Escapy - June 2016 - Digital Issue

Escapy Escape Into A World Of Travel & Adventure

Historical Town Kuala Kubu Bharu

Relaxing In Little Scotland Fraser’s Hill: Cool, Beautiful, Relaxing

Soaring To The Skies The Sticks

Paragliding In Kuala Kubu Bharu

Glamping In Nature

Flower Fest Royal Floria Putrajaya Garden Fest

Lots More Inside 1

Dear friends, Welcome to another issue of Escapy, your free travel “pockezine.” In this issue we explore Hulu / Ulu Selangor going off the beaten track to places like Sungai Dusun (Dusun River) Wildlife Conservation Centre, Serigala Village where we learn how to cook indigenous style, etc.

I am sure not many of you know that Malaysia is quite a nice place for paragliding. There are even international competitions held here. Paragliding... in Malaysia. To learn more we went to Kuala Kubu Bharu.

Another new trend is “glamping.” If you are wondering what the heck “glamping” is, worry not. Checkout the article about The Sticks. There are a lot more inside.

Happy reading and more importantly, travel more. Travelling frees the mind and feeds the soul.

Cheers, Phil Foo Editor In Chief

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Welcome To The Asian Publisher

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Contents

Click To Go Directly To Article

Relaxing In Little Scotland, Fraser’s Hill Page: 6

Historical Kuala Kubu Bharu

Tapir Conservation

Page: 28

Page: 46

Swimming With Fishes, Chiling River Page: 56

Paragliding Kuala Kubu Bharu

Glamping In Nature The Sticks

Page: 64

Page: 74

Sri Berkat Resthouse (Bungalow)

Traditional Indigenous Style Cooking

The Bengkulu Tart Of Gedangsa

Page: 96

Page: 110

Page: 120

Eat, Travel, Doodle Kuala Lumpur; Launching Page: 128

Royal FLORIA Pu- Fantasy Rainforest trajaya 2016 Flower Live Performance and Garden Fest Page: 154 Page: 164

Byblos Cafe & Lounge, Kuala Lumpur Page: 172

Eat & Repeat Shah Alam Page: 184

To return to this page from the articles, click on this tab

Contents Page located at end page of all articles.

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Travel Guide

Philemon Foo

Relaxing In Little

Scotland Fraser’s Hill

T

he hills have been a retreat to city slickers and holidaymakers other than paradise beaches, etc.

There are a few hill resorts in Malaysia and one of them is Fraser’s Hill, Malaysia’s little Scotland.

You won’t be hearing things like “Fits yer name and far yi fae?” although that would certainly add to the experience. *Used to be called little England.

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Location

Fraser’s Hill is located on the hills of Pahang and Selangor, one of those places that allows you to boast that you’ve walked from one state to another. Fraser’s Hills has seven peaks with an altitude between 1,220 and 1,524 meters above sea level. Temperature ranges between 17°C-25°C (63°F-77°F) making it a nice respite from the heat of the city. >From Left: Laura (in Selangor), Eka, & Emily (in Pahang)

A Wee Bit Of history

Fraser’s Hill got its name from a Scottish fellow called Louis James Fraser who setup a tin-ore trading post back in the 1890s. He explored the hills and found rich tin deposits and he recruited Chinese workers to mine the tin. Unfortunately, he went missing without a trace. >The clock tower in the middle of the town’s square.

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In 1917, C. J. Ferguson-Davie, Bishop of Singapore went looking for him without success but reported that the place was perfect as a hill retreat from the heat. Two years later work started and an access road to the hill station was completed in 1922. That hill station was then given the name Fraser’s Hill. >The Puncak Inn has seen lots of changes from shops to now, a hotel.

What’s There To Do?

My favourite activity here is to sit back and relax but that would murder this article, wouldn’t it? There are quite a few things that one can do like jungle trekking, golfing, bird watching, or just hanging out with nature.

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Jungle Trekking

There are 8 trails in Fraser’s Hill with the highest and most challenging one being the Pine Tree trail (1505m), of which is recommended to experience trekkers and those who are fit. Other trails are Bishop trail, Rompin trail, and Mager trail; three of which are 1500 metres. >Entrance to Maxwell Trail.

The rest are Kinderley trail and Maxwell trail of which are 750m. The rest are Abu Suraidi trail (500m) and Hemmant trail (1000m). Hemmant trail is the easiest to do and is recommended for beginners while Bishops trail and Pine Tree trails are for the more experienced. >Flora that one will see on the trails.

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Bird Watching

Fraser’s Hill is a haven for bird watchers. It is cool and has approximately 260 species of birds including the 2 endemic species that are globally threatened; the Malaysian Whistling Thrush and the Mountain Peacock Pheasant. >A sign that tells one that the area is an important bird area... also means, a place for bird watchers.

A good place for bird watching along Girdle Road, Mager Road, and Jaldy Maxwell road. Birds can also be seen on trails and about the Jeriau waterfall area of which is about 4km from the main town centre. But if one is really up to it, one can begin at the Gap and make his or her way up to the top, looking for birds along the way. It will be an 8km walk. >The Gap Resthouse, now a ruin.

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Relaxing At The Falls

The Jeriau Waterfalls is a natural waterfall that many who visit Fraser’s Hill flock to. The trail from the entrance to the falls is paved and is quite an easy walk for the reasonably fit. The reason why I wrote “for the reasonably fit” is because the falls maybe easy to get to but there is a lot of climbing (steps) to do on the way back.

Following the trail all the way to the bottom, one will arrive at a manmade pool and a waterfall (Jeriau Falls) that falls into a shallow pool that is dammed by a concrete wall. There are gazebos and benches around the pool where one can sit under and have a picnic.

The Jeriau Waterfalls area also has campsites where one can do some camping. The place comes equipped with barbeque pits and toilets. All in all, the place is a lovely place to spend a few hours relaxing and / or picnicking. >An ant walking on one of the branches on the trail.

