PENCINTA ALAM - Malaysian Nature Society (MNS)

PENCINTA ALAM 

NEWSLETTER OF THE MALAYSIAN NATURE SOCIETY 

www.mns.my November 2010 

Save the Selangor 

Pygmy Flying Squirrel! 

The following letter was sent to the Selangor Menteri 

Besar and media” 

The Malaysian Nature Society notes with 

deep concern that the Selangor State Government 

plans to destroy the home of the Selangor Pygmy 

Flying Squirrel. This species of squirrel has only ever 

been found in the lowland forest of Kuala Langat, 

Klang and Kapar. The species (whose scientific 

name is Petaurillus kinlochii) is considered to be endemic 

to Malaysia and is thus one of our national 

treasures. 

One of the only known locations where the 

Selangor Pygmy Flying Squirrel is found was the 

Kuala Langat Utara Forest Reserve (located next to 

the ELITE Highway). Much of the forest in this area 

has been destroyed for oil palm, housing and sand 

mining. The squirrels managed to survive in a portion 

of the forest that was protected as a forest reserve, 

however, on 22 July 2010 the Selangor State 

Government announced that it had excised this reserve. 

A total of 63.54 hectares of good lowland 

dipterocarp forest and peat swamp forest will now 

be cleared for development. The flying squirrels are 

just one of the thousands of animals and plants living 

in this patch of forest. 

The decision to clear the forest makes a 

mockery of the State Government’s announcement 

last year that there will be a moratorium on logging 

activities in the state. Furthermore, the Menteri 

Besar recently announced that green lungswill be 

preserved under the Selangor Blueprint consultation 

process. 

Unfortunately, actions speak louder than 

words and the excision of the Kuala Langat forest 

has already been published in the State Government 

Gazette (Gazette Number 2262). 

The flying squirrels and the entire ecosystem 

of the forest are a part of our natural heritage that we 

have been entrusted to safeguard for future generations. 

The Malaysian Nature Society appeals to the 

Menteri Besar, Tan Sri Khalid Ibrahim, to reconsider 

the decision to destroy the Kuala Langat forest and 

protect the area from further destruction. 

Gary Phong 

Chairman 

on behalf of Selangor Branch 

Malaysian Nature Society 

MNS Selangor – Marine SIG report 

International Beach 

Clean-up Day at Redang 

I haven’t been to Redang Island since my student 

days a decade ago. So, I was quite looking forward 

to a trip to Redang with friends from the 

Malaysian Nature Society, from 17 Sept to 19 Sept 

2010, in conjunction with International Beach Cleanup 

Day. 

Going to the sea is like going home, and my 

hopes for the three days were realised. The weather 

was good and the sea was kind to us. Bleached coral 

and coral rubble were a common sight though, and 

that was the reality of the situation. How will the 

corals fair in the face of climate change, rising sea 

temperatures and rising sea levels in the next few 

decades, besides the threat of devastation from destructive 

fishing gear and uncontrolled development? 

A total of 32 pax from MNS made it to 

Redang, consisting of snorkellers and divers. We 

made up about half of the people who were there for 

the International Beach Clean-up Day programme, 

organised by Scuba Amigo, and supported by 

Pelangi Beach Resort, Marine SIG of MNS Selangor 

Branch and Project AWARE. 

continues next page 

1

Member’s Report 

Outreach programme 

in Kinta Nature Park 

MNS Perak recently received 

a last minute distress call to brief 

Perak Tour Guide Association on 

Kinta Nature Park (KNP). Thankfully, 

a small group of members volunteered 

and saved the day. This was 

also a great opportunity to showcase 

KNP to wider audience in the hope 

that more eco-tourist arrivals with 

build a stronger case for KNP’s 

gazzettement by the Perak government. 

Held on Sept 22, 

2010, between 3:30 – 

5:30pm, 40 over licensed 

tour guides arrived in busload 

amid stormy weather. 

The gloom failed to 

dampen the event as our members were aptly 

equipped with long-range scopes for bird appreciation. 

Under the comfort of shelter, participants enjoyed 

glimpses of bird species while listening to 

pointers by birding veterans from MNS Perak's Bird 

SIG. 

Perak Tourist Guide Association chairman 

Roselyn Lim thanked MNS Perak for our quick response 

and kind gesture of hosting the field trip. She 

lamented that the association members are lacking 

in skills and expertise on ecotourism, thus unable to 

explore Perak’s natural heritage sites to the fullest 

potential. The KNP field trip hosted by MNS Perak 

also stressed on how urgent it is to get Perak's ecosites 

preserved and managed properly. 

She hoped that with more collaboration with 

MNS Perak, we can all work together to convince 

the Perak state government on the high ecology, 

economy and social values of KNP. 

- Casey Ng 

International Beach Clean-Up, from page 1 

On the morning of the beach clean-up, 

around 70 participants broke up into their pre-assigned 

groups and made their way to their pre-assigned 

sectors at Pasir Panjang beach to begin work. 

There were 6 groups and I was leader of Group 6. 

My group-mates diligently picked up bits of rubbish 

scavenged from the beach and showed each piece to 

me, and then I noted all the items down in the survey 

form. It was really hot and sunny at 10am, but my 

group, including Fong, Fiona, Ilyas, Sollihein and 

Dr. Tan, did their work well and nobody suffered 

from fried brains thereafter. 

I would also like to point out we saw a remarkable 

spectacle at the Pasir Panjang area – huge 

monitor lizards up high on coconut palms, just below 

the leaves, at sunrise. We thought they were sunbathing. 

Also, I rather liked the friendly squirrels that 

would come down from the trees to see us, in the 

hope that we might offer them morsels of food. I 

practised yoga on the porch on Friday and Saturday 

– an inquisitive squirrel or two came down on both 

days to check what it was all about. I thought it was 

rather amusing. 

Thanks to Dr. Kana Kula of Marine SIG for 

taking the lead in the organising of the trip. Thanks 

also to Assoc. Prof. Liew Hock Chark of Universiti 

Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) for giving a talk on the 

marine environment and turtles on the evening of 

Saturday, 18 Sept 2010. 

We’ll be back again next year. 

- Article by Khor Hui Min; 

photo by Saliyaty Dora Md Ramly 

2

MNS elects 

new president 

25 Sept 2010, Tangkak, Johor. - The Malaysian Nature 

Society (MNS) elected a new president today. 

Associate Prof Dr Maketab Mohamed, 51, is the 20th 

president of MNS since the society was founded in 

1940. Dr Maketab, a lecturer at Universiti Teknologi 

Malaysia (UTM), was elected at the society's 63rd 

Annual General Meeting held at Taman Rimba Lagenda 

Ledang near here. 

The AGM also passed a motion calling for a 

moratorium on the release of genetically modified 

organisms into the environment. In addition the 

AGM saw the election of new members to the society's 

council and board of trustees. 

In accepting the presidency of the society, Dr 

Maketab said: “I would like to thank the trust given 

by MNS members to me as the new President and to 

MNS members in Taman Hutan Lagenda, Johor 

Assoc Prof Dr Maketab Mohamed 

the new Council members. At the same time, I would 

like to thank the outgoing Council members, especially 

Tan Sri Dr Salleh Mohd Nor, the Immediate 

Past President, who have carried out their duties diligently.” 

