Discover Borneo: Blog

Japanese walked 45,000 km around the world

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:45:13 +0800

TAWAU: A lone Japanese man journeyed from Kota Kinabalu to Tawau on foot in 13 days.

52-year-old Tadashi Nagase from Izumo City, located some 300 kilometer from Osaka, Japan, cited friendly villagers he met along the route he took on the 512 kilometer journey.

'Once I was caught in a bad weather but I managed to find an empty hut and kind villagers nearby permitted me to use it as my shelter for the evening', he said when met at a HASH dinner held by YB Jimmy Wong, State Assemblyman for Sri Tanjong on Saturday evening.

But the trip was nothing compared to the long list of countries he had visited and walked since 1975 at the young age of 19 - he had walked for nearly 45,000 kilometers until today!

Tadashi claimed to have traveled to exotic places such as the Sahara and Kalahari deserts, Andes mountain range, the Australian desert and Amazon rainforest along with many other countries.

On all his trips, Tadashi pulled a two-wheels trolley filled with needed essentials such as water and food, with the heaviest weight estimated to be at around 150 kilograms depending on the trip's requirements.

'Water is the heaviest substance I had in my trolley, especially when I had to walk through deserts', he explained.

Asked on his future trip upon his return to Japan, Tadashi said that he loves forests and deserts and may plan such walks in future but has no plans at the moment.

Tadashi said his wife is very supportive of his endeavor.

'She always said go and walk when I plan my next walk', Tadashi said, adding that he made his living by giving talks on his trips and had written nine books over the numerous journeys he had undertaken.

Tadashi has two sons who had traveled to China, North Thailand, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Indonesia, South India, Philippine, Mongolia and Malaysia.
(Article is taken from NewSabahTimes)

Sarawak to promote My Second Home plan

Tue, 06 Jan 2009 14:06:06 +0800

KUCHING: Sarawak will go on a roadshow in Singapore this year to promote itself as a destination for the Malaysia My Second Home programme.

State Housing Minister Datuk Amar Abang Johari Tun Openg said the state had built houses in the RM300,000 price range, which were targeted for foreign ownership.

"We will encourage Singaporeans to own houses here. This will also help to promote the state's tourism and stimulate its economic growth," he said at the ministry's media appreciation dinner at Grand Margherita Hotel on Friday.

The ministry, he said, would be working together with the Sarawak Housing and Real Estate Developers Association on the roadshow.

Johari said Sarawak would also try to attract Singaporean construction companies into building homes targeted for foreign ownership in the state.
(Article is taken from TheStar Online)

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I Love The Night Life! - Exploring Kota Kinabalu's Hotspots

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 14:28:46 +0800

As the sun goes down in Kota Kinabalu, party-goers come out and play! KK has a great selection of pubs, clubs and karaoke joints for your entertainment. We bring you a list of some of KK's favourite hotspots. Ready to paint the town red?

Shenanigan's Fun Pub, Hyatt Regency Kinabalu
KK's favourite after-hours hangout has withstood the test of time and remains one of the most popular nightspots in the city. Famous for its outstanding live band performances and efficient service, Shenanigan's is a cosy pub located at Hyatt Regency Kinabalu. Ladies flock here on Wednesdays to enjoy special privileges, and happy hours are from 5-9 pm, Mondays to Saturdays. Sunday means happy hours all night, and patrons can enjoy unlimited pool games for free. The dance floor gets tight on Friday and Saturday so put on those dancing shoes and party the night away! Open from 5 pm to 1 am from Sunday to Thursday and till 2 am on Friday, Saturday and the eve of public holidays.

BED (Best Entertainment Destination), Waterfront
Crawl into BED for an unforgettable good time! With its warehouse-style concept, BED is tastefully furnished and spacious enough to cater to large crowds. A private room, aptly named the Bedroom, is available for those who prefer a more relaxed ambience. Like most clubs, live bands entertain nightly, alternating with an in-house DJ. Isn't it time you went to BED? Open from 7 pm to 1 am on weekdays and till 2 am on weekends.