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Golf In The HIlls

Golfers will be happy to know that there is a place to tee off in Fraser’s Hill. The Royal Fraser’s Hill Golf Club is one of the oldest golf courses in Malaysia.

It is a 9 hole course with some rather unique sort of challenges that you would normally not experience at normal courses. Hint, bring along a note pad, pen, and something to cleanup.

Strawberry Farm

Should you be in a mood for strawberries and plants you could pay the Fraser’s Hill Garden Centre a visit. There is a greenhouse there where flowers and plants call home while an assortment of vegetables grow around the compound. You can buy vegetable there too should you crave fresh greens.

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Other Places

There are other places of interests such as Allan’s Water where one can go boating. FH Allan was the architect who built the reservoir of which is now a boating area. There is also place called the paddock where one can do some horse riding and should one fancy; shoot some arrows. One can also o some shopping at the town centre.

For Photogs

Fraser’s Hill is a photographer’s haven. With lots of things to shoot from flowers, to insects, to birds, to ruins, to architectures, and loads more. I was having a blast going macro, shooting flowers, insects, and many other subjects. My recommendation is to pack your gears according to your preferred style, and do bring a tripod.

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Places To Stay At

There are a few places that one can stay at up in the hills. There are colonial bungalows, hotels, and apartments that offer visitors accommodation. On my trip we stayed at the Rumah Sri Berkat Guesthouse of which is a colonial bungalow. It is a big double storey bungalow with a dainty English garden.

Other Bungalows

Rompin House, The Cottage (Bentong Bungalow), Puncak Inn Bungalow, Hollebeke (Cini Bungalow), TM Resort Sri Intan, Cicely (Kuantan Bungalow), Brinchang Bungalow, Ye Olde Smoke House, Clifford Bungalow, Pekan Parr Bungalow, Singapore House, etc.

Note: Some of these bungalows may be undergoing renovations from time to time.

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Hotels And Apartments

There are hotels and apartments as well for those who prefer not to stay at the old colonial bungalows and some of them are Puncak Inn, The Pine’s Resort, TM Resort Sri Peninjau, Silver Park Resort Apartments, Shahzan Inn, etc.

Contact Numbers (Bungalows) Sri Berkat Guesthouse (Bungalow): Tel: +603-5513 2000, Website: http://sriberkat.weebly.com/contact-us.html Ye Olde Smoke House: Tel: +609-362 2226, Website: http://www.thesmokehouse.my/ Hollebeke (Cini Bungalow), Cicely (Kuantan Bungalow), The Cottage (Bentong Bungalow), & Puncak Inn Bungalow (Tioman Bungalow).

Tel: +609 517 1623 / +609-362 2201 / +609-362 2248 Highlands Resthouse Holdings Sdn. Bhd. Kindersley (Raub Bungalow), Staff House (Jerantut Bungalow), Clifford (Jelai Bungalow), Pekan Parr Bungalow.

Tel: +603-6207 9199 (Fax +603-6207 9366) EMAIL : info@hrhbungalows.com 25

Contact Numbers (Bungalows)

Rompin House Tel: +603-4251 8466, Email: alunalunresortholidays@gmail.com.

Singapore House & Richmond Bungalow: Singapore number Tel: (65) 6581 9033 Fraser’s Hill Tel: +602-09-3622235, Email: aloha@aloharesorts.com.sg

Contact Numbers Hotels & Apartments Puncak Inn: Tel: +609-362 2007 The Pine’s Resort: Tel: +603-7804 3422 Email: thepines@tm.net.my TM Resort Sri Peninjau: Tel: +609-362 2400 / +609-362 2500.

Silver Park Resorts & Apartments: Tel: +609-362 2888 Shahzan Inn: Tel: +609-362 2300

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27

Travel Guide

Philemon Foo

Histo rical K a l u a b u u K u r a h B

T

he “sleepy town” of Kuala Kubu Bharu in Hulu Selangor is a town many locals drive by on their way to Fraser’s Hill. Not many stop as it is not known to be an attraction. What many do not know is that Kuala Kubu Bharu is rich in history.

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Before Kuala Kubu Bharu there was Kuala Kubu.

Kuala Kubu, back in the day was a mining town a fort for Raja Mahadi and Syed Mashor as they battled Tengku Kudin’s army during the Selangor civil war from 1867 to 1874. It was then the second largest town in Selangor.

Kubu = Fort >The Hulu Selangor District Office (head quarters).

Tragedy

Shortly later Kuala Kubu was placed under the administration of Sir Frank Athelstane Swettenham, followed by JP Rodger, and Edward Maxwell. In 1883, heavy rains caused the Kuala Kubu Dam to burst, a tragedy that destroyed 38 homes, killing 33 of the town’s folks including District Officer, Sir Cecil Ranking.

Sir Cecil Ranking was blamed for the tragedy as he had supposedly shot a white crocodile (regarded as the guardian of the river) despite being told not to do so. All that was left of Ranking was his hand of which rests in a grave till this day in a grave at the old Kuala Kubu Rest House. >A colonial building that houses the Post Office.

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Birth Of A New Town

It was after this tragedy that a new town was built and that town is Kuala Kubu Bharu of which means “New Kuala Kubu.” Kuala Kubu Bharu is near the old Kuala Kubu and is not a rebuild of the old town.

Kuala Kubu Bharu has been the administrative centre of Hulu Selangor since 1931.

What’s There To Do?

Kuala Kubu Bharu town is a good place for photographers interested in photographing old buildings and sites such as the monument of Kuala Kubu’s Tragedy, old fire station, etc. Bird watching is another activity that has been pulling in some crowd thanks to an event called Wings Of KKB that takes place every year since 2012. >Murals are part of the attraction.

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Some birds that bird watchers come to see are the Oriental Pied Hornbill, the Little Cuckoo Dove, Black Crested Bulbul, and lots more. The Wings Of KKB program also involves schools with the objective of teaching children the importance of caring for nature through bird watching. >K.S. Sanadure more popularly known as Durai the birdman, giving a short briefing on the Wings Of KKB event.

