turtle’ part of our
itinerary unchecked.
But like I mentioned, we had a bit of luck.
‘No waving torches around’ was one of the rules,
and so, we stumbled towards the nesting site under
a starry night. We did not actually get to see the
green turtle laying its eggs, as we only saw its back
as it returned into the ocean, leaving behind 77
eggs and 1 broken one, through no fault of ours.
The good eggs were all taken to the hatchery. The
next day, there was another turtle landing, and we
Eric Thin
caught up with it as it was filling up the nest. This
time, there were a total of101 eggs! How exciting!
Though we were a bit late for the next programme,
we proceeded enthusiastically to a mangrove planting
activity at the MNS ecoCare Centre in Kerteh.
Mangroves are trees that are well adapted to be
constantly in water. Being coastal plants, they help
buffer the water’s effect on the land as well as contribute
to the atmosphere by releasing oxygen.
Logging has, however, removed a good
number of mangrove forests, and our conservation
activity was to replant them. Armed with a hundred
mangrove seedlings, shovels and a willingness to
dig, we went through the whole exercise quite easily.
We left with a good feeling that each of us had
planted a couple of saplings that would definitely
protect this coastal belt in the future.
~ Eric Thin ~
Eric Thin
Eric Thin
2

GREEN LIVING COLUMN
WHAT SHOULD
I KNOW ABOUT
HYBRID CARS?
In this discussion of "hybrid cars", we are considering
only vehicles that use a combination of petrol
and electric power, and not natural gas or other fuels.
A hybrid car has a standard petrol-powered motor
and an electric motor that provides additional
boost using a rechargeable battery. Using a technology
called regenerative braking, as the hybrid car
decelerates, the system captures this braking energy
and regenerates this to charge the battery.
Purchasing a hybrid car can be a very
costly investment. While we at MNS do encourage
everyone to take public transport, carpool or go
car-free as much as possible, for many people, this
isn't a realistic or practical option. The two main
factors that would influence a purchaser's decision
to choose a hybrid car are the fuel savings and
reduced carbon emissions.
In considering whether or not to make your
next car a hybrid, here are some factors to be taken
into consideration:
(1) COST
Hybrid cars cost significantly more than conventional
cars due to the capital investment poured
into hybrid technology. The Toyota Prius C, for
instance, costs approximately RM97,000.00 while
the Honda Jazz Hybrid costs RM94,800.00 with
insurance. The cost of purchasing hybrid vehicles
is gradually decreasing due to legislative and other
incentives. In addition, there is no import duty and
excise duty imposed on hybrid vehicles with engine
sizes under 2.0L until 31 Dec 2013, in a move by
the Malaysian government to encourage the purchase
and use of hybrid vehicles. However, the fact
remains that the initial purchase price is high and
may not result in a return of investment in terms of
fuel savings in the foreseeable future for many car
users who do not need to drive long distances on a
regular basis. Also, the main factor that is keeping
the prices of hybrid cars competitive in Malaysia
right now is the exemption on duty and import tax.
The government may change the policy in future,
so there are no guarantees that the prices of these
cars will remain as they are.
(2) FUEL ECONOMY
It would make sense that a hybrid car that runs
partly on battery would consume less petrol than
a standard petrol engine. The electric motor of a
hybrid car supplies substantial power to run the car
under very light acceleration and speed. Moreover,
hybrid car manufacturers have a tendency to utilise
smaller engine capacities on the assumption that
the electric motor would assist by way of power
when needed, therefore consuming less fuel. However,
if you are harsh on your accelerator pedal, no
matter what make of car you drive, you car will be
consuming petrol at a faster rate.
Here is some information that would help
you make a comparison of fuel use and costs
between 2 hybrid models and 2 non-hybrid models,
based on a 20,000km range per year and using
combined consumption figures provided by manufacturers:
Toyota Corolla Altis 2.0V (Hybrid): 1,538.46 litres
x RM1.90 (RON95) = RM2,923.07
Toyota Prius Luxury: 950.12 litres x RM1.90
(RON95) = RM1,805.23
That amounts to substantial savings of RM1,117.84
per year. Although there are substantial petrol savings
each year from driving the Prius over the Altis,
the initial outlay is considerably more. However,
this comparison is not conclusive, as they are in
fact very different cars with different specifications.
