Pencinta Alam Oct 08.pdf - Malaysian Nature Society

PENCINTA ALAM
NEWSLETTER OF THE MALAYSIAN NATURE SOCIETY
EGM and AGM Report
As you know, the Society had it's AGM midAugust,
a little earlier than usual to avoid conflicting
with the start of Ramadan. We had an EGM first
to consider the proposed increase in membership
fees. As expected, a bit like Australians when they
vote on becoming a republic, we were not surprised
that the motion was rejected. However, it is worth
noting that those members who attended the meeting
voted an overwhelming YES to the increase, but
the total votes obtained i.e. 58% did not meet the required
2/3 (66%) for this resolution to be effected as
indicated in MNS Constitution.
And why was that? Our outgoing Treasurer,
Bernie Chin, put forward a solid and convincing case
that the society cannot afford to subsidize its mem-
bers. It costs more to produce the magazine four
times a year than the subscription can cover, once
subvention to branches and other given costs are met
(like running the AGM, paying for one staff to service
the membership, upgrading the software to manage
the system, paying our subscription to BirdLife
International, supporting Council members in their
participation on Council, etc). And please note that
there is nothing from subscriptions that supports the
society in its core work, like advocacy and research…
So back to the drawing board, and it seems
most likely that the quality of the magazine will suffer
as a result. Some creative suggestions were
Total Votes
Received
Spoilt FOR AGAINST
Postal Votes 75 3 35 40
On Site Votes 53 1 41 11
Total Votes
Received
131
(100%)
4 76
(58%)
51
raised on how we can
make it pay for itself,
and these will be followed
through but
don't be surprised if
the magazine is a bit
thinner next time…
The AGM itself
considered all the
reports and accounts
that you received last
month, all were ac-
cepted, and the election of a new Council for the term
2008-2010 ensued. There was a contest for Presicontinues
next page
October 2008
www.mns.org.my
MNS wins the inaugural
Merdeka Award!
MNS wins the inaugural Merdeka Award in the
Environment Category for its achievement in the
Belum-Temenggor Forest Complex Conservation Initiative.
MNS is proud and grateful to receive such an
accolade, the organization is honored to be chosen and
recognized for its work towards the country’s environmental
protection.
Recognizing the critical role of rainforests in the
preservation of all living beings, MNS dedicated its efforts
to protect and conserve the Belum-Temenggor Forest
Reserves in Perak. The Forest Reserves, often
referred to as Forest Complex by MNS, is over 130 million
years old, older than rainforests in the Amazon and
continues next page

EGM and AGM
dent (two candidates for one position) and Council
(twelve candidates for six positions). We are delighted
to welcome back Dato Seri Salleh Mohd Nor
as President, and all the new faces on Council.
Vice Presidents: Dato’ Hashim Wahab
Jeffrey Phang Fatt Kong
Honorary Secretary: Dr Cheah Swee Neo
Honorary Treasurer: Jenny Yow Ngan Chee
Committee Members: Angela Hijjas
Dr Rhett Harrison
Harban Singh
Hymeir Kamarudin
Khairul Annuar Abdullah
Lim Tien Chee
The contest for the presidency was a very
close call, and I would like to thank the outgoing
President, Anthony Sebastian, for all that he contributed
and achieved over the last two years. His
approach was new and vigorous, with all the passion
that he has for environmental issues, and his vision to
realize all that MNS should be. The Belum Temengor
campaign was of particular interest to him and
he supported it strenuously. Thank you, Tony, you
have made us stronger than we were, even though
we may have been kicking and screaming as you
took a hard line on reorganizing the Society, and we
look forward to having you supporting us still as we
go forward with the MNS Strategy that you initiated.
Needless to say, there is much to do… and it
is encouraging that immediately after the AGM the
emails were flying, as roles and responsibilities are
delegated to different members. I personally am delighted
to be on Council again, and will endeavour to
meet the expectations of members and ensure that
MNS reaches new heights. Let the Merdeka Award
be just the beginning of our greater exposure and
recognition, but more important is what we must
achieve. Thanks to all our members for your support
(even if you are pretty tight with your money!)
Merdeka Award
- Angela Hijjas
Congo basins, and is home to a much more complex
biodiversity. Spanning a massive 300,000 hectares,
forming the last remaining contiguous tract of forest in
Peninsular Malaysia, the forest was under several
threats; logging being the foremost.
To protect the Belum-Temenggor Forest Complex,
MNS initiated two landmark scientific expeditions
into the area in 1993 and 1998, cataloguing and identifying
the species of wildlife, flora and fauna endemic to
the area. It also carried out many years of intensive lobbying
that resulted in a decision by the Perak State Government
in March 2000 to declare the Forest Complex
a State Park, followed by a State Legislative Enactment
in March 2001. In August 2003, the Forest Complex was
given royal recognition by Sultan Azlan Shah, the Sultan
of Perak, who proclaimed it “Royal Belum”.
The result of the halted logging and conservation
will benefit many, directly and indirectly, ranging
from humans to flora and fauna. Unlike the short-lived
economic benefits of logging, the effects of the conservation
of Belum-Temenggor will be felt by generations
to come.
The Merdeka Award was established by its
Founders, namely ExxonMobil, PETRONAS and Shell,
on the 27th August 2007. It is an award that aims to
recognise and reward Malaysians and non-Malaysians
who have made outstanding contribution to the people
of Malaysia in their respective fields and celebrates the
independence of the mind and spirit, the strength of
character and integrity that underpin meaningful
achievement and the creativity and vision that enables
greatness.
MNS Board of Trustees, council members,
management, staff and members thank the Merdeka
Award founders, selection committee and the Merdeka
Award secretariat for this honor and will strive to continuously
and consciously work towards the well being
and sustainable use of Malaysia’s natural resources.

