Fox Cave (Gua Musang)

Malaysia's Tasik Kenyir
Malaysia's Tasik Kenyir is famous as the largest man-made lake in south east Asia. Tasik Kenyir is well known as a prime spot for fishing. Located in Hulu Terengganu is the largest man-made lake not only in Malaysia, but also in south east Asia.
When the area was flooded with water between 1978 and 1985, most of the hilltops and highlands remained above water level, thus creating about 340 man-made islands. There are more than 14 waterfalls, numerous rapids and rivers. And caves. read more...

Fox Cave (Gua Musang)
There are two popular stories, and both relate to the huge cave in the hill behind the town. One account says that a group of superstitious hunters were camped out here, when a storm destroyed the hunters’ attap huts. A bolt of lightning struck the hill and almost split it in two. The hunters thought the guardian spirit of the cave was angry and begged for mercy. As they prayed they saw a
pack of civet cats run into the cave, so they lay in wait for them to come out again. However, the animals never reappeared. The hunters then named the hill Bukit Gua Musang and the town, Gua Musang. . read more...

Chini Lake of Pahang
Lake Chini or Tasik Chini, about 100 kilometers from Kuantan, with an area 12,565 acres of lush tropical wilderness, is Malaysia's second largest natural lake. Situated on the right bank of the Pahang river, This magical lake is endowed with an endless and captivating scenic beauty and vast tranquil environment and at the same time conceals a mystery lurking beneath its calm waters.
The enchanting lake, actually a series of 12 inter-connecting water bodies referred to as 'Laut'(sea) by the locals, is a generous treasure trove of nature heritage. The area is richly endowed with biological resources where 138 species of territorial flora and some 300 species of non aquatic vertebrates have been found. The water system is also home to a numerous aquatic vegetation and 144 species of freshwater fish. read more...

Layang Layang Underwater Photo Challenge 2007
This is an excellent opportunity for budding photographers to showcase their underwater shots and eventually,recognition in the field of underwater photography. All winning participants will have their pictures published in the post event write up in Asian Diver
magazine. In addition, they will also stand a chance to win prizes worth US $30 000 from world class sponsors such as Nautica, Nikon, Oceanic, and dive trips to exotic locations. Registrations are being accepted now through email. Categories for entry are Macro and Wide Angle. This will be a digital photography contest. read more...

National Park-Gunung Tahan-Malaysia
Got to experience both frenetic activity and natural serenity during trip to the world’s oldest rainforest as well as luxuriate in the comforts of Mutiara Taman Negara Resort.It’s a three-hour boat ride upstream Sungai Tembeling to the resort in Kuala Tahan, Pahang.The park’s headquarters is also there.
The vast Taman Negara, once known as King George V Park, occupies swathes of Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu.There are four entry points: from the resort in Kuala Tahan; Merapoh, near Kuala Lipis, Pahang; Kuala Koh, near Gua Musang, Kelantan; and Tanjung Mentong, near Tasik Kenyir, Terengganu. Situated on a six-hectare ground, the resort has various accommodation. Guests can choose from 71 chalets, 14 chalet suites, two bungalows, 16 guesthouses read more...and more pictures

Malaysian Fruits

mangosteen	durian	duku	cempedak
rambutan	ciku	sukun	petai

Tasik Kenyir

Tasik Kenyir is the largest man-made lake in South East Asia. It was constructed between 1978 and 1985. Sultan Mahmud Hydro Electric Power Plant., built in 1985 for generating electricity, this dam holds approximately 23.6 million cubic meters of water and occupies 38000 hectares.
Tasik Kenyir is a showcase of 340 islands. The islands on Tasik Kenyir are the tips of highlands and hilltops which were not submerged during the flooding.
There are 30 rivers feeding the lake, 25 waterfalls and at least 25 known species of fish. Therefore Tasik Kenyir is known as an angler's haven for fishing. For anglers are arranged special trips by private boat operators. They know the best location. Please be informed that a fishing permit is required from the Wildlife Department only when you to enter National Park such as Sungai Cacing & Sungai Terenggan.
Besides that the lake makes a fascinating tourist spot with its offering of a lush tropical forest, home to more than 8000 species
of flowers, 2500 species of plants and trees and 300 species of fugus. Adding to the exotic colours are 800 butterflies, 370 species of orchids, 1000 species of birds and 200 species of other animals. There are also limestone caves and lush tropical rain forests.