Dr Maketab holds a PhD in Watershed Science 

and has over 25 years of professional experience, 

specialising in environmental hydrology. He 

pledges to lead the MNS team towards reinforcing 

its vital role as Malaysia’s oldest and largest 

membership-based conservation organisation 

by addressing emerging threats head-on and 

strengthening MNS Branches; the key to MNS’ 

power-base. 

Dr Maketab said: “Now the hard part – we 

(MNS Council) have to work hard for the next 

two years to fulfill our KPIs as indicated in our 

manifesto towards making tangible conservation 

impacts on the ground. Core to this is halting 

the conversion of natural forest to 

plantations, such as oil palm or latex timber 

clones (LTC), and protecting Malaysia’s 

wildlife.” 

Dr Maketab said: “Of course, we would bring 

COUNCIL 2010-2012 

President: Assoc Prof Dr Maketab Mohamed 

Vice Presidents: Jeffrey Phang 

Kalaimani Subramaniam 

Hon Secretary: Lim Teck Wyn 

Hon Treasurer: Jenny Yow Ngan Chee 

Committee Members: Prof Dr Ahmad Ismail 

Dr Catherine Yule 

Harban Singh 

Kanitha Krishnasamy 

Datin Nadzriyah 

S M Marathamuthu 

Immediate Past President: 

Tan Sri Dr Salleh Mohd Nor 

BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2010-2013 

Tan Sri G. K. Rama Iyer 

Prof Datin Dr Ann Anton 

Dato Ghazali Dato Yusoff 

Datuk Dr Abdul Aziz S A Kadir 

Dr Low Hin Yang 

John Koh Seng Siew 

Lim Aun Tiah 

Mah Teck Oon 

the cooperation with our partners in conservation, 

such as WWF, GEC, Sahabat Alam and others to 

greater heights. We believe in mutual respect and 

want see that our work in conservation is synergised 

with other conservation organisations, as well as 

other NGOs working on issues such as freedom of 

information and environmental justice.” 

Dr Maketab is a long-standing MNS member 

and is also the current Chairman for the society’s 

Johor Branch, a position he has held since 2006. 

- Lim Teck Wyn. Photos: Bobby Yap 

3

MNS continues to be the Ambassador in championing 

the protection of Malaysia’s natural heritage 

Since its inception in 1940, MNS has highlighted 

pertinent issues in tropical biodiversity and provided platforms 

to enable participants and expert groups to discuss 

opportunities and recommendations on the way forward in 

sustainably manage Malaysia’s biodiversity. 

MNS organized a 2-day International Conference 

entitled “Challenges and Solutions for Tropical Biodiversity” 

last month. 

Some of the Key Highlights: 

• H.R.H Raja Muda of Perak 

Raja Dr Nazrin Shah mentioned 

in his royal address “Safeguarding 

Malaysia’s Biodiversity For 

Our Future” the effectiveness of 

policies and laws is only as good 

as their implementation and enforcement. 

He said limited finances, inadequate expertise 

and poor governance would all lead to haphazard implementation 

and enforcement. Existing laws should be reviewed, 

updated or replaced to reflect contemporary 

realities. More importantly, we need to think global and act 

local in tackling the biodiversity issues we face in 

Malaysia; 

• Dr. Marco Lambertini, Chief Executive 

of Birdlife International 

proposes that countries have to 

change the way we value Nature. 

We have to put a price tag on nature’s 

services in recognising the value of the natural capital 

and the benefits of natural services; and 

• Dr Zakri Abdul Hamid, Science Advisor to PM reiterates 

the communication, education and public awareness 

HRH Raja Nazrin receiving the 

token of appreciation depicting the 

10 species of Hornbills found in 

Belum Temengor, Perak 

An estimated of 100 delegates at the 

MNS International Conference 

(CEPA) on biodiversity should be 

further intensified as there is a 

growing environmentally conscious 

stakeholders amongst the 

corporate and government in 

wanting to preserve biodiversity and developing new products 

or ideas from renewable natural resources. 

And many more interesting speakers!! Full proceedings 

will be compiled and produced as a Special Edition 

of Malayan Nature Journal and will be available in the 

1st Quarter of 2011. If you are keen to obtain the proceedings, 

email Leong Wee Chin at membership@mns.org.my 

4

MNS Rules & Regulations 

Understanding the different classifications of 

Membership 

MNS has a total of nine (9) different membership classifications where 

individuals, institutions, corporations and societies can support MNS mission 

and objectives. The detailed listing is provided in Clause 9 of MNS Rules and 

Regulations: 

1. Ordinary Membership 

2. Life Membership 

3. Family Membership 

4. Student Membership 

5. Corporate Membership 

6. Honorary Membership 

7. Institutional Membership 

8. Affiliates Membership 

9. Friends of MNS 

EXISTING CLAUSE IN MNS PROPOSED CHANGES TO MNS 

RULES AND REGULATIONS RULES AND REGULATIONS 

Ordinary Membership under Clause 10 Ordinary Membership under Clause 10 

Ordinary membership shall be open to Ordinary membership shall only be 

persons who are above 18 years of age open to individual persons who are 

and interested in the natural history of above 18 years of age. Ordinary membership 

carries one vote each. 

Malaysia and the surrounding region. 

Ordinary membership carries one vote 

each. 

Life Membership under Clause 10 No changes to this category of membership 

Life membership shall only be open to 

individual persons. Life membership 

carries one vote each. 

Family Membership under Clause 11 Family Membership under Clause 11 

Family membership shall be open to Family membership shall be open to 2 

the spouse and children under 18 years adults and all children up to age 18 

of any ordinary or life member. A registered at one address, and entitle 

child shall cease to be a family member 

on reaching 18 years of age and if membership. Family membership car- 

them to all the privileges of ordinary 

he or she so wishes to continue to be a ries two (2) votes. 

member of the society, convert his or 

EXISTING CLAUSE IN MNS 

RULES AND REGULATIONS 

(Family Membership continues) 

her membership to that of a student or 

ordinary member. 

Each family membership, irrespective 

of the number, carries only one vote. 

Only the principal member is eligible 

to serve on the Council or Board of 

Trustees. 

PROPOSED CHANGES TO MNS 


Student Membership under Clause 12 Replace with Junior Membership 

Student membership shall be open to Persons up to the age of 18 years old. 

all persons under the age of 18 and any Junior members shall not have any 

bonafide full-time students up to undergraduate 

level. Students over 18 

voting rights. 

shall be required to produce proof of 

full-time studentship. Under the Universities 

and College Act, university 

and college students require the written 

permission of their respective Vice- 

Chancellor or Principals before they 

can join the Society. 

Student members shall be entitled to 

all privileges of Society except that 

only those over 21 years of age shall 

be eligible to serve on the Board of 

Trustees or Council. Student members 

shall not have any voting rights. 

5



Corporate Membership under Clause 

13 

Corporate membership shall be open to 

such lawfully constituted corporations, 

firms and commercial bodies as are approved 

by the Council at a rate of not 

less than RM5,000.00 per annum. 

Corporate may nominate one representative 

to attend and vote at the meetings 

and 6 representatives to take part 

in activities of the Society, but shall 

not be eligible to serve on the Board of 

Trustees, Council or Branch committee. 



Rebrand the Corporate Membership as 

Corporate Supporter which would be 

considered a donor. 

Institutional Membership under Clause This category remains unchanged. 

14 

Institutional membership shall be open 

to such lawfully constituted institutions, 

Societies or schools as are approved 

by Council. 