Branch
highlights
Branch Engagement on Environment
Issues 07/08
MNS successes are the sum of all initiatives
rolled out at MNS Secretariat together with branches
nationwide. Over the last 1 year, branches through its
committed members have responded to emerging environment
issues with such admirable effort.
MNS regularly receive requests from the public
for MNS to assist in dealing with environment-related
issues, most of which MNS is unable to
accommodate because of time and manpower constraints.
Selangor Branch
1. Kota Damansara Community Forest Park Project
The Branch continues its initiatives on raising
awareness with the new Selangor State Government.
The Local Government has earmarked section of the
forest for development purposes as contained in the
Local Draft Plan. Comments were submitted to object
to the proposed clearing of the forest for future
development.
2. KL Draft Plan 2020 Branch submitted their comments
on the KL Draft Plan.
Pahang Branch
Branch had to deal with environmental issues
at the state level such as:
1. Legal and illegal logging
2. Extinction of fresh water fish from Sungai Tem-
beling
3. Gold Mining using Cyanide in Raub
4. Destruction of limestone caves and wildlife habitats
(granite quarry)
5. Development of Mangrove areas
6. Tasik Chini and Tasik Bera Conservation
7. Weak enforcement on wildlife hunting
8. Shooting of fruit bats
9. Tanjung Api Land Reclamation Development
Kuching Branch
One of the biggest challenges faced by the
Branch Committee is in being able to respond to
emerging conservation-related issues in Sarawak in a
timely and efficient manner. In the past year, we have
been engaged in discussions with Cahya Mata
Sarawak and Rio Tinto Alcan about the possible negative
impacts of the proposed development of an aluminium
smelter in Bintulu. Individual members have
had to make time for meetings, discussions, site visits,
and research into the issue, in addition to other
branch-related tasks they already have on their plate.
At the present time, given the way we operate, we are
unable to effectively respond to other emerging issues
(for example the recent announcement about plans to
build 12 dams in Sarawak). We also regularly receive
requests from the public for MNS to assist in dealing
with environment-related issues, most of which we
are unable to accommodate because of time and manpower
constraints.
We make it a point to participate in, and provide
input to meetings and consultations at the state
level as we see this as a way to use our manpower resources
strategically to raise the profile of MNS in
Sarawak and to enhance environmental policy, planning
and practice in the state. We enjoy a good working
relationship with most of the key
environment-related agencies and organizations in
Sarawak and look for opportunities to strengthen
these relationships. We are also starting to build a relationship
with some corporate sector entities. Some
MNS Kuching Branch members also help to disseminate
information about our activities and programmes
through their professional work and to other
organizations that they are involved in.
Miri Branch
We have been involved in initial discussions
with Rio Tinto over the plans for an aluminum smelter
in Similajau. A joint visit was carried out to the site
with Kuching Branch in Dec 2007. Two visits with
branch members were organized in April and Jun
2008.
Kedah Branch
On environmental issues in Kedah, Kedah
branch has been invited to participate in two workshops
organized by the Department of Environment
Kedah to formulate the Master environment plan for
the state. We have also been very vocal in voicing our
concerns regarding petroleum refinery project in Yan
and Kerpan, and heli-logging in the Ulu Muda Forest
reserves. Ulu Muda forest reserves covering over
160,000 hectares not only act as the catchment forests
for the three major dams in Kedah but are also rich in
biological diversity. The society’s stand is to protect
Ulu Muda by gazetting it as a National park to serve
the water catchment function as well as conserving its
biodiversity. Recently, Ulu Muda forests is again targeted
by the same logging company to do helicopter
logging when the new State government was approached
again after its first attempt in 2003 was unsuccessful.
We believe that the new Kedah state
government is force to exploit Ulu Muda forests due

shortage in revenue and ill-advised by the logging
company that this form of logging does not destroy
the forests. Kedah Branch is working with a coalition
of NGOs called “Friends of Ulu Muda II” to fight to
preserve the pristine Ulu Muda forests yet again.
MNS Kedah has organized a Public forum entitled
“Save Ulu Muda Forests” on16 August 2008 at
Star City Hotel to create more awareness among the
general public on this logging issue in these important
water catchment forests. Speakers from WWF
Malaysia, SAM, Water Watch Penang, MADA, MNS
HQ and MNS Kedah gave their views and opinions
on this issue. YB Dr. Cheah Soon Hai the Kedah State
Assemblyman for DERGA officially opened the
forum and promised to bring the issue of gazetting
Ulu Muda as National Park in the Kedah State Legislative
Assembly to protect this pristine catchment
forests.
Penang Branch
MNS Representation in Penang over the last 1 year:
1. Penang Environment Working Group (PEWOG):
Recycling – Kanda Kumar
2. Penang Local Government Consultative Forum –
Kanda Kumar/Foong Swee Yoke
3. Citizens Group for Sustainable Public Transport
(CEPAT) – Kanda Kumar
4. Penang National Park Local Management Committee
– Chan Lai Keng
5. Jawatankuasa Kemajuan Taman Botani Pulau
Pinang – Kanda Kumar
6. DOE sub-committee for Environmental Education
Programme – Kanda Kumar
7. RCE Penang Council – Kanda Kumar/Lai Keng
8. Penang Global City Centre Campaign Group –
Kanda Kumar
Dato Dr Leong Yueh Kwong, Penang Branch
advisor is also called to represent the Branch in some
of these meetings or discussions
Branch Special Interest Group (SIGs) -
07/08
Selangor presently has 9 active SIGs. Besides
organising their own activities, the SIGs have carried
out joint activities complimenting each other focusing
on creating nature awareness and educating members
in advocating for the conservation of the nation’s
environment.
Penang, Perak, Terengganu and Kuching have
also formed Bird Group at the branch level.
Pahang has initiated Green Living SIG and
dedicated members have targeted several schools
around Kuantan to begin their initial recycling program.
Other branches do not have special interest
group but rather a general interest group when activities
are organized mainly due to size of membership,
lack of committed members to spearhead SIGs and
interest members are not specific in nature.
Selangor Marine SIG embarked on a community-based
marine conservation project Save Our Seahorses
(SOS) in Sungai Pulai, Johor as many
developments have been planned around the area that
is extremely crucial to strengthen the community’s
sense of ownership in order to safeguard the mangroves,
seagrass and coral reef ecosystems.
Selangor Branch organized “Bird Group’s Beginners
Birding Course” and the “Cave Group’s Basic
Caving Course” An outdoor “Safety and Survival”
course was organised by Nature Guides to enhance
hikers awareness and appreciation of the outdoors,
providing greater, safer enjoyment under a variety of
conditions.
Through MYCAT, Selangor branch members
have been able to participate directly in tiger conservation
and various outreach programs like Race
Against Time: Empowering young members of the
public to save the tiger and launch of the Tiger Crime
hotline.
Miri branch started a small birdwatching
group in Curtin University with a short course on “Introduction
to Birdwatching” at the university on 30th
May 2008. Miri celebrated World Migratory Bird Day
2008 with 300 schoolchildren this year, first in
Sarawak! Branch is co-organising a Wader Workshop
October 2008 together with MNS Sabah to be held in
Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Miri launched Birding Weekend
with Schoolchildren in July 2008 with RM3,000
fund injection from Sarawak Shell Berhad. Our astronomy
group celebrated its first outing in August
with 400 schoolchildren.
Branch Conservation Projects - 07/08
Perak Branch project
Through Tan Kean Cheong Bird Conservation
Fund, the Branch approved a grant of RM7,000 for
the Hornbill project in Belum Temengor Forest Complex.
Selangor Branch project
Conservation Site Investigation (CSI) Project The
CSI biodiversity monitoring project was held back for
a couple of months due to project members work
commitment and the lack of active members participation.
The monitoring will be continued and conducted
on a specific site at a time to ensure the
mapping and data sheets be finalised to record habitat
quality, key and indicator species of flora/fauna,

