We normally carry this hammock stretcher when we go for walks with groups. Its main purpose is actually an emergency stretcher or litter. With a few strong pieces of wood, this stretcher can take up to 100kg easily. In an overnight situation however, we [...]]]>

The emergency stretcher will be my sleeping bed for the night

We normally carry this hammock stretcher when we go for walks with groups. Its main purpose is actually an emergency stretcher or litter. With a few strong pieces of wood, this stretcher can take up to 100kg easily. In an overnight situation however, we can always use it to make a sleeping place that is above ground.

So…when we got to our ‘designated’ campsite, I went to scout for a place to set up my little ‘jungle bed’. I want to build it in the shortest time possible (under 1 hour) using the least number of natural materials possible.

I found a spot I think is suitable. Two relatively large tree about 3 meters from each other. These two will act as props for one side of my bed. This would mean I have to build only two props. Less work, less energy required.  It is close to a stream that feeds into the lake. I am way away from the waterline.

The two trees I will use as props for one side of the bed

As for the poles, I have no choice but to harvest some natural materials. There were some bamboo shrubs nearby so I fell a long mature piece. I also fell another woody tree to use as props.

Pieces of bamboo for my stretcher bed

The piece of 'Y' shape wood felled to help make props

Well, I am not gonna go through the whole process of making the stretcher bed (I am not totally an expert either). It is not exactly rocket science but is something that takes a bit of practicing definitely. It took me about 30 minutes to get the stretcher bed up. A few things I learned. Measure once, measure twice and measure it 3 times. Once cut, the wood/ bamboo is practically useless if you got it wrong the first time.

A strong and sharp parang is a must when working with bamboos (or with any other wood for that matter). Makes chopping so much easier with least effort and that saves time and precious energy. A reliable tool is necessary. Either a parang or in this particular case, a folding saw might do as well.

A sharp parang makes working with bamboo and wood more efficient, safer and uses less energy

While it is all about practice, this is one exercise I would hate to do again. Strictly because it involves chopping down live trees. While I prefer to use a hammock always in the jungle, this sort of emergency stretcher does have its place (especially in groups).

In the end, my ’stuck in the jungle’ shelter is complete. Not the fanciest looking but I think it does the job. Keeps me off the ground and keeps me as dry as possible. I set up the flysheet close to the bed because it is only  2m X 3m in size. Set it up higher and I may get wet when it pours. The low flysheet also helps to trap heat at night, something important when I don’t have a blanket or a sleeping bag with me.

My emergency stretcher bad is now a bed a night (or two)

I know my ‘emergency’ shelter is lacking a few important things. For one, I do not have extra clothing and blanket (not something I’d carry on day hikes). At night, I put on my walking socks (been drying during the day) and sweat scarf on my chest to help keep me warm.

The other ‘comfy’ factor is a mosquito net. Being close to the stream, I am more worried about the sand flies. So, a fireplace (also for cooking) is in order. I built two fireplace. One for cooking/ boiling water while the other is closer to the bed, underneath the flysheet. The later is burning using bigger pieces of wood strictly for smoke to help ward off the mosquitoes and sand flies.

PIC: smoking shelter
The slow burning pieces of wood provides smoke to help keep mosquitoes and sand flies away

Well, having spent the night on this bed, I’d say there are plus and minuses. Its biggest plus is probably in terms of comfort. The bed stretches firm and my body is much straighter than would otherwise be in a hammock. The poles that holds the bed serves as multiple hanging spots where almost all my gear can be left off the ground yet within my reach.

It is however rather tedious to set up. As much fun as it was to be able to use the parang, having to chop bamboo and wood in a real emergency situation is probably something that if possible be minimized. Not to mention also the amount of strings and ropes needed to tie the bed frame together (looking for vines is time consuming).

But at least now I know that I am able to set-up an emergency over night sleeping bed using my emergency stretcher. I just hope I don’t have to experience it in a real situation.

We have always loved Thailand and somehow make it a point to visit this lovely country once a year. This time around, Meun did a lot of research and came up with a really interesting, budget way of seeing the country side. Traveling on public train from Bangkok towards Kanchanaburi, passing Pathom Chedi, River Kwai [...]]]>

We have always loved Thailand and somehow make it a point to visit this lovely country once a year. This time around, Meun did a lot of research and came up with a really interesting, budget way of seeing the country side. Traveling on public train from Bangkok towards Kanchanaburi, passing Pathom Chedi, River Kwai Bridge and finally ending at the enchanting Sai Yok Noi waterfall.