The most important gateway to Tasik Kenyir is Pengkalan Gawi. It offers the services of a Tourist Information Centre, a parking area, a jetty and various water sports facilities for rental. Its strategic location also makes it the nearest gateway to Malaysia's well known National Park Taman Negara in the neighbouring state of Pahang.

We made a reservation on the Internet www.lakekenyir.com and booked a chalet. It was a “special package”. These special promotions are often seen in Malaysia. ou promotion was a stay for two nights, breakfast for two, 1 night a BBQ for two persons and a “cruise” across the lake. The price of the whole package is about RM 550 (all included).

Tasik Kenyir is merely 65km from Kuala Terengganu's Sultan Mahmud Airport, served daily by flights from Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Cruise leisurely on a 500km drive from Kuala Lumpur or 900km from Singapore via the North-South expressway and roads that run through Malaysian lush tropical rainforests and jungles to the resort. The resort offers it's own own coach transfers which depart from Sultan Mahmud Airport in Kuala Terengganu daily to shuttle visitors. Some public taxis also ply these routes. The new name of the resort is: Kenyir Lakeview Resort. The old name was: Tasik Kenyir Golf Resort. Be aware: on the road are still the old signs with the old name on it. Drive right up to the resort and leave your car in a specially designated area. The car park is manned round the clock by stringent security personnel

At the resort you can explore the boundaries of the lake as you travel by boat across this 38,000-hectare man-made wonder. Take in the landscape of submerged hilltops and highlands scattered throughout this vast watery paradise.
You can also strike out and explore the serene lake by canoe. Fishing enthusiasts should try their luck at outsmarting the many fishes that make their home in Tasik Kenyir.
It's also very nice to have a look at the fish farm (see the photo at the left). This fish farm is on the lake.
We have seen at the fish farm very large fish and they all do swim in the lake.

Lasir Waterfall is one of the many spectacular waterfalls within Lake Kenyir. It's a lovely waterfall, that occurred at a boundary between two different rock types. It's a fall from about 500 feet high. The waterfall drops gracefully into multi-tiered levels of boulders forming sprays of water. Ponds of water are available at eash of the 5 levels of Lasir and one can enjoy a cold refreshing bath here. There are large camping area and hiking trail up to its top. The fall is well shaded by the canopy of the surrounding forest.

It was a lovely evening at the resort. We had that special package with the BBQ, but we didn't know, that we were the only ones with that package. Special for the both of us the made the barbeque.
The stars did shine brightly and we were sitting at the enormous balcony of the restaurant. We had a lovely evening with a few glasses of white wine.
The next day we had to leave. Back to our house at the Eastcoast. It was a very special weekend. It was a quiet weekend . There were not so many people at the Kenyir lake and in the resort.

Pengkalan Utama serves as the main gateway to Tasik Kenyir. Here, transfers by boat can be made available to the resorts, chalets and lodges located at various parts of the lake. It's equipped with bigger and better facilities than the old location Gawl. It's also the nearest access point to Taman Negara. Should you decide to head for the park, please: remember to obtain a permit from the park, please remember to obtain a permit from the Wildlife Department at the Tourist Information Center. The rates for the permits are as below: Entrance RM1.00 Camera RM5.00 Fishing RM10.00 Camping RM1 These prices coul dbe changed now.

Lasir Waterfall is one of the many spectacular waterfalls within Lake Kenyir.
It has five levels.

Source: www.malaysiasite.nl

CAVING AT GUA MUSANG

Travel & Adventure
Saturday July 15, 2006

Surprises aplenty caving

By Liz Price

Taman Ethnobotani KM3, Jalan Persiaran Raya Gua Musang, Kelantan Tel: (09) 9126829

There are two popular stories, and both relate to the huge cave in the hill behind the town. One account says that a group of superstitious hunters were camped out here, when a storm destroyed the hunters’ attap huts. A bolt of lightning struck the hill and almost split it in two.

The hunters thought the guardian spirit of the cave was angry and begged for mercy. As they prayed they saw a pack of civet cats run into the cave, so they lay in wait for them to come out again. However, the animals never reappeared. The hunters then named the hill Bukit Gua Musang and the town, Gua Musang.