and human activity/intervention. Subsequent training
will be conducted to recruit participating members
to conduct these monitoring activities.
Kuching Branch projects
In the past year, the Branch has begun to focus
increasingly on conservation projects such as the
“Trees for Life” Community Project and the Bako-
Buntal Bay Project.
1. “Trees for Life” Community Project: A
12-month initiative, begun in October 2007 and conducted
in partnership with SARAWAK FORESTRY.
This project is designed to create an opportunity for
the residents of Kuching to actively participate in a
community effort to realize the full potential of the
Sama Jaya Nature Reserve (SJNR), and through this
to raise their awareness and understanding of the
value of the SJNR. The project has also launched a
volunteer programme and a tree-sponsoring programme
to support activities in the SJNR. The lessons
learnt from this project will be used to develop a
model for community participation in the conservation
and management of an urban nature reserve, in
the hope that this model will serve to catalyze similar
initiatives in other urban areas.
2. Bako Buntal Bay Project: A project begun
in 2008, and aimed at raising awareness about the
value of coastal areas for birds and people, and to
strengthen the capacity of the local community to be
more actively involved in its conservation and development.
A two-year programme of work has been developed
and approved, with activities focused in the
Kampung Buntal area. The main activities to be conducted
are:
a. A Local Conservation Group (LCG) established
at the site.
b. Training workshops, meetings – capacity
building on conservation & monitoring skills.
c. Awareness activities – events, awareness
materials, etc.
d. Site surveys to identify conservation measures
which can be undertaken by the LCGs.
Johore Branch projects
Some of the activities carried out were due to
the cooperation of MNSJ with state agencies such as
the Department of Forestry, Johor National Parks Corporation
(PTNJ), Johor Tourism Action Council
(JTAC) and even the private sectors such as Port of
Tanjung Pelepas) and Kulim Plantations. MNSJ’s target
is to concertedly pursue cooperation with PER-
HILITAN (Wildlife Department), Fisheries
Department and other relevant agencies in the future.
The keyword is to “cooperate” in the best public relations
possible without being hostile in any manner,
but at the same time MNSJ needs to ensure the balance
of MNSJ not being used as a “greenwash”.
This balance is necessary too in our work with
the State Exco for the Environment, where controversial
issues such as the Sg Pulai Seaport Development
needed to be handled as delicately as possible.
The presence of Iskandar Development Region (IDR)
in southern Johor is a reality and as the premier environmental
NGO in the State, MNSJ has to balance its
role well.
Penang Branch projects
Illustrated Field Guide to the Trees of
Penang The first 3 phases of this project was awarded
to MNS Penang by the Penang Botanic Gardens and
was undertaken by Simon, Pindar and Ee May. Work
on the 3 phases was carried out in late 2007 and the
project was valued at RM29,925.00. The Branch will
deduct 15% as administration/management charge before
dispersing the funds. The final product will be
the publication of the field guide, pending funding.
LKT Industries Recycling Project Kanda
Kumar assisted LKT industries in starting a recycling
programme at their factory. The proceeds of the recyclables
will be used for environmental/nature project
for LKT staff. The recycling proceeds will be held by
MNS Penang and will be paid 15% of the funds as
administration/management fees. The LKT recycling
programme initiated in October 2007 stands at
RM801.62 in May 2008.
Terengganu Branch projects
1. Publication “The Birds of Terengganu - A
Checklist” - With sponsorship from the government
of Terengganu and Talisman, we successfully produced
a list of the Birds of Terengganu. From the project,
the branch managed to add a few bins, scopes and
cameras.
2. Waste Audit - 3R Awareness programme and
waste auditing is being conducted in two secondary
schools in the district of Marang
3. Public Participation in Solid Waste Management
Project at Pulau Kapas - The branch was appointed
as the Responsible entity by DANIDA and
Majlis Daerah Marang. The thirteen calendar month
work ends in September 2009
Miri Branch projects
1. Birding Weekend with Schoolchildren
Jul08-May09. Several sites in Miri have been identified
for this introductory birdwatching lessons in the
field. Places are limited to 8 students per trip. The
children will be accompanied by 3-4 experienced
birders for their first trip. Introducing birdwatching as
a worthwhile hobby to local children.

2. Walk the Quiet Coast Dec
2008. Walk from Bakam to Similajau
to increase the profile of the
Sarawakian Coast with impending industries
and deepsea ports activities
planned to commence 2010.
3. KidsXplore Nature Workshop
Series. Photography and art related
excursion for children to observe
and record natural surroundings. Two
local artists and photographers from
Photomalaysia.com enlisted.
Branch Newsletter and E Groups
Pencinta Alam, which was
once the Selangor Branch monthly
newsletter has transformed into MNS
National Newsletter and is provided to
all members through emails. Certain
branches continue to produce newsletter
at the state level.
Perak – Perak Nature.
Pahang – Berita MNS
E Groups maintained by branches
� Selangor – open to all MNS members.
Email to mnselangor@yahoogroups.com
(Moderator: Bernie
Chin)
� Pahang - open to MNS Pahang
members only. Email to mnspahang@yahoogroups.com
(Moderator:
Chu Seng Po)
� Penang - open to all MNS members.
Email to mnspenang@yahoo.com
(Moderator: Kanda Kumar)
� Perak - open to MNS Perak mem-
bers only. Email to mnsperak@yahoogroups.com
(Moderator: Dr Chan
Kai Soon)
To subscribe to these egroups
mentioned above, please email stating
Name and Membership number if you
are keen to subscribe.
Miri branch has an up to date
website with activities listings, event
reports and articles. Members and
friends receive regular monthly updates
on branch happenings from branch
chairperson.
Branch Wish List for 08/09
Wish list for members for the coming
years:
1. More active engagement in the activities
and programmes of the Branch.
2. Help to raise the profile of MNS in
each state through their own networks.
3. Help to build MNS membership
base.
Members are encouraged to
contact the Branch Committees as well
as Secretariat and contact details are
listed in the newsletter.
- Compiled by Maye Yap
(742912-V)
Website: http://www.mymountaingoal.com
Contact : Thong at goalus@mymountaingoal.com
H/P : 016-6375622 Off : 03-40248896
Everest Base Camp / Kalapattar trek from 17/10/08 to 03/11/08 (18D17N)
Experience the culture of the
Sherpas in route to Khumbu
village. Enjoy a climb to the
scintillating Kalapattar
5,545m. /18190ft, one of the
most spectacular vantage points in the Everest region. Explore enchanting
views of Everest, Pumori, Ama Dablam, Nuptse, Lhotse, Makalu and many
other towering peaks.
Two free Training trip will provided for the Everest Base Camp trip.
Further info at www.mymountaingoal.com/everestkalapattar.htm
MT Fansipan and Halong bay Expedition from 15/11/08 to 22/11/08
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 Fansipan trekking. Further
info at www.mymountaingoal.com/Vietnam_FanHasch.htm

Eco Kids
Rodent or Lagomorph?
Most people assume that rabbits and hares
belong to the rodent family. They don’t! Rabbits,
hares and pikas belong to the lagomorph family.
Rabbits and hares characteristically have
long ears, a short tail and strong hind legs that create
a bounding motion when they run. Pikas have
shorter, rounded ears, no external tail and less welldeveloped
hind legs.
The table below shows how a lagomorph is
different from a rodent:
Like rodents, lagomorphs have teeth that
continue to grow throughout their lives. This makes
it necessary for them to chew and gnaw on objects to
keep their teeth from growing too long.
If you have any rodents or lagomorphs as
pets, please ensure that they always have fresh food
and water, clean bedding, and something hard, safe
and non-toxic to gnaw on that is free from chemicals,
paint and latex. Hard foods like carrots and seed
& nut bars are ideal. All animals, whether our pets
or in the wild, deserve our love, care and protection.
RODENT LAGOMORPH
Rodents have one pair of constantly growing sharp
incisors used for feeding.
Most rodents are omnivorous – they eat both meat
(e.g. insects) and vegetation.
The male rodent’s reproductive organ has a bone,
known as a baculum.
Lagomorphs have two pairs of constantly growing
sharp incisors used for feeding. The second pair is
peg-like and is located behind the first pair.
Lagomorphs are almost entirely herbivorous. This
means that they are vegetarian!
The male lagomorph’s reproductive organ does not
have a bone.
- Wong Ee Lynn.
gl.mnselangor@yahoo.com
Pika
Hare
Rabbits