Even at such early hours, already the station was buzzing with people

Our train leaves at around 630am and already the train station was busy with activity. Train it seems is still a popular mode of transport for the general people in Thailand. With an RM12 per person ticket in our hands, we proceeded to look for our train. Only to pass a stall selling ’saikrok’ Thai version of sausage. In the sausage is packed with rice, some green stuffing and of course pork meat. It is grilled to perfection at the stall itself and served with some raw cabbage and chillies (usually). This is one food I must have when in Thailand.

Saikrok being grilled right in front of you

Saikrok is really good!

By the time our train arrived, I had devoured 2 Saikrok. Meun wasn’t really pleased but hey…its gonna be a 4 hour train ride (one way), so gotta build up some strength.

The train….well, it may not be air conditioned, is certainly not VIP but it sure as h*#@ authentic. We shared our carriage with a group of local Thais on a company trip. It was rather noisy but the atmosphere was charged with laughter, giggles and chatters. Some of our neighbors came with their entire families and it was certainly lively.

One of the kids in our carriege enjoying the breeze while the train was moving- Pic by Meun

This is our first time traveling through Thailand on train and honestly and it is an eye opener. Not only do we get to mingle with the local people but the train also gave us a glimpse of other ‘parts’ of Thailand. From wide open padi fields and plantations, the train also took us through some of the ‘poorer’ communities…living at the edges of the city in makeshift huts and shacks. These are the ‘behind’ scenes which would otherwise be hard to see and experience.

The Orang Asals of Sarawak taught me a new jungle kitchen/ fire place set-up. I first saw this kitchen ‘design’ in one of the local houses but never thought that it can be duplicated in the jungle. It think it is brilliant!

While it probably is more [...]]]>

The guides enjoying warm drinks around the jungle kitchen

The Orang Asals of Sarawak taught me a new jungle kitchen/ fire place set-up. I first saw this kitchen ‘design’ in one of the local houses but never thought that it can be duplicated in the jungle. It think it is brilliant!

While it probably is more suitable for larger groups, this kitchen cooking set-up allows continues use and it maximizes the use of the fire. With this type of set-up, the group has fire as well as the fuel to keep the fire going.

The design is straight forward really. A ‘rack’ is made above the fire to allow fire wood to be stacked on. A removable pot hanger is also built in to make it easy to hang pots. The heat generated by the fire while cooking food keeps the firewood above dry, ready for use.

Lai Eng piling fire wood on the rack

The fire below helps to dry (and keep dry) the fire wood above

I think this is a brilliant system. During light rain, the stack of wood keeps the fire from extinguishing. And the heat from the fire helps to dry the pieces of wood closest to it. It’s like a fully automated system.

What a brilliant jungle fire set-up this is!

I manage to record some videos of this jungle fire place. Will compile and upload it soon. Stay tuned!


Continue reading other parts of this adventure below:

• First time in Miri Town, Sarawak
• Wild durian & Kolok mee at Miri.
• 5 hours on a 4WD into interior off Miri.
• Unique local houses in Sarawak interior.
• Smoked wild boar…nice!
• Loooong hike to look for an elusive waterfall.
• Sarawak river boats and a raging river.
• Jungle vines and rattan used in the jungles of Sarawak.
• Umbut or heart of palm tasting, first experience.
• Harvesting of the umbut by the Penan.
• Malat & Penat; the Penan’s blades.
• Kitchen in a traditional house.
• Video on jungle kitchen & feather stick making.

Click here to read about another rainforest adventure in Semban, Sarawak.

NOTE: This ‘Umbut’ [...]]]> This is a video on how the Penans of Sarawak harvest the ‘Umbut’ or ‘heart’ of a type of palm tree. The natives of Sarawak has relied on the jungle for food, shelter and almost everything they need to survive. I am fortunate to be able to record this to share with everyone.

NOTE: This ‘Umbut’ harvest was done to obtain food to a group that was traveling in the interior jungles of Sarawak and NOT to produce this video.

Continue reading other parts of this adventure below:

• First time in Miri Town, Sarawak
• Wild durian & Kolok mee at Miri.
• 5 hours on a 4WD into interior off Miri.
• Unique local houses in Sarawak interior.
• Smoked wild boar…nice!
• Loooong hike to look for an elusive waterfall.
• Sarawak river boats and a raging river.
• Jungle vines and rattan used in the jungles of Sarawak.
• Umbut or heart of palm tasting, first experience.
• Harvesting of the umbut by the Penan.
• Malat & Penat; the Penan’s blades.
• Kitchen in a traditional house.
• Video on jungle kitchen & feather stick making.

