2nd star to the right, straight on till morning...

Kampung Scene

2011-05-30T14:58:00.002+08:00

Not all shots must be razor sharp and colours saturated. Sometimes simple images work in ways seldomed imagined.

Image below shot on iPhone4 with Camera Art Fx application. I cannot draw so technology does the work for me.

Kg. London & Lata Kijang Waterfall: 2008

2011-04-01T14:53:00.006+08:00

In my earlier blog I mentioned about the abandonment of Kg. London and the flash-flood struck Lata Kijang. It was then I realized I had not blogged about my first and earlier visits to these two places. May I now present some images from my first visit to these two beautiful places 3 years earlier.

On the initial aerial recce, we spotted a settlement close to the waterfall.

Just a few houses on a ridge.

The very tall Kijang Waterfalls.

Near the base was a hut/shelter. From the scale you can imagine the height of the waterfall!

We landed on a banana plantation near the village and got two of the village guys to take us by bike to the waterfalls.

The bridge below was named "Indiana Jones" bridge due to the rickety and often unusable condition. It was subsequently repaired before my 1st road trip in later.

At the 1st shelter of Kijang Waterfalls. It doesn't look as high from the ground as the upper part cannot be seen.

Our two Temuan Orang Asli guys who gave us the ride on their bikes. Here they are at Kg. London, the village we spotted from the air.

The village as I saw it then. On the left foreground was the Tok Batin (village head).

It is now but a memory.

Kg. London & Lata Kijang Waterfall, Negri Sembilan

2011-03-28T16:36:00.007+08:00

There was an Orang Asli (Aborigine) village in the hills of Negri Sembilan very close to the borders of Selangor and Pahang. It was called Kg. London. The villagers told us someone referred to it as London for unknown reasons and the name stuck.

I made a visit there again yesterday after a long hiatus but things have changed. As we approached the village, there was an eerie absence of human and animal presence that would normally be waiting upon hearing the sound of the rotors slapping. On our overhead pass, there was no sign of life in the village at all leading us to suspect that it had been abandoned.

As we landed, there was none of the usual welcoming village folk. In fact there were none at all!

After shutdown we headed to the village and confirmed that the village had indeed been abandoned for some months.

Later we met some bikers who told that a huge flash flood had cut off their water supply and hence may have forced the villagers to move. Not sure whether they have relocated to the main settlement of Kg. Tohor or some other area. We would need to speak to the locals to get more information.

We moved on to the waterfall. The authorities have put up a sign (somewhere near the village entrance I think) that access to the waterfalls has been closed due to bad road & slope conditions brought on by heavy rains some months ago. We walked to the falls and saw the following:

Part of the 1st hut had been damaged, presumably from the debris that was washed down in the flash flood. This had actually looked like a safe location but against the rage of nature, this was not the case.

The 2nd hut was completely smashed! Looked like it was hit by a falling tree.
I did not proceed further down to inspect the 3rd shelter but it looked intact from the picture.

The debris of rocks and trees that had been washed down.

The falls from the river below.

It was kinda sad but looking at the bright side, the local authorities were planning to make some developments to the area. Perhaps this has thwarted their plans and if so, is a good thing. Nature is best left undeveloped.

Fraser's Hill Shoot: 12-13 March 2011

2011-03-15T09:03:00.008+08:00

The Shootroopers' arsenal:
5 dSlrs (4 Canon + 1 Nikon), 1 Rangefinder (Olympus Pen), 1 Canon P&S, 3 smartphones (not in pic)
2x Sigma 150-500mm
1x Canon 100-400mm
1x Canon 100mm Macro
1x Nikon 105mm Macro
2x Tamron 17-50mm Standard
1x Lumix 20mm Pancake lens
1x Lumix 45-200mm
1x Canon 70-300mm
3x Canon Speedlite 580 EX-II
1x Nikon SB-800
3x Manfrotto Tripods (Not in photo)

One of the biggest cicada I have seen in recent memory.
To know more about cicada : http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/bugs/cicada/

Its been a while since I have done macro. Still one of my fave subjects:

Dew on a spider's web in the early morning is so beautiful.

Here are the shootroopers in action. And guess what are they eyeing on?

This is the target of those scary-looking bazookas: The Black-throated Sunbird (M).

The prize bird of the trip: Red-headed Trogon(F)!!!
Such magnificent color. Thanks to the sharp and keen eye of Milo who was in pursuit of a drongo.

The back of the Red-headed Trogon(F).

That's all for this post.
TQ!

Memory Recorder & Memory from My Teen Years

2011-02-09T09:00:00.002+08:00

Retrieve this during Chinese New Year from my Mum's place:

My first camera that I "inherited". The Contaflex SLR made by Zeiss Ikon was introduced in 1953 as one of the first 35mm SLR cameras equipped with a between-the-lens leaf shutter. This particular model is the Contaflex III launched in 1956 is equipped with a Zeiss Tessar 50mm f:2.8 with helical focusing.

I have many memories captured with this camera although the lens by then had fungus that could not be removed. This was not equip with a light-meter hence most of my shots were guesswork but it worked out quite ok.

Mt Kinabalu 29Jan-1Feb 2011

2011-02-02T13:32:00.013+08:00

1993 was the year I first climbed and reached Southeast Asia's highest peak at 4,101 meters. The itch to return there had been thwarted numerous times by many factors and level of fitness topped the list. One day I decided that if I waited to be fit I would never make it back up so I decided to set sight on Mt Kinabalu and work towards achieving it.

The rockface above the 11,000 feet altitude. These pictures were taken the following day when the weather was good in the morning to early afternoon.

The trail started at Timpohon Gate. It had started to rain. It rained and rained and rained from the time we started until we reached Laban Rata at 11,000 feet. I do not recall having felt so wet, cold and miserable before. We had been on the trail and in the non-stop rain from 9.30am to 5.20pm. I was wet from both the rain and my sweat. Unfortunately my backpack raincover could not hold off the rain and that too with the contents were soaking wet. The only things that were dry were my Think-tank bags that held my camera gear.

Although we were totally soaked and cold, we decided it would be best that to get dinner at the Laban Rata Resthouse before heading to Pendant Hut, where we would be staying for two nights. Pendant Hut was another hundred or so (I didn't count actually) steps of wooden stairs up from Laban Rata resthouse.

That's our stay way up there...

This is from Pendant Hut looking down to Laban Rata Resthouse where we 1st arrived. The resthouse as dorms & few rooms for accommodation and the only restaurant 1t 11,000 feet to get meals. The meals don't come cheap due to the cost of bringing things up via porter.

Warmed up and into dry clothes, we had our Ferrata briefing before bunking down for the night. The next day would start early i.e. up at 1.45am and start the summit trek by 2.30am.

What could be worse than being wet, cold and miserable? Perhaps getting from warm dry clothes into the wet & cold clothing (including undies) at 2.00am in 11 deg Celsius temperature would be it!

God granted our prayers for good weather! The sky was clear and absolutely beautiful with stars!! Once a while on the trek up I would pause to admire the heavens. I wished I could just find a clear spot and lie there just to admire the starry sky.