Let's now compare 2 cars with similar specifications
and capacities:
Honda Jazz Grade V: 1,265.82 litres x RM1.90
(RON95) = RM2,405.06
Honda Jazz Hybrid: 938.97litres x RM1.90
(RON95) = RM1,784.04
This results in savings of RM 621.02 a year.
Furthermore, hybrid cars consume zero petrol
when at a standstill, so you won’t be burning petrol
in heavy traffic or while waiting at the traffic lights.
However, many of the newer models of conventional
petrol cars are using the same stop-start technology,
so hybrid vehicles are not the only options
if you want a fuel-efficient vehicle.
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(3) RESALE VALUE
The price of hybrid cars is inevitably coming down
due to a rapidly increasing demand. In addition, tax
incentives that may apply now may not continue
forever. This means that you will not be able to
sell your car at a premium price later, even though
resale value is good now. So if you buy a hybrid
because you think it will hold its value, don't count
on that being true in five years' time.
(4) MECHANICAL ASSISTANCE AND MAIN-
TENANCE
Many mechanics are not yet trained in maintaining
and repairing a hybrid vehicle. Could you get yours
repaired and maintained locally?
(5) CARBON EMISSIONS -- A LIFE CYCLE
ANALYSIS
This may upset electric vehicle proponents, but
it has been determined that electric and hybrid
cars generate more carbon emissions during their
production than current conventional vehicles,
according to a new report prepared in collaboration
with the UK’s Low Carbon Vehicle Partnership
that includes major vehicle manufacturers
and oil companies.However, electric and hybrid
vehicles still have a lower carbon footprint overall.
For example, a typical medium-sized family car
will create around 24 tonnes of CO2 during its life
cycle, while an electric vehicle (EV) will produce
around 18 tonnes over its life, the report said. For
a battery-powered electric vehicle, 46% of its total
carbon footprint is generated at the factory, before
it has travelled a single kilometre.
The report, being released as part of the
LowCVP Annual Conference 2011, highlights the
increasing importance of accounting for whole life
carbon emissions to compare the greenhouse gas
emissions of low carbon vehicles. The study found
that some of the CO2 savings made during the
use of low carbon vehicles is offset by increased
emissions created during their production, and to
a lesser extent, disposal. We must appreciate that
hybrids are still internal-combustion, petroleumpowered
cars. While they might use less of it than
other vehicles, they still depend on a fuel that often
comes from a fossil fuel, and they still create emissions
when they are driven around.
The batteries inside hybrid cars depend on
materials like lithium and cobalt. Mining for those
minerals is an extremely destructive process, and
one that has left entire mountains leveled in their
wake. Local residents benefit little from these endeavors.
Furthermore, the countries with the most
lucrative mines tend to also be some of the most
unstable, including Bolivia and the Democratic
Republic of Congo. So increasing our dependence
on electric and hybrid cars may mean trading the
conflicts in the Middle East for another set of problems.
Then there's the issue of plug-in hybrid
cars. While they have the potential to use far less
petrol than conventional engines or even regular
hybrids, the electricity they use comes from our existing
power grid, which in Malaysia comes mostly
from coal-fired power plants. Adding more plug-in
hybrids will put an extra strain on the grid that just
means more output from existing power plants, at
least until our country runs on renewable energy
sources
DISCUSSION:
Hybrid cars can be a great alternative to conventional
vehicles, but people need to realise that hybrids
won't solve the fossil fuel and pollution crisis
overnight. There are many ways to reduce your fuel
consumption and carbon emissions without having
to invest in hybrid cars.
