Monday, July 28, 2008

Sarawak Regatta 1 - 3 August 2008

Sarawak Regatta has been a premier event with a distinct historical and cultural significant. It was held as early as before 1872 and was organized as an annual event taking place during the New Year. Sarawak Gazette had recorded in 1872, that the annual Regatta that year was held, on 29th February 1872 at the Sarawak River infront of the Astana. The European community in Sarawak and in the neighboring countries were invited to the Astana - for breakfast - before the race. Keen competition were also recorded for the Rajah Cup.

The boat 'Sri Matu' built and manned by the Melanaus, was reported as the winning boat. The Gazette records provided the indication that Regatta had been an important social event organized annually for social integration and goodwill for the people of Sarawak. Prominent Political figure, the late Tan Sri Datuk Amar Ong Kee Hui, recorded that Raja Charles Brooke used to send his yacht "Maimunah1 to outstation to bring in the various "Tuan Residents" to join in the social event.

The tradition of holding the annual Regatta in the Sarawak River continued through the Colonial period and into the post-Malaysia period. During these periods the Regatta was organized by Resident and District Office with funds from the Government while the rest of the fund was raised through public donations.

The day programme include races for traditional longboats, dragon boats and other activities, like the running of totolizers, climbing greasing poles, catching ducks and "pillow fights". Racing boats from outstations made it a grand affair and also a great occasion for families from outside the State Capital to visit Kuching town.

More Info

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Events Lineup Of Coconut Fest 2008 - Sabah, Malaysia

Mark your calendars on the 5th to the 7th of September and head on to the northern district of Kudat for the fourth annual Coconut Fest!

This festival is aimed to shed the limelight on coconut products and its significance in the lives of the rural Kudat community. The celebration also extends the necessary recognition to the coconut industry’s contribution as one of the most extensively grown crop in Kudat area.

The three-day event will take place at the illustrious Tanjung Simpang Mengayau—a dramatic headland also known as the Tip of Borneo. A lineup of exciting programs has been prepared for the enjoyment of both local and outside visitors. Tamu Malam (night market), Coconut Fashion Queen Pageant, battle of the band, Dragon Boat Race, as well as an array of rich cultural performances are among the events to look forward to.

Apart from witnessing the glorious sunset from the Tip of Borneo; there are also other places of interest to be visited while in Kudat. Be sure to swing by the Rungus Longhouse at Kampung Bavanggazo and visit Kampung Gombizau Honey Bee Farm for some deliciously healthy honey to bring home. Also, take your family for an educational excursion to Kampung Sumangkap and witness the age-old craft of gong making.

Choose to chill out at the scenic and serene Kelambu Beach, or simply embrace the culture by exploring the Kudat district and go for a sightseeing adventure at Tamu Kudat. A place equally famous for its seafood and groundnuts; outside visitors should also seize the chance to sample delectable seafood dishes and stock up on groundnuts.

Experience the northern feel of Sabah this September as you make your way to Kudat for the Coconut Fest—coconuts will never look this good!

Ever wondered how Kudat got its name?
Before Kudat got its name, the Rungus had called the land ‘Tanjung Berungus’ or ‘Tomburungan’. However, when the British first arrived and asked for the name of the place; the Rungus mistook him as asking for the name of the coarse grass (lalang) that was growing there, hence answering “kutad” (Rungus dialect for lalang). This name eventually got stuck and is still used as the place’s preferred nomenclature up to this day.

Why Rungus women wear brass coils around their wrists and ankles?
Legend has it that once upon a time, there was a Rungus man who encountered a group of mermaids ashore. He hid from behind a rock and watched as these mermaids remove their tails and frolic on the beach. Ultimately, he fell in love with one of the mermaids, stole her tail and buried it in the sand so she couldn’t return to the sea.

The man then took the mermaid home and married her. To prevent her from leaving him, he encircled her legs and wrists with heavy brass coils that weigh her down from swimming away. Today, the seemingly cumbersome brass coil ankle and wrist bands serve as traditional decorative accessories and are mostly worn by older women.

Gastronomic adventure the Kudat way
There are numerous coffee shops inhabiting the older part of Kudat and Pekan Tomborungus that cater an array of Malay, Chinese, and Indian-Muslim cuisines. The following are several of the recommended coffee shops for your gastronomic adventures:

“No Name” Coffee Shop
Situated a little less than 1 kilometer away from the Jalan Marudu roundabout is the “nameless” coffee shop which caters specialties such as yong tau fu (stuffed bean curd), egg rolls and other finely ground meat dishes served in delicious broth to go with rice or noodles.