This is all one would see until daybreak. Just the light from your torch to light your path:

My GPSr got unclipped and dropped off somewhere around the steep rope section. I heard it bouncing on the rock surface and stopped some 50 feet below. I decided to go back down to look for it. Find it I did and it still worked! Well used and abused unit :P

At Sayat-Sayat Hut & checkpoint, we decided not to press on to Low's Peak as time was tight if we wanted to do the Via Ferrata activity. We enjoyed the serenity and the unfolding beauty of the sunrise at 12,000 feet. The crescent moon rose just before sunrise and Venus was brightly visible.

The sea of clouds below was mesmerizing.

After the sun was high, we began our descent but not by the way we came up. This is what I really came for. This is the driving force for the return to Mt Kinabalu; Via Ferrata!!

A via ferrata (Italian for "road with irons") is a mountain route which is equipped with fixed cables, stemples, ladders, and bridges. For more info, please click on http://www.mountaintorq.com/index.php

View of the Via Ferrata (Walk the Torq route) from Pendant Hut. Look closer and you can see participants on the rockface. The white trail is the result from many shoes "cleaning" the rockface over the years.

The hanging bridge on Low's Circuit.

After 2 amazing nights, it was time to descend but not without getting some pictures along the way.

180 deg view of Laban Rata and surroundings below:

Porter carrying up a tankful of cooking gas for the restaurant and heating at Laban Rata:

Dew from the cold mornings:

I think I shall be back again but will not be waiting 18 years!

Birdie Tale - Chestnut-naped Forktail that is...

2010-10-31T22:32:00.004+08:00

It was a chirpy bird and moved fast. Managed to get some decent shots under the challenging light conditions and this hyper-jumpy bird made it no easier to get a lock on either.

Sun came out briefly for me to get this pretty shot.

This one had something in its beak...

Was a frog! Or rather only half of it.

Its young had frog-legs for lunch.

Different Lowland Pitcher-plant

2010-08-30T18:50:00.003+08:00

I have passed this trail many time but have never seen these there before. Perhaps it was due to the fact that I disliked that part of the trail and go through it pretty fast.

Nice discovery (tho not by me) and certainly made it worthwhile taking out the camera (finally!).

Aerial Tioman

2010-08-10T16:16:00.002+08:00

Tioman from a rarely seen angle.

Fave place to bunk down & lepak; Panuba Resort:

Tokong Burong; Quite far from Tioman but dived here once in bad vis. It was supposed to be a fantastic dive site.

Renggis Island; Just off the shores from Berjaya Resort. Popular with both Scuba divers and snorkelers.

Batu Malang (Rock); Good dive site and also popular with snorkelers.

Stinkhorn (aka Maiden's Veil) Fungi

2010-07-29T10:16:00.001+08:00

Stinkhorn mushroom aka Maiden's Veil are under the Phallaceae family of fungi. Belonging to the fungal order Phallales, they are prevailent in tropical regions. They are known for their foul smelling sticky spore masses.

Owls @Carey Island

2010-06-07T10:40:00.008+08:00

Barred-eagle (Juvenile?) Owl

Aww... so cute..

Looks like it was screaming out to us like, "leave me alone!!"

Barn Owl. Looks so grouchy.
Although we spotted a lot of barn owls, they are spooked easily so only managed to get one (blur) shot.

Wood Owl.

Giving us the stare!

Don't mess around with these razor sharp talons!

Carey Island Daytrip - Misc

2010-05-31T13:57:00.004+08:00

The day started out rather wet and gloomy. Not sure which way the weather would go but the opportunities it presented was beautiful!

The gorgeous & magnificent Flame of the Forest against the dark & rainy morning sky.

Closer look at the flowers...

..getting an even closer look.

Fishing boats at Kg. Batu Laut.

Tide's out and so are the people for a stroll or collecting mussels/clams etc.

The monkey on the left was making eye gestures at the other monkey.

Raptor approaches the pole while the kingfisher bolts.

Pretty birdie on a coconut tree.

Fiddler crabs looking like they are greeting each other with a ~~hand~~ claw-shake.

Carey Island Daytrip - Kingfishers

2010-05-31T13:52:00.004+08:00

Kingfisher in the rain.

This one looks all ruffled up! Not looking very happy.

Angry looking fella.. LOL!

White-collared kingfisher in the mangrove.

Carey Island Daytrip - Raptors

2010-05-31T13:06:00.005+08:00

Black-shoulder Kite. This raptor has beautiful eyes!

The piercing glare...

Graceful flier...

Mating pair (?)

This magnificent Serpent Eagle was perched on a great position for us to shoot and was very cooperative & photogenic.

Beautiful patterns...

Mycena something - Lumeniscent Mushroom

2010-05-11T11:20:00.002+08:00

This tiny mushroom is no bigger than 5mm and favours rotting bamboo.
Nothing extraordinary about it... until the lights go out...

Bio-luminescence!!

It is so pretty.

(Some) Birds of Fraser's Hill

2010-04-12T16:02:00.007+08:00

Chestnut-capped Laughing Trush:

Long-tailed Sibia:

Silver-eared Mesia:

Scarlet Minivet (M):

Yet-to-ID:

Blue Nuthatch:

Lesser Racquet-tail Drongo:

Another Island (Tioman) Getaway

2010-03-31T14:28:00.004+08:00

Making up for 2009, our 2nd visit for the year before the end of 1st Quarter 2010. Blessed with good weather for our dives and excellent for getting great colours for photos.

Missed out on the dolphins as the pod was spotted on our way back from our dives. None of us had a camera then. Even if we did, the dolphins were pretty far away for a descent shot.

The inviting waters on the day of our arrival. We would be jumping off the jetty (left of the pic) every day be it low or high time. Low tide means more airborne time ;-)

Fiery sunsets...

... even if the sun was obscured by clouds, the sky would be on fire.

Nocturnal creatures:
A flying fox....

... and Ghost crabs (I think that's what its called).

For size comparison only. Creature was not harmed in any way during the course of this photoshoot.

"Howling" moon. Good for Thriller music to be played.

And more Raptors

2010-03-23T07:53:00.003+08:00

Made another trip back to Tg. Tuan to see if we can catch more raptors flying in. Although we were earlier than the previous week, the raptors were even more early. According to the birders doing the raptor count, most of them came in around 9.30am.

Managed to catch some of the later ones as they arrived.

Like fighter squadrons as they approach land.

I love the wing spread as they glide so magnificently.

Look of relief?

No, not a raptor that has fallen into the sea but a turtle! There were lots of turtle sightings in the sea below the lighthouse. Looks like a hawksbill turtle.

Raptors over Tg. Tuan (Raptor Watch 2010)

2010-03-15T11:10:00.003+08:00

These magnificent birds of prey are on their annual migratory flight back to their breeding grounds up north. Some heading to Japan, Korea, India, China even as far up as Mongolia & Siberia. They seek refuge south during the winter months.

These birds have just crossed over the Straits of Malacca from Sumatra. Its a perilous journey as they must gain sufficient height to glide over the straits least they plunge into the sea. Some are really low by the time they are near to land and have to flap the remaining bit.

Raptors over the landmass catching the thermal updraft to gain height before gliding to the next destination.

Catching the raptors at eye-level from the Tg. Tuan lighthouse.

Tioman - Lucky Shots!!