Click here to read about another rainforest adventure in Semban, Sarawak.

It was my first time in Miri, Sarawak and I am in transit to join a group on a jungle expedition into the Upper Baram region, right smack in the heart of Borneo. I expected the trip to be super challenging, therefore arriving early for plenty of rest (and food) is [...]]]>

Imperiall Mall in Miri

It was my first time in Miri, Sarawak and I am in transit to join a group on a jungle expedition into the Upper Baram region, right smack in the heart of Borneo. I expected the trip to be super challenging, therefore arriving early for plenty of rest (and food) is in order.

The plan was to have everyone meet at Miri. Prior bookings at a local Miri guesthouse were made for everyone but having arrived two days in advance, I decided to check out a rather new guesthouse that has been getting positive reviews on the internet. It’s a family run place and as it turns out, really reminds me of home.

Clean, friendly folks, a home away from home

I like Dillenia because it has a sense of peace and coziness. Mrs Lee (the owner) is always around to help in whatever way she can and you know it’s a family run place when the owners have a room there and even share their meals with guests. The toilets are probably cleaner than my own house in KL!

Everything else is close to Dellinia guesthouse. The Imperial Mall (shopping) is just a 3 minutes’ walk away. There are a few makan places just downstairs and a pharmacy to get all the first aid supplies for the group just around the corner. Yup, the next time you are in Miri and in need of a cozy place to stay, I’d recommend Dillenia (contact details in picture above).

Miri town is just the town for me. It is not as crazy as KL and yet not too ‘slow’ as well. As usual, I decided to start my ‘tour’ of Miri town by visiting all its market and makan places. There are several markets in Miri, some of the famous ones include the Tamu Muhibbah, Tamu Lama the fish market and the Open market. The markets are all located around the same area, within walking distances and I highly recommend anyone going to really take your time and explore the entire place.

The Miri Open market has an attached makan place-not really 'open' actually

Gas in Miri town are supplied through these type of ‘meters’

The ‘organized’ markets are cool but it is the street market that really caught my eyes. Sellers would just sell their produce at the side of the roads and I personally find the things they sell more interesting.

In the morning, the streets near Tamu Lama offers a glimpse of unusual stuff

This seller sells a variety of mushrooms, stuffs that are totally alien to me

Glutinous rice, hill rice and all sort of other jungle produce available here

Snails for lunch anyone?

This is how Miri-ans wrap their live chickens for sale

All sorts of vegetables, some are definitely from the jungle

On sale was also some pretty horrifying stuff. There is this seller chopping up chunks of wildboar meat. Fine that it is wild boar but all the meat seems to be dunk in what seems to be brackish juice. I asked the seller about it and he says it is a special mixture for a special dish. “Can I take photo?”. Of course not!


Continue reading other parts of this adventure below:

• First time in Miri Town, Sarawak
• Wild durian & Kolok mee at Miri.
• 5 hours on a 4WD into interior off Miri.
• Unique local houses in Sarawak interior.
• Smoked wild boar…nice!
• Loooong hike to look for an elusive waterfall.
• Sarawak river boats and a raging river.
• Jungle vines and rattan used in the jungles of Sarawak.
• Umbut or heart of palm tasting, first experience.
• Harvesting of the umbut by the Penan.
• Malat & Penat; the Penan’s blades.
• Kitchen in a traditional house.
• Video on jungle kitchen & feather stick making.

Click here to read about another rainforest adventure in Semban, Sarawak.

An Orang Asal guide once told me that jungle plant Lembeh (the Curculigo species)  bears fruits that once eaten will make plain water taste sweet (through drinking) for hours later on. I did not have the opportunity to taste the  Lembeh fruits back then because all [...]]]>

The Lembeh fruits at the ‘armpit’ of the plant

An Orang Asal guide once told me that jungle plant Lembeh (the Curculigo species)  bears fruits that once eaten will make plain water taste sweet (through drinking) for hours later on. I did not have the opportunity to taste the  Lembeh fruits back then because all the Lembeh plant we found were fruitless. However, during a recent trek to a waterfall, I stumbled upon some Lembeh plant and walaaaa!…Lembeh fruits!

Lembeh , also called Lembah is an interesting plant. Besides being known as the ‘natural’ mouth sweetener, its other usages include fibers for cordage and other medicinal properties.