Hunter's Terrace (Hunter's Pub, Café & Karaoke)
Located on Jalan Pantai, Hunter's Terrace is a great place to enjoy a refreshing drink as you watch the bustling streets of KK. Patrons particularly enjoy its al fresco concept and relaxed atmosphere. Sip on a Pina Colada as you share travel tales with fellow visitors or unwind after a long day at work with a mug of beer. They also offer special deals for scuba divers, so be sure to whip out that diving licence! If you feel like belting out a tune or two, check out their karaoke corner. Happy hours are from 4-9 pm daily. Open daily from 8 am to 1 am on weekdays and till 2 am on weekends.

The Loft, Waterfront
Picture this: A breathtaking view of the sun setting over the South China Sea and a cool breeze blowing as you sip on a tall glass of Long Island Tea. The Loft is another after-hours favourite, perfect for enjoying your beverage of choice complemented with a view to die for. The bartenders are friendly, and the DJ will keep you entertained with both contemporary hits and retro favourites. Pool sharks can challenge each other upstairs, while avid football fans stay glued to the screen during live football matches. Thursday nights are dedicated to the ladies! Open daily from 3 pm to 1 am on weekdays and till 2 am on weekends.

Cock & Bull, Waterfront
With a name like that, how could you miss it? Another hotspot found on the Waterfront in Kota Kinabalu, the Cock & Bull is a friendly bar where everybody just might know your name. A live band performs every night as you enjoy a pint or two. Sports enthusiasts can also do this without missing their favourite game on two large 8-foot screens. Happy hours are from 4-9 pm daily (30% off on wine, liquor and cocktails by the glass and 40% off on selected beers). Business hours: 4 pm-1 am (weekdays), till 2 am on weekends and the eve of public holidays.

Blue Note
Another one of Kota Kinabalu's favourite party haunts, Blue Note has been around since 1994, entertaining crowds with non-stop music, friendly bar service and unique theme nights. This night spot, located at Shangri La's Tanjung Aru Resort, is both classy and funky with its great décor with a touch of understated glamour. Enjoy live performances and great music spun by an in-house DJ. Weekends are the best time to check out the happening crowd, and specially flown-in DJs play the latest in trance, dance and house music. Happy hours on selected drinks are from 9-11 pm. Open daily from 6 pm to 2 am.

Upperstar
Upperstar has grown from a modest pub and café into one of the most popular hang-outs in Kota Kinabalu, thanks to its laid-back atmosphere and affordable drinks. Enjoy 'buckets' of beer at extremely affordable prices and be sure to check out the extensive menu - we recommend the generous portions of lamb chops or for a snack, the deep-fried quail. The establishment also provides wi-fi services and computers, allowing you to surf, snack and sip! There are two establishments: in Kota Kinabalu (across from Hyatt Regency Kinabalu) and in the bustling district of Damai. Open from 6:00 pm to 1:00 am on weekdays and until 2:00 am on weekends.

Source: Sabah Tourism Newsletter

New Year

Mon, 05 Jan 2009 12:26:33 +0800

Welcome 2009!!

F2000 World Cup Powerboat Race 2008

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 08:19:59 +0800

Sunday,I was at the Waterfront, Kota Kinabalu to watch the F2 Sabah World Cup Powerboat 2008 ( i didn't watch it last year..heh). The weather was extremely HOT!

Congratulations to Colin Jelf and his team Jelf Racing for winning the overall F2 World Cup Series.

Sabah, Malaysia's No 1 destination

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 08:11:18 +0800

Kuala Lumpur: Sabah dropped a bombshell at the Diplomatic Tourism Awards night, Wednesday, when it won the prestigious Celcom "Favourite Tourist Destination" gold award in a revolutionary judging system where ambassadors and senior diplomats voted.

Since about 70 diplomats in Malaysia voted, the verdict reflected strong element of "world" perception and opinion of Sabah. That point was actually verbalised by the event's organisers.