Your driving style has a large impact on
your fuel consumption. It's not just about what kind
of vehicle you are driving, but how you are driving
it. Is it a single-occupancy vehicle most of the
time, or are you carpooling and ride-sharing? Are
you making too many unnecessary trips, or combining
trips and errands whenever possible? Are
you making every effort to reduce your reliance on
driving, and taking public transport or walking /
cycling instead? Are you able to forgo driving once
a week? Are you braking and accelerating abruptly
and frequently, or do you drive at a manageable
and consistent speed, and anticipate things which
may require you to stop or slow down? Do you
drive mostly in the city, or on highways? If intown,
low-speed, start-stop driving is a major part
of your day, a hybrid will probably get the better
side of the fuel consumption equation. But for long
highway commutes at steady high speeds, petrol
and diesel-powered cars might perform comparable
to, or in some cases even better than, hybrids.
Hybrid vehicles aren't the only fuel efficient
and low emission vehicles around. Clean diesel
vehicles such as the Volkswagen Jetta TDI, for instance,
have high fuel effciency and cleaner emissions
than conventional vehicles, and may even
outperform hybrids while driving on highways.
Diesel's former reputation as smelly, dirty and sluggish
is now a thing of the past. Compressed Natu-
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ral Gas (CNG) tank installations on your existing
vehicle can also result in considerable fuel savings
and cleaner, lower emissions. Smaller, newer cars
designed for city driving (remember the Smart
Fortwo?) can make significant fuel savings and
reduced emissions.
Ultimately, you need to ask yourself your
reasons for wanting to purchase a hybrid vehicle.
Are you going to do much driving at all? Are
there alternatives to driving? How frequently will
there be passengers in your car? Would you consider
smaller and newer conventional cars as other
fuel-saving options? Can other types of fuel such
as natural gas or clean diesel be comparable to
hybrids in terms of reduced emissions? It may also
be worthwhile to wait until the prices of hybrid
vehicles come down, or more secondhand hybrid
vehicles are available on the market, or for the
technology to improve in a few years.
~ Wong Ee Lynn, gl.mnselangor@yahoo.com ~
(Sources: http://savemoney.my/malaysia-hybridcar-buying-guide-do-hybrid-cars-save-you-money/;
http://www.edmunds.com/hybrid/before-buy.html
and http://auto.howstuffworks.com/
Image credits: How Stuff Works)
This article is also available as a blogpost at:
http://mnsgreenliving.blogspot.com/2012/10/whatshould-i-know-about-hybrid-cars.html
Journey to
Gunung Irau
Join Pathfinders in an adventure to one of the ten
highest mountains in Malaysia! At 2110m, Gunung
Irau lies at the border of Perak and Pahang. This
scenic trek starts at Gunung Brinchang, Cameron
Highlands and can be done comfortably within 6-7
hours. Irau is one of the most accessible mossy
forests in Malaysia, famous for its ‘Lord of the
Rings’ cinematic atmosphere.
Nature lovers and photographers will love
Irau for its kaleidoscope of vibrant flowers, wild
orchids, striking moss gardens, dramatic pitcher
plants, mushrooms and thousand year old trees.
Hikers on the other hand, will find Irau’s
terrain interesting, undulating with peat floors,
surrounded by huge roots and enormous rocks at
the peak. Everyone will be able to enjoy the sweeping
view of the magnificent valleys standing at the
border of Perak and Pahang.
The trip is limited to 30 participants and
the cost includes meals and a two-night stay at the
MNS Boh Plantation and Group fund.
Trek dates:
15-17 December
2012
Nature Highlights:-
• Cool temperatures and beautiful mossy forest
• Lots of White moss/Club moss
• Vibrant flowers, orchids, pitcher plants, mushrooms
and gigantic trees
• Beautiful view around Gunung Irau if clear sky
permits
• Good hiking/treking
For more info: Email scubasim@gmail.com
Date for Booking: From 15-30 October 2012
Estimated Cost: 3D/2N Dorm with meals. RM180
for MNS members. For non-members add RM70.
