Janda Baik - Nice Widow

A mountainside of dramatic peaks, valleys and ravines ranging from 1500 to 4500 feet above sea level, laced together with picturesque streams and waterfalls. For a holiday with a difference, try this secluded green enclave. For KL residents the place is easily accessible and driving is a breeze via the Karak Highway. Janda Baik is set amidst a small valley bounded by thick rainforest with cool rushing brooks and waterfalls. Located approximately 30km and about an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur, the place is a popular holiday and recreational destination for city folks. Located somewhere between the towering hills of Genting Highlands and the Berjaya Hills Resort, it is no surprise that the place is much cooler at between 23° and 28°Celsius during the day and below 22°Celsius in the evenings. "Janda Baik" means "the good widow" in Malay. In the old days a path that connected Selangor and Pahang cuts through the village. A warrior, who was returning after fighting in a civil war in Selangor, stopped at the village for a rest and to nurse some wounds he sustained in battle. Upon seeing this ragtag team in the vicinity, a kindly widow immediately offered help and tended to the warrior's wounds. The man was thankful and deeply cherished the kindness. As a mark of respect for this kind widow, the he would always remind his men to call on the woman whenever they were in the vicinity. Fast forward to the present: Today, almost all the resorts and camps in Janda Baik offer motivational courses, as well as various obstacle challenges such as the ever popular jungle trekking, flying fox and abseiling. Camping grounds are also available. Click here for Janda Baik homestay

Seri Pengantin Resort (GPS coordinates approx. 3° 19' 0" N, 101° 52' 0" E) The 1½ acres resort is approximately 45 minutes drive from Kuala Lumpur via the Gombak-Karak Highway. Located near the local villages of Kg. Bukit Tinggi and Kg. Janda Baik. 23 rooms. Rates: RM220 (Standard 2 single beds) RM320 (Deluxe Lake View 2 double beds) RM260 (Deluxe Garden View 2 single beds) RM380 (Mayang Melati Suite 1 double bed) Garden Villa RM550 (2 double beds) Cempaka Sari Suite RM650 (2 double beds) Lavender Suite RM1,100 (2 double beds/room) Facilities: Free form Swimming pool Function Room Restaurant (Western & Asian cuisines) Surau Traditional Massage Address: Lot 686, Kg. Sum – Sum Hilir, Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang Darul Makmur Malaysia Tel (KL Sales Office) : + 603 4270 1700 Email: rsvp@seripengantinresort.com.my D' Ark Resort & Training Camp (GPS coordinates 3°19'55"N 101°51'33"E) A Resort and Training camp that provides full-service options ranging from moderately tame motivational programmes to boot camp- like survival training. Located at a place called Pulau Santap in this verdant enclave. Rates: Rooms (a/cond): From RM150 - RM250 Bungalows (non a/cond): Sri Asila Superior Doubles RM130.00++ / Sri Ayesha Superior Twin RM130++ / Sri Alani family Deluxe RM160.00++ / Sri Azrin Superior Double RM140.00++ / Sri Ashida Junior Suite RM170++ Standard Room with a/cond: RM180++ Facilities: Cafe / Hall / TV Lounge / Karaoke / Garden Bar / Camping Ground / Shop / Rooms & Chalets (for extra privacy) / Garden BBQ Malay Kampung Cuisine / 4 Acres Garden / Housekeeping Services / Training Equipments Address: Ashida Villa, Lot 5303 Pulau Santap, 28750 Janda Baik Pahang Darul Makmur Malaysia Tel : +609-233 0031 / 0193 Email : darkresort@yahoo.com Seri Dinar Training & Services Sdn Bhd (GPS coordinates approx. 3° 19' 0" N, 101° 52' 0" E) Mostly catering for groups, this retreat provides for private functions that cover anything from indoor to outdoor activities and requirements with resort-like facilities in its accommodation, recreational support and F & B services. Dedicated and friendly support crew as well as full-time trainers to ensure participants get maximum benefit. Facilities: Full range of training facilities. Programs include: - Management - Human Resource Development - Quality Management - Managing Changing Lifestyles - People Management Skills - Family Programmes Address: 8299, Sungai Panjang 28750 Janda Baik, Bentong, Pahang Darul Makmur Malaysia Tel : +609-2330623 / 03-427 04050 Fax : 03-427 04051 Email : sdhq@seridinar.com.my Centella Asiatica Resort (GPS coordinates approx. 3° 19' 0" N, 101° 52' 0" E) 10 acres of lush tropical greenery with a pond as a water feature in this rustic setting. Great fishing for tongsan, petutu, sabah kaloi, baung, jelawat, keli, haruan, lampam jawa, pacu. Rates: - RM55.00 (Garden Basic Twin Sharing separate bathroom) - RM125.00 (Chalet 5 beds & attached bathroom, a/cond) - RM180.00 (Exec. Chalet attached bathroom, a/cond.) Camping: RM10.00 per night w/own tent RM15.00 per night tent supplied Facilities: Hall (RM450 w/end) / RM350 w/day) / Address: Janda Baik, Bukit Tinggi, 28750 Bentong, Pahang Darul Makmur. Malaysia Tel : 03-563 77585 Mobile : 0123867 957 / 012381 6024 Email : centellaasiatica@gmail.com Villa Rayhan & Al-Sakinah River Lodge (GPS Coordinates: 3°19'35"N 101°51'54"E) A cool and serene ambiance that makes a stay at the beautiful 12-rooms lodge a spiritually refreshing proposition. Three luxury suites also available. Rates: From RM160.00 - RM700 villa (with attached bathroom) Facilities: - Multi-purpose Hall (a/cond) - Fully-equipped kitchen & BBQ set - Riverside Picnic Area - Ample Parking Rates: From RM Address: Kg. Janda Baik 28750 Janda Baik, Bentong, Pahang Darul Makmur Tel : 016 682 9423 Air Tenang Resort (GPS Coordinates: 3°19'17"N 101°52'1"E) A retreat catering for anything from Family Day, Training Programmes to Business Seminar. Facilities: - Classroom/Seminar Hall (a/cond) - Pak Wan Riverside Cafe - Surau - Karaoke - Riverside BBQ - Shop - Anjung Tenang Riverside - Classroom & Training equipment - Ample Parking Space - Riverside Camping Ground - Housekeeping & Laundry Services Address: Air Tenang Resort Lorong Chemperoh Satu , Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong Pahang Darul Makmur Tel : 013-210 7703 / 013- 226 2030 Email : info@airtenang.com