"Indeed we have the world with us tonight," remarked Dato Shamsul Falak Abdul Kadir, President of the Kuala Lumpur Tourism Council, noting the presence of ambassadors and senior represehttp://www.discoverborneo.com/cgi-bin/mt/mt.cgi?__mode=view&_type=entry&blog_id=2
Create ntatives from 70 countries.

" I believe this is their vote of confidence in Sabah," said a beaming Datuk Masidi Manjun, Sabah Minister of Culture, Tourism and Environment, after receiving the award from His Excellency Alfredo Morelli, Ambassador of Argentina, Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Dato Sri Zulhasanan Rafique, Minister of Federal Territories, at a packed "Diplomacy In Tourism Dinner" at Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur.

Malacca, Penang and Langkawi were among the nominees for the "Favourite Tourist Destination" category. The chase for the gold in the end was between Sabah and Langkawi but Sabah came out tops and Langkawi took the Silver.
(www.dailyexpress.com.my)

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F2000 World Cup grand finale in Sabah Dec 12-14

Tue, 09 Dec 2008 08:41:40 +0800

KOTA KINABALU: The F2000 World Cup Powerboat Series returns to Sabah for the second year running and looks set to take the Land Below the Wind by storm yet again!

The world class championship will be held at the same venue - the scenic Kota Kinabalu waterfront - on December 12-14.

Top-notch powerboat racers from all over the world including from Great Britain, Sweden, Latvia, Italy, France, Norway, Kuwait, Finland, Poland, Germany, Switzerland, Hungary, Portugal and Spain will be here for the grand finale of the World Cup series.

The local organiser, headed by Zachary Aman, is convinced the event will be a huge success after its maiden debut last year.

"We have learnt a lot from our first hosting of the race last year, and I'm sure this time around it is going to be a big success," said Zachary, who is also the executive chairman of the Powersports Events Sdn Bhd, yesterday.
(Article is taken from NewSabahTimes)

Continue reading F2000 World Cup grand finale in Sabah Dec 12-14

Pulau Tiga with DiscoverBorneo

Wed, 03 Dec 2008 12:51:48 +0800

Having taken a brilliant trip to Pulau Tiga with BorneoDreams for some beautiful diving earlier in the year , four of us from DiscoverBorneo decided to head over to the island for a little bit of an expedition over the weekend. Pulau Tiga was made famous by the TV series 'Survivor Island' a few years ago where a group of people were placed on the island and, well, had to survive.

Away, for our trip, we were departing from Kota Kinabalu (KK) on the Kuda Laut a nice speed boat that we own with two 85 horse power engines on the back she really can cut thought the waves at a good pace. Having spent most of the previous day running around getting provisions; food, fuel, camping stuff ect ect, we could make a early start. As the engines started the sun was still low in the sky and there was a very pleasant cooling breeze, we headed out and away from KK.

We did have a GPS on board and the co-ordinates for Pulau Tiga, however we had elected not go straight there. Pulau Tigau lies 50Km south of KK and 23Km off the coast around about a 3 hour boat drive, we were taking a longer route that would allow us to stick close to the main land and see all the lush jungles and mountains, the little villages and fishing's station build on stilts out at sea and generally some interesting stuff.

Now Pulau Tiga is a marine protected area so no fishing, however before we got there, about half way between the main land and the island, we stopped off for a little fishing and a little general frivolity; swimming, drink and a little lunch. We did catch a fish which was a Remora (one of those fish that cline to big fish like sharks) it was quite a respectable Remora as well about half a meter long. I have never know anyone to eat Remora, they are ugly things and none of us what to give it a try so we through it back, wondering where it had come from and what fish had giving it a ride, had it been a shark?

Pulau tiga, the first job was to pay the marine park fee at the ranger hut, not too bad only 10 RM about 2 US dollars per head. Also the pier provided a great opportunity from some diving practise the water was crystal clear and just full of life. We then hunted around for some good dive spots, the diving was good; no really big stuff and the visibility was only about 15 meters but still a nice dive with lots to see, you just had to pay attention and look for the little stuff. Not bad considering we really had no idea of where the real dive spots actually where.