The second story refers to a rock formation inside the cave, which reportedly resembles a civet cat, hence the name.

Today, this famous cave in Gua Musang, Kelantan is a fairly popular attraction. When we, a group of cave explorers from the Malaysian Karst Society, went up for a weekend recce, we were pretty sure we would see no signs of musang here.

But imagine our surprise when one in our party went into a small passage in the cave and came face to face with a furry creature. At first we assumed it was a civet, but it turned out to be a porcupine. The porcupine was also startled and disappeared into a small dark hole.

The cave of Gua Musang is located immediately behind the town’s railway station and is reached by a steep scramble up the hillside. We got some funny looks for our caving helmets and lights, and our muddy clothes.

After a steep climb following the track up the hill, which was slippery from a recent shower, we reached the cliff face and saw a small slot. This is the cave entrance. The main cave chamber is huge, but the entrance passage is a very narrow ascending rift. There is an amazing amount of graffiti adorning the walls of the entrance chamber – it’s a shame that so many were so thoughtless in defacing the cave.

Inside the cave, we found lots of wings belonging to Atlas moths strewn around the floor in some places. Probably the porcupine had eaten the moths, leaving just the wings. We explored all the passages we could find. The chamber goes through the hill to a back entrance and you can climb up to the top of the hill, but we felt it was a bit dangerous to attempt it as the ground was slippery.

The next day we ventured out to Pulai. Pulai, south of Gua Musang, is an old gold mining area. It is said that Pulai was founded in 1425 by two brothers, Lim Pak Yen and Lim Ghee Yee, who fled China.

The brothers came here in search of gold. Once word got out, there was a gold rush and a small settlement was created. As the gold supply slowly diminished, people started planting padi to survive.

Pulai has a temple reputed to be 400-500 years old, reportedly the second oldest temple in the country after the Cheng Hoon Teng temple (1646) in Malacca. The Pulai Swee Nyet Keung Buddhist temple and its surrounding village was burnt down by the Japanese in 1941.

The temple was rebuilt in 1970 and is quite small, but it has an interesting collection of ancient cannon parts.

Across the river from the temple is a limestone hill with a new temple. Bukit Tok Cu is also known as Princess Mountain and a temple is being constructed on top of it. The workers told us that a man had a vision of steps being built up the hill in 1984, but work on the temple only started in 1997.

However, a shrine was already in existence in the upper cave when an archaeological team dug there in 1991. The upper part of the cave is not very extensive but we were able to look straight down some open shafts to the cave chamber back down at ground level. We couldn’t see any obvious way down so we retraced our way down the steps and entered the main chamber at ground level.

Looking around, we found an easy climb up inside the cave and found ourselves back in the new temple again, much to the surprise of the workers.

We had our base in Taman Ethnobotani, where there are rooms and chalets for rent. The park was set up in 1997 for the collection and propagation of medicinal herbs. This recreational and nature park is administered by the Kelantan Selatan Development Authority (Kesedar).

Some 3km from Gua Musang, the park covers 38ha of lush greenery and limestone outcrops. One small hill is located right at the entrance of Taman Ethnobotani, and here we got to watch climbers practise their moves.

The park holds many climbing routes. Apart from climbing, there are other outdoor activities like rope and wooden obstacle courses, and flying fox and abseiling. Visitors can also learn to make traps and pick up jungle survival skills. Nature lovers will enjoy visiting the deer and ostrich farms and the medicinal herb garden.

Gua Musang has three limestone hills that run parallel to the main road leading into town. One was burnt by a fire last year, and its odd appearance with the patchy vegetation growing back made it look like a mangy dog. And that’s what we called it: Mangy Dog Hill.

Most of the Gua Musang limestone hills house caves, but they tend to be quite short. Gua Madu, located on the edge of town, is now in a recreational park. Further away in the Sungai Nenggiri area are the famous archaeological caves like Gua Cha, Gua Peraling and Gua Chawan.