2010-02-18T13:08:00.002+08:00

Being at the right place, right time and right equipment on hand got me these unexpected shots!

A sailfish playing(?)/ hunting(?) between Panuba & Air Batang village in relatively shallow waters.

Backtrack to Hutan Lipur Ulu Perdik

2010-02-03T13:54:00.004+08:00

Some images from the previous weekend's daytrip to the Ulu Perdik Forest Reserve.

Velveted-front Nuthatch

A pair of Lantern bugs.

Grey & Purple Herons of Kinta Nature Park.

2010-02-03T13:00:00.003+08:00

Heron coming in to perch... the original karate-kid :P

.. then it opens its wings to sunbathe/dry?

Purple heron in flight...

Otter at the Kinta Nature Park!

2010-02-01T19:42:00.004+08:00

Thanks to Milo who was patiently staking out the herons to photograph them feeding, he spotted an elusive & shy subject.. an otter who had caught its meal and happily enjoying his catch in the lake.

Amazing Hummingbird Hawk-moth aka Shrimp Moth

2010-02-01T19:28:00.003+08:00

An elusive subject that we have sought to photograph for a very long time since we first got to know about it.

A moth but with wingbeat as fast as a hummingbird and darts around like one, it is often mistaken for a hummingbird. Hard to see and even harder to photograph, a most amazing photo opportunity presented us not with one but four Hummingbird Hawk-moths!!

KNP Birds - Kingfisher Dive Sequence

2010-01-03T18:00:00.002+08:00

Being at the right place, right time and having the right equipment... just the camera settings not quite right. Still a dazzling sequence.

KNP Birds - Kingfisher Sequence

2010-01-03T17:56:00.001+08:00

Tucked Away Amidst Nature

2009-12-20T11:09:00.005+08:00

This was our abode for a quick getaway. A bamboo & attap hut that was built by the Orang Asli (Indigenous People). A stream runs under the hut.

A balcony to chill out.

The stream as seen from the back window.

The interior is bare basics i.e. just mattresses but this was more than enough. It gets cold here during the night. I measured it at 23 deg Celsius ard 4.00am.

Don't make so much noise and nature will reveal itself near you... like this little birdie calling out to its mate.

Coastal Activities

2009-12-07T13:25:00.004+08:00

Family collecting clams.

Nazca lines?
Nay, just a small boat going round while scooping up the mud for kerang (blood-clams).

These boats are like the long-tails in Thailand, able to skim over very shallow waters but these look like they are just over mud! The props seems to be in the mud and still pushing the craft forward.

Long and lonely path home.

The tide has gone out and they have to stay on a designated waterpath least they get stranded on the shallows/mud.

Fishing trawler with the net deployed.

Small fishing boat on the way back to shore.

Looks like this boat had a little too much yum-seng .. not sure going or coming back.. ;-)

Hagen's Pit Viper

2009-12-02T11:51:00.003+08:00

Ironic that a subject that I don't like became the 1st subject captured by 'Matilda' (my EF 100-400IS L lens). These images were recorded in Ulu Geroh when Ngah, our Orang Asli guide & friend spotted the slithery visitor trying to get into LH's Suzuki Vitara's engine for some warmth.

Introducing "Matilda"

2009-12-01T08:40:00.006+08:00

Taken on a Canon EOS-50D.
Sensor 1.6x crop factor.

Here she is, Canon EF 100-400L IS ... "Matilda".

Sibu, Sarawak (N2 17.475' E111 49.484')

2009-11-12T10:41:00.004+08:00

The town of Sibu from Bukit Aup.

Sibu town centre from my room at Tanamas Hotel.

Inter-town River transport.

Floating grocery stores. They load up to sell their wares at the interior settlements.

Pasar Malam (Night market) scene

Central Market. This is a HUGE complex!!

Nice design too.

Cannot see end-to-end from the inside.

This is how chickens are sold over in Sabah/Sarawak. Live and bundled... cash & carry.

Herons

2009-10-19T11:30:00.003+08:00

Herons at Pucung Lake/Island.
For more on the Heronry -> http://mnsperak.wordpress.com/category/conservation-site/

SYT to a Princess

2009-10-13T15:47:00.001+08:00

With the right amount of makeup one is transformed from a sweet girl to a princess waiting to be whisked off her feet by her prince charming.

At the bridal trying out the evening gowns...

Same person but looking elegantly gorgeous.

Glow-in-the-dark (Bio-luminescence)

2009-10-09T15:00:00.000+08:00

Luminescence from organic life-form.
The orang asli (aborigines) calls it cendawan bulan, literally meaning Moon Mushrooms. Deeper in the jungle, large clusters of these in bamboo groves are a pretty sight to behold in the darkness of the night.

Ladyhawk's current fave...

2009-10-05T10:52:00.001+08:00

Mimicry

2009-09-23T15:47:00.002+08:00

To me it looks like a face, perhaps a guy with a thick mustache with sunglasses on. The forehead resembles those "Predator" aliens and wearing a thick fur coat... just imagination unleashed but to the others in the animal kingdom this may be just the thing to dissuade them from making a meal out of........

v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v
v

.... a Hawk-moth!!

Heavens Above

2009-08-23T13:02:00.003+08:00

A sight I have not seen with my own eyes and doubted that it could be seen around this region until recently when I visited the highlands of Bario in Sarawak.

Star filled sky with the Milky Way cloud visible.

Colourful Birds from Borneo

2009-08-07T10:48:00.002+08:00

Taken during a night-walk in a swampy area near the Kinabatangan River. These represent the best bird pictures shot todate.

Lunar 1st Quarter

2009-07-30T21:35:00.002+08:00

Special thanks to Milo for the loaner of his Sigma 150-500mm that enabled this shot.

Hold You but not Holding On

2009-06-29T10:39:00.000+08:00

Raqs Sharqi / Raqs Baladi

2009-06-08T13:52:00.006+08:00

Better known to the uninitiated as Belly Dancing, raqs sharqi (oriental dance) and raqs baladi (dance of the country) is also called Middle Eastern Dance or the Arabic Dance.

The following dances were performed at the Kaleidoscope Charity Dance in University Malaya.

"Wings of Isis"

The twirls of the "wings" were mesmerizing.

Kuala Sepetang (Port Weld)

2009-05-25T15:13:00.004+08:00

Kuala Sepetang (originally Port Weld) is a fishing village in Perak amidst the Matang Mangrove. The first railway in Malaysia was built in 1855 from Port Weld to Taiping.

Other than fishing, another industry is charcoal production. Here you can see the prized mangrove (bakau minyak) stacked outside waiting to be placed in the kilns for the baking process.

More Kingfisher Shots

2009-05-18T08:53:00.004+08:00

An unexpected opportunity + friendly subject + camera on hand = best kingfisher shot to-date.

Just a mere 25 feet away and not bothered with what the fuss is about below:

A few moments after this shot, it flew off to intercept something in mid-flight. It caught something in its beak and perched higher on a nearby tree. Milo's shots on his super-tele managed to make out that it was a lizard in its beaks! Photo of the kingfisher with the lizard in its beak can be viewed here -> Dreamer's Cove (Meet the King).