Green Living Column
Factsheet on bottled
drinking water
Bottled drinking water has higher economic and
environmental costs than most of us would realise. The
facts below, which were collated by the Pacific Institute,
may be able to persuade you to fill your own water tumblers
instead of purchasing bottled drinking water:
1. According to the Beverage Marketing Corporation,
Americans bought a total of 31.2 billion litres of
bottled drinking water in 2006. Most of this water was
sold in polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles, requiring
nearly 900,000 tons of plastic. PET is produced from fossil
fuels – typically petroleum, a non-renewable resource.
2. According to the plastics manufacturing industry,
it takes around 3.4 megajoules of energy to make
Bookshelf
A Guide to the Fabulous Figs of
Singapore
Author: Angie Ng B C, et al
MP: RM16.00
NMP: RM18.00
Publisher: Singapore Science
Centre (2005)
What is a fig? Where are figs
found? How does a fig plant look?
How are figs pollinated? These are just some of the
questions answered in this small but handy guide
book. Other topics covered include the importance
and significance of figs, and how to spot and identify
a typical one-litre plastic bottle, cap, and packaging. Making
enough plastic to bottle 31.2 billion litres of water required
more than 106 billion megajoules of energy.
Because a barrel of oil contains around 6 thousand megajoules,
the Pacific Institute estimates that the equivalent of
more than 17 million barrels of oil were needed to produce
these plastic bottles.
3. The manufacture of every ton of PET produces
around 3 tons of carbon dioxide (CO2). Bottling water
thus created more than 2.5 million tons of CO2 in 2006.
4. In addition to the water sold in plastic bottles,
the Pacific Institute estimates that twice as much water is
used in the production process. Thus, every litre sold represents
three litres of water.
5. More energy is needed to fill the bottles with
water at the factory, move it by truck, train, ship, or air
freight to the user, cool it in grocery stores or home refrigerators,
and recover, recycle, or throw away the empty
bottles. The Pacific Institute estimates that the total
amount of energy embedded in our use of bottled water
figs. This guide book documents more than 70% of the
48 species or more species recorded for Singapore.
A Guide to the Common Liverworts
and Hornworts of Singapore
Author: Sinikka Piippo, Benito C.
Tan, Dennis Hugh Murphy, Aino
Juslen and Choy Meng-Shyan
MP: RM16.00
NMP: RM18.00
Publisher: Singapore Science Centre
(2002)
“Liverworts, hornworts and their relatives, mosses, are
the bryophytes in our biological world. They are usually
can be as high as the equivalent of filling a plastic bottle
one quarter full with oil.
Contributed by Dr. Jessie Cheah, edited by Wong Ee
Lynn. Propose A Topic! E-mail us at
gl.mnselangor@yahoo.com and let us know what topic
you would like to learn more about.
REMINDER: COLLECTION OF RECYCLABLES
MNS HQ collects paper, aluminium cans, plastics, used
laser toner and inkjet cartridges, unwanted computers
and printers for recycling. MNS does NOT collect old
clothes, old toys, old furniture or glass bottles. Drop off
your recyclables anytime at the bins next to Nature Owlet.
Money raised from the sale of recyclables will help fund
MNS HQ activities.
For more information on recycling centres in
your area, please collect a copy of the Recycling Directory
from the Ministry of Housing and Local Government
in Pusat Bandar Damansara during office hours.
tiny land-plants that are easily overlooked unless one
is specifically looking for them. And yet, they play an
important role in our natural ecosystems. This is especially
true for lowland tropics such as Singapore,
where the spectacular richness of the flora of larger
“higher” plants such as ferns and flowering plants is
likely to distract the untrained eye.”
The above paragraph was taken from the
foreword of this guide book which helps the layman
in trying to understand these unusual plants. A handy
guide to add to a nature enthusiast’s collection of
books.
Books are available at ‘The MNS Shop’ T/F: 03-
22873471. E: natureowlet@yahoo.com Please call/email
the MNS Shop before dropping in.

Why protect
Belum-Temengor
There are 12 countries around the world that
hold more than 75% of all of Earth’s species.
Malaysia is one of these 12 countries. Our rainforests
hold such treasures that every time a scientific expedition
is held at least 1 new species is found or rediscovered.
Yet we are steadily losing our natural
heritage due to unsustainable development. Malaysia
is listed as having the highest number of plant extinctions
by the IUCN and that is not good news for
us. Belum-Temengor as a forest complex holds a
great amount of biological diversity.
Below are 10 reasons why it is important that
this forest is kept intact and protected.
1. The total area of Belum-Temengor is approximately
300,000 hectares, 4 times the size of
Singapore. This vast area allows large mammals such
as tigers, elephants and rhinoceros to roam and breed
and continue to survive.
2. Belum-Temengor is identified in the
Malaysian National Physical Plan as an Environmentally
Sensitive Area Rank 1. It means that
Belum-Temengor is nationally important for flora,
fauna and for a healthy environment to the citizens of
Malaysia. It is noted in this plan that this forest must
be protected and left untouched.
3. It is internationally recognized as an Important
Bird Area by BirdLife International. It is only
in Belum-Temengor that you can find all 10 species
of the Malaysian hornbills (Yes! Sarawak only has
8!). This includes the Globally Threatened Plain
Pouched Hornbills, which can be seen flying in
flocks of more than 2000 individuals. In all, 274 bird
species arefound here.
4. The forest has more than 3,000 species
of flowering plants, which includes 3 species of the
Rafflesia (world’s largest flowers), while Cycads,
palm-like plants existing since the dinosaur era grow
lush among 64 species of ferns and 62 species of
mosses
5. It is home to at least 14 globally threatened
mammals. These include the Malaysian Tiger
(recently recorded as a sub-species on its own apart
from the Indo-China Tiger), the Sumatran Rhinoceros,
the Asiatic Elephant, the Malayan Tapir, Whitehanded
gibbons, etc.
6. The lake in the middle of the Forest
Complex is rich with fish life. It has 23 species of
freshwater fish and 7 species of turtles.
7. The lake also is an important water
catchment area. The dam provides electricity to
many major cities in Peninsular Malaysia. Continued
logging will cause siltation in the dam hence reducing
the long-term viability of Temengor Dam as
a water source and facility for generating electricity.
8. The Belum-Temengor Forest Complex
is home to many Orang Asli (indigenous) community.
Logging strips them of their home, food, livelihood
and heritage.
9. Belum-Temengor is one of Malaysia’s
wildest places; untouched forest, great wildlife
watching opportunities and fantastic landscape
views. These provide a greater opportunity for the
State Government to earn revenue, an alternative to
logging. Responsible ecotourism will bring in many
profitable opportunities for the state if the forest is
conserved.
10. Belum-Temengor is a national treasure.
This vast landscape MUST be preserved for the
Malaysian children and for the world. It is a treasure
we should not have to lose for the sake of making a
fast buck or for short term profiting.
Our rainforests are of immeasurable value –
for water, for biodiversity, for the health of our
planet, as a home for our Malaysian wildlife, as a living
laboratory for research, biotechnology, and pharmacology.
Intact rainforests can only increase in value
as years pass but logging, in the blink of an eye,
strips us of this national heritage.