Mode of Transport:
On your own/Car Pool encouraged
Level of Fitness:
Sedentary
Beginner
Active Hiker
Super Fit
5

2012 MNS Hornbill Volunteer Programme (HVP) in Belum-Temengor (BT)
THANK YOU TO ALL THE 59 VOL-
UNTEERS WHO WENT BACK TO
BASICS, FOREGONE ALL THE
CREATURE COMFORTS FOR 4 OR
5 DAYS IN THE WILD…
Volunteers: Ou Mei Cing, Shalini Jayanandan,
Lim Boon Ping, Foong Lai Yue, Stephanie Tan Yin
Yi, Tung Wai Hau, Ooi Lai Fung, David Willis,
Jacky Soh Swee Meng, Alyce Ang Lay Keng, Mabel
Loo, Jenny Chung, Goh Eng Fat, Chang Wan Tze,
Lydia Loke Mee Chan, Loh Yi Xin, Tan Kate Lin,
Loh Yi Xien, Chiaw Fui Peng, Chan Lee Yin, Nur
Hafiz Muhammad Naim, Lim Beng Yee, Nathan
Phipps, Sharom Woo May Ling, Shirley Lim, Ng
Chih Piew, The Siew Guat, Wong Tin Fong, Marianne
Rense, Merijn van Leeuwen, Denise Cheah
Su Lin, Low Yew Yi, Arhwin Kalai Shelvan, Chow
Choi In, Lock Wai Hoe, Chang Cheng Tao, Oo
Choo Yee, Loh Eng Giap, Mah Teck Oon, Teng
Jin Gee, K Ganesan a/l A Krishnasundram, Khor
Kam Lou, Muniza Murtaza, Voon Choon Chan,
Chew Ming Yee, Trudy R Ganendra, Heon Su Ping,
Sonja Raub, Lim Cheng Bee, Tang Kooi Ching, Loh
Wan Yeng, Fairuz Fadilah Bte Mohd Samsuddin,
Habibun Najar bin Zainal Abidin, Jill Khoo Siao
Hooi, Yap Siow Yan, Chin Choong Liung, Amyra
Suryatie Bt Kamaruzzan, and Muhamad Azri Othman.
Special thanks to the dedicated volunteer coordinators:
Terry, Maye, Pasu, and John.
Here is this year’s count….The highest count from
Kg Tebang, was on the morning of 21 September
2012 with 2,734 commuting Plain Pouched Hornbills.
But going back from work, only 291 PPH
were counted. It was a rainy day on the 21 September.
What caused the difference? Let us know what
you think (send it to the website below).
1. Insert Hornbill Stats. here:
The counts are important to look at the migrating
period or any shift in the period, to look at
the health of the population, or even a shift in the
current route. We still have a lot to learn from these
yearly counts.
Other than helping the researchers in basic data
gathering, the HVP has a more important aspect
which is the wholesome experience, as evident
from the feedback from some of our volunteers.
“I think that this type of more active participation
in conservation is really worth promoting in MNS
rather than just the good fun trips! Even if we do
a trek, include some sort of conservation component.”
~ Trudy R Ganendra ~
“The PP hornbill migration in such numbers is a
unique spectacle, and is even more profound than
I would say the Raptor Watch. That coupled with
the wild setting gives a most powerful experience,
especially to younger participants. This event cannot
be replicated elsewhere.” ~ Mah Teck Oon ~
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“The overall programme is fabulous with a great
balance of conservation and AWARENESS activities.”
~ Lim Bing Yee ~
This is the last of the 5-Year MNS-HVP. Will
there be a HVP 2013? Do you want a HVP 2013?
Please let us know.
Read the full compilation of feedback from volunteers,
view their art, photos and hornbill statistics
and send in your comments at http://mnsgerikcrc.
wordpress.com/mns-hornbill-volunteer-programme-2012/
Correction to the September issue: The graph’s
table erroneously included the Total numbers of the
two daily counts.
Drawing of a hornbill
- a present to her mum
(Chang Wan Tze), to
be opened upon arrival
at the Base Camp.
Illustration
of 2 volunteers
counting
at Base
Camp, by
Chin Choong
Liung.
Eco Kids
Turtles are Way Smarter
than You Think
Here’s an old West African story on why
turtles prefer the deep seas to land
Long, long ago, shy turtles were quite happy
to live on land. That is, until one day, when
some horribly hungry hunters pounced on
a sleeping turtle. They struggled to carry
the astonishingly heavy turtle back to their
village, where they proudly placed it before
their old chief.