Children of the Earth

2009-05-04T13:02:00.005+08:00

City-parents will be shocked to see children here play and have fun in the river without any adult supervision. To the kids, this is their home and playground, where they learn to live in harmony with mother nature. I would assume that they are not oblivious to dangers but have learned to mitigate and developed the skills needed to manage the risks.

Fun cum bath all in one go... the fun bit I heard is only during weekends. The smiling faces of the Semai children are genuine and heartwarming.

They are nimble and surefooted as they run along wet rock surfaces and leap from rock to rock...

... they know where the rocks are and aim for the deeper sections. You feel like joining them, but we the city'fied folks should know better.

As with any other kids, the desire to impress and show-off but nothing materialistic. Vast difference from the city kids.

Perhaps this would be for a shampoo commercial ;-)

One won't stay dry for long. The kids will 'gang-up' and make sure you get your bath too...

... camera and cameraman not spared.

Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary

2009-04-27T13:28:00.007+08:00

The Kuala Gula Bird Sanctuary is located in the district of Kerian in the state of Perak. The sanctuary has been established since 1970 by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks (PERHILITAN) and the state government of Perak. The main objective of creating the sanctuary is to protect migratory and resident bird species, which have been using the wetland area for many years.

The migratory birds utilise the large mudflat area for feeding and resting during their migratory route from the northern to the southern hemisphere. During the migration season between August and April every year, more than 200,000 migratory birds representing some 50 species are estimated to stop over here. Some of these migratory birds come from as far as Siberia in Russia, Mongolia, Kazakhstan, Japan and China.

Kuala Gula in Perak is made up of different wetlands consisting of rivers, mangrove islands, mudflats, estuaries and fringes of mangrove forests along the coast. It is an important area for fisheries as a majority of the local community are involved in the fishing industry such as harvesting of fish, shrimp and shellfish as well as in post harvesting activities.

Serpent Eagle:

Kuala Gula - Birds (Woodpeckers)

2009-04-27T13:24:00.003+08:00

Greater Flameback Woodpecker (female).

Greater Flameback Woodpecker (male).

Pygmy Woodpecker busy at work:

Kuala Gula - Birds (Weaver)

2009-04-27T13:17:00.002+08:00

Baya Weaver bird:

Looks like nest is still under construction. The nest is only used once.

Kuala Gula - Birds (Lesser Adjutant)

2009-04-27T13:07:00.003+08:00

Lesser Adjutant. Spotted about 5 of these birds during our visit. A bit far off for my meager 70-300 telephoto lens and the out-going tide made sure we would not get any closer.

A short run...

... and its airborne:

Another individual making a meal of a dog-faced snake:

Kuala Gula - Birds (Kingfisher)

2009-04-27T12:59:00.003+08:00

Stork-billed Kingfisher... one of the elusive (for shooting with a camera) birds that have caused me a great deal of frustration with its seemingly mocking cry "ke-ke-ke-ke-ke-ke" as it flies off before you can get close enough for a good shot.

Not going to let it get away that easy this time...

... and another "better-than-nothing" shot of it.

Kuala Gula - Birds (Night Hunters)

2009-04-27T12:56:00.004+08:00

Barn Owl:

Spotted-wood Owl on a power-line pole.

Spotted-wood Owl - probably grumbling over the fuss:

Kuala Gula - Birds (Raptors)

2009-04-27T11:56:00.002+08:00

Brahminy kite perched.

In-flight meal:

Merambong Island - More Than Bargained For!

2009-04-14T15:57:00.006+08:00

Merambong is full of suprises. My 3rd visit for this year and with each visit brings new sightings. This was the best yet with the water surprisingly clear. My DSLR had the 70-300mm telephoto mounted as the plan was a stake-out at octopus lairs where the tide had gone out ... but I never made it out of the water.

Serina spotted an octopus in the shallow out of its lair and I hurried over to manage a few underwater shots with the PnS Olympus 1030 before it made its getaway under the cover of stirred-up sediments.

An untagged female seahorse found at the Merambong Seagrass meadow. Water visibility made shooting underwater very difficult.

Song of the Flower XXII

2009-03-26T21:49:00.004+08:00

I am a kind word uttered and repeated
By the voice of Nature;
I am a star fallen from the
Blue tent upon the green carpet.
I am the daughter of the elements
With whom Winter conceived;
To whom Spring gave birth; I was
Reared in the lap of Summer and I
Slept in the bed of Autumn.

At dawn I unite with the breeze
To announce the coming of light;
At eventide I join the birds
In bidding the light farewell.

The plains are decorated with
My beautiful colors, and the air
Is scented with my fragrance.

As I embrace Slumber the eyes of
Night watch over me, and as I
Awaken I stare at the sun, which is
The only eye of the day.

I drink dew for wine, and hearken to
The voices of the birds, and dance
To the rhythmic swaying of the grass.

I am the lover's gift; I am the wedding wreath;
I am the memory of a moment of happiness;
I am the last gift of the living to the dead;
I am a part of joy and a part of sorrow.

But I look up high to see only the light,
And never look down to see my shadow.
This is wisdom which man must learn.

- Khalil Gibran, 1914 -

Feathery Residents of Fraser's Hill

2009-03-23T08:48:00.005+08:00

We were at Fraser's Hill for spiders but along the way had some encounters with the feathery residents. Unlike those who came to Fraser's with fancy-spamchy bins (binoculars) and spotting scopes, we made do with what we had; Nikon & Canon dSLRs with 70-300mm mounted and Canon G7 & G9 among the uninitiated.

* Special thanks to Seng & Carol for their assistance in identifying and giving a brief commentary about the birds*

Long-Tail Sibia - always in a pack, quite noisy, moving along as they feed.

Long-tailed Sibia taking flight.

Silver-eared Mesia - the Jewels of Fraser's Hill; a babbler, also moves around in small groups. Males have red rumps, females yellow.

Large Niltava, female - Irresdescent blue/purple patch on shoulder and on top of head. Male is the same except the brown is replaced by black. Has a sweet 3-note call. Usually in a pair.

*Following pictures were shot under high ISO (1600) due to low-light conditions. The Digic-IV gives excellent image quality with little noise. Btw, I was not paid by Canon to say this.

From Semporna - Tun Sakaran Marine Park

2009-03-13T12:59:00.006+08:00

Tun Sakaran Marine Park in Semporna, Sabah is the biggest marine park in Malaysia. Just gazetted as a marine park not too long ago, this is the first marine park to encompass the sea, land and people living in its zone.

Pulau Bodagaya, one of the bigger islands and on one of its shelves, is a reef YL calls Seafan Garden.

Pulau Bohey Dulang. There was an oyster/pearl farm here that was run by a Japanese for 40+ years until it was suddenly adandoned in the late 90s. Now there is a Marine Police base and the Sabah Park Station here. This is where I bunked down for my stay. Lovely place indeed.

This is why I was here; to look for the Pygmy Seahorse (Hippocampus bargibanti) and assist in its research under the SOS Programme. They are only found on the Gorgornian Seafan of the genus Muricella and in depths of 16-40 meters. This was found in 26 meter depth.

Other side attractions; The Bristlebrush aka Christmas Tree worm.