The shop sits in between Yu Sin tailor and a refrigeration specialist. Business starts from 7am to late afternoon and it is closed on Sundays. Famous specialties include

Sea View Gerai Makan
Gerai Makan Sea View is located somewhere in the food stalls near the Kudat fish market. In the mornings, it serves delectable noodle dishes, while in the evenings one can expect scrumptious seafood platters. The special part about this food stall is that customers can pick and choose the seafood and vegetables prior to cooking—this ensures maximum customer satisfaction to boot!

Must try dishes include their steamed fish and claypot bean curd with mixed veggies which are very reasonably priced.

Muslim Food Stalls
Somewhere around Jalan Datu, near Lembaga Bandaran Kudat lies a famous open-air eatery that specializes is grilled food such as grilled fish, sting ray and chicken. The grilled fish is usually sold together with an optional local treat—steamed tapioca starch roll. Only non-alcoholic beverages are catered.

Kedai Kopi Yu Hing
This coffee shop is a famous breakfast spot that serves Chinese delicacies such as steamed buns (pau), small range of dim sum, and several types of noodles. It is also knows to serve some of the best coffees in town and different kinds of Chinese teas. The coffee shop is situated on the ground floor of Hotel Ria, business starts in the morning and ends in the evening.

Sungai Wang Restaurant
By far the most illustrious Chinese restaurant in Pekan Tomborungus is the Sungai Wang Restaurant where customers have the luxury of choosing between open-sided dining and air conditioned dining room. This restaurant offers a smorgasbord of seafood specialty dishes to whet your appetite!

Brief history of Tanjung Simpang Mengayau
The journey to the Tip of Borneo takes about 30 minutes from Kudat town. On the way, you will be greeted by tall coconut trees on both sides of the road and the warm hospitality of the Kudat villagers.

Tanjung Simpang Mengayau—the ‘Land’s end’ of Borneo—is the meeting point of the Sulu and South China seas. The name derives from the original Rungus name, ‘Tanjung Simpang Magazo’. Literally, ‘tanjung’ means tip and ‘Sampang Magazo’ means a junction wherein a battle takes place. According to Rungus folklore, this site was where a fierce battle fought by their ancestors took place while defending the Rungus territory against enemy invasion.

Ethnic folklore claims that pirates often frequented the area and attacked the nearby villages. Hence, the villagers decided to defend themselves by joining forces and the Tanjung Simpang Mengayau subsequently became the ideal spot to observe the oncoming of pirates’ ships. Intrepid Rungus warriors in those days would stand on guard there to protect their village from impostors.

History also noted that on his sailing trip circumventing the world, famous explorer Ferdinand Magellan took a detour and stayed in Tanjung Simpang Mengayau for 42 days to repair his ship.

EVENTS LINEUP OF COCONUT FEST 2008
5TH-7TH SEPTEMBER 2008
KUDAT TOWNSHIP

Saturday, July 19, 2008

Malaysia My Second Home - MM2H


Malaysia My Second Home Programme is promoted by the Government of Malaysia to allow foreigners who fulfill certain criteria, to stay in Malaysia for as long as possible on a multiple-entry social visit pass.

The Social Visit Pass is initially for a period of ten (10) years, and is renewable.

Eligibility
It is open to citizens of all countries recognised by Malaysia regardless of race, religion, gender or age. Applicants are allowed to bring their spouses and unmarried children below the age of 18 as dependants.

Foreigners who are married to Malaysians are not eligible for MM2H programme but may apply to stay in Malaysia under the Immigration Department's "Spouse Programme" with a Long Term Social Visit Pass (please refer to website http://www.imi.gov.my ).

Why Malaysia?
Take a moment and see why Malaysia is one of those countries you should consider living in.

Governmental Support
This programme is initiated, organised and launched by the Malaysian Government and is thus one that the Government will continuously seek to improve, to ensure its success.

Culture & Language
The Malay, English and Mandarin languages are widely used and practised and there is a free intermingling of different cultures.

Recreation & Entertainment
The country has everything for the family, theme parks, jungle trails, sports, water sports and one of the highest numbers of golf courses.

Food & Fruits
International cuisine is available here at very reasonable cost. With so many races and cultures living together in harmony, it is understandable that each race has picked up the best of each other’s food and made Malaysia into Asia’s Food Paradise. Similarly the tropical fruits of Malaysia are unique, exotic and available in abundance practically throughout the year. It should be a real joy to savour these fruits.

Weather
The weather is pleasant, warm and balmy with moderate rain throughout the year, There are also highland residential areas and resorts with permanent spring-like weather throughout the country.

Shopping
Most of the items that tourists normally like to buy – perfumes, cosmetics, watches, fountain pens, a long list of electronic goods, branded goods etc. are completely free of tax. Quality goods from all over the world are imported and are relatively low in price and sold throughout Malaysia.