MYCAT Watch
Tigers Forever in Johor
Tigers Forever is an action plan to ensure that
tigers remain in the wild forever, with the ambitious
target of increasing tiger numbers by 50% over the
next 10 years at key sites in Asia.
One of these sites is the Endau-Rompin landscape
in the state of Johor, comprising 1,500 km2 of
forested land centred on the Endau-Rompin National
Park.
The target of a 50% increase in tiger numbers
means that we need a precise estimate of the population
at the beginning of the project, and the purpose of
our monitoring work is estimate this and to make sure
the project is moving towards meeting this goal.
Camera traps set in Endau-Rompin National
Park for 4 months in 2007 produced photos of three
individual tigers (two males and one female). We also
photographed golden cat, Asian elephant, sambar
deer, muntjac, common wild pig, bearded pig and
tapir. A systematic camera trapping survey to estimate
the number of tigers in the whole 1,500 km2 study
site is planned.
Due to the low abundance of prey species in
tropical rainforest, the project uses survey techniques
recently developed by the Tigers Forever Technical
Support Team and the WCS India Program.
The Endau-Rompin landscape is divided into
464 grids of 3.25 km2 and we walk at least 5 km in
each of these, searching for fresh signs (footprints,
faeces, etc) of the main species preyed on by tigers.
We then know what proportion of the forest is occu-
Song Horng Liang showing JNPC staff how to set up
a camera trap.
pied by prey species and the trend in the abundance of
each species in the landscape over the years.
We started this work in Johor in April 2008.
So far we have covered Endau-Rompin National Park
and we've started on the adjacent forest. The survey
team leaders are mainly WCS staff with assistance
from staff of Johor National Parks Corporation
(JNPC) and over 30 indigenous people from 9 villages
in and around the survey area.
WCS Malaysia acknowledges the in-kind
contribution of staff, field accommodation and equipment
by the Johor government through JNPC and the
Department of Forestry of Johor. Main financial support
was provided by Panthera Foundation and JNPC.
For further information, email the author at shneoliang@wcs.org
- Song Horng Liang/Wildlife Conservation Society
Malaysia Programme. Photo by Anne Majanil
Volunteers wanted!
Festival of Wings 2008
The Festival of Wings (25th – 26th October
2008) aims to promote the importance of
birds as natural indicators for earth health,
awareness of the environment as well as promoting
the Kuala Selangor Nature Park as an
eco-tourism destination.
We need volunteers to assist us with the
exciting activities lined up for members of the
public.
We require:
● Marshalls for the Amazing Kuala Selangor
Nature Hunt 2008 (8 pax)
● Guides for public tour programmes (4 pax)
● General volunteers (8 pax)
*Note that volunteering requires you to
be at the Kuala Selangor Nature Park from Friday,
24th October (evening) to Sunday, 26th October
(evening).
Accommodation and meals at the Park
will be provided, as well as internal transportation
for the marshalls.
Please email your details and indicate
which duty interests you to Loretta Ann
Soosayraj at
loretta.soosayraj@gmail. For further information,
call 012 3100 594.
Volunteer places are limited, so hurry!

Calendar of Activities
October
9
Thu Talk: “A lot of hot air? Carbon Trading
and the future of Kyoto” MNS HQ Auditorium,
Jalan Kelantan, KL, at 8.00pm. All are welcome.
Please refer to last month’s newsletter for full details.
11-12
Sat-Sun Trip: Kinta Nature Park,
Perak An overnight trip to Kinta Nature
Park. This is an old mining area with many pools and
interconnecting tracks, famous for its heronry and
migratory birdlife. Trip will be coordinated by both
Selangor and Perak Branch. For those who are keen,
please call Bernie at 012 6928356 or email
berniechin118@yahoo.com for booking by Sep 30.
Cost of trip: RM190 per person inclusive of car pool,
breakfast and one night stay in Clearwater Sanctuary
Resort. A highly recommended slideshow by Mr
KS Cheang will be shown. Suitable for children.
11-12
Sat-Sun 2D/1N trip to Tanjung Piai-
Kukup (N9/Melaka Branch) The
southernmost tip of mainland Asia, Tanjung Piai
Johor National Park comprises of coastal mangroves.
Kukup island shelters an array of wetland-associated
plant and animal life. Kukup is famous for
its seafood restaurants and cage cultured fish farms.
Activities include mangrove boardwalks, bird watching,
guided tours and park trails.
Trip is suitable for young and old and cost
would be on a pro-rata basis.
Meeting place at Ujong Pasir Petronas Station,
Melaka, at 7.00am. Confirm with coordinator
by 4 October 2008. Kindly note change in coordinator!
Coordinator – Ms Lim Ming Hui (email
lmh75@tm.net.my or hp: 012-2760327)
18-19
Sat-Sun Workshop: Identification of
Asian Raptors Raptor Study Group of
Bird Conservation Council will hold a workshop on
raptor identification and counting.The aim is to build
up a pool of proficient raptor watchers required during
events such as Raptor Watch Week.
This one and half day programme consists
of one-day classroom work on Sat. 18th October in
the MNS auditorium at Jalan Kelantan, Kuala
Lumpur , and a half- day field practice at Bagan
Lalang,Sepang on Sun.19th, morning.
Class room work and material is FOC but
participants have to share the cost of car-pooling (toll
and petrol) to and from Bg.Lalang (appox.RM45.00
per head).
Birders who wish to enrol: please email Lim
Aun Tiah (limbird@streamyx.com) or sms him (
012-6979075) latest by 14th October., providing
name and mobile number.
Since space in the auditorium is limited, priority
may have to be given to birders who have previously
volunteered for RWW.
19
Sun Trip to Dark Caves The Selangor Branch
Cave Group would like to invite you to join us
for our Dark Caves tour! Every 3rd Sunday of the
month, we conduct a trip to Dark Caves (located at
Batu Caves).
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.
You are invited to join us for this 4-hour adventure
session to gain an understanding of limestone
cave formation and be introduced the type of
formations that can be found in the caves such as stalactites,
stalagmites, columns, pillars, etc. You will
also be exposed to the
types of fauna that can be
found in the caves such as
cave cockroaches, millipedes,
and bats on their
contribution to the eco-system.
There are approximately
2 km of passages on several levels. The main
attractions of these caves are their size and formations,
and their ecology. Some large passages are
enough for airplanes, and others' are so tight that
even crawling through poses a challenge! The caves

consist of seven major sections : Cavern A to Cavern
F and the Great Cavern, named in the 1920's by the
leaders of the first major scientific research group
and it is still retained today. We will be exploring
through a few Caverns, and we are sure you will
have a good time joining us.
The cost is RM35 for MNS members &
RM80 for non-MNS members for the adventure tour.
So, come along with your adventurous spirit! Please
contact Darren Wong (019-2164638,
darren.wong@mnscavers.org) or Chee Min Er (019-
3148408, miner.chee@mnscavers.org).
19
Sun Mini Bird Race: Penrissen Range, Borneo
Highlands Resort
Bird watching is a non-spectator activity. A
bird race is a “fun race” where teams of two compete
against each other in searching, identifying, and
recording as many species of birds in Penrissen
Range over a set time constraint.
The race area will be set on the Jungle trail
and Mountain trails around Borneo Highlands Resort.
The Race begins at 8.30am and ends at 2.30pm.
At the end of the race, participants will have to submit
their entries for judging. The winners will be determined
by the number of bird recorded and new
birds discovered.
Penrissen Range sits more than 1,000 metres
above sea level in between Kalimantan and Sarawak.
This area is only accessible via Borneo Highlands
Resort. Located in the world’s oldest and 2nd largest
tropical rainforest, the Penrissen Range is still considered
an undiscovered vacinity for birding activities.
138 species of birds have so far been sighted
in the area. The selection is extensive and some less
commonly seen. Participants may be lucky to spot
new birds to add to our list. Our birdlist is regularly
updated at www.worldbirds.org/Malaysia and
http://www.birdinginmalaysia.com/.
Participation & Entrance Fee RM100.00 nett
per team of two. Download entry form and more
info at events.borneohighlands.com.my
20
Mon Introduction to Bird-Watching Conducted
collaboratively by MNS Melaka with
support from Selangor Branch Bird Group at Tiara
Melaka Club, at 8am.
To create awareness of avifauna in the local
community (park/garden) for secondary students.
Interested members may contact Mr. Ang at
wenshen1@streamyx.com or hp: 012-6325297
23
Thu Talk: "Uncovering the hidden diversity
of the lizard fauna of Peninsular
Malaysia" by Dr Lee Grismer 8.30pm at MNS Auditorium,
KL.
In less than eight years, Dr Grismer’s work
has added more new lizard species to Peninsular
Malaysia than was added between the years of 1900
and 2000. Discover more interesting facts about
Malaysian lizards during the talk.
25-26
Sat-Sun Festival of Wings Like always,
October marks the long journey for migratory
birds. Dozens of species fly far away from
their wintering homes crossing seas and continents
in order to find a warm place to sleep rest and eat.
This journey is a yearly occurrence with the birds as
they use the same route. As the world celebrates
them in World Bird Migration Day, Malaysian Nature
Society (MNS) and Kuala Selangor Nature Park
(KSNP) celebrate them with the Festival of Wings.