Honorary Membership under Clause 

15 

Honorary membership may be 

awarded to persons who; 

(i) have rendered valuable services to 

the society; or 

(ii) have made outstanding contribution 

to the study of the natural history 

of Malaysia and the surrounding region 

– if such award is supported by 

not less than six (6) members of the 

Society and is approved by the 

Honorary Membership under Clause 

15 

Honorary Membership may be 

awarded to members who; 

(i) have rendered valuable services to 

the society; or 

(ii) have made outstanding contribution 

to the study of the natural history 

of Malaysia and the surrounding region 

– if such award is supported by 

not less than six (6) members of the 

Society and is approved by the 



(Honorary Membership continues) 

Council; 

(iii) Honorary members shall be entitled 

to all the privileges of the Society, 

but shall not have any voting rights nor 

shall they be eligible to serve on the 

Board of Trustees, Council or Branch 

Committee. 



Council; 

(iii) Honorary members shall be entitled 

to all the privileges of the ordinary 

members; and 

(iv) Honorary membership shall have 

to be members of good standing of not 

less than 5 years. 

Affiliates under Clause 17 

Affiliates under Clause 17 

Affiliates of MNS shall be open to any This category remains unchanged except 

the annual fee is determined by 

legal non-profit organizations, societies 

or clubs as approved by Council. Council. 

These organizations, societies or clubs 

may have their own constitutions complementary 

to the mission and objectives 

of the MNS. Council shall have 

the sole discretion to offer, withdraw, 

set terms, conditions and privileges of 

this category. Affiliates can organize 

activities jointly or in association with 

MNS that are consistent with the objectives 

of the Society. A limited number 

of members of affiliates can 

participate in selected branch activities 

with the approval of the branch concerned. 

Withdrawal of affiliate status 

shall have immediate effect to any organization 

if the organization is 

deemed to be acting against the objectives 

and mission of the Society or is 

bringing disrepute to the Society. In 

such cases, the annual subscription fee 

6



(Affliates continues) 



is non-returnable. Annual fees are calculated 

based on two ringgit per member 

of the affiliate with a minimum of 

five hundred ringgit of less than 50 

members and one thousand ringgit 

minimum if less than 500 members. 

Friends of MNS under Clause 18 

Friends of MNS (FOM) will be open 

to members of the public who are interested 

in supporting the Society but 

not willing to be directly involved with 

the activities of the Society. They will 

pay a minimum of RM100 for 10 

years. They do not enjoy any benefit 

and privileges awarded to members of 

the Society. They will be exempted 

from paying the entrance fee if they 

become a member. Members who 

membership has expired and do not 

wish to renew membership may also 

opt to be a Friends of MNS if they 

wish. 

Friends of MNS under Clause 18 

Friends of MNS (FOM) will be open 

to members of the public who are interested 

in supporting the Society but 

not willing to be directly involved with 

the activities of the Society. 

The amount of contribution is determined 

by Council. 

Are the proposed changes acceptable to members? Take this opportunity 

to share with MNS Council and forward your comments to hod.services@mns.org.my 

- Maye Yap, MNS Head of Services 

(742912-V) 

Website: http://www.mymountaingoal.com 

Contact : Thong at goalus@mymountaingoal.com 

H/P : 016-6375622 Off : 03-40248896 

MT Fansipan & Halong bay Expedition, 18/11/2010 to 24/11/2010 

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 trip. Further info please sign in: 

http://www.mymountaingoal.com/Vietnam_FanHasch.htm 

SIKKIM Goechala Trek, 05/05/2011 to 20/05/2011 

Small but beautiful, Sikkim is situated in the Eastern Himalayas. Spread below the Mount 

Khangchendzonga (8534m), the 

third highest mountain in the 

world, and revered by the 

Sikkimese as their protective 

deity. Sikkim shares her border 

with Tibet in the north, Bhutan in 

the east, Nepal in the south. Amidst the grandeur of the mountain peak, lush valleys, fastflowing 

rivers, terraced hill. Sikkim offers her visitors a rare and singular experience. 

Within a matter of hours one can move from the sub-tropical heat of the valley to the 

cold of the rugged mountain slopes that reach up to the area of perpetual snow. 

In this trek you walk through verdant tropical and alpine forests where a great 

variety of orchids and rhododendrons and prim leas carpet the alpine terrain. The valleys 

are warm and one can expect temperatures around 35 degrees Celsius while night temperature 

drops below zero degrees Celsius. 

Two free Training trip will provided for the trip. Further info please sign in: 

http://www.mymountaingoal.com/backpackn-india-3.htm 

7

Member’s Report 

Reliving the Legacy of Gunung Lanno 

Speleological Expedition 2001 

Caving in Gunung Lanno, Malaysia (example of tropical karst) 

- caves loaded with stalactites, stalagmites, columns and water 

base speleothems 

On 24th Sep 2010, the Geology, Caving and 

Trekking SIG of MNS Perak launched its first programme. 

Ramli Mohd Osman, team leader of the Group 

delivered a talk on "Reliving the Legacy of Gunung 

Lanno Speleological Expedition 2001". Twenty one participants 

attended the presentation focusing on: 

Part 1 – Introduction on limestone rock and the 

conservation of limestone hills and caves; and 

Part 2 - About caving in Totes Gebirge, Austria 

(an example of alpine karst) and Gunung Lanno, Malaysia 

(an example of tropical karst) 

Generally, limestone is formed from accumulation 

of thick layers of calcareous skeletons of marine invertebrates 

such as corals, sea urchins, brachiopods, 

bivalves, crinoids and gastropods. Under compaction and 

cementation these layers become bedded limestone formation. 

Limestone consists principally of calcium carbonate 

derived from the skeletons of marine invertebrates 

with impurities such as clay, silt, sand and iron. Dissolution 

of calcium carbonate from the limestone leave behind 

red soils called terra rosa 

which is alkaline with pH greater 

than 8. These soils accumulate in 

pockets, depressions, and cracks 

and crevices of a limestone hill. 

Due to the presence of these soils, 

plants would later colonize the 

hill. 

Dr. S.C. Chin, in his PhD 

thesis in 1977, identified 1,216 

species of limestone flora in 

Peninsular Malaysia. Of these, 

258 species (21%) were identified to be exclusives. These 

plants require environment with high pH for growth and 

survival. Among these 258 species, 76 species were identified 

to be endemic to Malaysia. 

Invertebrates that are specially adapted to limestone 

hills are the snails that require calcium carbonate to 

produce their shells. A number of these limestone hill 

snails are also endemic to Malaysia. 

The calcium carbonate of limestone is readily 

soluble in rain water producing karst topography which 

includes limestone pavements, sink holes, dolines, karst 

towers, caverns and caves. 

Limestone have many uses such as in making 

building blocks, dimension 

stones, aggregates, 

cement, lime, iron and 

steel industry, fillers 

and pigments, glass industry, 

mineral supple- 

Caving in Totes Gebirge, Austria (example of alpine 

karst) - caves with no stalactites, stalagmites, 

columns or water base speleothems 

ment, precipitated 

calcium carbonate and 

other industrial uses. 

Since limestone has 

many uses, there is a 

conflict between conservation 

and exploitation 

of limestone hills. 

Department of Mineral and Geoscience report 

(2008), noted that there are 308 quarries in Malaysia. 

Sixty eight (22%) of these are limestone quarries. Of the 

68 limestone quarries in Malaysia, 34 (50%) are located 

in Perak, making the state of Perak having the highest 

number of limestone quarries in Malaysia. The issue of 

conservation of limestone hills and their associated caves 

are therefore the highest in Perak. 