Paragliding

Many may not know but one can go paragliding in Kuala Kubu Bharu with the Inspiration Aviation Club. One will be brought to the summit of Bukit Pacat (Pacat Hill) and from there leap off into the skies with one of the paragliding experts (pilots).

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Rivers And Waterfalls

One can opt to visit Chiling River of which is also a fish century managed by the fisheries department where one gets to swim with the fishes in cool mountain river waters. The other option is to relax at Semangkuk Waterfalls which is near Kuala Kubu Bharu. >Chiling River Fish Sanctuary, a nice place to cool off.

Getting To Kuala Kubu Bharu

One can get to Kuala Kubu Bharu by the KTM Komuter train from Kuala Lumpur (KL Sentral Station).

Take the train north bound to Rawang Station. At Rawang Station switch trains to the one that goes to Kuala Kubu Bharu Station. >A monument to commemorate the coronation of King George VI & Queen Elizabeth.

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By Car

Should one decide to go by car, go on the PLUS Expressway (E1), exit at Tanjung Malim Exit and you will be traveling along the old trunk road to get to Kuala Kubu Bharu. Lookout for signages that say Kuala Kubu Bharu.

GPS Coordinates: 3.5609° N, 101.6585° E >Another mural depicting firemen at work or teamwork.

>Old shop lots at the town make for good photos.

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>Looks like the doors to an old unused police station.

>Side windows of the old fire station.

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>Clothes drying out in the sun as in days of old.

>Old charm; back alleyway. How things used to be.

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>Rooftops with chimneys; don’t get them anymore.

>A mural depicting a family during the earlier days of Kuala Kubu Bharu... wait a minute. This could be a mural of current day Kuala Kubu Bharu.

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Travel Guide

Tapir Escapy

Conservation Sungai Dusun Wildlife Conservation Centre

T

apirs are cute black and white animals with noses that look like a sewn off shotgun. They are cute, really cute but unfortunately, tapirs especially the larger Malayan tapirs are endangered. Malayan tapirs are the largest amongst the five species of tapirs. Being an animal lover I was elated to find out that one of the places 47

The Sungai Dusun Wildlife Conservation Centre in Hulu Selangor was established in 1964 under the Selangor state govertment with 4330 hectares of land and is now home to a few tapirs that were saved. >A sign that says Welcome To The Sungai Dusun Wildlife Conservation Centre.

. . . e u r T t u B Sad

Some of them are orphans found in the wild without their parents for reasons such as illegal poaching, as well as accidents where their parents could have been knocked down by vehicles. The wildlife department cares for them here providing shelter, safety, and food. >These two tapirs were orphans saved by the rangers.

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m a r g o r P g n i Breed

As the numbers of tapirs in the wild are dwindling, the wildlife department chose to breed them in captivity and when they reach a certain age, introduce them into the nearby forest. To date there are about 12 tapirs born here at the Sungai Dusun Wildlife Conservation Centre since 2005. >Juvenile tapirs born in captivity. They are about 6 months old at time of writing.

l a i r a h G n a y Mala

Another animal that calls the Sungai Dusun Wildlife Conservation Centre home is the Malayan Gharial or false gharial. The Malayan Gharial is listed as vulberable by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature). >Two Malayan Gharials relaxing in a pond.

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These freshwater crocodilian has thin snout unlike crocodiles and they live in a manmade pond here at Sungai Dusun Wildlife Conservation Centre. Whilst observing them in the pond we didn’t realize one relaxing under a palm tree behind us until one of the rangers pointed it out to us. We were actually in no danger as the Malayan gharial is not as aggressive as the deadly crocs.

n o i t a y r m r D o f d n n DMuosrtey IA

Address Pusat Konservasi Hidupan Liar Sungai Dusun, 44010, Kuala Kubu Baru, Selangor, Sungai Dusun, 45500 Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor

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One can easily get lost in the labyrinth of tunnels and thus going with a guide is essential. Some of these tunnels are really narrow with opening just big enough to allow one person through. Those who are claustrophobic adorable do take note. >An juvenile tapir. Only a few months old.

>Two adult tapirs. They can get really aggresive.

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Travel Guide

Escapy

G N I S MM With Fishes WI

Chiling River

Sungai Chiling Fish Sanctuary

N

othing feels better than to immerse oneself into a cool mountain stream during a hot day. One of the places to do so is at the Chiling River (Sungai Chiling) Fish Sanctuary. Sungai Chiling Fish Sanctuary is a sanctuary for the Malaysian Mahseer also known as the red Mahseer or kelah as it is locally known; a fish whose numbers are low. >Entrance at the main road.

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The Malaysian Mahseer is not native to the Chiling River. They were brought over from rivers in Hulu Bernam of which is not far from here. The cool waters and the rocky sandy conditions of the river makes Chiling River an ideal home for the Malaysian Mahseer.

Swim With Fishes

With an entrance fee of RM1 (USD0.25), one can relax and swim with the fishes here whilst one cool off in the cool water. One can opt to go on a jungle trek to the waterfall where larger specimens of these fishes call home. Do note that the trek is not an easy one. It will involve some climbing and some river crossing.

Camping can be done here with a refundable deposit of RM200 per group. Camping fee is RM4 (USD1) per tent. The deposit is to ensure that those who use the campsite keep site clean before leaving. The deposit will be returned after a brief inspection by the rangers.

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Facilities

There are a few basic facilities available there such as changing rooms, toilets, a prayer room, tables and chairs, and a gazebos. These facilities are being managed by the Fisheries Department that are looking into the welfare of the fishes in Chiling River. >Fisheries Department Officer explaining the area.

Things To Note

Fishing is not allowed at the river. Fish feeding too is not allowed and this is done to protect the fish. The Fisheries Department that oversees the river and the fishes have very strict rules with cleanliness.

Should you decide to bring plastic bottles and containers, a deposit will be charged too. You will have to bring those containers out with you to refund you deposit.