The ‘Festival of Wings’ is an annual event organized
to promote the importance of birds as natural
indicators for earth health, awareness of the
environment as well as promoting Kuala Selangor as
an eco-tourism destination. This year, the event will
be held on 25th – 26th October 2008. Two separate
programs have been designed to attract different interests:
1. The ‘Amazing Kuala Selangor Nature Hunt’A day
program designed to attract adventurous people,
adults and students alike. In groups of 4, teams will
observe wildlife, explore the park and carry out exceptional
tasks such as nature craft and mangrove replanting
in this rewarding program. But, it is not only
for fun, teams will also learn the importance of the
flora and fauna.
Fees:
Adult Category - RM80.00
Student Category - RM 35.00
2. ‘Bird Watching & Waders Monitoring Program’.
This program will give you a taste of bird watching
and give you the basic skills for when you go out and
do it yourself. Relax and enjoy yourself as this program
will help you to see the beauty of birds for
yourself.
Fees:
Adult - RM 120.00
Student - RM 80.00
The programs will be conducted at two different
places, KSNP itself and the exclusive Sultan
Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Power Plant in Kapar.
If you would like to attend the program(s)
please contact Kuala Selangor Nature Park (KSNP)
to confirm your place by 7th October 2008. Fees are
to be paid either in cash on arrival at KSNP or by a
cheque made payable to Malaysian Nature Society
(MNS).
To confirm your place or if you have any
questions please contact:
Mr. Raj - 012-296 8438
Ms. Laila - 012-602 8462
KSNP Tel - 03-3289 2294
KSNP Fax -03-3289 4311
25-27
Sat-Mon “Beyond Point & Shoot”
Trip (Selngor Branch) Irau, Cameron
Highland.
Irau, a mossy forest off the Gunung Brinchang
trail where Picher plant aplenty, do provide
many opportunities for nature photographer.
We shall be having a photography sharing
cum nature shooting session in Irau, Cameron Highland
to bring members who are interested in photography
beyond the “Point & Shoot” level. This outing
is a good opportunity to share our photography skill
where we can also learn from one another. In the
evening we will also share with you on some theory
on nature photography and also the advantages of
SLR camera in nature photography.
As the norm in MNS outing, we shall be carpooling
to Cameron Highland and shall be staying in
MNS BOH study centre.
The cost per member will be RM150.00 (inclusive
of food and transportation). It is limited to 20
members only.
Please call Alex Foong (012-2893133), Yap
Kok Sun (013-2087418) or Bernie (012-6928356)
straightly after 7.00pm for reservation.
Oct31-Nov2
Fri-Sun Lembangan Sungai
Nenggiri Rafting Expedition
(Selangor Branch)
Tired of walking! Try rafting through the forest
instead. Nature Guides Group is organizing a
3D2N rafting trip in Sungai Nenggiri, Gua Musang.
This is a community project by Persatuan Sahabat
Sungai Nenggiri (SSN). This river is part of Sungai
Kelantan, the main river which the source is 2,000m
above sea level in the Lojing Mountains in Titiwangsa
Range. We will leave KL/PJ on 30 Oct
(Thurs) 8pm and reach Gua Musang around 1.00am.
We start our rafting journey from Kuala Betis to
Kuala Jenera stopping at Gua Cha for lunch with a
view. The next morning, we will raft to Pulat, an
Orang Asli Village. That night, you will be under the
care and hospitality of the Temiar people while they
perform sewang cultural show. After a night spent in
the village, we will raft to Kg Star to marvel at the
splendour of Gua Pintu and visit an elephant
cemetary.
Cost is RM380.00 per person all inclusive
(no extra charge) except car-pooling from KL/PJ are
born by all passengers, payable to the drivers. A pre-

trip briefing will be held at MNS HQ on 24 October,
Friday 8pm.
Interested, please contact John Chan at 016
3569 169 or chankokaik@yahoo.com.
November
1-2
Sat-Sun The Genting “Go Green” Trailblazer
The Genting Trailblazer will be a
challenging 14km run through the forest with the
"Go Green" message. With a partnership with MNS,
the Trailblazer promises to have minimal impact on
the environment.
The Genting Trailblazer isn't merely a run, it
promises to be an adventure carrying the "Go Green"
message. Running through the forest, you will come
face to face with 14 km of muddy terrain, daunting
obstacles and challenges.
Working hand in hand with MNS, the
Genting Trailblazer has committed to minimize the
impact on the environment by implementing several
"Go Green" measures including the prohibiting the
use of plastic bottles, sustainable methods of preparation
and implementation of the race, perusing ecofriendly
products and conducting green forums and
talks.
MNS will be conducting talks on conservation,
habitat and species as well as running activities
during the run.
With over RM72, 000 worth of cash and
prizes to be won, more information on the Genting
Trailblazer can be found at:
www.gentingtrailblazer.com
verydirtypeople.blogspot.com
Facebook Group: Genting Trailblazer
7-11 15-16
Fri-Mon Birding in Langkawi Langkawi
Island in the north-west of Peninsular
Malaysia is a place to seek out bird species that do
not occur further south. Don't miss out on the chance
to see the Brown-winged Kingfisher, Plain-backed
Sparrow, Mountain Hawk-Eagle, Black-hooded Oriole
and Jerdon’s Baza. November is also a good time
to possibly spot some exotic migrant birds. Come
join the Selangor Branch Bird Group to explore and
find some of the birding gems of Langkawi.
Cost: RM320 per person ex-Langkawi. This
includes accommodation and transportation on the
island. It will also cover the cost of a boat trip. Meals
are on your own account. Participants are required
to make their own way to Langkawi and to meet at a
pre-determined place on 7th Nov. You will have an
option to extend your stay in Langkawi on your own
with 4 nights accommodation free.
Closing date: 24 Oct 2008. Registration and
payment contact: Alan Yu (016-3322991,
alanyu01@gmail.com). Payment mode: Bank into
Maybank Account No. 1-14196-18946-5; cheques to
be made out to YU TOH BING. Please register and
confirm place with Alan before banking in your
cheque. Pre-trip meeting will be held on Thu 30 Oct
at 8 pm at the MNS HQ Auditorium
Sat-Sun Trip to Sg Pulai Estuary &
Kukup National Park Cost: RM190
(members)/ RM260 (non-members, includes 1 year
membership). Booking: By Friday, 17 October = pay
RM 100 Please refer to last month’s newsletter for
full details.
15
Sat Workshop: "T-shirts Have Nine Lives!"
Don't throw that T-shirt away, turn it into
funky, goofy, snazzy, or just plain functional items!
Make yourself or loved ones:
1) a travel pillow;
2) a sleep mask;
3) a pair of add-on sleeves to keep sun rays and
thirsty insects away; or
4) a jacket for the passport*.
If you prefer something quick and easy, make
chubby little stars for the Christmas tree! Handmade
presents are gentle on the environment, and they've
got character; closer to the heart than what money
can buy.
Fabric + scissors + needle + thread + a big
smile = Your recipe to great handmade presents! Just
bring your own T-shirt fabric, and we'll prepare the
rest.
For ages 7 and up. Join us at the MNS HQ
Auditorium, 2pm–6pm. Your contribution of RM6
will help to cushion costs. Please register in advance.
Email your full name and membership number to Pik
Wun at threelittlepiks@gmail.com
* Check out the ones we made, at
mnsselangorbirdgroup.blogspot.com