Limestone is not exclusively found in Malaysia. 

It is found in all continents and most countries in the 

world. Some of these countries produce the most magnificent 

of mountain ranges of limestone such as Totes 

Gebirge in Austria and spectacular caves such as Mammoth 

Cave in Kentucky, USA, which is the longest in the 

world at 591 km. 

It is estimated that there are 1,302 limestone hills 

and 1,722 caves in Malaysia. Perak has 80 limestone hills 

with 192 caves. The highest number of limestone hills and 

caves in Perak is in the Kinta Valley that has 45 limestone 

hills and 135 caves. 

The international speleological expedition of 

2001 that consists of 10 speleologists: 5 from Austria, 3 

from Germany, 1 from Britain and 1 from Malaysia discovered, 

studied, surveyed and registered 36 caves in Gunung 

Lanno and 1 cave in Gunung Merawan. 

- Text & Photos: Ramli Mohd Osman 

8

Title: Marine Group Trip to Redang Island 

Date: 17-19 Sept 2010 

Photos by: Khor Hui Min 

Description: These photos were taken during 

the 3D/2N trip to Redang Island organised by 

the Marine Group of MNS Selangor Branch to 

participate in the International Beach Clean-up 

Day, sponsored by Project AWARE. All featured 

photos were taken on 18 Sept 

2010. 

Member’s Gallery 

Are all your images stored in a computer or on CDs? Why not share the beauty of nature and/or any 

MNS/SIG-related events with your fellow MNS members? All you need are 5-6 photos - whether it’s 

a SIG outing, your 101st bird race or that gorgeous sunrise you woke up early for. All levels of phototaking 

abilities welcomed. E-mail Pencinta Alam (tapir2005@gmail.com) your name, what your photo 

essay is about, where you went, and if you can remember, the date, and watch this space. 

9

MNS Merdeka 

Award Fund 

This issue with feature the remaining 2 projects 

selected under this award. 

PROJECT 3: WATERBIRDS 

The extensive coastline of Sarawak is one of 

the most important wintering grounds for waterbirds 

in Malaysia. It contains more coastal Important Bird 

Areas (IBAs) than any other state in Malaysia. 

Despite this, the status of waterbirds and their habitats 

on much of the coastline is virtually unknown. 

There has never been a comprehensive coastal waterbird 

survey of Sarawak. 

The Waterbirds and Wetland Habitats Survey 

of the Sarawak Coast proposes to survey waterbirds 

and wetlands habitats along the entire Sarawak coast 

in a comprehensive and systematic way. The results 

of this survey will provide a definitive account of the 

state of waterbird populations and wetland habitats in 

the state; and a baseline for future coastal wetland 

conservation efforts. 

Site: Sarawak Coast 

Volunteer Task: Ground and Aerial survey, and 

community engagement 

Timeline: October 2010 to March 2011 

Coordinator: Dave Bakewell 

Contact: dave@sarawakwaterbirdsurvey.org (if 

you are keen to volunteer, email Dave) 

Q1: Share with the members the objectives of this 

project? 

1) Conduct a survey of the entire coastline of the 

state of Sarawak to identify key waterbird sites and 

to identify and count waterbird populations during 

the northern winter period of October 2010 to March 

2011. 

2) Produce a report on the findings of the survey 

which can function as a basis for future policy and 

management strategies for wetlands and waterbirds 

in Sarawak. 

3) Build capacity of members, participating stakeholders 

and volunteers in waterbird identification 

and monitoring and wetland habitat surveys. 

4) Increase awareness of the importance of the 

Sarawak coastline for waterbirds and wetland habitats 

at local, national and international levels through 

CEPA, training, publications and sharing of output 

with stakeholders and relevant organisations. 

5) Forge working relationships in matters related to 

waterbird biodiversity and wetland habitat conservation 

between MNS and other NGOs, government 

agencies, schools and universities, and private corporations 

in Sarawak and other areas of Malaysia. 

6) Document the process of the survey, from initiation 

to completion, as a model for replication in 

other areas of Malaysia. 

Q2: What activities do you plan to do during the 

duration of this project? 

a) Ground Survey - Survey of sectors by boat, motorbike, 

4WD and on foot; 

b) Aerial Survey - Survey Sectors by aerial survey 

during high tides to identify areas of major waterbird 

concentrations 

c) Training activities - These workshops, consisting 

of indoor and field sessions, will be conducted 

by experienced MNS waterbird experts and volunteers. 

d) In situ community engagement - These will be 

activities with schools and local community; presentations 

and fieldtrips in selected key urban centers 

within each zonal division. 

e) Compiling data and publishing the data in a final 

report. 

Q3: Can MNS members get involved and if yes, 

how can they play their part? 

The Waterbirds Group has been working 

closely with MNS Kuching branch from the inception 

of this project, and there are several Kuching 

branch members already playing key roles in the implementation 

of the project. The field surveys will 

depend to a large extent on the availability of Kuching 

and Miri branch bird groups to take part in field 

surveys, and there are many other opportunities to 

help out in seeking co-funding, helping with logistics, 

data collection, etc. We welcome all offers! 

PROJECT 4: RIVER TERRAPINS 

Dr Chan Eng Heng has been carrying out a 

research and recovery project on the Southern River 

Terrapin (Batagur affinis) in the Setiu River since 

2004. In the past seven years, up to 2,000 river terrapin 

eggs have been saved from human consumption, 

and more than 1,200 river terrapin hatchlings 

have been produced. Six terrapin release events have 

been carried out from 2005 to 2010, during which 

close to 1,000 river terrapins ranging from newlyhatched 

to three-year-olds have been released into 

the Setiu River. 

10

The time has come to train the local community 

to carry out some aspects of the project, such as 

the egg protection and incubation program, headstarting 

of the terrapins and organizing a terrapin release 

event. The monitoring of the incubation process 

and head-starting procedures will be supervised to 

ensure good hatch rates and production of healthy 

terrapins for release. Additionally, the local community 

will be empowered to organize a turtle release 

event according to their creativity and capabilities. 

This will give the local community a sense of ownership 

and belonging to the project. 

Site: Setiu River, Terengganu 

Volunteer Task: Monitoring and Release activities 

Timeline: January – December 2011 

Coordinator: Dr Chan Eng Heng 

Email: enghengchan@gmail.com (if you are 

keen to volunteer, get in touch with her 

Q1: Share with the members the objective of this 

project? 

The major objective is to rehabilitate the depleted 

population of southern river terrapins in the 

Setiu River. In the process of doing this, we hope to 

build not just awareness, but capacity of the local 

community in various aspects of the work involved. 

Our ultimate aim is to get the local villagers to become 

the guardians of their own heritage. 

Q2: What activities do you plan to do during the 

duration of this project? 

Activities will include the following: 

a. Monitoring nesting activities and purchase of eggs 

for incubation; 

b. Incubation of eggs in open-air sand-nests and styrofoam 

boxes; 

c. Monitoring of hatchling emergence; 

d. Head-starting terrapins; and 

e. Release of head-started terrapins. 

Q3: Can MNS members get involved and if yes, 

how can they play their part? 

Yes of course. The first five activities listed 

above will spread over a period of 12 months as 

follows: 

a. January to March: Monitoring nesting activities 

and purchase of eggs for incubation. 

b. March – May: Eggs undergoing incubation. 

c. May – June: Monitoring of hatchling emergence. 

d. June – December: Head-starting work. 

e. December: Terrapin release event. 