Belated Birthday Wishes for Countrygirl

2009-01-02T14:54:00.002+08:00

Bird Tales

2009-01-02T14:19:00.001+08:00

Best of Friends

2008-11-13T21:30:00.001+08:00

Tioman Last Kopek - End Oct 2008

2008-11-03T13:35:00.005+08:00

One cannot get enough of this beautiful place. Shoals of anchovies at the jetty along with the scores of colourful coral fishes in crystal clear water.

Balihai Dive Centre

The sweeping skies and beautiful calm sea.

This is a surprise... autumn coloured trees!

View from the Balcony of SD9.

One of the best beaches in Tioman is at Tulai (Coral) Island. Waters here are crystal clear and sand is powdery white.

Low tide at Panuba.

Mad About Waterfalls!!

2008-08-07T13:32:00.007+08:00

Lata Kijang in Negri Sembilan.

Aerial view:

Lata Kijang from the base:

Lata Kijang: Someone trying to be "human dam".
Lovely clear, cool waters.

Unknown, unspoilt waterfall somewhere in the jungles of Peninsular Malaysia.

Lata Seminyang: A.k.a. the twin of Buaya Sangkut Waterfall

Upper tiers/cascades of Jerangkang Falls:

Upper tier/cascades of Berkelah Waterfalls

Twin falls at the lowest tier of Berkelah Falls:

Gunung Tapis Waterfall or more porpularly known as Rainbow Falls.

One of the tallest falls in Peninsular Malaysia

The reason why it is also known as Rainbow Falls:

View from base to the top

That's all. For more information about the falls and a very comprehensive listing of waterfalls in Malaysia, please visit http://www.waterfallsofmalaysia.com

Tioman Underwater Jul'08

2008-07-28T21:45:00.004+08:00

Its been a while since I last posted. Too many photos in between so I'm just sharing the latest of the lot.

Red-banded Cleaner Shrimp - Night Dive @Panuba House Reef

I don't know what specie of Nudibranch this is. Looks like a Chromodoris Geometrica but I am not certain.
Spotted at Fan Canyon, Tioman.

This was also found at Fan Canyon.
Nembrotha Cristata

Solar powered nudie... will get name later.

Anemone Shrimp.

Rainbow Portal

2008-05-13T19:23:00.004+08:00

Here something I saw the other day. Somewhere over Tampin and we were in a light drizzle when the sun broke through the early morning;
A rainbow but not just any rainbow. Instead of just a semi-circle, for the first time I saw a full circle! The only other times I saw full circle rainbows were around the sun or moon. Those were known as icebows. This was not an icebow as the circle was on our right, whereby the sun was on our left.

I looked up the net and found that this is normal due to our altitude. Rainbows when viewed from high altitude such as an airplane would be seen as a full circle rainbow. Makes you wonder that all the other rainbows seen were only half of its full glory.

It was huge and and my G7 could only capture a part of the rainbow. My Dslr with the 10-22mm mounted was in the bag, out of reach.

What if we managed to through the rainbow? Would it be a gateway or portal to another dimension? Hmm.. I think its influence from the Stargate series...

Return to Balihai

2008-04-28T22:14:00.008+08:00

It feels like a long time has passed since I last stepped foot on the island of Tioman but really, it has been only 4 months. Well, it was a long time for me but I finally made it there again not once but twice in a span of 1 week. Crazy huh?

Balihai's Dive Boat at Panuba Jetty:

Panuba Resort with crystal waters and nice quiet surroundings:

Underwater critters just meters off the beach. A starfish 'standing' up:

One of Ladyhawk's fave; 'Electric-Blue' Damsels

A shoal of fishes feeding. They seem to move and feed together.

This parrotfish was kinda camera shy.

Baby cuttlefish in the shallows!! A marvelous encounter.

Same cuttlefish with its rapid colour change camouflage. Seems a bit confused here as to what colour that could blend with the hand underneath it.

New cleaner shrimp just off Panuba Jetty. Bigger than the other cleaner shrimps found near the tyre but just one or two of these.

Not sure if this is a sole or flounder or whatever.

Cat shark found just 50 meters from the shoreline at a depth of 2 1/2 meters. Unsual for it to be out in the daytime. Although we could not see any sign of physical injury, there was definitely something wrong with it. Made us feel happy and sad at the same time.

Merambong Island

2008-04-09T20:58:00.006+08:00

On the south-south-west tip of Johor, there lies an island named Merambong. It is not very big. Maybe the size of small football stadium? Despite its size and its proximity to a very busy port, the island holds many surprises. The surrounding areas are rich in marine life! How long this will remain depends on the political powers that be. Conservation efforts and awareness are but a small voice in the gale forces of 'money talks'.

We made a weekend journey down south and these are some of the images captured:

Merambong and its surroundings at low tide. It was difficult to walk without stepping on something that could be a marine lifeform.

Another use for a discarded truck tire. It is now the base for seagrass and other smaller marine creatures to shelter. Further back of the photo you would be able to make out the 2nd Link Bridge from Johor into Singapore.

A Peacock Anemone in the shallow water.

Here's another view from beneath the water surface.

Walk slowly and you will chance upon many interesting creatures. Can you spot the crab in the picture?

Its not that big, but rather brave. Stood up against a monstrous lens that might have 'sucked' its lifeforce away!

Walking in the shallow waters, there are many flower crabs that you can see. There's not one, but two in this picture!

It was defending its mate. All these while, the mate in front never moved the tiniest bit! The one at the back would do its best, even running off to try to draw attention away then zooming back to its defense position.

This was another interesting crab. I was about to take some shots of it underwater but it scooted away before I could get into position. While I was tracking to see where it might have gone to .....

.... this came into my view. WOW! Forget the crab! I've got a more interesting subject now. Maybe it was the crab's ploy to get away... hahaha!

A Hippocampus Kuda - Seahorse

Gorgeous! That itself would have made the whole trip worthwhile.

How the underwater pics of the seahorse were taken:

Wide Angle Takes

2008-04-08T22:48:00.003+08:00

Here's some experimental shots using wide angle lens. Practising with some low angled perspective. Comments and suggestions welcomed.

From the angle of ants:

Left behind... if I had fallen down, this would be my view:

Perhaps this instead?:

Mangrove Garden (Lumut)

2008-03-17T23:30:00.006+08:00

One of our crazy weekends and a run up to the North of the country. Stopped over at a Mangrove Swamp Park. A raised walkway had been constructed to allow visitors to enter the mangrove and not get their feet wet and muddy.

Information signboard on the importance of mangrove forest/swamp.

Always on the lookout for these colourful fiddler crabs down the mud below.

Hmmm... under-developed claw?

This is how you get closeups of the fiddler crabs from the walkway. Hold on to something, lean over the edge as far as you can and try not to fall down!

Another use of the mangrove tree ....

A Charcoal Kiln .... that will be another story...

End of a hot, hot day...

2008-03-17T23:13:00.003+08:00

Many a time we take things for granted. For example this beautiful sunset. We would get so caught up with things that this would go almost unnoticed even if it were staring at us.

This is one of my favourite moments at the end of a hot, hot day. Hot weather is usually taken for granted. I was a a conference today and one of the speakers from overseas told us when he left Maine (US) 2 days ago, his hands were blue when he left the airport. No wonder there's so many Mat Sallehs (local slang for Caucasian) enjoying the hot sunny weather here. Only problem with that is most don't realize the sun here gets extremely hot. Forget the sun tan oil... even with sunblock you could get a sunburn.

