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PENCINTA ALAMNEWSLETTER OF THE MALAYSIAN NATURE SOCIETYMNS calls for politicians to make a green standThe Malaysian Nature Society called on all political partiesto pledge real action to halt unsustainable development recently.8) The federal government must provide fiscalincentives for state government to comply with thenational policy of maintaining 50% natural forestcover.9) To be stewards and champions of wildlifeconservation and promote strict application of legalprovisions and penalties.In a statement to the press, Professor Dr Maketabhighlighted several areas of concern:1) For state forest enactments to be amended to includemandatory public consultation prior to the excision offorest reserves;2) All forest clearing and logging done within thePermanent Forest Reserves (PFR) and Stateland Forestsmust be in compliance with spatial plans and land usepolicies of the country (such as the National Physical Planand the Central Forest Spine Masterplan);3) Natural forests classified as Environmentally SensitiveAreas Rank 1 and 2 (as described under the NationalPhysical Plan) should not be cleared. These areas includethe steep land areas above 300m, water catchments,wetland areas including rivers, lakes and coastalmangrove forests, and protected areas.All the unsustainable and/or incompatible developmentstaking place in these areas must be stopped or removedto safeguard the environment and the country‘s richbiological biodiversity, including protecting human life andlivelihood.4) Local communities must give their free, priorand informed consent to clearing and loggingactivities near their settlements, and in the case ofindigenous communities, on their tanah adat(traditional land).Encourage and promote theempowerment of such communities to takeresponsibility for using their forest wisely, throughincreased participation of stakeholders in themanagement of said forests.5) Highways must not be allowed to cut throughthe protected areas such as national parks, statesparks, wildlife reserves and protected forestreserves (including water catchment forest);6) To halt the development of forest plantation inPFR with non-native tree species and agriculturecrops, and to review current practice ofestablishing such forest plantation within the PFR;7) To promote forest rehabilitation programmes,especially along road and river reserves, in urbanparks, identified wildlife corridors and degradedforest areas;10) Moving forward, the role of forests in providingthe ecological services and/or life support systems(quality water, clean air, flood retention, soilprotection, refuge for biological diversity, etc) to growour country‘s economy (at national, regional and locallevels) must be acknowledged, and as such, Regions/ States / Districts with large forest areas need to beadequately compensated through ‗Payment forEcosystem Services‘.For sustainable development to take place it isnecessary that the general public is consulted andtheir view is taken into consideration. In this respect,the rights of the local communities (such as theOrang Asal of Malaysia) are respected and theirviews taken into account prior to the commencementof land clearing or logging activities in areas nearbyand/or on their tanah adat.Regardless of political regime or alignment,Malaysia's natural resources are still badly managedand consistently degraded and threatened. MNShopes that the Malaysian public will support thisimportant call to lobby for the conservation andprotection of Malaysia‘s natural heritage (focusing onbiological diversity and sustainable development).1

REMOVING WEEDS THE NATURAL WAYBy Wong Ee Lynngl.mnselangor@yahoo.comThe rainy season is upon us again, and it usually results in an increase in weeds. The use of chemicalweedkillers and herbicides, however, has been linked to water and soil pollution and the deathsof insects, frogs, toads, birds, tree shrews and even companion animals such as dogs and cats. How,then, do we remove weeds without resorting to chemical weedkillers?Here are some safer ways of removing weeds and preventing weeds from growing:1. Spread layers of wetnewspaper areas whereyou do not want weedsto grow. This prevents sunlightfrom reaching the soil and thus inhibits thegrowth of grass and weeds. Old garbagebags, pieces of tarpaulin or old carpet andshower curtains work as well. However,this method can be rather unsightly, soyou may wish to restrict this to the insidesof flowerpots, borders and in the spacesbetween plants.3.Spray vinegar directly ontoweeds to kill them. However,vinegar can kill other plants that itcomes in contact with, so although itis eco-friendly and biodegradable, ittakes a little forethought to managean effective application. Applyingvinegar onto weeds is best done on asunny day without the risk of windblowing the vinegar onto other plantsor the rain to dilute or wash thevinegar away.2. After pulling out weeds, sprinklenormal table salt on the soil to stopweeds and grass from growing.Be careful not to salt the soil whereother plants such as flowers grow, as youmight end up inadvertently killing them. Salt also workswell on edges of lawns, in cracks in the concrete or inthe spaces in between tiles.4. Make a liquid soap spray to spraydirectly onto weeds. Mix 5 tablespoons ofliquid soap (such as dishwashing liquid) in onequart (4 cups) of water in a spray bottle. Coat theweeds with the soapy water. Works best on hotdays as well.5. A kettle of boiling water is