“Good job!” he declared loudly. “Errr…
how should we cook him?” he pondered as he
gingerly touched the tough shell. You see,
no one, that is absolutely no one, had ever,
ever caught, much less eaten a turtle before.
“Huh!” said the gleeful turtle! “Go on,
give it your best shot! No one is going to
part me from my lovely shell,” taunted the
bold turtle.
“We’ll use sticks and stones,” growled
a nasty hunter.
“Stick and stones won’t break my
shell. Nothing works expect drowning me in
water….oops!” said the horrified turtle as
his short flippers tried to cover his mouth.
Unfortunately, it was way too late.
The turtle’s fate was sealed. The
hunters’ tummies rumbled terribly as they
huffed and puffed to throw the turtle into
deep waters. They high-fived one another
as they imagined a feast that night. Then,
suddenly, everyone went quiet. “Oh dear,”
said one hunter softly.
Two laughing green eyes were poking
out of the water. “Not so fast, silly men!”
said the turtle merrily. “From now onwards,
I’ll stay safely in the water,” he said as he
gracefully swam away. And so he was safe.
For many, many years.
Sadly, now turtles are no longer safe.
Grown-ups and children from all around the
world have stopped caring for the rivers
and the seas. And they don’t let the poor
turtle lay her eggs in peace. Take a look at
what you can do to help the turtle.
6 Awesome Ways to Help Turtles
• Throw rubbish into dustbins. Don’t throw
them into the sea or on the beach as
turtles may eat them or get caught in
them, causing them to die.
• Stay away from turtles on beaches. The
shy turtles will flee if they see you.
• Stay at least 2 metres behind a turtle
that’s already laying her eggs.
• Say no to turtle eggs. If you eat all the
eggs, there won’t be any more turtles in
the world!
• Don’t catch or disturb hatchlings (baby
turtles) who are crawling out to sea.
(Remember, these poor babies don’t have
their mothers around to protect them.)
• Don’t shine bright lights, play with fireworks
or make campfires on beaches.
• Avoid talking loudly and making a lot
noise on beaches at night.
Written by Sheela Prabhakaran,
sheelaprabha@gmail.com
7

Calendar of Activities
November
3 (Sat) - 4 (Sun): MNS Photogroup outing
to Parit Jawa (Selangor Branch)
Parit Jawa is located south of Muar and consists of a few
villages, Kampung Parit Pulai, Parit Samsu, Parit Limbong,
Parit Kassim, Parit Sri, Parit Gantong, Parit Nipah and Bukit
Mor. There is a small town, fishing villages, kampung area,
rice fields and a place ideal for bird photography. We are
focusing on Nature Photography and will spend some time
taking photos of the environment.
You may be richer for the experience. You will probably
wait for the precious golden sunset or morning sunrise
while catching the water reflection. You may also capture the
fishermen going about their daily life or catch the shore birds
dancing in the air or mudskippers doing housekeeping around
the nest. All it takes is just to let your imagination go wild
and take your photography to the next level.
Cost of trip: RM145.00. This will be an overnight
stay in Parit Jawa. Trip includes: Carpooling (4 persons per
car), 1 dinner and 1 breakfast, insurance and lodging.
To register, please email: Wong Kim Seng at
wks28065@live.com to secure a place with information
details including your MNS membership number, name and
expiry date.
Non-MNS members are allowed to participate provided
they pay up the fee for the trip and a fee for new member
application. Please book early as there are only limited
places available.
17 (Sat): Visit to Berembun Forest Reserve,
Negeri Sembilan
Berembun Forest Reserve in Negeri Sembilan is a secondary
lowland forest, and stretches from the outskirts of Seremban
through to Kuala Pilah, Negeri Sembilan. The forest reserve
was gazetted a protected area during the colonial times. Its
importance is due to the water catchment area that supplies
Seremban water needs.
Start the morning with a visit to a show house constructed
from interlocking bricks on the way to Pantai, near
the Veterinary Department.
After that, proceed to the Berembun Forest Reserve.
Activities include walk through the forest reserve, bird
watching/photography and a visit to Orang Asli communities.
Swimming is possible but not advisable. Bring packed lunch,
insect repellent and leach socks if you are concerned.