Over the Buaya Sangkut Waterfalls

2008-02-03T17:02:00.001+08:00

Buaya Sangkut (local language meaning Stuck Crocodile) is one of the attractions of the Endau-Rompin National Park. Consists of five steps or tiers, this is one of the largest waterfalls in Malaysia.

I have visited this waterfall way back in 1995 and it was a hard 3-4 hour trek to reach from Kuala Jasin.

This is Kuala Jasin, where the Jasin river flows into the Endau river.

We made an emergency landing after low clouds rolled in fast just after we had left Kampung Peta. Had the low-cloud condition persists, we would have to spend the night here.

Sunday Drive...

2008-01-21T00:22:00.000+08:00

Its been some time since going for a photo-shoot. Decided to take a drive to one of those roads that offered a scenic view of the city. Been here once or twice but during the night. The last time we passed, we noticed a place called Lookout Point but it was closed for some renovation or something like that. This time it was opened. There were 4 restaurants there, an observation tower and a gorgeous view of the city!

Beautiful clump of Staghorn ferns high atop one of the trees there.

Left the place in search of a waterfall but got sidetracked to a riverside. There was a snack shop with the operators closing up for the day. The makcik was burning some leaves and the smoke presented a nice photo-opportunity.

The enticing river on a hot day. We were not prepared to get wet so not even our toes touched the water.

The pakcik at the food stall told there was a ikan-bakar (BBQ fish) restaurant run by his brother just round the corner (literally). Supposedly famous though we've never heard about it. We decided to give it a try.

At first the setting look like it was pretty small although we were informed it could hold 300 ppl.

Then as we walked in further, we begin to see all the dining areas. By the lakeside...

... amongst the trees...

... and even elevated! We chose this one ;-)

There were little booths set up around the area to give the diners some nice cosy, private (somewhat) atmosphere. We did wonder how the diners were going to call the waiter/waitress since the booths were spread over a large area. Perhaps just wait until one happens to pass by or someone has to walk over to the cashier if they want something.

This was how the fishes were BBQ'd. The 2 we ordered are on the left of the picture.
Sorry we forgot to take a picture of our orders before we gobbled it down. Was OK, nothing to shout about really but the setting was kinda unique.

That's it folks!

Ulu Geroh & Rafflesia

2008-01-08T11:54:00.000+08:00

Wishing all a Happy 2008 ahead! These few photos are a little late. Taken last year just before Christmas, these images from 2007 were held back to make way for the season's greetings.

Aerial approach into Ulu Geroh. In this area, the Rafflesia blooms the year round. The Malaysian Nature Society with the SEMAI have done a great job in protecting the area while creating an opportunity for low impact eco-tourism.

Can you spot the football field we are to land on?

Right over the village now. Can you spot Dewan Rafflesia? That is the 2-storey multi-purpose hall with basic accommodation for overnighters.

Here... let me help point it out.

The Rafflesia. Looks big yes? It is big, just not as big as what this photo may depict.

If I Were A Candle....

2007-12-28T23:47:00.001+08:00

For Ladyhawk:

Happy Birthday Countrygirl

2007-12-28T23:42:00.000+08:00

Wishing Countrygirl many blessings on her birthday....

Happy Birthday Sandra!!

Blessed Christmas to Friends both Near and Far

2007-12-22T21:29:00.001+08:00

Warmest wishes to all my dear friends all over:

Have a Blessed Christmas!

Ulu Geruntum

2007-12-15T20:44:00.000+08:00

Chanced upon this location about a month ago. Nice waterfall and very friendly village of Orang Asli. There was no name given so I just referred to it as Geruntum Waterfall.

Native kids having their bath(?) and fun at the same time.

Mucking around with the zoom ring on the Canon EF-S 10-22mm gives you a motion-zoom effect.

Bath time over when big sis called them home.

The lady who was at the kitchen is so friendly. The kids here too are the friendliest OA kids I have came across.

Tiny mushrooms near the waterfall area.

Wings over Kuala Gula (Raptors)

2007-12-03T13:07:00.001+08:00

One of my favourite bird subject, raptors!

Have yet to identify this one.

Brahminy Kite

Majestic!!

A nesting pair... the nest is nearby.

Having sushi for lunch.

Wings over Kuala Gula (Storks, Egrets)

2007-12-03T11:06:00.000+08:00

A Stork (don't know what type) perched high up...

.. and in flight.

Coming in for a branch landing.

Such a lovely white. Someone commented the wings look like that from an angel. I don't know... I have not seen angel yet.

Landing shots...

Wings over Kuala Gula (Misc Birds)

2007-12-03T10:45:00.000+08:00

Royal Air Force Aerobatic Team, The Red Arrows

2007-11-29T22:52:00.000+08:00

The Red Arrows are renowned throughout the world as ambassadors for both the Royal Air Force and the United Kingdom. Since my keen interest in aviation (rather anything that flies) in my younger years, the Red Arrows have stood out in my memory as the premier aerobatic team in the world.

One would do the darnest things to pursue their interest and this is no exception. For now, not only to see the 'dream team' in live-on-site action for the first time but also to capture the moments with my camera, another passion.

First 10 mins or so would be formation flying. These guys are so good! I know some people have trouble even just walking straight.

Then the real action begins....

The two looks almost like glued together in flight...

... but that was just the angle illusion. It really was like this:

The grand finale.

The BAE Systems Hawk T1 is the RAF’s advanced trainer, and has been used by the Red Arrows since 1979.

This picture for Ladyhawk .... his name is on the side of the aircraft :P

Tasek Bera (Out to the Lake)

2007-11-22T15:00:00.001+08:00

Tasek Bera in the state of Pahang is the largest natural freshwater lake in Malaysia. Comprising an area of 31,120 hectares, it is a wetland of international importance and was declared a RAMSAR site in November 1994. The Semelai are the indigenous people that have been residing in this area since 600 years ago.

The boat used here were not the traditional 'flat-bottomed' boats. It has been replaced by modern fibreglass boats with outboard motors.

Moving through the thicker vegetation before reaching the open areas

Getting to the open areas.
The mengkuang plants are abundant and it is used to make mats. The Semelai make beautiful mats with patterns depicting a story.

Little birdies on top of almost every trunk...

Some parts of the lake mirrors the horizon and sky.

Playing around with light and reflection.

The sun as seen on the water surface.

This is another part of the lake. The village here is Kg. Pathir and it has a beautiful view overlooking the lake. Yes, that's the lake there and it is covered with reeds.

This is what it looks like from the water's edge.

A little further down the path, a jetty facilitate easier access out to the lake. The water is deeper here.

Again, more modern boats.

Tasek Bera (Structures)

2007-11-22T10:00:00.000+08:00

This is the SABOT (Semelai Association for BOating & Tourism) office in Pos Iskandar. We put up the night in here. Basic, cozy and clean toilets, sufficient for what we need. About a month ago, electricity availability became 24x7. This is really good news to both residents and visitors. Previously electricity was provided by a generator from dusk to dawn only.