Source: Star Publications (Malaysia) Bhd

Tasik Chini of Pahang

Tasik Chini is one of the only two natural lakes in Peninsula Malaysia, both of which are located in the state of Pahang. Located approximately 100km from Kuantan town, the capital of Pahang, Chini is a lake that was formed from the natural damming of a river valley. It is Malaysia's second largest natural lake and is made up of a series of 12 lakes. With its well-known myths, the lake has attracted many visitors from various destinations. Legend has it that a mythical dragon lives in the lake and is the guardian of a lost city of gold, which was once situated at the lake. The Jakun people - an Orang Asli (aboriginal) tribe of Malay origin - who live around the lake also believe that the serpent Naga Seri Gumum (Loch Ness Monster) is the spirit and guardian of the lake. Nevertheless, these legends have enticed numerous archeologists to conduct scientific expeditions in Chini.

Lying majestically among 12,000 acres of lush tropical wilderness, the lake provides such beauty that it is possible to walk for miles without feeling bored. The size of the lake itself is subjective to regular periods of expansion and contractions. It is at its largest size during the monsoon months, which falls from October to January.

Virtually undisturbed for centuries, Tasik Chini itself is a habitat for over 144 species of fishes. The months of November to January is the best time for anglers to try their luck as the monsoon season would have increased the size and depth of the lake.

Earnest bird watchers will be happy to know that over 200 species of birds were recorded. Chini is a premier bird watching destination in Peninsula Malaysia. There are three bird watching trails, which go through different habitats. During the months of October to March, migratory birds come to Chini from the northern parts of Asia to escape the winter.

Chini is also a treasure trove for avid photographers. Imagine this picturesque lake with the majestic Gunung Chini in the backdrop, especially in the early mornings and late evenings. Also, during the months of July to January, the surface of the lake blossoms into a garden of pink and white lotuses, which contrasts brightly against the green lily pads. It is a truly breathtaking sight! River safaris are another way to enjoy the beauty of the lake.

For the more adventurous, Tasik Chini has a number of challenging routes through the jungle and swamps for off-road driving. The routes are only accessible by four-wheel-drives and provide enough excitement and adventure to please even the most demanding thrill-seeker. Another kind of activity is jungle trekking, which is exciting yet educational. One will be able to see an amazing array of flora and fauna here in Chini. It is best to secure a guide in order to fully utilize and appreciate the natural surroundings.

There are a number of wooden chalets and restaurants available, as well as camping spots for those who wish to rough it. Tasik Chini is accessible by road from most parts of Peninsula Malaysia and even Singapore. Daily bus services are also available from Kuantan.

Source: www.marimari.com

Dive Layang Layang

Dive Layang Layang
5D 4N - 9 Dives Fr$988/-

Its name rolls off my tongue like a dream; and seeing it in the midst of the cobalt blue of the South China Sea likens to a beautiful jewel; a precious dream which I open my body, mind & soul to... the journey to my dream begins... Layang Layang Island, a coral atoll that is truly one of nature's best creations. Dubbed “The Jewel of the Borneo Banks”, Layang Layang reveals, to many People’s delight the things dreams are made of... a truly magical marine kingdom of bottomless blue decorated with a kaleidoscope of nature's most lavish seascape. In the middle of ancient South China Sea, 300kms North West off the coast of Sabah, Layang Layang lies like a beautiful emerald kissed by the sun and teased playfully by the winds. Time and tide has linked 13 coral reefs to form a languid lagoon with just a fraction of it breaking the calm surface of the sea. This atoll is also home to one of the most converted diving sites in the world. Layang Layang Island Resort is a modest three-star resort with 76 rooms and 10 suites. Its tropical hardwood structures and the likeness of a traditional Longhouse exudes an unparalleled sense of hospitality and warmth. Rooms are fully air-conditioned and furnished with the best of basis facilities. Guests are impressed with the extensive variety of east meets west cuisine that is spread out at every meal at the in-house restaurant. Each day presents a new exciting array of dishes to ensure you will never get bored with the food. Fresh water for the resort comes from a desalination plant which offers crystal clear water. As you venture further, you'll be greeted by a swimming pool in its full glory. It’s clear water blends with the blue lagoon. Just take a break and let the gentle breeze caress your cares away. Indulge in relaxing body massage and foot reflexology at the massage parlour known as the "Raba-Raba House". The expert masseuse will provide you with the most professional service imaginable. Layang Layang Island Resort also offers conferencing and banqueting facilities which can easily accommodate up to 200 pax. The conference rooms cater for company seminars, meetings, conferences and incentive group functions. Layang Layang is an atoll 14 sq. km. in diameter jutting 2000 metres from the Ocean depths. In 1985, the Malaysian Federal Government began reclamation work, creating a 50-acre island on one part of the reef. Thus, what was once ardently known to East Malaysians as "Terumbu Layang Layang" or "Swallow's Reef" has now become Layang Layang Island.