From the schedule above, potential volunteers 

can decide when they wish to come participate 

in the project. Apart from the activities of this project, 

volunteers can also get involved in other aspects 

of our work that are sponsored by other agencies. We 

are, at the moment, developing a full-fledged volunteer 

program focused on the river and painted terrapins. 

- Maye Yap, MNS Head of Services 

Corporate members receive Award 

MNS’ 70th Anniversary Award for Environmental 

Leadership were given to several corporate members who 

have played a pivotal role in supporting MNS’ cause throughout 

the years, as a mark of gratitude and acknowledgement. 

Among those who received awards were The Body Shop 

Peninsular Malaysia, Yayasan Sime Darby, HSBC Bank 

Malaysia, Genting Malaysia Berhad, Shell Malaysia Berhad 

and The Frangipani Resort and Spa Langkawi. 

DO SOMETHING 

This month, bring two new persons 

into our MNS membership. 

11

Wildlife Watch: 

Walks that make a Difference 

“What about that?” says Shirley pointing to the 

deadly wire. We turn 

and look. It is a very 

clever snare designed 

to grip an animal’s 

neck anchored by a 

wire wrapped around 

the base of a small 

tree. Once on, it is 

kept tight by a home-made bungee cord of rubber strips 

connected to the wire. The bait is a cunning salt water 

drip made from a bamboo tube that keeps some fruit 

moist and salty 

We record the time and location and photograph 

it before Shirley deactivates the snare and Azura 

throws the salt dispenser far into the forest. Wire snares 

should then be cut into short useless lengths and scattered 

in the jungle. 

Our groups are volunteers co-coordinated by 

MNS Nature Guides to carry out “recreational walks 

with a difference” to enable MNS members to actively 

participate in wildlife conservation. Research suggests 

that sustainable 

recreational 

use 

of wilderness 

areas is 

often beneficial 

to 

wildlife by 

indirectly 

protecting 

them from 

Looking for prints on the banks 

p o a c h e r s . 

Poachers are 

disturbed by 

having people 

around who 

might notice 

them and their 

traps. They 

avoid people 

and prefer remoter 

places, 

thus limiting their impact on wildlife in critical conservation 

areas such as the wildlife corridor. 

Since June, MNS nature guides have been familiarizing 

themselves with the area to bring in groups 

of members to train in tracking animals, detecting 

snares and traps and other forms of illegal activity in 

the state forest. They learn to distinguish tiger from 

leopard prints, and record tiger signs. These data are 

sent to the Malaysian Conservation Alliance for Tigers 

(MYCAT) of which MNS is a member. So far we have 

found hunters, reported gunshots, snares and other 

human activity in the corridor to the authorities through 

the Wildlife Crime Hotline managed by MYCAT. 

Unspoilt and unpolluted lowland forests and 

rivers are increasingly rare in Selangor but these still 

exist in northern Pahang where the walks take place. 

The walks combine recreational activities like bird 

watching, trekking, camping or visiting caves with opportunistic 

survey of wildlife. 

This is a way to wander the forests and streams, 

not just as a tourist, but as a contributor to the conservation 

of the flora and fauna of Malaysia while also 

collecting scientific data to assist monitoring of the 

tiger population. 

If you are interested to take part please contact 

Pasu, pasupathy_jayaraj@yahoo.com, or if you want 

to go on the next trip on 26th-28th November, please 

contact Ilyas on isapiyan@hotmail.com 

Green Living Column 

Banquet Waste 

As Malaysians, we have all been to multiple banquets. 

Weddings, annual dinners, etc. Can you remember, 

the last banquet you’ve been to, were the plates cleaned 

out? Or, like me, you observed outright (or shyly from the 

corner of your eyes) the waiters putting used plates into a 

huge pile of perfectly edible food on the lazy susan to be 

carted off? 

Recent research done by our neighbors in Singapore, 

whose banqueting habits are similar to ours, show that 

on average, there is an estimated 50 kgs of leftovers for an 

event of 700 guests*. (*http://foodwasterepublic.com) 

Kuala Lumpur alone has approximately 150 hotels. 

Assuming only a third of that holds a banquet on a Saturday 

night, that’s is a whopping 2500kg of leftovers which 

could have fed more than 5000 people on a Sunday. 

However, based on preliminary investigation, hotels 

have strict policies on food handling post-serving. I 

have been told that hotels practice that as a standard policy 

as there were customers who were not happy the food they 

paid for is being served to others. 

Now in this case, the onus is on us. Should you, 

your relatives, bosses or friends plan to have a banquet, 

please include plans to make sure leftovers from your 

happy occasion will not only make you and your guests 

happy, but many others who need it most. 

Last December, Green Living highlighted the existence 

of a volunteer-based organization called Food Not 

Bombs KL. The organization saves and recycles “commercially-unwanted” 

foodstuff by gathering it from commercial 

outlets around town, and then cook and serve free 

meals on the streets of KL every weekend. The point? To 

raise awareness on to the problems of wastage and unfair 

food distribution in our society. Contact organisations like 

FNBKL or other charitable homes/organisations on how 

you can contribute effectively. 

- Cindy Chen, gl.mnselangor@yahoo.com 

12

Eco Kids 

Life span of our litter 

Aluminum Can: 200-500 years 

Batteries: 100 years 

Cardboard Box: 4 weeks 

Cigarette Butt: Up to 10 years 

Cotton Rag: 1-5 months 

Disposable Diapers: 500-600 years 

Leather: Up to 50 years 

Lumber, i.e. wood: 10-15 years 

Milk Cartons (plastic-coated): 5 years 

Nylon Fabric: 30-40 years 

Painted Wooden Stake: 13 years 

Glass Bottle: 1 million years 

Monofilament Fishing Line: 800 years 

Orange Peel: 2-5 weeks 

Paper: 2-5 months 

Plastic 6-pack cover: 450 years 

Plastic Bag: Up to 500 years 

Plastic-coated PaPer: 5 years 

Plastic Soft Drink Bottles: It does not biodegrade 

Jute, Hemp or Sisal Rope: 3-14 months 

Rubber boot sole: 50-80 years 

Tin Cans: 50-100 years 

Sanitary Pads: 500-800 years 

Do you know how long it takes these items to biodegrade? 

Plastic Film Container: 20-30 years 

Styrofoam: More than 5,000 years 

Tin Foil: It does not biodegrade 

MNS Royal Dinner 

In conjunction with MNS 70th Anniversary. 

Held at Doubletree by Hilton, Kuala Lumpur on10 

October 2010. For full write up pertaining to the 

Royal Dinner, logon to www.mns.my 

Source: Green Eco Services, www.greenecoservices.com/how-long-does-it-take-for-trash-to-biodegrade/ 

- Wong Ee Lynn, gl.mnselangor@yahoo.com 

Photo Credits: MNS 

13

Are you people-centric, love & appreciate nature 

& adventure, with an outgoing personality & a 

positive attitude? If you aspire to work in a fun, 

exciting & dynamic work environment with attractive 

remuneration package, than we would 

very much like to talk to yuh. 

The Dark Caves at Batu Caves, a natural heritage site of tremendous scientific 

& conservation value, will be re-opened soon as a show-cave for education, 

eco-tourism & conservation. 

Cave Management Group, a cave & protected area management & consultancy 

specialists outfit, are the operators & management company of 

the Dark Caves, appointed by the Malaysian Nature Society. 