Location: N 2° 49’ 1” E 102° 2’ 59”
Some info on Berembun forest reserve is available at
http://www.journeymalaysia.com/MR_berembun.htm
Information on the show house is available at www.geniusgreenway.com
Meet at Senawang toll at 8.30am for a 20-minute drive to
Pantai town, where the show house is, then towards Berembun
Forest Reserve.
Coordinators: Ms Kok Chow Hioong (SMS to 013-2929618),
Stephanie Bacon (012-2175590, cooltek@streamyx.com )
18 (Sun): Birdwatching at Bukit Palong,
Kedah (Penang Branch)
The Penang Branch will be making a trip to Bukit Palong
in Kedah to try and catch the late autumn migrants and also
watch out for migrant raptors. This will be a whole day event.
We need to carpool, to confirm places and for more information
call Choo Eng at 019-4484344 or e-mail Kanda at
mnspenang@yahoo.com
28 (Wed): MNS Photogroup Indoor Talk -
Faces of Nature by Sanjitpaal Singh (Selangor
Branch)
Venue: MNS HQ Auditorium
Time: 8.00pm
Sanjitpaal Singh is an established Malaysian nature and
wildlife photographer. He has been in the field for over 8
years and has been awarded numerous awards, amongst them
the semifinalist for BBC-Shell Wildlife Photographer of the
Year Award in 2006 & 2007, and received the “Malaysian
One Earth Award” in 2009. He has also received numerous
accreditations working together with environmental NGOs,
magazines and daily press. His latest photography award is
the prestigious International Photography Award 2012 where
he bags the second prize in the Nature - Tree category.
Come and learn from one of our great local nature
photographers. This talk is open to all MNS members.
December
9 (Sun): Introduction to bird watching at
Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM)
,Kuala Lumpur.
What is bird watching? Why bird watch? You might ask. To
find out, come join Selangor Branch Bird Group’s annual
“Introduction to Bird Watching” event.
This event is open to the public. So it is a great opportunity
to bring along family members, friends, both senior
and junior, and help in our efforts to grow the bird watching
community. We will have telescopes ready to ensure “close
encounters” with these fascinating feathered friends, which is
the best way to introduce this fun, fulfilling yet challenging
outdoor activity to any nature lovers.
Meet at the car park opposite the primary school
(inside FRIM) at Jalan Kapur @ 7.30 am. It is located on
the 1st. left turn after the guard house. The event shall end at
noon.
Bring along binoculars, drinking water, light snacks,
mosquito repellant & umbrella. Wear dull coloured clothes,
hat & comfortable shoes.
Pre-registration is not compulsory but advance
notice of your attendance is appreciated. To register or for
more info, call (aft.8pm) or SMS (anytime) Mr Liung @ 012-
3127998 or Mr Andy @ 012-3993193. Hope to see everyone
there.
15 (Sat) - 17 (Mon): Gunung Irau Trek
For more information, refer to Ad on page 5 or send an email
to scubasim@gmail.com
8

MNS HQ
JKR 541, Jalan Kelantan,
Bukit Persekutuan, 50480 Kuala Lumpur
(just before the Seri Perdana turn-off on
Jalan Mahameru).
Mon-Fri: 9am-5:30pm.
Tel: 03-22879422. Fax: 03-22878773.
Emaiil: mns@mns.org.my
Web: 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.
BRANCH EXCO MEMBERS 2012-2013
Johor Branch
c/o Vincent Chow
32, Jln Molek 3/11, Tmn Molek, 81100 JB, Johor
Website: www.mnsj.org.my; Blog: www.mnsj.org.my
Chairman: Vincent Chow (019-7557755, vkkchow@yahoo.
com)
Vice-Chair: Wee Soon Chit (012-7112112, soonchit@hotmail.