Where is Layang Layang? Click here!

How to get to Layang Layang Island Resort?

Options:-

From Singapore - You will need to fly to Kota Kinabalu.

Singapore to Kota Kinabalu you may take (Silkair or Malaysia Airlines)

From Johor Bahru to Kota Kinabalu with (Airasia)

We highly recommend that you book a 5 days 4 nights packages for diving at Layang Layang as the minimum. Additional day can be arrange. Drop us a email the date you want and we can work out the best rate for you.

Please email us for the lastest rate. eric@nemotravel.com.sg

Want to see more pictures of Sipadan Water Village:-http://www.layanglayang.com/

Source: www.nemotravel.com

My Flora - Visit Malaysia: Dikir Barat

My Flora - Visit Malaysia: Zapin

My Flora - Visit Malaysia: main putri

My Flora - Visit Malaysia: Wayang Kulit

My Flora - Visit Malaysia: Kuda Kepang

My Flora - Visit Malaysia: Dondang Sayang

Malaysia Traditional Dance - Mak Yong

The Mak Yong is a dance drama, a comprehensive theatre performance combining dance, opera, drama and comedy.

The theatre is believed to have originated from Kelantan several centuries ago as a popular court entertainment. It is a unique theater form that perhaps can be likened to the modern musical theatre genre found in western theatre.

The most important dance in Mak Yong performance is Mengadap Rebab dance sequence which now lasts anywhere between 10 to 15 minutes and is performed at the beginning of every performance. It is divided into four sections: namely, sitting, kneeling, squatting, standing and walking. The lead dancer and the supporting dancers must be able to sing the haunting melody.

Except for three men, all the characters in a Mak Yong are played by women. It is the main dancer, called Mak Yong who develops the story which usually about legendary princes and princesses from tales of Old handed down by word of mouth.

The Mak Yong is supported by a cast of 16 performers and backed by a traditional music ensemble consisting of gongs, drums and rebab. Music and melody add colour to the dance. There are always at least 2 ‘clowns’ – the peran who are continuously beaten with a short bamboo cane by the lead actor. Their make-up is very distinct especially around the eyes.

Kukup And Kukup Island In Malaysia

By Chai Yong

Kukup and Kukup Island are situated at the Southern tip of the State of Johor of Peninsula Malaysia.

A visit to Kukup town and Pulau Kukup (Kukup Island) is definitely a complement to the visit to Tanjung Piai, the Southernmost tip of the Asian Mainland, because it is famous for seafood and leisure activities. Kukup town is just about 15km from Tanjung Piai.

Kukup consists of 3 villages - Kukup Laut, Air Masin and Kampung Melayu. The villages used to be made up of wooden houses built on bakau stilts.

Kukup is a fishing community that is famous for seafood and restaurants and cage-cultured fish farms.

Tourists especially Singaporeans come to Kukup for seafood and holiday. Visitors may visit the fish rearing area known as "kelong" (cage-cultured fish farm) in the sea between Kukup Jetty and Kukup Island. There are private houses erected by the seaside which are only accessible by boat from the ferry terminal. Tourists may book and stay in those private house and carry on whatever leisure activities like gambling, mahjong, angling, barbeque etc.

Visitors may buy dried fish (ikan bilis) and squid, "keropok" (crackers) and other marine based food produces and condiments like "belacan"(dried ground prawn), "cencaluk" (seasoned small prawn) and "agar-agar".

Kukup Island is situated just about 3 minutes boat ride away from Kukup Jetty. The boat ride will cost RM5-00 including return trip. Visitors will have to pay RM10-00 if you stop a fish farm along the way.

There is an immigration check point at the Kukup Jetty. Visitors can travel to Batam and Tanjung Balai (Karimun), Indonesia from the Kukup Jetty.

Kukup Island is one of the largest uninhabited mangrove island in the world.