As we relaxed on the boat the sun was already begin to dip towards the horizon, we selected our camping beach and then our camping spot pretty quickly since the whole place was beautiful it was not very difficult. Now I should point out that when I say camping I really don't mean tents. We just had a massive tarpaulin sheet that we strung up in a tree to give us a bit of shelter if it happened to rain, we did have one tent but that was for supplies.

So after all this was done and the wood for the fire collected we when off to hunt down the mud volcanoes that the island is famous for. At one point as massive monitor lizard jump from a tree, into a pool next to the path sending up a great plume of water. Making camp and collect the wood had take some time and now it was getting dark fast in the island jungle, Ants began to nip at peoples feet and the path became harder to see, we turned back disappointed in not making it to the volcanoes but know that a dark jungle is a dangerous.

When we got back to the beach there was still a little light left from the setting sun, we sat drank and ate watching as the sun gave way to the moon and the stars began to light up the heavens. It was still a little dark though so we lit the fire. The fire was really quite impressive we had so much wood that the flames flicked thought till the sun came up the next morning. Sleeping on the edge of an island jungle at night with the waves crashing in front of you is a fine place to sleep. The jungle did make sounds lots of sounds and every now and again foreign eyes twinkled in fire light. The morning was fresh and clear but busy we had to get the dive tanks back to the shop early that morning, so there was no time to make another try for the mud volcanoes only for a quick jump into the sea, remove every trace that we had been there and then head for home.

Next Monsoon Cup in Sabah?

Tue, 02 Dec 2008 08:03:19 +0800

KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian Monsoon Cup will be held in Sabah next year.

Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said said international events, such as the yacht tour, should not be held at the same place over the years.

"The Monsoon Cup has been held in Terengganu for the past four years and I think foreigners would love to see other parts of the country as well. The same goes for the Formula One race.

"I wish I could take it (Formula One race) everywhere rather than just hold it in Sepang so that people won't get bored," she said at the Sutera Harbour Resort here yesterday.

The minister, on a two-day visit to Sabah, said she had invited state Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Masidi Manjun for the closing of the tour next month. She would meet Prime Minister Datuk Seri Abdullah Ahmad Badawi on the proposal to change the venue.
(Article is taken from nstonline / www.nst.com.my)

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Kiulu 4M Challenge 2008

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 14:33:20 +0800

Date : 07 December 2008

A traditional extreme sports competition, which incorporates the four "Ms" in Kadazan, Manangkus (running), Mamangkar (rafting), Manampatau (bamboo body rafting) and Mamarampanau (walking on bamboo stilts). Held in the picturesque district of Kiulu, the 4M Challenge promises a wet and wild time for all!

Organiser : Kiulu 4M Challenge Committee
Contact Person : Arrifin Gadait
Telephone : +6088 225752 / +6019 8624585
Fax : +6088 257091
Email Contact : Ariffin.Gadait@sabah.gov. my

AirAsia X launches low fare London-to-KL flight

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 13:27:17 +0800

AIRASIA X, the low-cost, long-haul affiliate of AirAsia launched its STG99/RM499 flight from London to Kuala Lumpur, at London's County Hall yesterday.

The five times weekly direct flights, using the Airbus A340, will begin in March next year, and will be from London Stansted Airport to Kuala Lumpur International Airport low cost carrier terminal.

The STG99 fare is for one way inclusive of tax. The usual travel fare from London to Malaysia is between STG500 and STG600 (RM2,700 and RM3,200).

AirAsia group chief executive officer Datuk Seri Tony Fernandes said the London-Kuala Lumpur route was the realisation of a long held ambition to open up affordable access between Malaysia and Europe for both Asian and European communities.

London is AirAsia X's fifth destination after Gold Coast, Perth and Melbourne in Australia and Hangzhou in China.