We invite interested individuals to apply for the following positions: 

(1) Senior Education Officer/Education Officer/Trainee Education 

Officer – 3 Positions (Full-Time) 

• To conduct Educational & Adventure cave tours to foreign & local visitors 

(successful candidates will undergo comprehensive training) 

• To assist the Senior Education Officer plan, formulate & conduct exciting 

educational tour & training programs to cater for specific groups 

• Participate in promotions & sales campaigns 

• Responsible for the general maintenance & upkeep of the site facility to 

ensure a clean & safe experience for visitors & the cave itself 

Requirements for the above position: 

• SPM/Diploma/Degree qualification 

• Candidates possessing Tour Guide or Teaching experiences/license or Education 

qualification would be favorably considered 

• Fluent in English with good communication and interpersonal skills 

• Ability to speak in a foreign language would be a plus 

• Enjoy working with people of any nationality, including children 

• Positive, vibrant, independent & trustworthy personality 

• A good team player 

• Wiling to work during weekends 

(2) Education Officers/Trainee Education Officers (Part- Time) 

• To assist and if qualified, conduct Educational & Adventure cave tours to 

foreign & local visitors 


• All levels of Part-Timers (experience or knowledge) are welcome as necessary 

training will be provided) 

(3) Ticketing/Sales Assistant – 1 Position 

• SPM or equivalent 


• Positive, vibrant, independent & trustworthy personality 

• A good team player 

• Willing to work during weekends 

Training: For position (1), a comprehensive professional training program 

will be conducted for successful candidates. CPD training will be organized 

on an on-going basis. 

Remuneration: Attractive remuneration package will be offered to successful 

candidates. 

For position (1) candidates are to email your complete CV with contact number 

to hydeirk@gmail.com. Short listed candidates will be called for immediate 

interview. 

For positions (2) and (3), you may call 012-2873797 for an interview. 

14

Calendar of Activities 

November 

6 

Sat Gua Anak Tempurung: The Extended Edition 

(Selangor Branch) Everyone is familiar 

with Gua Tempurung in Perak, but little is known of 

its smaller sibling 

nearby. Despite its size 

and a mere length of 

1.2km, non can argue 

the beauty and charm 

that this pristine cave 

can offer. 

Gua Anak Tempurung, 

last surveyed in 

2001, is a river cave 

with 10 entrances and 

has various levels of 

passages. Carved 

through time by water, 

you will be able to see 

glistening white marbles 

along the passages. Majestic 

formations and 

sparkling calcite crystals 

can be seen along the single river passage. Also lookout 

for catfish, shrimps and other inhabitants of this 

unique cave. 

Participants will also be introduced to another 

cave in the vicinity, Gua Anak Tempurung 2 

offers a bit of adventure to those who dares! depending 

on the weather, you will be required to swim 

a short distance to reach the cave. Legend has it that 

the floor is covered with glittering white crystals! A 

good reason for those who have visited Anak Tempurung 

to make a trip again! 

On the way to the caves, you will find a quarrying 

site and the makeshift road adjacent to the hill 

is littered with debris of the trucks that transports the 

spoils of the quarrying sites. The landscape is ever 

changing with erosion and widening of the access 

roads. See for yourself the beauty of a cave and consider 

the critical need for conservation of caves in 

the Kinta Valley. 

Cost: RM35 (members), RM105 (non-members). 

Payment can be made via the following acc: 

Ng Sue Lynn (Maybank 112232271709). Once you 

have made the payment, please e-mail Sue Lynn at 

s_lynn80@hotmail.com 

Please note that RM105 includes 1 year 

membership(RM70) with the Malaysian Nature Society. 

You will be required to fill a membership form 

during the trip. 

Transport is based on carpooling by participants. 

Please contact Nick Hoo (012-3122803, 

nick@erfidcontrol.com) or Ryan Loke (012- 

2327418, ryanm1976@hotmail.com) for more details! 

* This trip is suitable for both beginners & 

experienced cavers 

11 

Thurs “Black & White Photography” by Mr 

Alan Ng MNS HQ Auditorium, KL, at 8pm. 

In today's digital age of instant feedback and 

gratification, film, more so black and white, should 

be dead. Analogue shooters, if any still exist, are 

looked upon as technology-shy. 

Well, Alan Ng is one of the endangered 

species of stoneage photographers still at it. And a 

black and white one at that, favouring the Hasselblad 

medium format. 

He will be talking about his experience in 

black and white film photography and sharing with 

you his images of Mother Nature and fine art photography. 

15 

Mon Day Trip to Tin Tailings Afforestation 

Centre 

Ex- tin mines are generally left idle in Peninsular 

Malaysia. Only a small fraction has been 

legally utilized for food production, recreation and 

housing. Greened ex- tin mines can become a carbon-sink. 

Other than providing promising environmental, 

social and economic benefits, planted forests 

on tin tailings will improve the landscape aesthetically. 

Wildlife from the nearby diminishing and disturbed 

lowland forests will migrate to the planted 

forests. 

FRIM has two decades of research and development 

experience in greening the idle land. The 

planted forest in the FRIM Research Station at Bidor 

15

is a demonstration of a successfully greened ex- tin 

mine. It covers an area of 121.4 hectares and is now 

known as the Tin Tailings Afforestation Centre. It is 

a favourite field study venue for international conferences 

and local universities 

Bird watchers and nature lovers will enjoy a 

visit to the TTAC. On a recent recce, we saw 4 Oriental 

Pied Hornbills at close range, countless beautiful 

Green Pigeons on a young tree and a Little Grebe 

swimming happily among the water lilies in a pond. 

Herons and egrets shared their space generously with 

the water buffaloes while kingfishers screeched as 

they flew by. Come ready with your binoculars and 

you will definitely spot many more species. Plant 

lovers will be amazed at the numerous species of 

trees that thrive well in this depleted area. 

As TTAC is only open for trips during weekdays, 

Nature Guides have arranged for a full day trip 

on 15th November 2010 (Monday) from 10.00a.m 

to about 6.00p.m. 

It is limited to only 24 people and costs 

RM25.00 per member ( including group insurance). 

Non-members are to add RM70.00 for a year’s MNS 

membership.. Transport is by carpooling, payable direct 

to the drivers. Meals are not inclusive. 

Please contact JC Tan at 

jooichong@gmail.com for enquiries and to register 

by 30th October. 

21 

Sun Birdwatching at FRIM Kepong All 

MNS members are welcome. 

Those who need directions may click on 

http://piedfantail.com/birdwatching_wheretogo.html 

for the map. If you are travelling on the MRRII do 

not go on to the elevated highway when you reach 

Kepong, use the side roads. Follow the signs that say 

INSTITUT PENYELIDIKAN PERHUTANAN 

MALAYSIA (FRIM). Meet at the carpark beside the 

primary school within FRIM Kepong at 7.00am. 

Entry fee is RM5.00 per car including driver and 

RM1.00 for every passenger. For more information, 

contact Mr. Tang at 012-3061133 or Mr. Omar Abdullah 

at 012-2186718. Call after 6.00pm, SMS anytime 

or email daytrips@piedfantail.com 

Bring along your binoculars, drinking water 

and mosquito-repellant for this half day birdwatching 

trip. Wear dull coloured hats, clothes and comfortable 

shoes. 

24 

Wed Evening Workshop: “How to Wikify 

nature in Malaysia” MNS HQ Auditorium, 

Jln Kelantan at 8pm. 