Kuala Gandah

The Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre (coordinates: 3˚ 35'34.4”N and 102˚ 08'37.7”E) is essentially a sanctuary for orphaned elephants found in Malaysia. Situated within the bio-diversified wilds of the Krau Game Reserve, the centre was set-up in 1989 under the Department of Wildlife & National Parks, Malaysia. The Sungai Teris acts as a natural border between the reserve and the Che' Wong Orang Asli village - the last tribe of its kind found in Malaysia. The name Kuala Gandah is, itself, taken from the small stream that runs through the electrified parameters of the centre within which the elephants are allowed to roam from 8.30 a.m. till 2.00 p.m. before they are confined to the roofed holding area. Before the establishment of the centre, the Elephant Capture & Translocation Unit (ECTU) -- a mobile operating team established in 1974, had its temporary base at the Jengka Pusat plantation, where a huge area of jungle was carved to make way for the planting of oil palm and rubber trees. This was part of the programme aimed at helping to eradicate poverty among the rural folks as well as to rid the area of communist terrorists at the tail end of the protracted silent war known as the Malayan Emergency, which ended in the 1980s. The clearing of the jungle created consistent confrontations between the wild elephants and the settlers. The unit remained here until 1981 before it moved to Kuala Lompat on the north eastern side of the Krau Game Reserve. However, it must be noted that the cutting down of the forests here was done for the overall benefit of the local population and not blatantly to satisfy the greed of unscrupulous corporate and political land-grabbers. As such the centre should not be seen as primarily a show-piece for the delight of visitors but a responsible effort to help the elephants. This unit is one of its kind in the world where the possibilities of being charged or trampled by enraged wild elephants happens for two weeks every month! It is a thankless job where initially only a very tiny percentage of the general public is aware of the existence, dedication and sacrifices these dedicated men and women make to provide a win-win situation for both the wild elephants and the planters! There are 24 full time and 6 contracted staff working and living in and near the centre. Please be informed that 'fun' activities, including elephant rides at the sanctuary is not the main factor in the establishment of the place. It is to add value to the place now that it is known far and wide as a must visit site among tourists to view this species of gentle pachyderms. Frankly, it quite pains the heart to see them having to carry load after loads of shrieking visitors on their back.