21-23
Fri-Sun Intermediate Birdwatching
Course @ KSNP Are you able to identify
birds, but maybe have difficulty with families
such as Bulbuls, Warblers and Egrets, which all look
so similar? Aware of different bird calls, but need
help learning them? Want to learn more about birds
and birding? If so, the Intermediate Course is for
you!
Join the Selangor Branch Bird Group for two
nights and two days of practical and classroom sessions
at Kuala Selangor Nature Park. We will also
touch on monitoring techniques, and how these techniques
can enable you to contribute towards conservation
work through birdwatching.
Cost: RM200 per pax includes accommodation,
meals, transportation and course materials. Registration/Check-in
7pm sharp Friday evening, as
course begins promptly at 8.00pm. Max. 20 pax so
book your place early to avoid disappointment!
MUST have own binoculars and field guide.
NOT suitable for Beginners. Briefing on Tue 18 Nov
at MNS HQ Auditorium at 8 pm.
Contact: Khoo Swee Seng (013-3863663,
email swekhoo@yahoo.com) to book or for further
information. Cheques for payment are to be made out
to Khoo Swee Seng and mailed to No.2 Jalan
SS3/38, 47300 Petaling Jaya. Please contact him to
book before sending cheque. Closing date 11th Nov.
22
Sat MNS Open Day (Selangor Branch) 9am-
5pm, NEC, FRIM, Kepong.
Keep this date free for an informal, familyoriented
day of fun and activities in the beautiful
green surroundings of this forestry research station.
Spread the word to all your relatives, friends, members
and non-members. Innovative, refreshing ideas
welcomed.
For more details, please contact Pasu at
pasupathy_jayaraj@yahoo.com More updates in
next issue.
HAVE YOU WRITTEN YOUR WILL YET? WHO WILL TAKE CARE OF YOUR FAMILY
UPON YOUR UNTIMELY DEMISE?
LOVE YOUR FAMILY, WRITE YOUR WILL TODAY AND ENJOY A PEACE OF MIND wherever you
maybe…Travelling, Trekking, Caving, Mountain Climbing, Diving, Biking, Camping, etc.
If you pass on without having a VALID WILL….this is what happens…..
1. Your Family
� Your spouse and children will face cash flow problem because all your bank accounts including joint ac
counts 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 administrative process (2 - 6 years)
� 2 guarantors / sureties required (amount equal or more than deceased’s estate)
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.
Why leave to chance….for more information, please call……
MARY OOI
Professional Estate Planner (Rockwills Corporation Sdn. Bhd.)
Islamic Estate Planner (as-Salihin Trustee Sdn. Bhd.)
H/P: 012-3379906 or email: mary_3_ooi@hotmail.com

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
Chair Prof Madya Dr. Maketab Mohd
019-3519866, maketab@fkkksa.utm.my
Vice Chairman Dr. Lum Wei Wah
019-7838388, jefflum@tm.net.my
Secretary Zalinah Sarpan, 013-7722229
Zalinah.sarpan@my.lafarge.com
Treasurer Chern Boon Hong
012-7800023
KEDAH BRANCH
289, Tingkat Bawah, Jln Shahab 1, Shahab
Perdana, 05400 Alor Star, Kedah.
Chairman Phang Fatt Khow
012-3116420, fkphang05@yahoo.com
Vice Chair Kalaimani a/l Supramaniam
019-4733505, maniria@yahoo.com
Secretary Tengku Badrillah bT Abdullah
012-4880090, tbadril@hotmail.com
Treasurer Tan Dek
019-5762823, cptps@tm.net.my
KELANTAN BRANCH
204, Jln Sultan Yahya Petra,15150 Kota
Bharu, Kelantan. shown@tm.net.my
Chairman Tan Kee Leong, Michael
012-9538858, mike1958@streamyx.com
Vice Chair Cheah Sin Chor
012-9567702
Secretary Wong Mei Lin
wmeilin@tm.net.my
Treasurer Evone Lim
evone2meng@yahoo.com
NEGERI SEMBILAN/
MELAKA BRANCH
581-A Taman Aman, Ujong Pasir,
75050 Melaka.
Chairman Lim Ming Hui
012-2760327, lmh75@tm.net.my
Vice Chair Saffe Mohd Yusof 012-6740054
safe.mohdyusof@exxonmobil.com
Secretary Stephanie Bacon
012-2175590, cooltek@streamyx.com
Treasurer Lee Ah Geok
06-3345666x2116, ahgeoklee@hotmail.com
PAHANG BRANCH
F-4-4, Jalan Padang Golf,
25050 Kuantan. mnspahang@yahoo.com
Chairman Datin Marimah Bt Daud
012-7205383
Vice Chair Mohd Roslan Bin Mohd Rais
019-7124595, mroslan@swss.com.my
Secretary Chow Mee Foong 0199515169
chowmeefoong@yahoo.com
Treasurer Ho Chin Leong
09-5668240
PENANG BRANCH
Nature Information Centre (NIC),
673-B Jalan Kebun Bunga,
10350 Penang. T/F: 04 2273673.
Open Mon-Sat, 7.30am - 11.30am (Please
phone before visiting).
www.geocities.com/mnspenang/
Chairman Kanda Kumar
04-2273673, kandakum@tm.net.my
Vice Chairman Hymeir Kamarudin
019-4428926, hymeir@gmail.com
Secretary Lai Ee May 012-5385642,
eemaylai@yahoo.com
Treasurer Foong Swee Yeok
012-5529694, foong_sy@yahoo.com
PERAK BRANCH
PO Box 34, Ipoh Garden Post Office,
31407 Ipoh.
Chairman Leow Kon Fah 019-5634598,
leow_kingfisher@yahoo.com
Vice Chair Ooi Beng Yean
017-5082206, obybeng@streamyx.com
Secretary Neal Nirmal
012-6195432, kghijau1@tm.net.my
Treasurer Har Wai Ming
019-5724113, wm.har@klk.com.my
SABAH BRANCH
Lot F-4-18, Block F, 4th Floor,
Plaza Tanjung Aru, Jln Mat Salleh,
Tanjung Aru, 88100 Kota Kinabalu.
mns_sabah@yahoo.com.sg
Chairperson Omar Abdul Kadir
019-8110125, omar_kadir51@yahoo.com
Vice Chair Anna Wong
016-8346808, anna888@ums.edu.my
Secretary Zarinah Waheed
019-8329329, zarinah@ums.edu.my
Treasurer Muhammad Ali Syed Hussein
016-2398111, tilan@yahoo.com
SARAWAK (KUCHING) BRANCH
mnskuching@gmail.com
Chairman Rebecca Jothi D'Cruz
019-8579110, aonyx@pd.jaring.my
Vice Chair Dr Georges Schneider
012-8860033, jwsgmgs@streamyx.com
Secretary Chan Mei Ching, Zora Sharon
019-8279881, zorachan76@yahoo.com
Treasurer Jacinta Wong-Schneider
012-8862911, jwsgmgs@streamyx.com
SARAWAK (MIRI) BRANCH
c/o EPA-T-DGP, Sarawak Shell Bhd,
Jalan Pantai, 98100 Lutong.
mnsmiri@yahoo.com
Chairman Nazeri Abghani
016-8542212, nabghani@yahoo.com
Vice Chair vacant
Secretary Sim Wan Chee
012-8076699, kee6699@yahoo.com
Treasurer Sim Yuh Thin
019-8855182, lucernsyt@hotmail.com
SELANGOR BRANCH
c/o MNS HQ address
www.mns.org.my/selangor
mns.selangor@gmail.com
E-group: groups.yahoo.com/group/mnselangor
Chairman Gary Phong
013-3836288, garyphong@netscape.net
Vice Chairman Lim Teck Wyn
016-3619148, twlim@rescu.com.my
Secretary Gan Li Li
012-2074840, pat_ganll@hotmail.com
Treasurer Bernadette Chin
012-6928356, berniechin118@yahoo.com
Committee Members
Chris Shepherd
012-234 0790, cstsea@po.jaring.my
Eugene Lee
012-3160954, eugene.t.lee@aya.yale.edu
James Cherian 03-7806 2464
tansencherian@yahoo.com
Lillian Danielle Khoo
012-273 7316, wiccanlilly@hotmail.com