usuallyenough to kill weeds, especiallythose growing in cracks in the concrete, butdoes not prevent weeds fromgrowing in the same spot in future.Source: http://www.mnn.com/health/healthy-spaces/photos/15-houseplants-for-improving-indoor-air-quality/a-breath-of-fresh-airIn the late '80s, NASA and the Associated LandscapeContractors of America studied houseplants as a way to purifythe air in space facilities. They found several plants that filter outcommon volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Lucky for us theplants can also help clean indoor air on Earth, which is typicallyfar more polluted than outdoor air. Take a look at some of thesecommon plants that filters our air.SNAKE PLANTAlso known as mother-in-law‘stongue, this plant is one of the bestfor filtering out formaldehyde, whichis common in cleaning products,toilet paper, tissues and personalcare products. Put one in yourbathroom — it‘ll thrive with low lightand steamy humid conditions whilehelping filter out air pollutants.ENGLISH IVYA study found that the plant reducesairborne fecal-matter particles. It has alsobeen shown to filter out formaldehydefound in some household cleaningproducts.ALOEThis easy-to-grow, sun-lovingsucculent helps clear formaldehydeand benzene, which can be abyproduct of chemical-basedcleaners, paints and more. Aloe is asmart choice for a sunny kitchenwindow. Beyond its air-clearingabilities, the gel inside an aloe plantcan help heal cuts and burns.BAMBOO PALMAlso known as the reed palm, this smallpalm thrives in shady indoor spaces andoften produces flowers and small berries. Ittops the list of plants best for filtering outboth benzene and trichloroethylene. They‘realso a good choice for placing aroundfurniture that could be off-gassingformaldehyde.2

all you want to know abouttapirsTapirs are large herbivores thatbelong to the Tapirdae family, ofthe Perissodactyla order ofmammals.(Source: Inhabitat.com)19-year-old Dutch inventor Boyan Slat hasunveiled plans to create an Ocean CleanupArray that could remove 7,250,000 tons ofplastic waste from the world‟s oceans.The device consists of an anchored networkof floating booms and processing platformsthat could be dispatched to garbage patchesaround the world. Instead of moving throughthe ocean, the array would span the radius ofa garbage patch, acting as a giant funnel.The angle of the booms would force plastic in the direction of the platforms, where it would be separatedfrom plankton, filtered and stored for recycling.At school, Boyan Slat launched a project that analyzed the size and amount of plastic particles in the ocean‟sgarbage patches. His final paper went on to win several prizes, including Best Technical Design 2012 at theDelft University of Technology. Boyan continued to develop his concept during the summer of 2012, and herevealed it several months later at TEDxDelft 2012.Slat went on to found The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, a non-profit organization which is responsible for thedevelopment of his proposed technologies. His ingenious solution could potentially save hundreds ofthousands of aquatic animals annually, and reduce pollutants (including PCB and DDT) from building up inthe food chain. It could also save millions per year, both in clean-up costs, lost tourism and damage tomarine vessels.It is estimated that the clean-up process would take about five years, and it could greatly increase awarenessabout the world‟s plastic garbage patches. On his site Slat says, “One of the problems with preventive workis that there isn‟t any imagery of these „garbage patches‟, because the debris is dispersed over millions ofsquare kilometres. By placing our arrays however, it will accumulate along the booms, making it suddenlypossible to actually visualize the oceanic garbage patches. We need to stress the importance of recycling,and reducing our consumption of plastic packaging.”To find out more about The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, visit: http://www.boyanslat.com/plastic4/.Four species of tapir exist on theplanet today, all of which areendangered. Recent research hassuggested that there may be twosubspecies of theLowland Tapir, butthis has yet to beconfirmed.The Baird's Tapirlives in Mexico andCentral America,through to thenorthernmost areasof Colombia. The Lowland (oftencalled Brazilian) Tapir lives in therainforests of South America. TheMountain Tapir lives in the high cloudforests and paramos of the northernAndes of Colombia, Ecuador, andNorthern Peru. The Asian (also calledthe Malayan) Tapir lives in therainforests of Myanmar, Thailand,Malaysia and the Indonesian island ofSumatra.All species are now threatenedbecause of habitat destruction,hunting and human activity intheir ranges. The Mountain Tapirand Asian Tapir are the most atrisk.Adapted from:http://www.tapirday.orgPhoto courtesy of MNSThe naturallifespan of atapir can beup to 30 years. Thegestation period ofa tapir calf isaround thirteen monthsBaby tapirs have striped andspotted coats for camouflageand weigh between eight andtwelve kilograms at birth.Tapirs are usually crepuscularby nature, but they can beactive at any time of the dayand night. They have excellenthearing and a strong sense ofsmell that helps them to avoidpredators. They are also strongand agile runners, and tend toevade preditors or deter themwith their tough hides and bysnapping and biting. They oftenrun to water when threatenedand are able to spend severalminutes fully submerged at atime.