Littering is strictly prohibited.

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Getting There

The best way to get there is by car. I recommend using the North-South Espress Way from Kuala Lumpur, exiting at the Kuala Kubu Bharu exit. From Kuala Kubu Bharu head towards Fraser’s HIll. . After passing the Selangor Dam lookout for signages taht says Sungai Chiling and a bridge. Just after this bridge is a carpark. Park there and walk towards the arch that says Sungai Chiling.

More Information Should you have any need for more information and should you need to clarify anything, do get in contact: Address MAJLIS DAERAH HULU SELANGOR, JALAN BUKIT KERAJAAN, 44000 KUALA KUBU BHARU, SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN. Contact: +603 - 6064 1331

+603-6064 1214

email: hqhelp@dof.gov.my

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63

Travel Guide

Philemon Foo

g n i d i l ag

r a P Kua la K ub

u Bh

aru

S

eldom would one think of paragliding when one visits Kuala Kubu Bharu, Hulu Selangor, Malaysia. In fact one would probably not think of paragliding when one visits Malaysia. What many do not know is that paragliding in Kuala Kubu Bharu is quite a big deal amongst paraglidders around South East Asia. Three major competitions were held here in 2015 and they are the Malaysia Accuracy Open, Paragliding Accuracy World Cup, and the Malaysia Open Cross-Country.

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Inspiration Aviation Club

The Inspiration Aviation Club is based in Kuala Kubu Bharu. They offer paragliding lessons as well as paragliding experience flights by experienced paragliders and professional (competition) paragliders for those who would like to try paragliding. In fact one of its members recently won a paragliding competition in Thailand.

Batu Pahat Hill

Paragliders will ascend Bukit Batu Pahat or Batu Pahat Hill on a 4WD (4 wheel drive) to the Summit of which will take about 20 minutes. From the summit they will soar to about 4000ft and glide with the help of thermals that will help them gain altitude in a controlled manner. This allows them to glide to many a place at speeds of 100 to 120 km/h. But for those who are here just for the experience, they will glide around the area and land at the Millennium Park, Kuala Kubu Bharu. >View from the summit of Batu Pahat Hill.

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Needless to say, if the weather is bad be it rain, cold winds, or no winds; all paragliding trips are canceled as it will be too dangerous to go on. An example of the dangers is the cold winds that come just before the rain. Paragliders could be sucked right up to very dangerous altitudes where they may not be able to control the ascend. Being at an attitude that is too high will present other issues including altitude sickness, loss of consciousness, and even death due to lack of oxygen. >Waiting for a change of winds.

Types Of Flight

The Inspiration Aviation Club offers tandem flights (RM250 or USD63) oh which means flying two to a glider (pilot and passenger). Flying tandem will have the passenger secured safely in front of the pilot. All the passenger will have to do is to seat back, relax (or try to relax), and take in the view. One other thing is to listen to the directions of the pilot. The pilot is in charge of the flight and will do whatever it takes to ensure a safe flight. >Cleared for take off.

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More Information

Should you be interested in paragliding trips, learning to paraglide, or is an experienced paraglider and is looking for people to enjoy your hobby with, do contact the Inspiration Aviation Club.

Contact: +6013-620 4705 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/inspirationaviationclub/

>Professional pilot doing stunts in the skies.

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>A paraglider soaring over 4000 feet above sea level.

>Smooth and safe landing.

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73

Where to Stay

Philemon Foo

N I G N I P M A L G A T U R S K C I T S E TH

I

f you’re thinking of spending time outdoors but do not want to go through the hardships and discomforts associated with camping, why not try “glamping?” Yes, it is quite a new word to me too. “Glamping” is simply a more glamorous form of camping.

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y M f O t u O e n o Z t r o Comf

Recently I visited The Sticks together with some friends and this trip took me out of my comfort zone a little. I used to do a lot of camping at a younger age and these days I prefer the comforts of a nice hotel room. The Sticks is camping with some creature comforts found in hotel rooms. I’ve gone glamping.

d i r G e h Off T

The Sticks is a resort that offers huge tents (safari style), huts, etc. for those who want to experience holidaying “off the grid� but without giving up on simple comforts such as electricity, water, and comfortable beds. These tents and huts are build within a jungle area in Kuala Kubu Bharu, Hulu Selangor.

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The Sticks’ water source is a jungle stream (Meranti River) and electricity is available with the use of generators and solar panels. While water is not an issue, electricity is limited and will have to be used in a smart way. No wasting of electricity on unnecessary luxuries; thus a small fan is used in the tents and huts instead of air-conditioning.

k l a W g n The Lo

The walk from the parking area to the resort is quite a long one. We carried only the basics (while our luggage got to sit in a pickup truck) and made the walk down some steps, across a river via a hanging bridge (or one can choose to walk the river), and up a slope to the dining area where we had our welcome drink.

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>The reception and where we had our welcome drink.

g n i p m a C Glamour

I shared a tent (Serengeti Tent) with three other guys. The tent had a queen bed, a single bed, and a mattress on the floor. I chose the single bed as it is nearest to an electricity source of which I need to run a machine that helps me sleep. The tent is huge.

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Our tent comes with a huge toilet and bathroom (built using wood and cement) at the back and is separated from the sleeping area by a thick tent wall. Two zippers opens and closes a huge flap of which is the door to the toilet and bathroom .

Huge insect netting prevents insect from coming in for a feast while we sleep. This netting not only stops insects from coming in, it also allows some cool wind into the tent as the temperature drops. The tent has two sheets in front of which are more sturdy doors but closing them will make the atmosphere in the tent stuffy and hot and thus they are left open.

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Just outside the tent is a veranda with chairs and a table to sit back and chill with friends. There is a fan there too to keep the place cool. A wooden clothes stand is placed there by the management of the place to allow guests to hang their clothes.

>A cool place to hangout and chat.

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e m i T g n i d Spen In Nature

The Sticks is a good place to just sit back and relax.