Loretta Soosayraj
012-310 0594, loret22@yahoo.com
Pasupathy Jayaraj 019-319 9770
pasupathy_jayaraj@yahoo.com
Rhett Harrison 014-8934631,
rhett_d_harrison@yahoo.co.uk
Rick Gregory
013-363 0126, rikory@gmail.com
Serina Rahman
017-672 9367, serina_mola@yahoo.com
BIRD GROUP
mnsselangorbirdgroup.blogspot.com/
Khoo Swee Seng
013-386 3663, swekhoo@yahoo.com
CAVE GROUP
www.mns.org.my/caving.php
Yee Yoke Chuan 019-278 8815,
yokechuan.yee@mnscavers.org
FLORA GROUP
Mariam Jutta
017-5027584, fedupferret@hotmail.com,
GREEN LIVING GROUP
Wong Ee Lynn 016-288 6812
gl.mnselangor@yahoo.com
HERPETOFAUNA GROUP
Hurnain Hamid
019-3405394, hurnain@hotmail.com
MARINE GROUP
mnsmarine.blogspot.com
Khor Hui Min
017-8817714, khor.hm@gmail.com
MYCAT
(Malaysian Conservation Alliance for Tigers)
Loretta Soosayraj 012-310 0594
malaysian_cat2003@yahoo.com
NATURE GUIDES GROUP
www.mns.org.my/artsig.php?aid=89
Gary Phong (see Chairman)
PATHFINDERS GROUP
Soong Wye Ping
03- 7726 7993, pathfsel@yahoo.com
PHOTOGRAPHY GROUP
Alex Foong
03-9171 0891, afoong@ku.com.my
TERENGGANU BRANCH
1926 Bukit Kubang Jambu,
20050 Kuala Terengganu.
mnsterengganu@gmail.com
Chairman Hj Wan 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
Treasurer Wee Seng Whatt
019-9363828, swwee@pc.jaring.my
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).
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) Leong Hon Yuen 03-22742328 Kay Lyons
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.
(3333400). Klang St. Barnabas Home (3372-8191). Klang
Pusat Kasih Sayang (3372-1723). Petaling Jaya Spastics
Centre (7955-0296). Puchong Pure Life Society (7929391).
Puchong PERKOPB, MCA Hall (7781-6467) Selayang Rumah
Amal Cheshire (6187118).
You may also exchange your recycleables for redemption
coupons at the following locations: Petaling Jaya Taman
Jaya, Saturdays , 5:30-7pm. Subang Jaya Giant Cash & Carry.
Everyday except Mondays, 1-7pm. Ulu Klang Giant Hypermarket.
Saturdays, 3-6pm. Johor Baru Giant Cash & Carry,
Plentong. Everyday except Mondays, 1-7pm.
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

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES WITH
MALAYSIAN NATURE SOCIETY (MNS)
Malaysia’s oldest and largest non-governmental
membership-based environmental organisation seeks
individuals who are passionate about the environment to
fill the following positions:
Head of Conservation
�Responsible for planning, development and directing
MNS Conservation strategy
�Strengthen existing partnerships and develop new collaborations
with government, NGOs, CBOs and corporate
Requirements for the above position
�Formal qualification in the environmental or conservation
field
�Demonstrated capacity to lead, supervise and implement
projects
�Excellent interpersonal and diplomatic skills; good
team player
�At least 5 years experience in conservation and project
management
�Competent in leading project work and managing project
teams
Conservation Officers
�Responsible for policy and institutional development
and responses related to climate change matters.
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues
�Able to provide guidance and support, including technical,
in approaching and addressing climate change
matters
�Develop constructive partnerships with the govern-
ment, NGOs and CBOs related to conservation priorities.
Requirements for the above position
�Formal qualification in the environmental or conservation
field
�Professional experience working on climate change issues
and / or relevant areas, or graduates with related studies
�Knowledge and work experience is preferred.
�Excellent interpersonal and diplomatic skills
�Good team player
�Excellent written and verbal skills
�Willing to travel internally and externally
�Possess own transport or driving license
PA / Operations Officer
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Responsible for finance administration duties
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Oversee the administration of MNS
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Part time PA support to Executive Director
Requirements for the above position
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Competent in financial procedures and systems
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Good communication and interpersonal skills
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Diploma or Certificate in accounting, finance or
business administration preferred
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues At least 2 years of professional experience
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Possess own transport and can work independently
Web Communicator & Communications Officer
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues To collate and generate web content
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues To maintain, coordinate and administer the
MNS website
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Enhance MNS presence on the world wide web
and other communications materials
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Assist the Communications Division to promote
the profile of MNS
Requirements for the above position
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Competent in website content management systems
and web design standards
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues Good communication and interpersonal skills
�Responsible for responding to queries on environmental
issues At least 2 years of professional experience
Working for Malaysian Nature Society is more
than just a job, it’s a passion. Your duties will allow you
to contribute directly towards the conservation of our
natural heritage. If you draw satisfaction in knowing
you’ve done something for nature, please send in a cover
letter and CV with three contactable references and a
passport sized photograph (n.r.) not later than 30 October
2008 to:
Head of Services
Malaysian Nature Society
JKR 641 Jalan Kelantan
Bukit Persekutuan 50480 Kuala Lumpur.
Email: hod.services@mns.org.my
(Only shortlisted candidates will be notified)