MNS Photography Quarterly ContestRules & ConditionsStarting this quarter, the MNS Photogroup Committee is conducting a quarterly photography contest.This contest is open to all MNS members. The contest will run from this quarter till year end.For quarter 2 of 2013, the themes for this contest ―FLORA‖. The other two quarterly contests covering themes―LANDSCAPE‖ and ―CREATURES‖ will be announced in a later date. From the submissions received, three (3) bestphotos will be selected per contest. First, second and third winners will be awarded prizes. As we are encouragingamateur and beginner photographers to enhance their photography skills, ONLY photographs captured with a non-DSLR camera will be accepted into the contest.Rules & Conditions:1. Only photographs from non-DSLR cameras will be accepted.2. In your submission, specify the camera used to capture the photograph e.g. Nikon Coolpix L320.3. Select 3 of your best shots for the theme. You may use a post-processing software to tweak your photos such ascropping, brightness, contrast, colour, saturation, HDR, panoramic stitching and etc. but not introducesuperimposition i.e. putting other things there; or you may leave them as they are without modification.4. Photos must be in their natural state i.e. without studio set up.5. For ―CREATURES‖ photographs that are taken in the zoo or enclosures, please declare accordingly in yoursubmission.6. Do NOT place visible watermarks on the image files. This is to avoid bias in photo judging. Any photos found withwatermark will be rejected.7. Use ONLY the JPEG format. Any other format will automatically be rejected and will not be entered into contest.Please resize your image files to a maximum of 1,024 pixels on the long side.8. Photos will be evaluated based on: (1) Relevance to theme, if any, (2) Composition, (3) Colour, (4) Lighting andShadow and (5) Creativity.For this quarter, please SUBMIT latest by 30 June 2013. Image files submitted after that will be ignored. Do NOTsubmit more than 3 image files; above that number will also be ignored. Photos that had previously won prizes inother contests are not eligible for entry into this contest.EMAIL the 3 image files to the MNS Photogroup mailbox: photo_submit@mnsphotogroup.orgQuarterly Contest2013 ThemesQ2: FLORAQ3: LANDSCAPEQ4: CREATURESOnly photographs capturedwith non-DSLR camerasare acceptedSubmit to:photo_submit@mnsphotogroup.orgPhotos are evaluated on:ThemeCompositionColorLighting and ShadowCreativityQ2 Closing Date:30 June4

JUNE 2013 Calendar of ActivitiesAll events times and venues are correct at time of printing. For latest updates, contact the Special Interest Group or check theMNS website regularly. Booking priority will be given to the organizing branch’s members unless stated otherwiseGua Kanthan & Gua Kelawar Caving TripDate: 1 - 2 JuneTime: 7:30amMeeting point : McDonalds Centrepoint, Bandar UtamaFees: RM120 - members, RM190 - non membersAccomodation: YMCA Ipoh based on triple sharingClosing date : 19th May 2013, limited to 20 pax.Those who are looking for a weekend of caving education & adventure are in for a treat. TheMalaysian Nature Society Cave Group is organising a 2D/1N trip to Gua Kanthan and GuaKelawar in Chemor, Perak.Day 1Gua Kanthan, also known as the Cathedral Cave is located on a hill of the same name. Thedescend to the cave itself is a sight to behold, an enormous entrance that welcomes you toits underground world. Depending on the right moment, dramatic displays of sunshine raysilluminating into the dark caverns is a sight to behold. To add to the mystery, a still and darkriver runs through the grooved bottom of the cave. A recently discovered (1997) species oftrapdoor spider, Liphistius Kanthan Mesothelae, is unique to this cave. Participants will bestaying at the YMCA Ipoh for a night before the next day's program. The evening is free forall to enjoy the best of what Ipoh has to offer in its heritage and familiar delicacies.Day 2Gua Kelawar, is a combination of a labyrinth and a chocolate factory gone wrong. Thecombination of fun and adventure of this cave has never failed to put a smile on faces ofanyone who has had a "taste" of it! Join us for this adventurous experience and educateyourself on the importance of caves conservation.Fees include accommodation, insurance & 1 year MNS membership for non members.Please make payment to Maybank Account No : 0140 8432 6538 to Mariam MohamedMilatu (Please e-mail mariam_milatu@yahoo.com once payment has been made). Formore information please contact Rajiv (012-2055436) or Sue (mnssue@hotmail.com / 012-3034780)Important NoteTransportation is not provided. All participants are required to have a helmet(construction/bicycle) & torchlight. This trip is suitable for both beginners and experienced cavers.Melaka / N9 Branch: Bird watching at PengkalanBird Sanctuary followed by GREEN HOUSE visitin Alor Gajah.Date: 2 June 2013This 8-hectare area in Pengkalan, Alor Gajah was declared a bird sanctuaryby the