Everyone can help maintain an online database 

of species and nature sites using Wikipedia. 

Come and learn how you can use the “Free Encyclopedia” 

to create an archive of endangered species, 

green lungs and more. No prior-experience is necessary 

but participants should ideally be active MNS 

members who contribute to either Pencinta Alam, 

Malaysian Naturalist or your own blog. 

Speaker Lim Teck Wyn was recently elected 

as MNS Honorary Secretary. He previously served 

as Vice Chair of Selangor Branch. Teck Wyn has a 

degree in forestry and has worked on environmental 

issues in Malaysia for the last ten years. He is 

presently Technical Director of Resource Stewardship 

Consultants Sdn Bhd, a specialist research and 

advisory firm. 

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. 

28 

Sun Hiking to West section of Klang Gates 

Quartz RidgeKlang Gates Quartz Ridge 

(KGQR) is the longest quartz ridge in the world 

spanning 14 km and soars to 380 m at its highest 

point. Survey indicated at least 265 plant species 

thrive at its surroundings and at the ridge what 

botanist called an island habitat of which 5 are endemic. 

Isolated, vegetation at the ridgetop differs 

from those of surrounding areas. The grass-looking 

Eulaili milsumii 

is a rare 

plant that 

grows only on 

the ridge and 

nowhere else 

in the world. 

Other endemics 

plants 

16

are small woody shrub Aleisanthia rupestris, the 

small tree llex praetermissa, the wiry herb Borreria 

pilulifera and the ground herb Henckelia primulina. 

A National Parks and Wildlife Department survey 

carried out in 1985 found the tracks of 5 rare animals, 

the serow but it's anyone guess how many are 

still around today. 

In 1958, a retaining wall was built at the natural 

gap along the ridge to form the Klang Gates 

Dam to hold the water whilst the whole ridge acts as 

the foundation. Will the proposed Kuala Lumpur 

Outer Ring Road (KLORR) cutting through KGQR, 

Selangor State Park, the forest reserves of Hulu 

Gombak, Ampang and Hulu Langat or any alignments 

affect the fragile eco-system? 

Come with a good hiking shoes and join us to 

West section of KGQR and savour the surprising 

views and appreciate the uniqueness at 7.30am. 

Places are limited and bring RM5 per person for PA 

insurance coverage. Please call/register with Leo 

K.M. of the Pathfinders Group, 016-2712424 for 

more information or SMS: kmleo@lycos.com 

December 

2-5 

Educational Trip: Koh Lipe Island, Satun, 

Thailand The Environmental Education Division 

is organising a year end Educational trip to the 

Koh Lipe Island, 

Satun, Thailand. 

This is a special program 

where MNS 

members, Partners 

and Staff can get 

better understanding 

among each other and have holiday plus educational 

experience. The group will be leaving from MNS 

Office in Kuala Lumpur by bus. 

Duration: 4 days x 3nights; No of pax: 40 

persons minimum (80 Maximum); RM650 for MNS 

members, RM 750 for Non-MNS Members/Partners. 

Cost includes bus transportation, accomadation 

at Thai Hit Resort, meals on the island, transfers, 

entrance & guiding fees. Highlights include 

snorkeling, birdwatching, night beach parties, islandhopping, 

and shopping. For complete itinerary and 

registration form, please contact 

hod.eedu@mns.org.my or mkburn88@gmail.com, 

fax to 03-2287 8773 or call Mr. Shanmugaraj at 016- 

289-3912 or 03 22879422 or Maichal at 016 

3826297 or 03 62771703 

Registration and payment deadline: 15 November 

2010. Booking will be confirmed when we 

receive the full payment. Payment must be done to 

Malaysian Nature Society. 

12 

Sun Introduction to Birdwatching at Lake 

Gardens, KL Ever wondered what birdwatching 

is all about? Come join us to find out at the Lake 

Gardens a.k.a. Taman Tasik Perdana Kuala Lumpur. 

Invite your family and friends, too. This event is 

opened to all including those who are not members 

of MNS. 

Bring along your binoculars and drinking 

water. Wear dull-coloured clothes, hats and comfortable 

shoes. Mosquito repellent will also come in useful. 

Meet at 7.00 am at the carpark between Jalan 

Cenderawasih and Jalan Tanglin. There is a map on 

http://piedfantail.com/birdwatching_wheretogo.html 

To know more, email daytrips@piedfantail.com or 

contact Mr. Tang 012-3061133 or Encik Omar Abdullah 

at 012-2186718. Call after 6.00pm, SMS anytime. 

14 

Tues Talk - Babblers of Peninsula Malaysia 

Babblers belong to a large family of birds 

which are neither easy to see nor identify. Even 

season birders sometimes find it hard to differentiate 

one from another. Come and learn more about 

these birds from Choo Jin Hwa, who has a special 

interest in babblers, as he enlightens us with images 

and songs/calls that he has recorded. 

17

Time: 8pm at the MNS auditorium in KL. 

Admission is FOC. All are welcome (including nonmembers). 

Contact: Lim Wai Kong (012-3935189, 

drwklim@yahoo.com). 

January 2011 

18-23 

Discovering Kampung Semban and 

Caves, Sarawak The Nature Guides are 

organizing another exciting trip to Sarawak. 

The village of Semban, located in the upper 

Penrissen near Kuching 

is one of the few Bidayuh 

villages spared 

from the flooding of the 

Bengoh Dam. Dubbed 

‘the village above the 

clouds’, Kg Semban is 

home to the 7 last 

known surviving 

women who still wear 

copper rings coiled 

around their arms and 

forearms, a practice that will cease to exist with their 

passing. This visit to Semban will uncover the beauty 

of the people, their culture and way of life while we 

immerse ourselves in their natural, rustic environment. 

Among the highlights at Kampung Semban:- 

• Crossing bamboo suspension bridges 

• Cultural performances by the ladies of the rings 

• Traditional parang forging demonstration 

• Visit to villagers’ farms and vegetable garden plots 

• Stay with local families and sample home- cooked 

food 

• Village tour 

• Sunrise watch 

• Waterfall hike 

After spending 3 days 2 nights at Semban, we 

will return to Kuching for a day of more exciting experiences. 

Highlights:- 

• Traditional music demonstration 

• Visit to a local ‘border’ market 

• Exploring the Wind and Fairy caves 

Cost per person: RM750.00 (Non-MNS 

July 2010 the Star reported RM40b in unclaimed assets! 

Do you want to add to the statistics! NO! NO! NO! 

Love your family & make sure your hard-earned assets go to your loved ones when you are no longer needed them. 

With OR Without a WILL our Assets including banks’ accounts will be frozened upon Death 

How do you “unlock” them? A Grant of Probate or Letter of Administration from the High Court or a Distribution Order 

from the Land Office. This process applies to Muslims and Non Muslims. 

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. 

WRITE YOUR WILL TODAY AND ENJOY PEACE OF MIND 

Why leave to chance….for more information, please call…… 

members pay RM70.00 for 1 year’s membership). 

Cost includes all guiding fees, 3 nights’ stay at a designated 

guesthouse in Kuching, all transport arrangements 

(Kg Semban and Caves), meals, 

accommodation and activities at Kg Semban). Participants 

are responsible for purchasing their own 

flight tickets. No of pax: 25 maximum. 

For more info, please contact Keong at 012- 

5113690 or email contactkeong@gmail.com. Strictly 

on first come, first served basis. 