This is where we lunched here before heading back to the city. Located in Kg. Pathir, it is made from bamboo and tree bark. Roof however, has been upgraded to zinc.

This is the floor of the interior; Bamboo held together with rattan. Very cool as the air flows through.

A balai or a gathering place. This one is up for rental for large group of visitors/ tourists.

The local 'pub' at Kg. Paya Pelawan. Downright quaint and cozy.

Tasek Bera (Misc)

2007-11-22T09:30:00.000+08:00

No, this is not a jet ski.

One of the sources of income for many of the Semelai; Rubber trees.

The latex is tapped by stripping some of the bark and collected in the cup.

This is Ms. Semelai 2007 ... cutest smile and very photogenic.

On our way back to the city, low clouds over the hills were a pretty sight.

Sunset, beautiful as always.

Tasek Bera (Feathers)

2007-11-21T22:45:00.001+08:00

This bird, a Kingfisher has been one of the hardest subject to capture. It is easily spooked and it doesn't help when we are trying to shoot en route to a destination. These represent the best I have managed to capture so far.

If only it stayed a split second longer ... or maybe I just need one of those Canon EF L lenses that focuses super fast ;-)

The best of the lot. The aboriginal people here call this 'kekaka', from the laughing sound that it emits. Usually we hear it just as it flies off before we manage to shoot as though it was mocking us. I call this a 'laughing jackass' tho no relation to the Australian Kookaburra.

There it goes again with the 'kakakaka' laughter.

As we prepared to move out for owling, a big bird came to perch on a pole nearby. We could not make out what it was then but just fired off 2 frames before it flew off. A delightful surprise that an owl had come to us. Bum-bum shot but better than none-none. We spotted 2 out on the road but did not manage to capture on photo.

Pulau Ketam from the Air

2007-11-11T18:22:00.000+08:00

Supposed to have posted this a few weeks ago but was so caught up with trips that the weekends just filled up the time and the camera memory card.

Enroute to Pulau Ketam, we flew over the Klang North Port.

Pulau Ketam village. Houses and everything else here is on stilts.

Sun drying catch from the sea.

Pretty much a standstill as far as coming and going is concerned when the tide is out. Other than the plank walkways connecting all the buildings, main mode of transport to and from this place is via boats.

Flock of birds (prob Egrets) taking flight.

Along the coastline over Kuala Selangor heading back towards Meru.

It was a beautiful day and good flying weather.

Tioman - Season Ender

2007-11-05T14:09:00.000+08:00

It should have been the monsoon by this time but weather these days are unpredictable due to the climate changes as a result of global "developments". Oft we get a rather startled response when informed that we would be going to Tioman near year end. There's an impression most folks have that monsoon means never ending downpours and floods. It might be so but there are beautiful days of good weather as well. Boils down to one's luck I'd reckon.

We had 3 days of beautiful weather although there were some showers nearby, the sea was calm (flat actually) with gentle breeze blowing.

Beautiful contrast of the fishing boats against the shower.

Make no mistake though, the monsoon can play it rough as the remains of this boat testifies to the storm Tioman experienced a few days before our arrival. It was smashed against the rocks and this is all that remains of this fibre-glass boat. No casualties except to one's pocket.

Tioman - Season Ender (Underwater)

2007-11-05T12:21:00.000+08:00

Divesite: Chebeh (Tioman Island)

Not just a Cushion starfish but look closely and you are likely to find macro creatures living on the starfish. Compare the size of the shrimp with that of my thumb (on the bottom left of picture).

Not sure which but it is either a Starfish Shrimp (Periclimenes soror) or Emperor Shrimp (Periclimenes imperator)

"Blue dragon" Pteraeolidia ianthina Nudibranch.
Some info provided on an earlier post - Recent Tioman Dive - Nudis

Goby on a hard coral.

Anemone clownfish or now very commonly referred to as "Nemos".

Batu Malang or Rock of Misfortune. Great site for both snorkeling and diving.
For this trip, we skipped the dive at this site and snorkeled for a change. It was lovely!

Beneath the surface.

Lots of hard corals...

Sunbeams dance around to light the world beneath...

Colourful coral fishes go around their daily business...

Its great to see the fishes just swimming around you...

Oops... the speedboat.

Kuala Koh, Taman Negara

2007-10-30T13:16:00.000+08:00

Kuala Koh is the Kelantan (northern) entrance into Taman Negara National Park. It does not have hoards of tourists bringing in noise from wherever they came from.

Young bamboo shoot. The colours and shades are so pretty.

Over the Sungai Lebir...

Pic above taken from the suspension bridge.

Height of bridge over the river.

Looks higher here but estimate it to be approx 16 meters (50 feet) above river level.

Kuala Koh - Common Birdwing

2007-10-22T21:43:00.000+08:00

Mother nature can present its beauty at any time. Many of those moments are only stored in grey cells but once a while, a camera is on hand with the right lens to capture these moments to be shared.

Common Birdwing (Troides helena) is a beautiful and large butterfly belonging to the Swallowtail (Papilionidae family).

Kuala Koh - Spider Hunter (Sunbird)

2007-10-22T21:40:00.000+08:00

I told myself that I might regret it if I did not change to my tele-zoom lens as we sat for lunch. When the photo opportunity presented itself, was I glad the 70-300IS lens was mounted on the camera and ready to shoot! So my lunch was cold but tasted so much better after gettig shots like these :D

Sunbird, common name for tropical, Old World birds, including more than one hundred species in the family Nectariniidae. Spider hunters, of the genus Arachnothera, are members of the true sunbird family and are found in Asia. Spider hunters (e.g., the little spider hunter, A. longirostris) feed largely on insects and spiders.

Kuala Koh - Atlas Moth (Attacus Atlas)

2007-10-22T21:17:00.000+08:00

Like a magnificent vintage aircraft of old.

Atlas moths are considered to be the largest moths in the world in terms of total wing surface area (upwards of c. 400 square cm or 65 square inches). Their wingspans are also amongst the largest, from 25-30 cm (10-12 inches).

Atlas moths are said to be named after either the Titan of Greek mythology, or their map-like wing patterns. The chinese name translates as "snake's head moth", referring to apical extension of the forewing, which bears a passing resemblance to a snake's head. The purpose of these dramatic, gossamer portals is not clear, but they are thought to play a role in predator avoidance.

Same moth retreated high up on a bamboo groove after refusing to cooperate with photo-enthusiasts for a head-on profile.

From the road journey - Wings

2007-10-22T15:05:00.000+08:00

If a journey is an hour's drive, add another hour if traveling with photography enthusiasts. Take a pair or two of keen eyes and you are likely to encounter mother nature's splendor en route to the destination. Ultimately it is the journey, not the destination that counts.

Just another tree but more than that, there's a raptor sitting high up.

At maximum zoom and some cropping yielded the image below; A Serpent Eagle. Even from afar, we could make out that this was a big fella.

Another tree some kilometers down the road, another Serpent Eagle was spotted.
Yet another stop and more megabyte filling moments.

An elusive subject; Kingfisher. Many attempts to shoot it only to have it fly off before we can get in some decent shots. Every time that happens, we can hear its cry like it was mocking us.
This was the first time I managed to get a shot of it before it took off.