GETTING THERE :
From Kuala Lumpur, take the Karak Highway to Lanchang, passing Karak along the way. At Lanchang, turn left into the road just before the BP station, then follow the ample direction signage towards the Elephant Sanctuary. You will pass by an Orang Asli settlement before reaching the Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary. The journey takes about 2 to 2 ½ hours (roughly 160km from Kuala Lumpur).
OPENING HOURS :
The centre is open from 8.00 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. daily but activities mostly begin from 2.00 p.m. onwards. Entrance is free. Please be reminded that despite some advise from certain quarters (websites notwithstanding) that the centre needs donations from visitors, this is not necessary as the centre has ample financial allocations for its upkeep. The centre can get busy during the weekends, so it it would be better for you to visit it on weekdays. Note: Please come early because if the quota for elephant ride is full (120 persons per day), you may be issued with a red pass instead of the coveted yellow pass, which only allows for viewing, hence, no elephant rides.
FACILITIES :
A visitor information centre provides information and video presentation on the centre's elephant conservation efforts. Visitors can participate in daily activities, like feeding and grooming the elephants and helping with the bathing of each animal in the nearby stream. There is no accommodation at the centre but you may want to stay overnight at Temerloh or Mentakab.
ACTIVITIES :
In the morning, visitors can view the exhibition and a video presentation on elephant translocation before proceeding to watch the elephants in their enclosure. Elephant feeding, rides and bathing start after 2 p.m. There is a small warung (cafe) run by a local where you can get drinks and local food. Public toilets and showers for those who want to have a wash after bathing in the river with the elephants. Food to feed the elephants is provided so there is no need to bring any of your own.
CONTACT :
Kuala Gandah Elephant Conservation Centre, Jabatan PERHILITAN Kuala Gandah 28500 Lanchang Pahang Darul Makmur, Malaysia Tel : 09-279 0391 Email: necc@wildlife.gov.my	Office hours: Monday – Sunday: 8.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. 2.30 p.m. - 4.30 p.m. Friday: 8.00 a.m. - 12.30 p.m. 2.30 p.m. - 4.30 p.m.