previous Chief Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Ali Rastum during his visitin March 2012. Join us to check out the natural activity there and enjoy anearly morning adventure followed by a local breakfast. The site is situatedon Jalan Melaka Pindah, Alor Gajah (M8) midway between Lebuh AMJ andJalan Alor Gajah Lama. Co-ordinates N 2 o 22' 21", E 102 o 13'10".Check it out https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pengkalan-Bird-Sanctuary/270317169717459?id=270317169717459&sk=infoAfterwards, we transfer to the other side of Alor Gajah to visit the privatehome of an Englishman and his Malaysian wife. The house isenvironmentally green but surprising fits in well with the other localkampong houses. If you would like to join this trip, contact Stephanie Baconon 012 2175590 or email cooltek@streamyx.com . Bird watching will startfrom 8am and after breakfast, the visit to the GREEN HOUSE is planned for10am. Places are limited and children must be accompanied by parent orcarer.Selangor Branch Bird Group CommitteeElection MeetingDate: 22 nd June 2013 Time: 1400 – 1600Venue: MNS HQ AuditoriumThe time has come to elect the committee for the Selangor Branch BirdGroup for 2013-2014 term. It is also a time for fellow birders to meet up,catch up with what is happening with each other and also share a greatfellowship. It is also time for us to acknowledge our volunteers whoselflessly gave up their precious time to ensure that our projects andactivities were carried out in a professional and timely manner. We alsowelcome anyone who wish to join us as part of the new committee.For more information, please contact Mark Ng at 012-391 51895

Bird Watching trip to Bukit Rengitnear Lanchang, Pahang.Date: 2 JuneSelangor branch bird group welcome all MNSmembers to this exciting half-day of bird watching atBukit Rengit. Situated near Lanchang, within theKrau Wildlife Forest Reserve, Bukit Rengit is about1 hour & 45 min. drive from KL.Birding will be along 2/3 km of tar road flanked byforest and famous among birders for its variety oflowland forest birds. Some claimed it as the ―Landof Trogons‖ because all 5 species of lowlandTrogons can be found here.Take Karak Highway heading toward Kuantan.Drive past Karak and exit at Lanchang toll gate. Wewill meet @ 7.30 am after the Lanchang toll gate.From there, we will convoy short distance to the site.Bring along binoculars, drinking water, light snacks,mosquito repellant & umbrella or poncho.Wear dull colored clothes & comfortable shoes. Wemight go off road, so bring along leech socks if youhave one.The event will end around noon. If you have extraenergy to spare, you can either bird further afterlunch, visit the ―Deerland Park‖ or the Kuala GandahElephant Sanctuary which is about 8 km away.To be environmentally friendly, we encouragedcarpooling. Those needing a ride or have space inyour car, please let us know. Call (aft. 8pm) or SMS(anytime) Mr Liung @ 012-3127998 or Mr Andy @012-3993193, to register or for more info. Hope tosee everyone there.Amongst the rare bird species and onevery birders' wish list to see andphotograph is the Trogon. It was a verylucky day when this specie made itsappearance. It stayed in the location fora good half hour much to the delight ofthe small group of birderspresent. Photos courtesy of Henry Gohand Vincent Chow.MNS Selangor Open Day 2013 & WorldEnvironment DayVenue : Section 10, Kota Damansara (opp SMK).Date: 9 June Time: 8 am - 3 pmMNS Selangor Branch will be holding Selangor Branch Open Day 2013 incollaboration with KDCFS. We promise you a day of interesting & fun filledactivities for the whole family! Stay tuned for more news.Volunteers for MNS Selangor Open DayWe are looking for volunteers to assist in the booths which will be set up by thedifferent Special interest Groups (SIGs) during the Open Day. Nature guidesare also needed to take visitors into the KDCF trails. Training and orientationwill be provided by MNS Nature Guide SIG one week before the event. Pleasecontact the Co-ordinator of the SIGs concerned.For Nature Guide contact Ilyas Sapiyan at isapiyan@hotmail.comFlora Group: Bukit Kiara WalkDate: 16 JuneTime: 8.00 amThis will be a leisurely walk probably taking about 2 hours. Suitable for childrentoo. The landscape Department has done a good work planting and labeling oftrees. Interested members please sms indicating your name and number of paxattending to 016-5912472 (Lim Koon Hup)Indoor talk: Understand your Camera setting andReview of Kinabatangan photographic outingDate: 19 June Time: 8pmVenue: MNS AuditoriumEver encounter the problem of taking a picture and found that the colour of theimages is difference from the actual scene? I know many of us have encounteredsuch problems and are puzzled. If you are one of them, do come and learn yourcamera setting. We will sharing on the various camera settings normallyavailable on the mid range cameras. The session also includes a review of theKinabatangan photography outing.