For decades, people tried to settle on this island but not successful. It remains uninhabited until today.

Kukup Island has an area of approximately 648 ha and is surrounded by 800 ha of mudflats. In the old days, it was floaked by vanguished pirates and early prisoners. Its importance reduced abruptly due to decrease of fortunes. Now it is revived to be bustling tourist hub with Singaporean visitors coming for leisure and seafood.

Kukup Island was gazetted a national park in March 1997 and is now run by Pulau Kukup Johor National Park.

In January 2003, Kukup Island was granted the status of a "Wetland of International Importance" or RAMSAR Site by the Geneva-based Ramsar Convention Bureau.

Boardwalk is built deep into the mangrove of the island. Visitors may take a 45 minutes walk into the mangrove using the boardwalk. Explanation signboards are erected by the side of the boardwalk showing the species of flora and fauna on the spot. It serves the purpose of education for the children and adults.

At the end of the boardwalk is a 6 level watchtower. It brings visitors above the tree canopy and affords visitors a 360 degree view of the Kukup Island. It is a stunning horizon of green sea with gentle bliss blowing on the face.

Water birds including migratory species from Russia and China congregate at the Southern part of Kukup Island i.e. the mudflat area. It is definitely a spot that cannot be missed by an ardent birdwatcher.

Other fauna like mudskipper, fiddler fish, wild boar can be seen on the Kukup Island.

This article is written by Chai Yong from http://www.temasekmap.com which provides physical map of Singapore, map of Batam & Bintan, map of Johor & Johor Bahru and an ebook; and from http://www.window-safety-lock.com which is about a keyless Griloc window safety lock.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chai_Yong

The Southernmost Tip of the Asian Mainland - Tanjung Piai

By Chai Yong

Asia is the biggest continent on Earth. It spans across a few climatic zones. Its Southernmost tip is located in the state of Johor of the Peninsula Malaysia known as Tanjung Piai. The exact location is at lattitude 01 degree 16 North/longitude 103 degree 30 min 46 East.

Tanjung means "cape" in Malay. Tanjung Piai is named after a fern, Acrostichrum aurem (Paku Piai Raya) which flourishes in the mangrove here.

The climate there is tropical with shining sun the whole year round. It has relative humidity of above 90% and temperature 24 - 32 degree Celsius.

Located within the District of Pointan, State of Johor, Malaysia, Tanjung Piai is a haven for diverse species of flora and fauna. Tanjung Piai Johor National Park covers an area of over 926ha, 526 ha of which comprises of lush coastal mangroves.

There are 2 entry points to Tanjung Piai - one at Sungai Belukang and the other at Desa Sri Piai.

Entry into the hinderland of Tanjung Piai nowadays is easy as extensive boardwalk criss-crosses the 926 ha reserve bringing visitors deep into the mangrove thickets, which would otherwise be impossible to penetrate unless the visitors do not mind walking in mud.

At the entrance of Tanjung Piai National Park, one is welcomed by a landmark monument measuring 20m high and 10m wide. It is made of eco-friendly fibre reinforced concrete. Its stark grey colour represents the rich mangroves and mudflats of Tanjung Piai.

The monument is adorned by 2 fronds of Paku Piai Raya (Acrostichum aurem) which is a indigenous fern which Tanjung Piai derives its name. The type of fern flourshes in the mangrove.

Immediately after the monument are frank leading visitors to boardwalk into the mangrove. There are camping sites for both men and women deep inside the mangrove. One may experience a night sleep within the mangrove.

Tanjung Piai is famous for being a hot spot for birdwatchers to visit during the migratory season which falls around September and March every year. Among the birds which one could spot the whole year round are :

• i. Collared kingfisher (Hacyon chloris)
• ii. Goldenbodied woodpecker (Dinopium javanense)
• iii. Chestnut bellied malkoha
• iv. Egrets
• v. Grey herons (Arden cinerea)
• vi. Little herons (Butorides striate)
• vii. Lesser adjutant

2 species of monkey are thriving here. One is longtailed macaque and the other dusky leaf monkey with a cute white "mustache" and white rim around its eyes.

One may spot fiddler crabs in gorgeous colors of orange and electric blue by a slow walk on the boardwalk. The other animal a visitor can see is beady-eyed mudskippers. If it is disturbed, it will stir the mud and escape quickly.