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 

18

MNS HQ 

JKR 541, 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 

Blog: mnsjohor.blogspot.com 

Chair Prof Madya Dr. Maketab Mohd 

019-7355000, 

maketab_mohamed@yahoo.com 

Vice Chairman Dr. Lum Wei Wah 

019-7838388, blumww@gmail.com 

Secretary Zalinah Sarpan, 013-7722229 

Zalinah.sarpan@my.lafarge.com 

KEDAH BRANCH 

289, Tingkat Bawah,Jln Shahab 1, 

Shahab Perdana, 05400 Alor Star, Kedah 

kedahmns@yahoogroups.com 

Chairman Kalaimani a/l Supramaniam, 

019-4733505, maniria@yahoo.com 

Vice Chair Tengku Badrillah bin Tengku 

Abdullah, 019-4150090, 

tbadril@hotmail.com 

Secretary Phang Fatt Khow, 

012-3116420, fkphang05@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 Pauzi bin Husin 

019-9556477, stongpark@gmail.com 

Secretary Wong Mei Lin 

meklawa@gmail.com 

LANGKAWI BRANCH 

mnslangkawi@yahoogroups.com 

Chairman Irshad Mobarak 

012-5846184, junglewalla@gmail.com 

Vice Chair Baskaran Kosthi 

012-4215970, bas@ishanspa.com 

Secretary Aidi Abdullah 

013-3055190, 

aidi.abdullah@fourseasons.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, 

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). 

www.geocities.com/mnspenang/ 

Blog: mnspenang@yahoogroups.com 

Chairman Tan Choo Eng 

chooengtan@yahoo.com 

Vice Chairman James Ooi Teik Kok 

012-4452340 

Hon Secretary Ang Wai Sheng 

terence_ang01@yahoo.com 

PERAK BRANCH 

8 Jalan Virgo, Star Park, 31400 Ipoh 

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 AnnaWong 

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 

SARAWAK (KUCHING) BRANCH 

E: mnskuching@gmail.com 

Chairman Rebecca Jothi D’Cruz 

019-8579110, dcruz.rebecca@gmail.com 

Vice Chair Cheong Ah Kwan 

019-8349499, 

kwan_indutek@hotmail.com 

Secretary Chan Mei Ching, Zora Sharon 

019-8279881, zorachan76@yahoo.com 

SARAWAK (MIRI) BRANCH 

c/o EPA-T-DGP, Sarawak Shell Bhd, 

Jalan Pantai, 98100 Lutong 

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 

SELANGOR BRANCH 

c/o MNS HQ address 

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 

017-9864177, anuar@ms.kusza.edu.my 

Secretary Dr Chong Ju Lian 

julianchong78@gmail.com 

19

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 (o) 

Kay Lyons 03-79814271 

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 

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. 

20

MNS Hornbill Volunteers 

share their insights 

This is what some of the volunteers have to say with regards to 

the programme this year: 

Abbreviations: 

AH: Azizah Hasan BN: Belinda Ng 

ED: Eileen Dimetria FI: Farid Ibrahim 

GLK: Gan Li-Kim JC: John Chan 

LWS: Lim Wei Siong LKM: Leo Khang Meng 

MS: Manu Shubahshini MJM: Maria Jahari Mustapa 

TBC: Tan Boon Cheong TSY: Tan She Yong 

TAB: Tajul Arosh Baroky WEH: Wu Eu Heng 

Q1: What was the X FACTOR that made you register for 

this programme? 

GLK: Because I love Temenggor, and have always wondered 

how is bird-counting done. 

MS: I have always loved the outdoors, X Factor would be being 

out there with no electricity/phone line/clean water/toilets etcbasically 

being away from the things that have now became necessities. 

Hornbills were icing of the cake as I found it very 

“National Geographical’ experience which I have only watched 

on TV- the whole venturing into the woods early morning to 

count hornbills/ cruising on a boat to find their feeding sites 

etc. 

WEH: seeing a rare hornbill in hundreds. 

Q2: Can you share good experiences? 

LWS: Was inspired by members who dedicated their time, 

knowledge, and life to something they believe in. 

MJM: The trip to Belum-Temengor has been a life changing 

experience for me. The simple lifestyle (i.e.: living without 

electricity, mobile phones, taking your own water for bathing & 

drinking); and learning about hornbills like types or species 

available abundantly in Belum-Temengor Forest, habitat & 

habits of these beautiful birds. For example, did you know in 

Belum-Temengor inhabits 10 species of hornbills and in East 

Malaysia only 1 species? I was very lucky for I had the chance 

Plain-pouched 

hornbills resting 

in a tualang tree. 

Photo: Lim Tze 

Tshen 

to see and hear 7 out of the 10 species and one of them is the 

rarest of all – the Helmeted Hornbill. They make a very weird 

sound like a child-like eerie cry or laughter, very significant 

from a far especially at sun rise & sun sets. The MNS guide 

mentioned even she took 5 years to see that hornbill. 

As an urban living person like I am, I tend to forget 

what the core values are as human being, or more like to survive. 

We get caught up with lifestyle & more of needs that 

actually required in life. I look at life differently since Belum- 

Temengor trip. This kind of experiences is priceless and I tend 

to have it more than just once a year. 

AH: Good experience includes watching the hornbills, jungle 

trekking with the orang asli (OA)and getting to know more of 

the fauna, experience OA cooking and getting to know more of 

the OA way of life and their environment. 

Q3: Did you find the community work satisfying? What 

other community work would you suggest for next year? 

LKM: Yes it was interesting being able to plant tapioca. Help 

the orang asli to fix their home perhaps (etc. painting, teaching 

their kids our local games eg. Batu seremban, congkak, making 

kites, etc) 

TAB: Teach them to build their own water transport. 

Q4: How has this volunteer programme influenced you 

since you return back to your normal work duties in the 

corporate world or daily life? 

FI: Appreciated life more, saving water and conservation. 

TSY: I realized the preciousness of clean water,energy and hasil 

hutan. 

JC: All the more reason to cut down buying furnitures and having 

wooden floors AMAP. Li-Kim, my girlfriend proposed buying 

Acacia & rubber wood products from now on. We realized 

most of the quality timbers are exported and if possible, there 

should be an awareness programme or campaign to be posted 

internationally not to buy timbers from Malaysia. Need to figure 

out how to stop the buying. 

Heard from the villager, next year they'll be logging 

near Kg Tebang where we're counting PPHB every day. If the 

tall trees go, where are they going to perch and for the pro to 

take a good shot. If there's anything i can do, let me know. 

TBC: It reinforces my belief about nature conservation. Nature 

is simply wonderful and look at the scars and mess we create - 

shameful. And we can actually live very simply without all the 

material comforts. 

Q5: What kind of impact would you like to see at the end of 

the volunteer programmes? 

BN: Hopefully MNS together with certain parties can find a 

way to track these hornbills to see where they are the rest of the 

year. 

MJ: I would like to see the results overall shared so we can see 

the difference on improvement or otherwise for a few years. 

This would help to increase awareness of how important it is to 

conserve the Belum-Temengor Forest for the continuity and 

survival of our endangered Hornbills. 

ED: That the data collected will be recognized by the government 

and that awareness will be promoted to sustain the forest 

for further protection (for the Hornbills, Orang Asli, and everything 

else that lives in Belum-Temengor). 

Big thank you to Sallehan Din for documenting his experience: 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DFIjM8fwAnI&feature=pla 

yer_embedded 

21

PENCINTA ALAM - Malaysian Nature Society (MNS)

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