The Beginning and End of A StreamDate: 6 JulyTime: 8amFellow KL folks habitually frown at our often revolting rivers cummonsoon drains as we pass them in the city. On the other hand,during weekends, virtually every Hutan Lipur (recreational forest)around Klang Valley with a cascade or waterfall is overflowing withcity dwellers soaking their weary bodies and souls in the refreshingwater. Indeed, water is life. The Malaysian government initiated a10-year‘ ―River of Life‖ project to revive the infamously pollutedKlang River in 2010. It‘s high time we pay more attention to ourrivers.Despite its name that means ―murky river‖, Sungai Keroh isa clear stream that flows through the Forest Research InstituteMalaysia (FRIM). It then follows an east-westerly course, joinsSungai Batu near Jalan Duta, and finally merges into SungaiGombak and Sungai Klang.MNS PhotogroupLeisure cum Photography Trip: Cameron Highlands 3D2NDate: 16 th - 18 th Aug (Fri-Sun)Come join Chew Ming Yee and Lim Chung Lu who are botanistsand nature guides, for a half day hike tracing the source of atributary to Sungai Keroh, until spring water emerges from a rockyslope. Further details will be given upon signing up.Besides standard entrance charges to FRIM (refer tohttp://www.frim.gov.my/?page_id=174), a fee of RM15 ischargeable to cover insurance and SIG fund. Almost the entirewalk is done off trail, and therefore not suitable for children below12 years.To register: email Ms Wan Yeng (wanyeng@rocketmail.com) or sms only (hp 016-618 2148, strictly nocalls). Limited places available and deadline to register is 28 Jun2013, whichever comes first. Priority is given to MNS memberswho had joined FRIM walks Part 1 & 2.For directions: Refer to http://www.frim.gov.my/?page_id=543Wear suitable trekking clothes, leech socks and shoes with goodtraction. A trekking pole would also be helpful. Insect repellant isadvisable for those with sensitive skin. Bring a bottle of water andsome healthy snacks. For those who had missed out part 1 & 2:look out for the annual reruns.Cameron Highlands is well-known for itscooling temperature and tourism attractions.Come July, we are heading up to MNS-BOHField Study Centre where we will stay therefor 3D2N. The centre is located deep into thetea plantation valley at Habu, a small urbanarea shortly after Ringlet, and away from citysights and sounds. More precisely, it is locatedon the slopes of Gunung Cantik, where onecan do a short hike up the tea plantation toenjoy the beautiful sceneries of CameronHighlands hills and valleys and to take in thechilling winds.It is generally known that the temperature atthe centre and its vicinity is lower than TanahRata and Brinchang despitebeing lower in altitude; this is because thecentre is located about 9 km inside from themain road and where there is absence ofcommercial development. There are timeswhen the area is completely shrouded inmists (hint: photography opportunity).Details of the trip will be posted on ourofficial MNS Photogroup (Selangor Branch)website at http://www.mnsphotogroup.org.To register (hint: first come, first served),please submit your particulars via onlineregistration at: http://bit.ly/mnsform.Finer details will be emailed to PAIDjoiners. Don‟t forget to apply for leave as16 th July which is a Friday.

JOIN US IN OUR EFFORT to tell the world that the iconic hornbills are the ‗tree farmers‘ of the Belum-Temengor forestthat must be protected for a healthy forest. August and September is the season where thousands of PPHB flock to Belum-Temengorforest. For these two months, volunteers will count the PPHB twice daily. This flight census will offer valuable information which will beused to advocate for the protection of Temengor forest, especially in addressing logging threats.The second reasonfor joining is for you to let go of the convenient, busy, connected world and go back to basics experiencing the peaceand tranquility. No wifi, no electricity, no piped water, no enclosed bathrooms, and no lumbar support beds. Learn to live with less. Learnteamwork, sharing and caring with your camp mates. This year we will want you to share any special skills that you have with your campmates. There are also special slots with invited guests to share something with you. We also want you to express yourselfin drawing/poem/song/ other art form and prizes will be waiting for you. For more details, updates and bookings, please goto: http://www.mnshornbillvolunteerprogramme.wordpress.com*Please note that,one of the criteria is that you have to be over 18 years old to volunteer.