Another opportunity to shoot another kingfisher presented itself and it would have been the best due to our close proximity to where it was. Alas a car that zoomed by before I could train my lens on it. Ah well, blurry colours are neat too.

Port Dickson - Tanjong Tuan (Cape Rachardo) & Blue Lagoon

2007-10-17T15:56:00.000+08:00

The oldest lighthouse in the country, originally built by the Portugese in the 16th century. After the conquest of Malacca by Portugal in 1511, they wanted to build a lighthouse to guide its ships. Tanjung Tuan was chosen and the cape was named Cape Rachado by them.

The lighthouse still holds vigil today but no longer just a vantage point to view trade or enemy ships sailing close to the coast. It now houses a revolving MEASAT Radar used for transmissions and communications.

More than just famous for its lighthouse, this site is a conservation area for migrating birds. Cape Rachado is well known as a popular stopover point for migrating raptors especially honey buzzards. Other birds that stop here during their annual winter migration include swifts, hawks, and eagles, which can be spotted between September and March every year.
See entry on Raptor Watch.

To reach the lighthouse, take a short uphill trek. Keep your eyes open for there are many things to see along the way.

View of the Straits from the lighthouse surroundings.

Wildflowers around the lighthouse.

We stopped over at the once-famous Blue Lagoon (nothing to do with the movie of the same title) to watch the sun set.

Banana boat...

Here's something different... at least for me it was... a view of Moggie in my frame, and Moggie in viewfinder.

For Countrygirl

2007-10-14T00:07:00.001+08:00

This is for Sandra:

In the midst of turmoil,
When things seem to be more than what you can handle,
Think of this; A port for safe haven.

This is one place where I go not just for diving but to rejuvenate. It is serene and breathtaking. There is beauty above and beneath the surface; A lovely place to hang out while the rest of the world go by out of sight.

Workstation Guardian

2007-10-12T11:06:00.001+08:00

Irish Wolfhound here sits on my table and "guards" my stuff while I away from my desk. Been faithfully doing that for years and I just realized that he (she?) does not have a name. Suggestions welcomed ;-)

Another Hill to Save

2007-10-08T18:15:00.000+08:00

Yet again the same story of the "need to develop". It is never a need but a want/ desire. There are many other places if you want to build housing but why should it be at the expense of Mother nature? I would not say no due thought has been given but as always, money speaks the loudest and the greedy will only heed its call.

So, it leaves other communities labeled environmentalist, conservationist and other whatnot-ist to lobby for nature to be preserved. That makes then the "bad guys" but in the end, let us see who shall stand for judgement.

For more info: http://www.savetamanmelawatihill.com/

Milo, LH and I went out in search of this place and after a round of discovering Melawati, we finally found the place, thanks to the bright yellow orange tent sent up for the raptor watch. We were too late for the watch but there are always other treasures that nature has in store.

Pretty butterfly at the max zoom of my lens.

This fella just gave me a bum-bum profile. This was the best of the 3 I managed to shoot before it flew off.

Limestone cliff ridge nearby as seen from the top of the hill.

Watch the birdie

2007-10-04T22:47:00.000+08:00

Birdie having a Grandstand view of the setting sun.

Hong Kong

2007-09-27T12:00:00.000+08:00

Hong Kong, population approx 6.9 million people in 1,104 sq km. The region was first incorporated into Imperial China in the Qin Dynasty, and served as a trading post and naval base during the Tang Dynasty and the Song Dynasty. Contact with the United Kingdom was established after the British East India Company founded a trading post in the nearby city of Canton.

First occupied by British forces in 1841, and then formally ceded from China under the Treaty of Nanjing at the end of the war. The British established a Crown Colony with the founding of Victoria City the following year. In 1860, after China's defeat in the Second Opium War, the Kowloon Peninsula south of Boundary Street and Stonecutter's Island were ceded to Britain in perpetuity under the Convention of Peking. In 1898, Britain obtained a 99-year lease of the adjacent northern lands and Lantau Island, which became known as the New Territories.

Hong Kong was a crown colony of the United Kingdom from 1842 until the transfer of its sovereignty to the People's Republic of China in 1997. The Sino-British Joint Declaration and the Basic Law of Hong Kong stipulate that Hong Kong operates with a high degree of autonomy until at least 2047, fifty years after the transfer. Under the policy of "one country, two systems", the Central People's Government is responsible for the territory's defence and foreign affairs, while Hong Kong maintains its own legal system, police force, monetary system, customs policy, immigration policy, and delegates to international organisations and events.

Now on to the scenes:

View from Victoria Peak. A bit hazy so can't see very far into Kowloon across the harbour.

Currently 3rd tallest building in the world, the Two-IFC (International Finance Centre) building is 88 Storeys standing at 420 meters.
One-IFC (39 storeys at 210m) is towards the left, the one with the identical roof design.

Hong Kong - Structures

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The Two-IFC building from worm's eye view.

Tsing Ma Bridge - World Longest Road and Rail suspension bridge - 6 lanes of roadway (upper) 2 MTR rail lines, 2 lanes of roadway (lower). It has a main span of 1,377 metres (4,518 ft) (more than the famous Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco) and a height of 206 metres (676 ft).

New & Old Guardians - CTVs monitors the entrance to this bank while the Stone Lions wait to pounce on would-be-robbers (heh, I'm just kidding about the stone lions).

Bank of China on the left, not sure about the one on the right and in the foreground is the Legislative Council of Hong Kong that was built during the early British colonial days.

The buildings look impressive and very nice at night. The lights are actually part of Symphony of Lights, a spectacular light and laser show synchronized to music and staged every night at 8:00pm. Recognized by the Guinness World Records as the world's "Largest Permanent Light and Sound Show".

A number of old buildings survived and are preserved.

The former police headquarters. Still undecided what to do with it. News is that it will be turned into a museum.

Pier to the iconic Star-ferry that plies between Hong Kong and Kowloon.

Hong Kong - Tsim Sha Tsui

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Hong Kong's version of Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Avenue of the Stars celebrates the icons of Hong Kong cinemas past century. The seaside promenade offers fantastic day and night views of the Hong Kong harbour and skyline.

Avenue of Stars against the Hong Kong skyline.

My foot posing with Jackie Chan's Star.

Statue of Bruce Lee.

Hong Kong - Streets

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Kowloon - Mong Kok

Streets are narrow and crowded. Here you have various shops and should be prepared for lots of walking. Shoppers paradise.

Hong Kong Island - Central

Near the financial & commercial towers, roads are wider and not so crowded. Besides the usual buses, another option is the electric tram for transport.

Other places are the familiar narrow roads. These are the lower part of the slopes at the foot of Victoria Peak.

Overhead pedestrian walkways connect a large number of buildings.

A breeze to walk over the vehicle traffic and convenient in the event of wet weather.

Lan Kwai Fong, entertainment and "happening" night life place.

Hong Kong - Spaces

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Despite limited land, there are parks built for the people...

...with beautiful landscaped gardens.

Lek Yuen Bridge in Sha Tin leading to more residential buildings opposite the wide river. Pedestrians only bridge.

The other end of the bridge.

This was at Central, Hong Kong. There are many of these ficus trees growing from wherever that could and well maintained. There are benches for those who wish to sit under the tress and just chill out.