com)
Secretary: Zalinah Bt Sarpan (013-7722229, anggun_firama@yahoo.co.uk)
Kuching Branch (Sarawak)
Email: mnskuching@gmail.com
Chairman: Anthony C.Sebastian (aonyxenvironmental@
gmail.com)
Vice-Chair: Cheong Ah Kwan (019-8349499, kwan_indutek@hotmail.com)
Secretary: Chan Mei Ching, Zora Sharon (019-8279881,
zorachan76@yahoo.com)
Miri Branch (Sarawak)
Email: mnsmiri@yahoo.com; Blog: mnsmiri.blogspot.com
Chairman: Musa Musbah (016-8746127, sammua@yahoo.
com)
Vice-Chair: Yeo Hong Yan, John (drjyeo@gmail.com)
Secretary: Joyce Vikneswari Sivalingam (012-4604609,
jvsivalingam@hotmail.com)
Selangor Branch
c/o MNS HQ address
Website: www.mns.my/selangor; Email: mns.selangor@
gmail.com; E-group: malaysiannaturesociety@yahoogroups.
com
Chairman: K. S. Goh, Henry (012-3669930, henrygks10@
gmail.com)
Vice-Chair: Mohala Santharamohana (017-8896656, s_mohala@yahoo.com)
Secretary: Gan Li Li (012-2074840,pat_ganll@hotmail.com)
Terengganu Branch
Address: 1926, Bkt Kubang Jambu, 20050 Kuala Terengganu.
Emai: mnsterengganu@gmail.com
Chairman: Hj Wan Md Adnan Bin Wan Ismail (017-9861926,
mnsterengganu@gmail.com)
Vice-Chair: Wong Chee Ho (012-2688545, cheeho@umt.edu.
my)
Secretary: Anuar Abdullah McAfee (012 948 1771, anuar@
ms.kusza.edu.my)
Kedah Branch
Address: 5, Belakang Hospital, 09300 Kuala Ketil, Kedah;
Email: kedahmns@yahoogroups.com
Chairman: Kalaimani A/L Supramaniam (019-4733505,
maniria@yahoo.com)
Vice-Chair: Nordiana Binti Zainordin (012-5377914,
nz1808@yahoo.com)
Secretary: Mohammad Fauzi Bin Baharom (013-5215025,
mfauzidesaman@yahoo.com.my)
Kelantan Branch
Address: 204, Jln Sultan Yahya Petra, 15150 Kota Bharu,
Kelantan; Email: shown88@streamyx.com
Chairman: Aweng A/L Eh Rak (aweng@umk.edu.my)
Vice-Chair: Mohd Razali B Che Ali (017-9386015, calmoraz@yahoo.com)
Secretary: Wong Mei Lin (019-9109073, meklawa@gmail.
com)
Langkawi Branch
Email: mnslangkawi@yahoogroups.com
Chairman: Eric R. Sinnaya (019-4499142, morahols@gmail.
com)
Vice-Chair: Teoh Cheng Kung (wildlifeplanet@gmail.com)
Secretary: Daisy Jeyarani A/P Samuel (daisy_samuel_2005@
yahoo.com)
Negeri Sembilan/Melaka Branch
c/o Cooltek, 350 Jln Woodland, Tiara Melaka Golf& Country
Club, Ayer Keroh, 75450 Melaka
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
Address: F-4-4, Jln Padang Golf, 25050 Kuantan.
Email: mnspahang@yahoo.com
Chairman: Noor Jehan Bt. Abu Bakar (019-9525588, versed_
anggerik@yahoo.com)
Vice-Chair: Jean Wong (017-9379688, jean9688@yahoo.
com)
Secretary: Chow Mee Foong (019-9515169, chowmeefoong@yahoo.com)
9

Penang Branch
Address: Nature Information Centre (NIC), 673-B Jln Kebun
Bunga, 10350 Penang. Tel: 04-2273673 (Please phone before
visiting). Open Mon-Sat, 7.30a.m. – 11.30a.m.
website: www.geocities.com/mnspenang/
Blog: mnspenang@yahoogroups.com
Chairman: Tan Choo Eng (019-4484344, chooengtan@
yahoo.com)
Vice-Chair: James Ooi Teik Kok (jamesooiteikkok@yahoo.
com)
Secretary: Tan Pek Tao, Peggy (016-4200990, tpeggypeach@
yahoo.com)
Perak Branch
Address: 8, Jln Virgo, Star Park, 31400 Ipoh.