Lake Bera

Tasik Bera is situated in South-west Pahang, in the saddle of the main and eastern mountain ranges of the peninsula. This natural freshwater lake system, extending 35km long and 20km wide, drains into the Pahang River via the Bera River, the main artery to the north. As Malaysia's largest natural lake, Tasik Bera is important for its biodiversity. Seasonal and shallow, this riverine lake system is home to about 100 fish species, approximately 200 bird species; and several endangered reptiles such as the Malayan False Gharial (a freshwater, fish-eating crocodile), the Striped Giant Soft-Shelled Turtle, the much sought after Malayan Giant Turtle, reticulated pythons that can grow to a length of 18 feet, prehistoric looking monitor lizards and lots of frogs species, including the great Malaysian frog that can weigh-in as heavy as 2kg. Tasik Bera is still the mysterious and unique remote wetland wilderness it has been made out to be through the millennia. Surrounded by a scattering of dry lowland dipterocarp forests, the lake environment projects deep into the peat swamp forests. With abundant wildlife and vegetation (there are 19 types of plants that cannot be found elsewhere in Malaysia), the wetlands is an ecosystem which supports not only a diversity of animal and plant life, but also the livelihood of the Semelai, the aboriginal people that inhabits the area. This wetland plays an important role in flood control. The water flow regulation and purification provides many natural resources for the local community. For this reason it is protected under the RAMSAR CONVENTION -- an international treaty, which allows for traditional and prudent use. Since November 1994, the Tasik Bera wetlands, including the core zone of 26,000 hectares and a buffer zone of 27, 500 hectares, area has been declared a Ramsar site. The Seasons at Tasik Bera Watch out carefully for the seasons at Tasik Bera. The rainy period isf rom April to May and from September to January while the dry periods are from February to April and June to August. For fishing, go by what the Semelai say: the best times are after heavy rain. However, there may be a trade-off here as the rainy months may cause some of the best spots to be quite inaccessible. The Wildlife of Tasik Bera The whole area is mostly made up of soggy marshland with clumps of pandanus plants lining the narrow waterways leading into the main lake. Moving by boat through the channels, visitors will see a variety of plants including orchids, ferns and epiphytes sharing their positions on tree trunks due to the scarcity of land. Amidst the dense profusion of reeds and other water plants are several varieties of pitcher plants. On dry land are lowland rainforest trees and palms. More than 200 species of birds can be found in the Tasik Bera area. Although the environment is conducive to birds, water birds are scarce. Among birds that have been recorded in the area are the lesser adjutants (burung botak kecil), black-naped monarch, grey-breasted babbler, Siberian blue robin, crested fireback (ayam pegar), Malayan peacock pheasant (merak pongsu), hornbills, parakeets, parrots, eagles, bulbuls, spider hunters, woodpeckers and kingfishers. Besides birds, there are about 50 mammals and about 100 fish species making the area their home. Though very difficult to observe in the wild, the jungled outer perimeters of the wetlands still support larger wildlife such as tigers, tapirs and elephants. Other wildlife known to exist in the area include the clouded leopard, wild boars, monkeys, mouse deer, flying squirrels and flying lemur. The buaya jenjulung (tomistoma schlegeliia), a fish-eating crocodile with long snout, is native to the lake but very rarely sighted these days. You'll be lucky, indeed, to come across one. As an important biodiversity reservoir for freshwater fishes, Tasik Bera has a large number of the country's total species, including popular aquarium fish such as harlequins and tiger barbs as well as large predatory catfish and other sport fish, including the ikan tapah (wallago attu) that can weigh as much as 30kg. The Semelai The Semelai have existed in the area within and around Tasik Bera since over 600 years ago. Their population currently stands at around 1,300, with the majority living in Pos Iskandar, a settlement comprising five villages where they grow hill rice, cassava, vegetables, fruit and rubber trees. Traditionally, the Semelais build their homes with products sourced from the forest. Bamboo is used for flooring and the walls are of tree bark. With the lake playing a central role in their lives, the Semelais have adapted their ways to make life amidst this body of water easy. They carve out choice timber for the dugouts which they use to glide silently across the placid water. Experts at making full use of what the forest have to offer, these resourceful people make spears and traps that they use for hunting. The Semelais use the resin from the keruing tree (Dipterocarpus alatus) for making torches, sealing boats and as an ingredient in perfume. Herbal plants are planted around the house to be readily used as medicines. This practice is still being observed to this day although the aboriginal outposts have medical clinic facilities at their disposal. With their deep understanding of the forest and lakes, the Semelais are always popular choice as guides. Traditional handicrafts made from material sourced from the wetland and forest such as coloured mats, miniature boats, fish traps, mouse deer traps, axes and other items are available for sale at Pos Iskandar. LOCATION : Southwest Pahang. GETTING THERE : Due to the vastness of the area, there are several ways to get to Tasik Bera. The easiest route from Kuala Lumpur follows the Karak Highway to Temerloh and then south towards the town of Triang, where signboards, just before Kerayong, will lead you to the north side jetties and tourism complex. A second route goes through Seremban, Kuala Pilah and Bahau in Negeri Sembilan and then heads north to Triang. Entering from the south end of the lake, an alternative route leads from Bahau to Ayer Hitam and then east towards Muadzam Shah. Look out for a turnoff signpost to Tasik Bera, which leads up the eastern side of the wetland and to the tourism complex. Travelling time from Kuala Lumpur is 3 ½ to 4 hours. Visitors can also take the train from both Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. Trains stop in Triang and Mentakab, where taxis are available to take you to the Bera jetty, about 45 and 60 minutes respectively. Although buses can be taken to both Triang and Mentakab, as well as to Temerloh, there are no such services to Tasik Bera, making it necessary to hire a taxi. There are no local car hire facilities, so cars must be hired in Kuala Lumpur or Kuantan. ACTIVITIES : Jungle-trekking Exploration and jungle trekking -- that's the best thing to do here. Engage an experienced guide to take you through the wild and verdant labyrinth that is the lake area. You will be introduced to many things, from identifying the tracks of wild animals such as tiger, wild boar, sun bear, leopard, and mouse deer to interesting flora. Canoeing Go out on the lake on a traditional Semelai dugout canoe, which will glide silently through the placid waters without making too much of an intrusion to the surroundings. Observe the many different species of primates and birds. Along the way, perhaps, you can drop by on the scattering of aboriginal settlements and have a glimpse of their lifestyle. Fishing Tasik Bera is home to about a hundred different species of fish. With such diversity it comes as no surprise that the mainstay of the Semelai folks is fishing. It is not just rod and line -- these aborigines can show you more than 50 different ways to fish. Get the Field Guide to the Fish of Tasik Bera from the Wetlands Malaysia-Malaysia Programme. Tel: +603 7804 6770 ACCOMMODATION : Although there are quite a number of operators for tours to Tasik Bera, I would recommend that you get some advice from the Malaysian Chapter of Wetlands International. Tel: +603 7804 6770 or SABOT (Semelai Association for Boat and Tourism), which is fully owned and managed by the Semelais. They can arrange overnight trips to the jungle and swamp. You will stay at isolated jungle/lake campsites with only very simple facilities to experience a close encounter with the swamp and jungle. SABOT's campsites at Tasik Bera are: Kampung Chenderung Jungle Camp Suitable for the more adventurous. This campsite is located near several challenging jungle trails that traverse the forest. The short trails will take one to two hours to complete. Longer trails can last from three to five hours. Kampung Sembilan Campsite With a beautiful lakefront view and picture-perfect scenery, Kampung Sembilan is strategically located for campers. Toilets, bathing and cooking facilities. Stay in a Semelai house, which can accommodate 35 people at a time. Kampung Dato Campsite The Kampung Dato campsite, which can house 20 people at a time provides you with many opportunities to meet the Semelais. Located near the cultural village of Kampung Jelawat, which is home to many musicians and skilled craftsmen, the village remains largely untouched by modernisation. Kampung Mikok Campsite Just 3-minutes walk from the lake front, Kampung Mikok is strategically located at the midway point of Tasik Bera waterway. Ideal for 20 people, this campsite is also equipped with a traditional house and basic amenities. Observe the many different types of aquatic plants and habitats here. CONTACT : Wetlands International – Malaysia, 3A39, Block A, Kelana Centre Point Jalan SS17/19, Petaling Jaya 47301 Selangor, MALAYSIA. Tel: +603 7804 6770 Fax: +603 7804 6772 Email: malaysia@wetlands.org.my Photo credits: Semelai handicrafts, Wetlands International