*AUGUST and SEPTEMBER 2013 PROGRAMMEProgramme dates in August 2013 (closing date for bookings is 31 July)Each slots 4 pax 4D/3N (Tue-Fri) Space 5D/4N (Fri-Tue) spaceGroup A1 2-6 August 2013 1Group A2 6-9 August 4Group A3 9-13 August 2013 2Group A4 13- 16 August 4Group A5 16-20 August 2013 4Group A6 20-23 August 1Group A7 23- 27 August 2013 3Group A8 27- 30 August 2 4Programme dates in Sept 2013 (closing date for booking is 31 Aug)Each slots 4 pax 4D/3N (Tue-Fri) space 5D/4N (Fri-Tue) spaceGroup S1 30 Aug – 3 September 4Group S2 3-6 September 4Group S3 6- 10 September 4Group S4 10-13 September 4Group S5 13-17 September 2Group S6 17-20 September 4Group S7 20- 24 September 4Group S8 24-27 September 4Hornbill FactsHornbills are faithful partners. In India and Thailand the hornbills are celebrated during the‗Love Hornbills Day‘. The life of a female hornbill with one or two chicks will spend fourmonths of every year sealed up in a suitable hollow tree. That is why big nesting forest treeare important for the breeding hornbills but these are also valuable timber trees!The male partner will help the mate to seals herself into the hole using semi-digested leaves,oil globules, and regurgitated mud. A slit is left for the male hornbill to feed the female andtheir chicks. Through the slit, the female will defecate from the tree. Try not to stand besidebig forest trees! After 4 months, the female emerge with the chicks following shortlyafterwards.VOLUNTEER PACKAGE 1 [4D/3N] (Tuesday-Friday)Day 1Meet the Volunteer Coordinator in Banding Island Jetty, Gerik, Perak (3.00 p.m.).Boat transfer from Banding Island to Kampung TebangIntroduction and familiarization with the indigenous Jahai villagersHornbill monitoring (5.30 – 7.30 p.m.) in Kampung TebangDay 2 - 3Hornbill monitoring (6.45 – 9.00 a.m.)Activities in Kg Tebang or excursionHornbill monitoring (5.30 – 7.30 p.m.) in Kampung TebangDay 4 (final day)Hornbill monitoring (6.45 – 9.00 am)Debriefing and departure to Banding Island Jetty (10/11am)VOLUNTEER PACKAGE 2 [5D/4N] (Friday to Tuesday)As ABOVE but with an extra day8

Love outdoors?Enjoy peace of mind…for you and your family by writing your Will todayDo you know that all our Assets including banks’ accounts will be frozenupon Death? With OR Without a WILL!! How do you “unlock” them? AGrant of Probate or Letter of Administration from the High Court. Thisprocess applies to Muslims and Non Muslims.If you pass on without having a VALID WILL… this is what happens…• Your Family1.Your spouse and children will face cash flow problem because all yourbank accounts including joint accounts maybe frozen.2.Your children‘s welfare may not be taken care of by the people of yourchoice• The legal Process1.Delay in distribution due to the legal administrative process (2 - 6years)2.2 guarantors / sureties required (amount equal or more thandeceased‘s estate)3.Much more costly resulting in financial burdens to your family• Your Assets Distribution (As per Distribution Act 1958 amended in 1997 orDistribution under Faraid)1.The law will decide on the distribution of your estate such as house(s),Businesses, bank accounts, shares, etc.LOVE YOUR FAMILY, WRITE YOUR WILL TODAY ANDENJOY PEACE OF MIND wherever you may be….Why leave to chance… for more information, please call…MARY OOIMaking Your Wishes Come TrueProfessional Estate Planner (Rockwills Corporation Sdn. Bhd.)Islamic Estate Planner (as-Salihin Trustee Sdn. Bhd.)H/P: 012-337 9906 or email: mary_3_ooi@hotmail.comBhutan Tour with day hikes-6 daysand Nepal tour from 15/10/13 to 22/10/13.Heartily welcome to the legendary mountain kingdom in the Himalayas, the last Shangri-La - Bhutan.Bhutan is wedged between two Asian giants - India and China, bestowed by nature with anincredible diversity in topography resulting in a wide range of flora and fauna. Bhutan's elevation froma few hundred meters above sea level to among the highest mountains, makes it one of the mostdiverse countries in terms of topography. Moreover, Bhutan is also recognized by UNESCO as one of10 centers for bio-diversity, all within a distance of 150 kilometers resulting in sub-tropical climate toArctic-like climate. Bhutan is the only last remaining country which follows the Vajrayana Buddhism asthe state religion.Our Bhutan Tour with Day Hikes-6-Days combines cultural and natural grandeur of Bhutan so that youwould be able to make the most out of your Bhutan Tour in the shortest possible time. For this we haveincluded both cultural tours to important Bhutan towns as well as day hikes to the monasteries. Thetour begins in the scenic Paro Valley with a hike to the famous Tiger's Nest (Taktsang)monastery. After visiting Thimphu, a unique capital city that has a blend of traditional and moderntouch, we drive across the picturesque Dochu La Pass into the subtropical valleys of Punakha. Thetour also includes two more hike: to Khamsum Yulley Namgyel and to Lungchutse/TrashigangGoenpa. During the journey, you will experience breath-taking view of Mount Everest, Kanchenjungaand other famous Himalayan peaks including the sacred Jumolhari and Mount Jichu Drake in Bhutan.One free Training trip will provided for the Bhutan tour with day hikes and Nepal tour.Contact : Thong at goalus@mymountaingoal.com H/P : 016-6375622 Off : 03-40248896Further info please sign in: http://www.mymountaingoal.com/Vietnam_FanHasch.htmEverest Base Camp via Gokyo laketrek from 24/09/2013 to 09/10/2013(16D15N) (Confirm Trip)Experience the culture of the Sherpas in route to Khumbu villageEnjoy a climb to the scintillating Kalapattar 5,545m. /18190ft, one of the most spectacular vantage points inthe Everest region Explore enchanting views of Everest, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu andmany other towering peaks.Two free Training trip will provided for the Everest Base Camp trip.Contact : Thong at goalus@mymountaingoal.com H/P : 016-6375622 Off : 03-40248896Further info please sign in: www.mymountaingoal.com/everestkalapattar.htmMOUNTAIN GOAL ADVENTURE CONSULTANT (742912-V)Website: http://www.mymountaingoal.comE-mail: goalus@mymountaingoal.com9