Safety
Statistics can proof that Malaysia is one of the safest countries in the world; its crime rate is relatively low.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Local Nature Tourist Guide Course - Malaysia



How can I become a Local Nature Tourist Guide?
The opportunity to become a Local Nature Tourist Guide is open to all citizens of Malaysia who have a deep interest in tourism and nature besides having the passion to interact with tourists. They should be disciplined and have an extensive knowledge of eco-tourism and the country in general. Candidates are required to attend the Local Nature Tourist Guide Level 2 course jointly organised by PERHILITAN (Peninsular Malaysia) and selected Tourism Training Institutions (Sabah and Sarawak), as well as pass the examination conducted by the Tourism Ministry.

What are the qualifications needed?
A candidate who is interested in pursuing the Local Nature Tourist Guide Level 2 course should possess at least a Sijil Rendah Pelajaran (SRP) certificate. Candidates with lower academic qualifications but with extensive knowledge of the forest and tourist sites may also be considered by the Tourism Ministry.

What is the Local Nature Tourist Guide Level 2 Course?
Each candidate is required to take the Local Nature Tourist Guide Level 2 course within a period of 2 weeks before being allowed to sit for the Nature Tourist Guide Examination conducted by the Ministry.

How can I apply to take this Local Nature Tourist Guide Level 2 Course?
Candidates who are interested in pursuing this course can contact the following agencies and Tourism Training Institutions for further information:

Peninsular Malaysia:

Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN)
KM10, Jalan Cheras,
56100 Kuala Lumpur
03-9075 2872/ 03-9075 2875
Fax: 03-9075 2873

Or PERHILITAN Offices in the respective states.
Sabah and Sarawak:

Borneo Tourism
Institute Sdn Bhd
7th Floor, Block B,
Wisma Kosan Likas
88856 Kota Kinabalu, SABAH
Tel: 088-43 3312
Fax: 088-43 3780

Asia Tourism Institute
2nd & 3rd Floors, No 85,
Jalan Gaya
88000 Kota Kinabalu, SABAH
Tel: 088-24 2633
Fax: 088 24 2513

INTI College
Jalan Stampin Timur,
PO Box 2571
93350 Kuching, SARAWAK
Tel: 082-462 046
Fax: 082-461 694

Friday, July 11, 2008

KLCC Aquaria - Malaysia



Do’s & Don’t’s

1. No littering in the aquarium
2. No food and drinks allowed inside the aquarium
3. Visitors are not allowed to feed the fish
4. Frightening animals is strictly prohibited
5. Flash photography is not allowed
6. Visitors are not allowed to knock on the exhibit glass.
7. No smoking allowed

Services & Facilities

• Wheelchairs / ramps for the handicapped
• Baggage storage counter
• Restrooms
• Baby changing room
• Major credit cards accepted
• MyKad & MyKid & E-cash support

Dive With Sharks Fees Structure

Category : Non-Certified Divers
Price Inclusive of : Equipment hire,T-Shirt, Certificate and PADI Discover Scuba
Diving Course.
Fee : RM450

Category : Certified Divers
Price Inclusive of : Equipment hire, T-Shirt and Certificate.
Fee : RM400

Admission Fees
Category Promotion Fee

Adult Malaysian(MyKad) : RM 28
Children Malaysian(MyKid) : RM 22
Adult Non-Malaysian : RM 38
Children Non-Malaysian : RM 26
Senior Citizens 60 and above : RM 18




http://www.klaquaria.com/index.html

Tuesday, July 8, 2008

Buy Me A Holiday - Malaysia

Golden sunshine, deep blue seas, thriving mountains and equatorial rainforests beckon! Hop aboard a flight to Malaysia and immerse yourself ia a holiday of a lifetime.


3 Days 2 Night / Redang Pelangi Resot, Pulau Redang, Terengganu
Enjoy the printine waters and white sandy beaches of Redang Island off Terengganu. This package offers return boat transfer, accommodation, breakfast, lunch and dinner, free-flow of coffee and tea and snorkelling trips.
Package from RM 749.00 onwards for 2 persons


3 Days 2 Night / Seri Costa Hotel, Melaka
Located just 2 hours from Kuala Lumpur, Melaka is a charming city filled with historic treasures. Discover them through this package of accommodation, breakfast and a lunch and a dinner.
Package from RM 155.00 onwards per person


3 Days 2 Nights / Corus Paradise Resort, Port Dickson
Enjoy a spot of sea breeze and outdoor sports at one of the peninsular's popular family beach getaways. Package includes accommodation, breakfast, a buffet lunch and a buffet dinner.
Package from RM 225.00 onwards perp person


3 Days 2 Nights / Kuching (Ex. Kuching)
Discover Kuching through its exotic food, culture and wildlife. Package includes accommodation, 2 breakfast, 2 lunches, 2 dinners, city tour, trips to the Sarawak Culture Village and the Semenggoh Orang Utan Sanctuary.
Package from RM 440.00 onwards per person

Book your holidays with Malaysian Travel Business at 603-21630162 or email flora@mtbiz.com.my or carol@mtbiz.com.my
Rates may not be applicable or may vary during peak seasons.