Lake Chini

Ensconced within a quiet corner of Pahang is the legendary Tasik Chini (Lake Chini). The colourful folklore and legends of this enchanting lake reflect the imagination of the original people, the Orang Asli (aborigines) of the Jakun tribe. It involves tales of evil, magic and of mysterious dragons believed to be the denizens of the lake. Colourful and intriguing, but the pristine nature of this ancient body of water begs certain questions to be answered in terms of ecological management and the protection of the enclave's delicate ecosystem. Myths and Legends One facet of the legend tells of the story of a nomadic group of Jakun who were clearing the jungle to grow food crops. As they were working, an old woman suddenly appeared, claiming that she was the owner of the land and that whoever wished to clear the area of the trees must obtain permission from her. Upon accepting the profound apologies of the wandering group, the old woman allowed them to continue with their task. However, before leaving, she struck her walking stick into the ground to stamp her ownership of this piece of real estate. She warned the group not to remove it - ever. As the men continued with their work, they heard one of their dogs barking at a decaying log. One of the Jakuns threw a stick at the log, causing a stream of blood to gush out from it. The man ran to his friends in fear but the others steered clear of him - believing that he had been possessed by demons. However, since the dogs kept barking at the log, the other men decided to investigate. Upon inspection they found a pool of blood around the log. In fear they hurled their own sticks at the log, whereupon the sky suddenly turned dark. Thunder roared, lightning flashed and a deluge of rain began. The men grabbed their belongings and ran for cover, but in the confusion one of them pulled the old woman's stick from the ground. Immediately water gushed from the hole made by the stick. The water flowed for many years, thereby creating what is today known as Tasik Chini. For want of a logical explanation, the group of Jakuns concluded that the log was actually the manifestation of the dragon, Naga Seri Gumum. Through the years, much has been said about the mysteries and magic of the lake and its environs. Besides the belief that deep beneath the dark waters of the lake lurks a monster, people also talk about a sunken Khmer city that had at one time existed in the area. Several years back, an archaeological expedition was mounted to study the area but results are still wanting. Accommodation Decent and comfortable accommodation is available at the park. Reasonably-priced chalets take the work out of looking for a suitable place to spend the nights. For the more adventurous, you can rough it out at the designated camping sites. Over in the town of Temerloh there are hotels, lodges, inns and a rest house. For list of accommodation please click here. LOCATION : Lake Chini is located near Bandar Chini. GETTING THERE : By Road : Access to the lake is by road to Kampung Belimbing, about 100 kilometers, south west of Kuantan and then on by boat through the winding Chini river. Alternatively, you can go by road via the Segamat Highway through the new town of Chini, and then continue travelling for 15 minutes through palm oil estate roads to the lake. From Kuala Lumpur to FELDA Chini : Maraliner Express Coach, Kompleks Bangunan MARA, 21 Jalan Raja Laut. Nearest LRT station is at Jalan Raja Laut (opposite the Sime Darby building). Tel: +6 03-2697 9797 The Puduraya Bus Terminal, Tel: +6 03-2078 7024 Daily departures: 9.00 a.m. 4.00 p.m. Approximate travel time: 6 hours Estimated fare: RM17.30 one-way (please check current fare) From Kuantan to FELDA Chini : Stesen Bas Kuantan, Bus no. 121 plies the Kuantan FELDA-Chini. route five times daily at two hourly intervals. Departures : 5 times daily. First bus leaves at 8.30 a.m. Estimated fare: RM4.75 one-way (please call ahead to confirm current fare) CONTACT : Forestry Office, Temerloh/Bera 28000 Temerloh, Pahang Darul Makmur. Tel : +609-2962755 Fax: +609-2962359