BRANCH EXCO MEMBERS 2012-2013Johor Branchc/o Vincent Chow32, Jln Molek 3/11, Tmn Molek, 81100 JB, JohorWebsite: www.mnsj.org.my; Blog: www.mnsj.org.myChairman: Vincent Chow(019-7557755, vkkchow@yahoo.com)Vice-Chair: Wee Soon Chit (012-7112112, soonchit@hotmail.com)Sec: Zalinah Sarpan (013-7722229, anggun_firama@yahoo.co.uk)Kuching Branch (Sarawak)Email: mnskuching@gmail.comChairman: 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.comChairman: 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 Branchc/o MNS HQ addressWebsite: www.mns.my/selangor; Email: mns.selangor@gmail.com;E-group: malaysiannaturesociety@yahoogroups.comChairman: 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 BranchAddress: 1926, Bkt Kubang Jambu, 20050 Kuala Terengganu.Emai: mnsterengganu@gmail.comChairman: 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 BranchAddress: 5, Belakang Hospital, 09300 Kuala Ketil, Kedah; Email:kedahmns@yahoogroups.comChairman: 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 BranchAddress: 204, Jln Sultan Yahya Petra, 15150 Kota Bharu, Kelantan; Email:shown88@streamyx.comChairman: 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 BranchEmail: mnslangkawi@yahoogroups.comChairman: 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 Branchc/o Cooltek, 350 Jln Woodland, Tiara Melaka Golf& Country Club, Ayer Keroh, 75450 MelakaChairman: 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 BranchAddress: F-4-4, Jln Padang Golf, 25050 Kuantan.Email: mnspahang@yahoo.comChairman: 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)Penang BranchAddress: Nature Information Centre (NIC),673-B Jalan Kebun Bunga, 10350 Penang. Tel: 016-4840747.Open Mon-Sat 7.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m.E-mail: mnspenang@yahoo.comWebpage:http://www.mns.my/state.php?stid=8(Please phone before visiting)website: www.geocities.com/mnspenang/Blog: mnspenang@yahoogroups.comChairman: 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 BranchAddress: 8, Jln Virgo, Star Park, 31400 Ipoh.Email mnsperak@gmail.comBlog: mnsperak@yahoogroups.comChairman: 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 BranchChairman: 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)10

Pencinta Alam is a monthly newsletter made possibleby dedicated volunteers and contributors from theMalaysian Nature Society. Accuracy is thecontributor’s responsibility. The Editor reserves theright 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 NatureSociety Selangor Branch‖. Please bank in cash orcheque to Maybank MBB account no 014150307352.After banking in, please scan the slip and email it toBernadette Chin at berniechin118@yahoo.com or faxher at 03-51928191 (Attention: Bernie Finance).Discount RatesFor advertisements paid in advance:3 adverts paid in advance – 5% discount;6 adverts paid in advance – 10% discount;9 adverts paid in advance –15% discount;12 adverts paid in advance – 20% discount.Submissions: Articles including the author andphotographers‘ names (max. 500 words),advertisements, digital images (100 dpi & no largerthan 640x480 pixels & separately from article), etc.must reach the Editor by the 13th of each month(unless noted otherwise) via the following e-mailaddress: tapir2005@gmail.com.eHelp the environment and opt to download the newsletterfrom the Selangor Branch website (www.mns.org.my)or the Selangor Branch e-group: groups.yahoo.com/group/Pencinta Alam Volunteer EditorsChan Beng Beng 019-3853591Kay Lyons 03-79814271Khor Hui Min 017-8817714MNS LibraryA modest collection of books and periodicalsis housed at the MNS Headquarters. Only fully paid upmembers may borrow books for a period of two weeks. Thisperiod 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 isalso available.KELAB PENCINTA ALAM for YOUTHSKPA for Youth is the extension of MNS School Nature Club(KelabPencintaAlam) which was launch on 25th November2012 at Dewan Besar UPM by Prof Datuk Dr.Mohd Fauzi BinHj. Ramlan which is the Deputy Vice Chancellor of AcademicUPM. This initiative is supported by the Ministry of Sports andYouth.As the extension of KPA, MNS introduced the KPA for Youthprogramme. The main purpose for initiative is to encourageyouth membership where we want to cultivate the sense ofnature conservation through environmental activities involvingour youths and communities. Other than that, it will be aplatform for current KPA members to keep involvingthemselves in nature activities after they have finished theirschool terms.There are many benefits awaiting KPA For Youths