With that in mind I decided to chill out at the Chiling River of which is a few minutes’ walk from our tent.

The cool waters of Chiling River provides for a nice relaxing dip. Closing one’s eyes and just listening to the river is a good way to clear one’s mind.

As the day turns to night the orchestra of insects begin playing their music. The buzzing of cicadas accompanied by the chirping of crickets; the music of the jungle mesmerizes for a couple of hours until one goes to sleep. In the morning birds sing as we arise to meet the day. Wonderful indeed this place is.

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s e i m m u T r u O Filling

Meals are provided for in the package and the food is quite good. For dinner we had fried rice with Chicken Kapitan (a type of curry chicken), calamari, ladies fingers cooked in chilli, with fruit dessert. For breakfast we had a hearty American breakfast with sausages, toast, etc. and a choice of coffee or tea. *When possible fruits are taken from their orchard

The restaurant is an outdoors styled restaurants where tables are built using discarded cable rollers and wood. The tables are DIY tables made by the owners. The place is well decorated following the resort’s theme. A few things that stick out are the kayaks placed at the ceiling as part of the decor.

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e y b d o o G g Sayin

While “glamping� is out of my comfort zone, I did enjoy myself. Hanging out with friends in the midst of nature is a lot of fun. Just relaxing in a jungle river is the much needed stress relief for the urban soul.

Feeling recharged, it is time to leave The Sticks and return to civilization again. I certainly had fun.

s e p y T m o o R Tendok: Sleeps 3 RM130 (USD31) - RM180 (USD45) Bamboo Chalet (ensuite): Sleeps 2 RM200 (USD49) - RM250 (USD61) Riverside Tendok (Ensuite): Sleeps 3 RM260 (USD64) - RM310 (USD76) Serengeti Tent (Ensuite): Sleeps 4 RM420 (USD103) - RM520 (USD128) Opera House (Ensuite): Sleeps 6 RM480 (USD118) - RM580 (USD142)

*Off Peak - Peak

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g n i r B o T s g n i Th

Other than the usual, I recommend that you bring the following items: Insect repellent Torchlight (get really dark at night) Wet clothing Waterproof casing (mobile devices) Rubber sandals or shoes

For Photogs

This is a good place for nature photography. There are insects and plants that will make good subjects for macro photography. Should one want to play about with long exposures, the river will be nice playing field.

I was hoping to shoot star trails but the skies were too hazy and I saw no stars.

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e r e h T g n i t t e G

The best way to get to The Sticks is by car. I recommend using the North-South Espress Way from Kuala Lumpur, exiting at the Kuala Kubu Bharu exit. Follow the signboards to Bukit Fraser (Fraser’s Hill) from the Kuala Kubu Bharu Town. Once you’ve passed the town, lookout for Chiling River (Sungai Chiling) signboard.

Right after the Chiling River parking area lookout for a parking area with a hut on the left. That is the parking area of The Sticks.

For More information: bookings.thesticks@gmail.com

n o i t a m r o f n I Other

The bathroom and toilets are made of wood and may have gaps in between. Should you be worried of peeping toms my suggestion is to cover them with tissue (what some in our group did). If you have got to stay in touch only Digi & Celcom has mobile connectivity within the area.

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Where to Stay

Escapy

Sri Berkat

Resthouse

Fraser’s Hill

L

ooking for a place to stay in Fraser’s Hill? Why not pamper yourself like an aristocrat and rent one of the colonial bungalows? There are a number of colonial bungalows that one can stay at and one of them is the Sri Berkat Rest House, a double storey colonial bungalow owned by the Selangor Tourism Department. You can either rent the whole bungalow or just a room. >Caretaker’s house.

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The Sri Berkat Rest House is a huge bungalow with big rooms, a kitchen, a large hall, and lots of space to run about and just go silly. The large rooms are quite comfortable. The ceilings are high giving the room an airy comfortable feel. The rooms come in different configurations.

Room Types

There are three room types to choose from. The room types are Deluxe that accommodates 2 persons, Executive that accommodates 6 persons, and Suite that accommodates 6 persons but with added luxuries. >The Deluxe room has two single beds but it is huge.

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n e d r a G h s i l Eng

Dining at the dining table in the kitchen is something rather normal. Why not do something different and dine outdoors at a beautiful Scottish garden? The cool fresh mountain air together with the relaxing laid back view of the lovely country side certainly makes for an exceptional dining experience.

‘

s r e d n o W S e r Natu

Fraser’s Hill is famed for its beautiful nature. There are lots of trees and plants with beautiful flowers.

There are also all sorts of birds that one can see making it a haven for bird watchers. There are lots of insects such as butterflies, colourful beetles, as well as huge jungle type beetles and creepy crawlies that will intrigue some and evoke fear in others.

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Taking a stroll with an observant eye can be really rewarding. I like taking a stroll with my camera in hand as there are so many things to shoot at. I like taking macro shots of flowers and insects, and I am starting to have an interest in photographing birds.

t a E o T Places

One can order a meal from the caretaker of the bungalow but should you decide to have a meal at a restaurant, the bungalow is quite close to the town centre. An estimated 5 minutes drive and you are at the town centre. Walking will certainly take a lot longer. >A restaurant at the sports centre.

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There are a few restaurants and cafes around the town centre that one can go to. Some serve up local dishes such as fried rice, noodles, roti, etc. There are restaurants and cafes that serve up western dishes too such as steaks, fish & chips, etc. >A restaurant at Puncak Inn.

My Take

The Rumah Sri Berkat Rest House (bungalow) is certainly a grand colonial building with lots of space of which is a great place to go to especially with a big family. Prices are reasonable started at about RM100.00 (USD25.00) per night. >The back area of the bungalow.

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n o i t a Loc

Upon entering into Fraser’s Hill there is a turning on the right with a bunch of signboards. Turn right and follow the road all the way till you see a signage that says Toursim Selangor, Rumah Sri Berkat. It will be on the right.