Email mnsperak@gmail.com
Blog: mnsperak@yahoogroups.com
Chairman: Lee Ping Kong (016-5655682, lpk682@yahoo.
com)
Vice-Chair: Leow Kon Fah (019-5634598, leow_kingfisher@
yahoo.com)
Secretary: Tham Yim Fong (012-5220268, georgi8tham@
yahoo.com)
Sabah Branch
Chairman: Omar Abdul Kadir (019-8110125, omar_kadir51@
yahoo.com)
Vice-Chair: Anna Wong (013-8560000, anna888@ums.edu.
my)
Secretary: Shim Yen Ling (micesja@gmail.com)
Sandakan Branch (Sabah)
Address: Lot 322, Lorong Pertama 17, Tmn Pertama, 90000
Sandakan.
Chairman: Chow Kok Cheng, Charles (013-8866968, kcccharles@yahoo.com)
Vice-Chair: Mohamad Bin Bakar (016-8309718)
Secretary: Shane Ho Tshun Wei (016-8310220, shanehtw@
yahoo.com)
MOUNTAIN GOAL ADVENTURE CONSULTANT (742912-V)
Website: http://www.mymountaingoal.com. E-mail: goalus@mymountaingoal.com
Everest Base Camp via Gokyo Lake trek from 01/11/2012 to 16/11/2012 (16D15N)
(Confirmed Trip)
Experience the culture of the Sherpas in route to Khumbu village. Enjoy a climb to the scintillating Kalapattar
5,545m./18190ft, one of the most spectacular vantage points in the Everest region. Explore enchanting views of Everest,
Pumori, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu and many other towering peaks. Two free training trips will provided for the
Everest Base Camp trip.
Contact : Thong at goalus@mymountaingoal.com H/P : 016-6375622 Off : 03-40248896
Further info please sign in:www.mymountaingoal.com/everestkalapattar.htm
MT Fansipan and Halong bay Expedition from 30/04/2013 to 05/04/2013
Fansipan is branded “the Roof of Indochina” at the height of 3,143m; Fansipan is to be approved as one of the very few ecotourist
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 human presence. The
site’s outstanding scenic beauty is complemented by its great biological interest. One free training trip will provided for the
Fansipan trekking.
Contact : Thong at goalus@mymountaingoal.com H/P : 016-6375622 Off : 03-40248896
Further info please sign in: http://www.mymountaingoal.com/Vietnam_FanHasch.htm
10

SUSTED 2012
INTERNATIONAL SEMINAR ON
SUSTAINABLE TROPICAL
ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN 2012
The aim of the conference is to bring together researchers and practitioners involve
in sustainability to present and discuss their research and developmental activities
related to the topic. the conference will serve as a platform for participants to
exchange new ideas, experiences and knowledge as well as to establish networking
for future collaborations. The conference will consist of invited papers from prominent
researchers and practitioners, technical paper presentations and discussions.
Selected papers will be published in a special issue of the refereed and citied journal
Alam Cipta: International Journal on Sustainable Tropical Design Research
and Practice, and Design and Applied Arts Index (DAAI).
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
Anyone who feels responsible towards their environment including planners, architects,
landscape architects, interior architects, artists, engineers, educators, researchers,
foresters, horticulturists, property developers, local council administrators,
students, etc.
CPD POINTS
Participation in SusTED'12 may earn CPD points from PAM, MIP, ILAM, and
IEM.
Date : 26 - 27 November 2012
Venue : FRSB Lecture Hall,
Faculty Of Design And Architecture
Universiti Putra Malaysia
43400, Serdang,
Selangor, Malaysia.
For more info, log on to the Internet and visit: www.frsb.upm.edu.my/susted/
11

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
email 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.
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).
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.
Pencinta Alam Editors
Iska Hashim 03-20732355 (o)
Kay Lyons 03-79814271
Khor Hui Min 017-8817714
Nature Owlet
@ The MNS Shop
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 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.
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
sent for recycling by DOE approved recycling
establishment. Contact Kanda
at 013-4537992 for more information
or check out Penang Branch web pages
12