Monday, July 7, 2008

Guide For Visitors To Penang - Malaysia



Are you planning for a holiday to Penang,Malaysia?

“Discover how, for a measly US$50/day, You Can Get a Royal Treatment In This Paradise!”

If you have always imagined yourself having a great and fantastic vacation in Penang – with lots of fun – ENJOYABLE…

…Then this maybe the most important letter you will ever read.

Because after this, in just 5 minutes, I’m going to show you how ANYONE can have their GREAT & FANTASTIC vacation.

Let me go straight to the point. I don’t want to waste your time. I know, you are busy with your work. And I know, you are looking for something special here. I mean, a great and fantastic vacation to Penang… Am I right?

Ok now, let me introduce to you, a solution to get a GREAT & FANTASTIC vacation in Penang…

Maybe you have no idea right now, or maybe you've heard so many information about Penang. I know you can easily get free information about Penang on the internet, newspaper and also travel agent.

But, don’t you realize all of these free stuff are not always accurate and up to date.

You ask yourself, can you get a great and fantastic vacation to Penang with inaccurate and not up to date information... I don’t think so.

With this ebook “All About Penang”, you will get fresh information. Yes! I guarantee 100%, this 2008 version is exclusively for you. And only here you can get it.
A Great Place For Honeymoon…BUT…

One more thing, Penang is a great place for honeymoon. I know you and your spouse always dream to get a great and fantastic vacation for your honeymoon.

But the problem is you don't know “where” to go for the really interesting and best places in Penang. You may exactly don't know what activities you and your spouse can participate when you arrive in Penang. Don’t you?

Or you may also don't know where the best dining and shopping sites are in Penang? I know your spouse love shopping. And also love to have dinner in a romantic atmosphere that also has a romantic panorama.

You believe it or not, I can fulfill all your dreams. With only this ebook, “All About Penang”, your dreams can come true. It will describe in detail where are the best shopping and dining sites in Penang. Plus, it will tell you, what activities, you and your spouse can participate when in Penang.

If you really want to save your money, then keep on reading…

Listen to this carefully…

Don’t you know that you never have any Authority and Opportunity to design your own dream vacation before? Other people do it for you! It's a ready-made package.

Hey…come on!

Is it you or them who wants a vacation in Penang?

Why let others make a vacation for you?

The money is yours not them.

Why don’t you try to create your own? Can you tell them… “Hey, I want to change this and this. I don’t want this but I want that”. Could you do that? I sure don’t think so. You like it or not, it's up to you.

You have no choice.

YES! Create your own vacation. With this ebook, “All About Penang”, it can help you plan your vacation. It will help you get great and fantastic vacation in Penang. Plus, you can get a royal treatment in this paradise for a measly US$50/day.

I repeat it again…

You can save hundreds of dollars by getting to Penang on your own. You don’t need a travel agent to set up everything for you. That's just a waste of your time and money.

Wait! I’m not finish yet!

80 Letter-Size Pages, PDF Format
For You To Grab Immediately!
http://www.amazingpenang.com/

Tuesday, July 1, 2008

Zoo Taiping & Night Safari Malaysia



Taiping Night Safari
The Taiping Night Safari is a firtst of its kind in Malaysia. Bathed in lighting similar to moonlight, the beauty and splendour of nature is enhanced. In an effort to maintain the experience of a natural environment, the Taiping Night Safari attempts to display nocturnal animals in natural looking settings. This provides the opportunity for visitors to appreciate and value the treasures of nature while enjoying oneself.

Experience The Night Safari
The Taiping Night Safari is a unique tourism product where animals which are active at night are displayed using special lighting similar to moonlight. Visitors will be ablt to experience this environment similar to wildlife habitats where the sounds made by numerous creatures can be heard. To fully appreciate this experience visitors are required to minimize all sounds, even speech so that the sounds of the night creatures can be heard. Reduced noise will also help to maintain the peaceful atmosphere of the Night Safari. Torchlights and flash cameras are not allowed to be used in the Night Safari as this will disturb the animals on display


Entrance Fee
Adults : RM10.00
Children (3 -12 years) : RM6.00
Video Camera : RM5.00

Night Safari Mini Train
Adults : RM3.00
Children : RM1.50
20% discount for groups more than 20 persons.

Discount
Groups of adults (more than 20) and senior citizens (above 55 years) : RM8.00

Groups of children (3 -12 years)
(more than 20) : RM4.00


http://www.zootaiping.gov.my/