GPS Coordinate: N 3 42.448, E 101 44.285

t c a t Con

Office: TOURISM SELANGOR PROMOSI SDN. BHD. LOT P7, JALAN INDAH 14/12, SEKSYEN 14, 40000 SHAH ALAM, SELANGOR DARUL EHSAN. Phone Numbers: +603 5513 2000 / +6016 207 6978 107

>One of the windows of the bungalow.

>Another lovely window of the bungalow.

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Specials

Escapy

Traditional Indigenous Style Cooking

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e have long been cooking using pots and pans but many years ago pots and pans were not available to the Indigenous people who lived in the jungle. So how did they do their cooking? To find out we visited a village called Kampung Orang Asli Serigala or Serigala Indigenous Village in Hulu Selangor. >Traditional aboriginal performance.

Traditional Dance

Upon arrival at the Serigala Indigenous Village, we were warmly greeted with leafy crowns and a traditional dance. The village chief then proceeded with a welcome speech before showing how they used to cook traditionally withouy the use of pots and pans.

Great stuff for those that frequent jungle trips.

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Cooking With Bamboo

Chicken, fish, and rice are what’s on the menu. Note that this is one of the most basic styles of cooking. Even the ingredients are few and simple using things such as onions, lime, leaf from a lime tree, and a little water. >Inserting fish meat into the bamboo.

Larger Bamboo

Larger bamboo is chosen as it can hold more and can withstand the heat from the fire. The bamboo is chopped with one end open (hole) and the other closed. The meat (chicken and fish) is first marinated with lime juice, onions, and chilli. After marinating for some time the meat is placed into the bamboo together with some of the marinate.

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The whole thing is then brought to the fire and placed beside it or over the amber, and allowed to cook for about 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, the dish is ready to be served. >Inserting chicken meat into the bamboo.

What About Rice?

The rice is first washed and cleaned. It is then wrapped in some leaves called “lerek� leaves. I do not know what these leaves are called in English. The wrapped rice is then stuffed into the bamboo. Water is then poured into yhe bamboo almost drowning all that is inside before bringing it to the fire to be cooked.

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>Inserting rice wrapped in lerek leaves into the bamboo.

Time To Serve

To serve, whatever water in the bamboo is poured away before removing the “lerek� leaf wrapped rice.

Cut through the leaf and rice to serve.

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>Bamboo is still burning as they pour the meat out.

Try It Some Day

There you go, the traditional way of cooking in the jungle. Another jungle survival technique perhaps or just camping fun; do give it a try.

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Local Favourites

Escapy Photos courtesy of Akugraphy

The Bengkulu Tart Of Gedangsa

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ne thing I enjoy most about being a travel journalist is having the opportunities to go off the beaten track and experience new things that even the locals do not know about. Such is the case of the Bengkulu tart. I have not eaten it before and have got no idea of its story until now. >Benkulu tart, a tasty desert.

Recently together with a group of travel writers from Malaysia, Philippines, Brunei, and Indonesia we toured Hulu Selangor, under the Eat, Travel, Write Selangor International Culinary Adventure 3.0, a project organized by Gaya Travel on behalf of Selangor State. It was on this trip that I learnt of the Bengkulu tart’s story.

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Origins Of The Bengkulu Tart

To learn about the Bengkulu tart we visited a village called Felda Gedangsa, where the majority of its residence came from a place in Indonesia that is called Bangkahulu in Sumatera, of which was later changed to Bengkulu. With them they brought traditional recipes and the Bengkulu tart is one of them.

One particularly famous maker of this tart is Puan Maslamat Ishak (Madam Maslamat Ishak). >Madam Maslamat Ishak.

How It Is Done?

We visited Puan Maslamat Ishak’s home at Felda Gedangsa to learn how the Bengkulu tart is done.

With a warm welcome we were invited to witness the expert in action at a small kitchen placed at the back of her house.

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There Puan Maslamat went to work mixing ingredients such as flour, sugar, salt, eggs, etc. to make the dough. Coconut and Malacca sugar (a type of fragrant brown sugar) of which is mixed together becomes the filling of the tart.

She then put the filling into the dough and expertly shaped the dough into the well know Bengkulu tart shape before putting it into a charcoal oven to bake.

After a few minutes the tarts emerged out of the oven and we finally got a taste of it.

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It is simply delicious. It is a tart that seems so balanced. Not too dry and crumbly and not too moist. It is also not overly sweet and has a good balance of saltiness and sweetness.

Do Give Them A Try

Should you visit Malaysia and decide to try some of the local delicacies here, keep the Bengkulu tart in mind. For fellow Malaysians who have yet to taste the Bengkulu tart, do give it a try.

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Travel News

Philemon Foo

Eat Travel Doodle Kuala Lumpur

E

at Travel Doodle Kuala Lumpur is a program organised by MOTAC (Ministry Of Tourism And Culture, Tourism Malaysia, and Gaya Travel to promote Kuala Lumpur to travellers the world over. Eat Travel Doodle saw the coming together of media folks, bloggers, and doodlers from Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, and Brunei. >Eka from Indonesia and his doodle.

Doodle

Doodling has been a growing trend and a new way to promote by pictures or rather drawings. Brands such as Starbucks have been using doodles in their marketing for some time now. Personally I have seen doodles at quite a few cafes and restaurants and they are quite an eye catcher. It is good that MOTAC and Tourism Malaysia add doodles and doodlers into their marketing projects.

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Tour Of Kuala Lumpur

The Eat Travel Doodle Kuala Lumpur brought us to various attractions that are amongst some of the bests historical and cultural sites as well as modern sites of Kuala Lumpur. >The clock tower of the historical Sultan Abdul Samad building in Kuala Lumpur.

>The iconic Petronas Twin Towers.

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>The dome of the historical Kuala Lumpur train station.

The Start

The Eat Travel Doodle program started at the iconic KL Tower and from there we visited the Kuala Lumpur Eco Park at Bukit Nanas (Nanas Hill). Imagine jungle trekking in the heart of Kuala Lumpur city observing various fauna going about doing their thing, and beautiful flora of which provides the much needed greenery that a city needs. >The KL ECO Park suspension bridges.