Nature Guide John helped me to confirm the plant. Lembeh reminded me of my Pandan fronds at home. Closer look, the leaves of the Lembeh are significantly different and are of a lighter shade of green. I used my parang to move around the leaves, careful not to surprise any long slithery friends that may be lurking below all the tall leaves. I was looking for the fruit ‘pods’.

The fruit pods are located on the ‘armpits’ of the plant.

Near to them ground is where the fruits are

I looked around a few batches of the Lembeh plants. One cluster contained flowers, yellow in color. Besides this particular batch of Lembeh is where I found one of the fruits. A pinch with my fingers and the white fruit pops out from the pods.

The fruit of the Lembeh plant

I took a bite and already noticed that it is rather sweet tasting. The texture is very much like a kiwi fruit or a dragon fruit. There are a lot of small little black seeds in the white fleshed fruit.

The fruit of the Lembeh plant

Just to be sure, I waited a few minutes before consuming the entire fruit. There were no stinging sensations or any unwanted reactions to the fruit so I decided to consume the entire fruit (the car is about 2 hours walk away…only)

Sure enough, gulps of plain water from my water bottle later really do taste sweet. Its kind of weird because the mouth itself does not taste sweet but plain water passing through tasted like sugar water. It’s a wonderful yet weird experience. I couldn’t believe it and before I know it, I finished my entire bottle of drinking water. What a good way to motivate a person to rehydrate in the jungle!

Lembeh a.k.a Lembah of the Curculigo species

We thought about buying kayak for our own use in Malaysia for a very long time. Having once worked in an outdoor education center where ocean expedition is a major activity, it is only natural that we had a longing to paddle again. While finances and budget has been the [...]]]>

Finally, we bought our kayaks!

We thought about buying kayak for our own use in Malaysia for a very long time. Having once worked in an outdoor education center where ocean expedition is a major activity, it is only natural that we had a longing to paddle again. While finances and budget has been the major factor holding us back from buying, the other ‘excuses’ includes not knowing where to paddle and where to buy them from.

We decided on them kayaks because it is something that we have always wanted to get. To add on to it, it is going to be our first wedding anniversary soon and we thought this would be a great gift for the both of us. So, out came the bank book and off kayak shopping we went.

We didn’t actually shop to be honest. We have always known Mr Najib of Renegade Quest Sdn Bhd from previous business dealings. He is a very humble and nice chap. He is the main distributors of a few well known kayaks in Malaysia. So, if you are ever considering buying kayaks, forget them retailers…go straight to Mr Najib. His number is 019-2363013 (or just google Perception Malaysia and you will find his website).

Najib showed us a few models of kayak. We already knew what we wanted but having a look around is never a bad idea. While there are newer models (but definitely more expensive), we decided to stick to our plan (and budget!) which is the Perception Swing Plus.

The Perception Swings are rather long, 3.9m to be exact. They are Sit On Tops and personally we think they are the way to go in Malaysia. They are easy to learn, with hatches to carry gear and very stable. It would be a nightmare to use a cockpit kayak in Malaysia with ’spray skirts’ because of the hot and humid weather. I have previously tested the Swing tandems and they are awesome. Swings are obsolete models but we know for a fact they are good SOTs and within our budget.

With Najib and his cousin’s help, we got both our Perception Swings onto my Vitara. Thank God we fitted the Vitara with a second hand Vitara carrier. We tied them down with tie downs and set to bring the babies home.

Our Perception Swings stacked beautifully on our Suzuki Vitara. No issues.

The first thing we did when we got the Swings back home was to give it a ‘shower’. After a quick wash, we brought the kayaks into the house only to realize that they were way too long for us to conveniently store them anyway.

Meun busy giving the kayaks a quick wash

Now we realize the kayaks are way too long for the house!

Well, there is no way we are gonna be able to fit our kayaks into our storeroom. So, our best next option is to have the kayaks leaning on the wall. With a wall plug through the wall, we are able to secure the kayaks from rolling over.

The kayaks being stored at home.

We have our kayaks and paddles. We now need PFDs and we are all set to go kayaking Malaysia!

Go to www.outdoor-gear-malaysia.com for more information on buying kayaks in Malaysia.

Here are more pictures on boathouses of Tasik Kenyir. I received a few emails asking about the boathouses. Effectively, a typical boathouse in Lake Kenyir is a boat, usually one that has been retired from the open ocean use and been modified into a floating, mobile house [...]]]>

A floating boathouse of Lake Kenyir

Here are more pictures on boathouses of Tasik Kenyir. I received a few emails asking about the boathouses. Effectively, a typical boathouse in Lake Kenyir is a boat, usually one that has been retired from the open ocean use and been modified into a floating, mobile house on water.