There is a resort here called Tanjung Piai Resort with 6 studio rooms catering for different needs located near to the Tanjung Piai National Park. Booking in advance must be done if visitors want to stay here.

If a visitor cannot get booking at the Tanjung Piai Resort, he may have to stay at Pontian or Kukup for a night or two before coming back to Johor Bahru. Transportation from Pontian to Tanjung Piai is by a cab.

This article is written by Chai Yong from http://www.temasekmap.com which provides handy map of Singapore, map of Batam & Bintan, map of Johor & Johor Bahru and an ebook.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chai_Yong

Different Types Of Malaysian Fruits

By: Aaron Aldama

Malaysian fruits have many benefits that are very helpful to humans. Some of the different types of Malaysian fruits are Mangosteen, Starfruit, Pulasan, Jackfruit, Rambutan, Mango and Dragon Fruit. Malaysian fruits are an excellent source for healthy eating and taste great at the same time.

Mangosteen is grown in Malaysia. It is probably one of the best tasting fruits I have tasted. Mangosteen fruit helps with the prevention of cancer and heart disease. The skin is reported to be the healthiest part of the fruit.

Starfruit is available all year long. Starfruit is often used for decorations. Starfruit is also a good source for potassium, fiber, vitamin c and copper.

Pulasan is also only grown in Malaysia. This fruit is grown seasonal normally grown between August, September and December, January. The skin of Pulasan tastes like a sweet grape.

Jackfruit is also grown only on Malaysia. This is also a fruit that tastes really good. Jackfruits are very large in size, so one Jackfruit can be fed to many people. Jackfruit is low in calories and contains good amounts of potassium and Vitamin A.

Mangoes are grown all over the world. The Chokanan Yellow Mango is a great mango to eat. The Chokanan Yellow Mango has a very sweet taste to it. Chokanan Mangoes are low in saturated fat, cholesterol, and sodium. Chokanan mangoes are an excellent source for dietary fiber, protein and amino acids.

Pitaya is also called Red Dragon Fruit. Pitaya is grown on a cactus. The color of Pitaya is awesome, it has a fuchsia color to it. Pitaya tastes somewhat like a Kiwi. Pitaya has large amounts of antioxidants and it is a great source for Vitamin C.

These are only some of the Malaysian fruits available but finding other Malaysian fruits should not be to hard.

Diving Destinations in Malaysia

By Nicholas Tan

The waters in Malaysia, i.e. Peninsula Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, are renowned for having the top diving sites in the world! Being in the tropics, Malaysia is bestowed with a constant warm temperature throughout the year, thus making it it very welcoming to dive in Malaysian seas.

Here, the clear blue waters coupled with the comfortable warm weather provides and sustains the abundant 'millions-of-year-old' marine life. It would be very surprising for divers in Malaysian sites if they do not encounter breathtaking picturesque coral reefs, sea turtles, reef sharks, manta rays and sea horses. The quantity and variety of flora and fauna found in these waters are believed to surpass even those found in the Islands of the Pacific.

The diverse coral reef structure, even at shallow depths, supports more than 500 species of corals and 3,000 classes of fishes. The truly magnificent tropical reefs, which essentially 'amalgamates' the different types of life-forms here, displays many numerous attractions for the divers, presenting the macro-fauna and large pelagic predators all in the same region. This is genuinely unique in nature as only a handful of destinations in the world can boast of this marvel. From schools of barracudas, jacks, and sharks to the solitary giant turtle, frogfish, and scorpion fish, and to the multicoloured fan and whip gorgonians, there will always be a touch of bewilderment and wonder which will mesmerize any diver.

The most popular dive sites around Malaysia include diving along gentle sloping reefs in Tioman Island, Perhentian Island and Redang Island; while the impressive vertical wall dives rising directly from the darkest abyss of Sipadan Island, the Layang-Layang Atoll and Mabul Island, not forgetting the drift dives and wreck dives, are among the amazement that will be encountered underwater here.