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KL Tower

After a good morning workout we headed to KL Tower for the opening ceremony of the Eat Travel Doodle Kuala Lumpur program with a speech by Encik Iskandar Mirza M Yusof of Tourism Malaysia who is the Director of Domestic Promotions Division about the program and how doodlers can help promote Kuala Lumpur. >The iconic KL Tower.

>Encik Iskandar Mirza M Yusof giving a speech during the launch.

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Sky Deck

After the opening ceremony and refreshments we headed to KL tower’s Sky Deck for a view of Kuala Lumpur’s skyline. From above, the view of Kuala Lumpur is magnificant. The pinnacles of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers can be clearly seen from here with the help of binoculars or in my case, a telephoto lens. >The Sky Deck offers a fantastic view of Kuala Lumput City’s skyline. building in Kuala Lumpur.

>The pinnacles of the iconic Petronas Twin Towers shot from the KL Tower’s Sky Deck.

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From the Sky Deck we went into the Sky Box of which is a glass box that is placed off the side of the Sky Deck. This allows visitors an all round view of the area including the ground if which is a long way down. Those afraid of heights may not take well to the Sky Box though. Note that only 6 persons are allowed to be in the Sky Box at any one time. >A view all around.

>Not for those with a fear of heights.

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Lunch At The Top

Lunch was wonderful. We had lunch at Atmosphere 360, a revolving restaurant at the KL Tower with a view of Kuala Lumpur Skyline. The restaurant spins 360 degrees giving one a 360 view of Kuala Lumpur city. It is also quite disorienting as where we sit and dine turns while the buffet, restrooms, etc. does not.

Food is quite good too.

>Dining with a lovely view of Kuala Lumpur City.

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Royal Floria Putrajaya

The Royal Floria Putrajaya Flower And Garden Festival 2016 showcases flowers, lots of flowers. The highlights seems to be chrysanthemums and it was here I learnt that over 140 varieties of chrysanthemums have to date gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. >A festival of flowers and gardens.

The festival was launched by Dato’ Seri Mohamed Nazri followed by a presentation of floral floats; 14 of them, each representing a state in Malaysia. The launch ended with fireworks lighting up the night sky.

>A float that represents the state of Johor. building in Kuala Lumpur.

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>Fireworks marking the end of the launch.

>Orchids on display at the festival.

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Fantasy Rainforest Live Performance

Also at Putrajaya is the Fantasy Rainforest Live Performance, a stage performance performed by local and foreign dancers and acrobats. The performance depicts a village’s relationship with the hornbills; an interesting and funny musical performance.

>Acrobatic dances giving an awesome performance.

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Independence Square

One of the places that we stopped is the Independence Square or Dataran Merdeka as it is called here in Malaysia. Here in stands the largest flag and the tallest flagpole in Malaysia and maybe even Southeast Asia. >Maaysia’s tallest flag pole.

Around the Square are various museums that one can visit such as the Malaysian Music Museum and the National Textile Museum. Another place to visit is the Kuala Lumpur City Gallery where one can learn about the past of Kuala Lumpur, the present, and future plans of Kuala Lumpur.

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MUD The Musical

A few minutes walk away across the historical Sultan Abdul Samad Building is the Bandaraya Theatre where stage plays are performed. Currently, the longest running show is MUD The Musical, an entertaining and enjoyable musical about the writer’s depiction of Kuala Lumpur’s story.

Hop On Hop Off Bus

The last of our itinerary is the Kuala Lumpur Hop On Hop Off Bus also called the HOHO bus that follows a fixed route bringing visitors to slightly over 20 attractions around Kuala Lumpur City. One can opt to sit upstairs in the open (roofless are) of the double decker bus; a good way to take photos ofnthe sites.

But one will have to put up with the heat and humidity of Malaysia’s weather. The other option is to sit in the air-conditioned section.

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Good Event

The Eat, Travel, Doodle Kuala Lumpur was a success and I must say that the Ministry Of Tourism And Culture, Tourism Malaysia, and Gaya Travel put a lot of effort into it. Marketing a product is never easy let alone a country. >Historic Central Market, a place to shop for souvenirs.

>Night shot of the Petronas Twin Towers from my hotel room.

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Travel News

Philemon Foo

Royal FLORIA Putrajaya 2016 Flower and Garden Festival

L

ove flowers? You’ll go flower crazy at Royal FLORIA Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival. This year Putrajaya held the 9th Royal Floria Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival from 27th May to 4th June 2016, with the theme being the Magical World Of Floria.

The flower chosen for this year’s theme is the chrysanthemum. Did you know that over 140 varieties of chrysanthemums gained the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit? In total over 400,000 species of flowers and plants took up some 11.7 hectares of space at Anjung Floria.

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Going High Tech

The organizers of the festival brought in high tech equipment from Europe to excite all five senses of visitors being sight, smell, taste, sounds, and feel at the Mystical Forest, Candy Court, Mermaid’s World, Chrysanthemum Garden, etc. >Musical gardens with mist.

Other Activities

Other activities held there are the Magic of Bonsai & Suiseki Exhibition, International Orchid Competition, a cat show, Garden Bazaar, Floria Arts & Crafts, flower arrangements, photography contest, gardening workshops, and many more.

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Floats On The Water

During the launching the ground of Anjung Floria was packed with visitors. As night falls, the crowd moved towards the lake where the Minister of Tourism & Culture Malaysia, Dato Seri Mohamed Nazri bin Abdul Aziz launched the event followed by floats representing all 14 states of Malaysia. >A float representing the state of Kelantan.

>A float representing the state of Johor

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>A float representing the state of Sabah.

>A float representing the state of Kedah

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What A Blast

The launch ended with fireworks lighting up the night skies, drawing beautiful designs. This year’s Royal FLORIA Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival is the biggest to date, and I cannot wait to see what transpires in the next Floria Fest that will be held next year. >Beautiful fireworks that lit up the night sky.