Some boathouses on Lake Kenyir are designed and fitted with all the right fittings to make anglers smile from ear to ear. Because the lake is a popular fishing haunt for many, it is not surprising to see boathouses with no railings on the side!

These fishing ‘kaki’ boathouses may not be suitable for groups with children

The above boat has been modified with fishing rod ‘holders’ on the whole side. While this may seem like a dream come true, it may well be a nightmare for groups with young children. Even for adult, a playful push can end up with someone struggling in the water. And mind you, waters in Lake Kenyir can be as deep as a hundred feet.

En. Hassan, my boat contact in Pengkalan Gawi told me that owning a boathouse in Kenyir is easy but maintaining the ‘boat’ is a totally different matter. The boats somehow always takes in water (rain and leakages), the owners have to be constantly keep an eye out to ensure that their ‘vessel’ doesn’t go down. Below is a fine example:

Boathouses require a lot of maintenance.

So, if you ever decide to hire a boathouse for a holiday in Lake Kenyir, make sure you call the boatman a day or two before your actual arrival date to make sure that your holiday plan is still floating.

Kitchens are always simple. Basic utensils are provided and if you plan to do a lot of cooking, maybe bring some extras to make sure you have everything you need. Keep the food halal as most of the boat operators are Muslims.

Simple kitchen on boathouses

Not your average house kitchens sink

If you do plan to rent a boat house, make sure you do it in advance, especially during peak season. They range from RM800 to RM1200 per night with most maximum carrying capacity around 10 passengers.

If you are lucky, some boathouses have kayaks and small boat onboard.

We arrived at Lake Kenyir through Gua Musang via the ‘bridge to no where’. This tall and magnificent bridge I come to know a number of years ago. That time, the bridge and the some parts of the roads beyond it was still under construction. [...]]]>

People used to camp under the bridge at night time

We arrived at Lake Kenyir through Gua Musang via the ‘bridge to no where’. This tall and magnificent bridge I come to know a number of years ago. That time, the bridge and the some parts of the roads beyond it was still under construction. It was closed to public then and still is (as of February 2009). But heck me and John made it through anyway. The entire road is ready actually. Perhaps the authorities are waiting for a ‘reason’ to open the road, like a big celebration or sort. Maybe…I don’t know.

By the time we got to the bridge, it was already pitched dark. No street lights and we had our eyes strained on the road to make sure we don’t drive into any of the many cows enjoying the heat emitted from the tarred road at night.

Now…just at the side of the road immediately after this infamous bridge, there is a left turn, into a gravel road that leads to a Kenyir floating chalet called Angler’s Rakit. We dropped by that night, had a good meal (on the house by the way) and promised to return the next day to take some pictures of their place. I have stayed at this chalet a couple of times and oh…its beautiful. The peacefulness of the place is unmatched. I wondered whether the monkey they had tied to a leash was still there.

Anyway, me and John camped at Pengkalan Gawi’s campground. It was already around 10pm after we have enjoyed Angler’s Rakit hospitality. We were so hungry I am sure the caretakers had more of sympathy than hospitality on us that evening. I any case, the fried rice and BBQ fish was really good.

The following day, we made sure we headed back to Anglers Rakit to find out more about their ‘upgrades’ Oh…it turns out that the property’s ownership has changed hands. The place has been spruced up, looking spanking nice now.

The place has been upgraded, walkway made safer with barriers

With a new owner, the place has also been undergone name change. Its now known as Kelah Rakit Resort. While the main floating chalet blocks are the same, the place has been refurbished with new furniture, a new floating platform with projector screen and even tents! Oh and I found out that the monkey they used to have is gone now. Seems that the Mr Stripe came down from the jungle and had the poor monkey for lunch when there was no one at the resort. Now that’s a scary thought!

Their trademark aquarium fishes are still there

The resort with a new name

This part of the floating chalet is the staff's quarters

The Kelah Rakit Resort is located about 30 minutes drive from Pengkalan Gawi. There are no shops, petrol stations, even street lights except a wooden shack selling some snacks and food (be prepared to PAY) between the resort and the main jetty. The resort offers mostly packages that include food and board which is probably the way to go. Other services available are of course boat rides and fishing trips. Some of the great attractions nearby is the Tembat Waterfall and the occasional visits from jumbos. Don’t believe me? Go to the resort yourself and see the pictures in the album!

More on the Terengganu road trips Part I and Part II