memberswhere opportunities of getting involved in MNS signatureactivities and events such as Raptor Watch and Festival ofWings is always available.So start young to be a part of conserving Malaysia‟s naturalheritage for the future.For further information, contact with Cik Siti NurainiTel: 03-22879422 Fax: 03-22878773Email: kpayouth@mns.org.myLike the KPA For Youth Facebook page for updatedinformation.Nature Owlet@ The MNS ShopOpen Mon-Fri 0930-1730 hrsSaturday 1000-1300 hrsClosed on Sundays & Public Holidays aswell as during major MNS events (e.g.Raptor Watch etc).Offers a growing selection of books for thenature lover (kids included) and MNSPublications The Malaysian Naturalist andSuara Enggang; MNS apparel; outdoor gear(from Buff, Coleman, Maglite, Campingaz,Leatherman, Deuter, Mora); sport optics andsupports (from Leica, Minox, Meade, Nikon,Swarovski & Manfrotto) and more.Members who show their membership cardreceive a discount for most items.Don’t Leave Home Without ItAll members are required to show theirmembership cards to participate in any of theBranch‟s activities. New members who haven'treceived their cards will be required to showtheir membership payment receipts. Lost yourcard? Contact Wee Chin at HQ.REPORT WILDLIFE CRIMES!Perhilitan Hotline : 1-800-88-5151.MNS HQJKR 541, Jalan Kelantan, Bukit Persekutuan,50480 Kuala Lumpur (just before the SeriPerdana turn-off on Jalan Mahameru).Mon-Fri: 9am-5:30pm. Tel: 03-22879422.Fax: 03-22878773. Emaiil: mns@mns.org.myWeb: www.mns.org.myMembership: Leong Wee Chin11

MEMBERSHIP MATTERSMNS National AGM 2013MNS Selangor is honoured to play host to the 66th MNS National AGM. The datesselected are Sept 14-16 2013. After much deliberations the committee has pickedthe Nur Lembah Pangsun Eco Resort (NLPER) as the venue for this year's AGM.NLP Eco resort promises to be an exciting nature getaway to provide a perfectbalance between work and play. A separate listing for the AGM program andactivities packages and the registration form is available online:http://www.mns.my/article.php?aid=2243&sc=1https://www.facebook.com/events/505547979505159/On behalf of the committee I would like to welcome all participants to a weekendwith nature in metropolitan Kuala Lumpur!Sincerely,Henry GohMNS Selangor Branch ChairmanIf you are reading this, you are one of a select group of people that care about the wellbeingof the Malaysian natural heritage. Sadly, our numbers are not increasing as wellas would be hoped.For this reason, the 2013-2014 Membership Committee (chaired by SurinSuksuwanand also comprising IlyasSapiyan, Ivan Ho, Ooi Chin Hock and Stephanie Bacon)recently invited you all to complete a questionnaire to help in correcting this. If youwere one of 233 people who completed the questionnaire, please accept theCommittee‘s appreciation and be assured that all your comments have been read by atleast one of the Committee members. All this information is currently being analysedand a report prepared, which will be made available when ready. The MembershipCommittee will be hosting a meeting in June as the next step, when all matters will bediscussed and hopefully some good ideas will then be on the table for future action.Check back in next month‘s newsletter for a further update and if you have anyquestions, please email membership@mns.org.myUpdated by Stephanie BaconSelangor Branch AGMDate: Saturday, 20 th July 2013Time: 2.30pmLocation: Bilik Kiara, Kelab Golf Perkhidmatan Awam.Address: Bukit Kiara, Off Jalan Damansara, 60000 Kuala Lumpur.Tel: 7955 1216 / 7956 0122The AGM agenda is as follows: -1. Table & adopt the minutes from the last AGM i.e. 20122. Discuss matters arising3. Present & receive the Chairman‘s report on the last year's activities, andfrom the co-ordinators of each of the Special Interest Groups.4. Table & adopt the accounts for the year 31 May 20135. Elect the next branch committee & auditors for the coming year.Other matters can be raised but notice should be given to the Secretary inwriting (including emails) by Friday, 12 July. Please include your name,membership number & contact number. Confirmation will be sent once yourmessage is received. For those who would like a copy of the minutes prior tothe AGM or the map, please contact the Secretaryat pat_ganll@hotmail.com (Mobile 012-207 4840). Alternatively, the minutesare available on malaysiannaturesociety yahoogroup.Agenda12.30PM – 2.30PM 2 hours Buffet Lunch1.30PM – 2.15PM 45mins Talk by Prof Dr Ille GebeshuberTitle: "What is a physicist doing in the jungle?Biomimetics of the rainforest"2.30PM – 3.45PM 1hr 15mins Branch AGM3.45PM - 4.00PM 15mins Light refreshments4.00PM – 5.15PM 1hr 15mins Branch AGMBranch Annual General Meetings 2013Branch Date Venue TimeTerengganu 30/06 (SUN) UMT 6pmJohor Branch 06/07 (SAT) M-Suites Hotel, 16 Jalan Skudai, Straits View, 3pm80200 JohorMiri Branch 13/07 (SAT) Lambir Hill National Park 2pmMelaka & NSembilan Branch21/07 (SUN) Tiara Golf Clubhouse, Melaka 10amPerak Branch 27/07 (SAT) 70, Jalan Chan Chee Keong, Ipoh GardenSouth, Ipoh (MNS Perak Branch Building)4.30pm12