You can find out more at http://www.divingpleasures.com

http://www.divingpleasures.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nicholas_Tan

Sabah - Malaysian Borneo, Exotic Island Paradise

By: Walter Rajah

SABAH is Malaysia's premier nature adventure destination situated in the northern tip of Borneo Island, the third largest island in the world. Sabah is popular for its wildlife conservation attractions, rain forest, surrounding nature and islands, beach resorts, tropical white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, and its warm and friendly people. If you are thinking of visiting Borneo, these places of interest and activities will whet your appetite!

Mount Kinabalu

Let me begin with my favorite place and definitely not to be missed if you are visiting Borneo, Mt. Kinabalu (4,093m). It is the summit of Borneo and the tallest mountain in South East Asia. This mountain is sacred to the locals. Thousands from around the world have trekked to its peak. At the feet of this mountain is Kinabalu National Park, a botanical paradise where rare plants are found: rare orchids, nepenthes pitcher plants and the rafflesia, the largest flower in the world.

Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre

If you haven’t heard yet, the most popular native of Borneo is the Orang Utan. The world-famous Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre enables visitors to come in close contact with these amazing animals. This sanctuary allows visitors to witness an exciting conservation programme in action. Set in 43 square km of beautiful rainforest, the sanctuary helps once captive Orang Utans learn to fend for themselves in the wild. Watch how these orphaned Orang Utans being taught to climb, and then go to a platform where you can witness them coming in from within the forest for their daily meals of milk and bananas.

Danum Valley Rain Forest

If nature is close to your heart, then this next destination I am going to introduce you is a must visit, Danum Valley. Danum Valley is nestled deep in the rain forest of Borneo where nature is at its most pristine. As you travel deeper and deeper into the jungle, you will suddenly come across a magical paradise of the Borneo Rainforest Lodge (BRL), erected overlooking the magnificent setting of the Segama River and flanked by tall hill ranges. BRL is an impressive resort,
designed by naturalists and built on stilts using traditional timber materials, and has the comfort of a 3-Star Hotel. I totally recommend Danum Valley to those who yearn to see wildlife in a primeval Borneo rainforest - the rare Sumatran rhino, proboscis monkeys, Orang Utan, elephants and over 275 species of birds.

Tunku Abdul Rahman Island Park

When you think you have enough of sightseeing and you want to take a day’s break idling around to charge your energy, then I suggest you take a 30-minute boat trip to Tunku Abdul Rahman Park. The park is made up of five beautiful islands and is a well-known sanctuary where peace and tranquility prevails. The tropical white sandy beaches are ideal for relaxing and tanning. The crystal clear water is fantastic if you fancy snorkeling or watching the sea lives and corals. The park is also a great spot for a BBQ picnic under the long hours of golden sunshine. Other activities include windsurfing, fishing, parasailing, kayaking and bird watching.

Golfing Holidays

If golf is your sport, then try the numerous high quality golf courses in Sabah. One of the courses as described by its designer - "I had to create a masterpiece by combining the natural splendor of the mountains and the seas, with ingenious architecture, and create a first class championship course to provide an enjoyable, yet challenging game for top professional golfers and amateurs alike" - Graham Marsh. Enough words said for the quality of golf courses here.

White-Water Rafting

For the true adventure seeker looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity, Sabah offers some of the most exhilarating thrills in the world. My scariest experience, only because I am not a good swimmer, is white-water rafting down the Padas River (a grade-3 river). Whilst trying to negotiate the rapids along this raging river for a distance of about 5 kilometers, do enjoy the breathtaking view that the surrounding rain forest does offer. However, be warned, don’t take your eyes off the rapids and waves too long!

Scuba Diving

Off the North Eastern coast of Borneo lies a tiny jewel of an island, Sipadan, with a marine ecosystem so perfect and unique that it is world renowned as one of the best dive spots in the world.
Sipadan Island rises as a pristine Coral Sea mount, 650 meters from the floor of the Sulawesi Sea. This pinnacle off the eastern coast of Borneo is an oceanic magnet for marine life. As soon as you enter the crystal clear waters of Sipadan Island, you’ll understand why you have endured a journey that has taken you halfway around the world. As you begin to descend into this tropical water, you'll also understand why the World Wildlife Fund says, "No other spot on the planet has more marine life than this island."

Walter Rajah is owner of Exploration Borneo Tours at http://www.explorationborneo.com. Visit his site for more information and images of Borneo – The Exotic Island Paradise.

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