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HAPPENINGS

I

Philemon Foo

f live performances are your thing, the Fantasy Rainforest Live Performance at Putrajaya International Convention Centre in Putrajaya is a show you will want to watch should you decide to visit Putrajaya.

Music, Dance, And Acrobatic Stunts

It is a show filled with dancing, acrobatic acts, comedy, and a little bit of magic. In an enchanting tale of humans and nature living in peace, harmony, and in co-existence until a hunter came about disrupting the peace.

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What goes on after that are a series of wildly funny events and exciting dances by skilled choreographers and acrobats that will drive emotions from laughter to mild fear to excitement and onto happiness; as the percussion and music feeds the soul.

For All Ages

The Fantasy Rainforest Live Performance will be available till 2019 and is a show suitable for people of all ages (except perhaps babies).

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Ticket Prices

Adult: RM120 (USD30) Children (5 to 12 years): RM60 (USD15) VIP: RM200 (USD50) Show Time: 2pm & 6pm

More Information

Address: Putrajaya International Convention Centre Dataran Gemilang, Precinct 5, 62000 Putrajaya.

Tel: 03-88876000 ext: 6189 Email: admin@fantasyrainforest.com Website: http://fantasyrainforest.com/web/ 169

>The hunter and clown of the show.

Buka Puasa

Ramadan Buffet

Putrajaya International Convention Centre is also doing a Ramadan Buffet from the 8th of June to the 3rd of July, from 6.30pm to 10.30pm daily.

Prices are at RM98.00 per adult & RM49.00 for children. For bookings call +603 8887 6000 or visit www.ticketonline.my/picc.

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For Foodies

Philemon Foo

Byblos Cafe & Lounge

G

ood food, good view, and good ambience; that is what Byblos Cafe and Lounge is about. Byblos is the oldest most ancient city in Lebanon (7000 to 8000BC) and is steeped in history. It is from history and culture that the food in Byblos is based on. Byblos serves up authentic Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine but with a new spin.

Comfortable With A Good View

The interior is well decorated with a comfortable and lovely Lebanese feel. It has pictures of the actual city of Byblos on its walls. One can opt to sit outdoors with a lovely view of the Royal Selangor Golf Club. The view is simply splendid.

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Good Food Great Taste

With over two decades of cooking the food served here taste great. I especially like the tabbouleh of which is a Lebanese vegetarian dish made of chopped tomatoes, parsley, onions, mint leaves, etc. and seasoned with olive oils, lemon juice, etc.

Note that I am not a big fan of vegetables but I love this dish.

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There are lovely dips and perhaps spreads to enjoy with pita bread an they are the smooth and tasty hummus of which is made from cooked chickpeas blended with tahini, olive oil, etc. and moutabal, a roasted eggplant dip. They taste simply lovely.

Favourite Amongst Them

My personal favourite amongst the food served is the mixed grill (I love meat), a mixture of beef tenderloin cubes, marinated chicken breast, and minced lamb served with hummus, very tasty garlic sauce, tomatoes, pickles, etc. I especially loved the minced lamb.

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Wrapping the minced lamb in pita bread together with the hummus dip and tabbouleh creates an explosion of flavours in the mouth. It is simply delicious. Writing about it now makes my mouth water.

Sweet Deserts

If you love sweet deserts you will love the deserts served here. The layali loubnan, chocolate custard, and mouhalabieh are tasty sweet deserts. They make a good ending to a lovely dining experience. >A sweet almond cake.

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Do Visit Byblos Cafe And Lounge

Should you want to give Mediterranean and Lebanese cuisine a try, do visit Byblos. There are a lot more on their menu to choose from and I will certainly be back for more tasty meals.

Operation Hours:-Sunday – Thursday: 11am – 3am Friday & Saturday: 11am – 5am

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Address The Hive, TREC, Jalan Tun Razak, 54000 Kuala Lumpur.

For reservations, call +60.12.902.2240 Facebook: www.facebook.com/bybloscafeandlounge Instagram: @bybloscafeandlounge >View of the Royal Selangor Golf Club.

>The bar and counter.

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For Foodies

Philemon Foo

Eat And Repeat Shah Alam

M

alaysia is certainly a food haven. With a diverse mix of cultures comes a mixture of cooking styles and yummy dishes. To taste them all one will have to spend many days eating and one of the side effects will be the need to buy new clothes perhaps a size bigger.

Well, worry not. Eat And Repeat Cafe offers small portions of various dishes so that one can taste them all without the side effects. Amongst all the lovely dishes offered the ones I really like are nasi lemak, minced chicken rice, and mango with glutinous rice and coconut milk. >Tasty fried chicken.

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Nasi Lemak Fragrant Rice

Nasi lemak is a dish where the rice is cooked with coconut milk and pandan leaves, served with sambal (chilli paste), anchovies, eggs, and cucumber slices. That’s the basic serving, the kind I used to eat in school. The nasi lemak here reminds me of the one’s I used to eat at school. I love it.

Minced Chicken Rice

This dish is simply minced chicken meat cooked with sweet sambal (sweet chilli paste), served with white rice, and egg. The chicken together with the sweet chilli paste is really tasty. The eggs sort of neutralizes the saltiness of the dish.

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Mango Glutinous Rice With Coconut Milk

This sweet desert originates from Thailand. The mango glutinous rice with coconut milk is a sweet and sticky desert served fragrant mango. Fusing sweet, salty, milky, and fragrant (mango) makes this desert a super yummy one especially for those with a sweet tooth.

Other Yummies

There are a few other yummy dishes such as fried chicken wings that are really yummy, various soupy and curry noodle dishes, and deserts. Dishes here are priced at RM1.90 (USD $0.45) per serving.

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Location

YG24, Y7/Y, Jalan Plumbum Y 7/Y, Pusat Komersial Seksyen 7, 40000 Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia.

Contact: +6011 3176 2280 Contents Page

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