(Article is taken from nstonline / www.nst.com.my)

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Malaysia, My Second Home Program

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 10:39:22 +0800

Malaysia, My Second Home Programme (MM2H) is offered to foreign citizens from all over the world along with their spouse and children, to retire and reside in Malaysia. This exciting and unique programme is being offered by the Government of Malaysia. It is open to citizens of countries recognized by Malaysia regardless of race, religion, gender or age. This programme allows applicants to bring with them their spouses, and children who are unmarried and below the age of 18. Successful applicants will be granted a social visit pass initially for a period of 10 years, which is renewable thereafter ( subject to the validity period of their passport ).

Why adopt Malaysia as your second home?

GOVERNMENTAL SUPPORT
This programme is initiated, organized and launched by the Malaysian Government. It is therefore a programme that the Government will continuously work to ensure its success.

POLITICAL STABILITY
The ruling Government is the longest serving freely elected Government in the world. It is a Government representing all the races, religions and cultures found in Malaysia. In fact, Malaysia is one of the most politically stable countries in the world.

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

PEOPLE
Here, you will discover a delightful fusion of three of Asia's oldest civilization - Malay, Chinese and Indian. A potpourri enriched with indigenous traditions of the Kadazans, Ibans and other ethnic communities of Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. Added with the influence of the British, Portuguese, Dutch and Thais, Malaysians are indeed a blend of diverse cultures.

STANDARD OF LIVING
Malaysia has one of the highest standards of living in the region with all the modern infrastructure and facilities in place.

COST OF LIVING
Cost of living is one of the lowers in Asia and will remain so for a very long time. This is achieved through the Government's efficient management of the economy in ensuring that inflation is kept low at all times and thereby also the prices of goods and services.

RESIDENCE
There are quality residences - terrace and semi-detached houses, bungalows, apartments and condominiums all over the country. There are also some of the finest residences available in tourism zones - on beaches, near jungles and near theme parks, recreational places and city centers.

INFRASTRUCTURE
The entire country is very well connected with up-to-date, modern road, rails, air and sea transportation systems. Public transport by buses, taxis and trains are comfortable, efficient and very affordable.

EDUCATION
The country has one of the best developed and quality educational systems - both public and private. It is the place for quality education from nursery right up to the highest level of university education. There are international schools of repute in all major towns with English as the media of instruction. There are also private colleges and universities offering twinning programmes with other well-known universities and major colleges from throughout the world. Malaysia is the place to get quality international-class education at a very reasonable cost. It has become an educational centre of excellence for the region.

MEDICAL FACILITIES
Over the years, Malaysia has grown into a sophisticated healthcare hub in Asia. With state-of-the-art medical facilities and highly qualified personnel, Malaysia is well-positioned to cater to the healthcare needs of people from the world over.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS
The fine range of spas in the country provides the ideal setting for complete rejuvenation and relaxation. Malaysia has some of the finest spas in the world be it on a pristine island or right in the middle of the city centre. From traditional Malay massages, Indian Ayurvedic treatments and Oriental acupressure practices there is a vast backdrop of health rituals in Malaysia.

FOOD AND FRUIT
Malaysia offers a variety of local and international food to suit all tastes and budgets. With so many races and cultures living together in harmony, it is understandable that each race has picked up the best of each other's food and turned Malaysia into Asia's Food Paradise. Similarly the tropical fruits of Malaysia are unique, exotic and available in abundance practically throughout the year.

SPORTS AND RECREATION
The country has many ideal recreational sports for the family. Thrill seekers can enjoy an exhilarating time at the many theme parks while those who prefer a relaxing respite can head for the refreshing lake gardens. Malaysia is also a paradise for golf enthusiasts with close to 200 courses designed by world-renowned names. Both serious golfers who enjoy a challenging game, and players who enjoy a lighter pace will have a rewarding time on Malaysia's fairways.

SHOPPING
From high-end couture to ethnic handicrafts and the internationally acclaimed pewter-ware, Malaysia has it all. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of shopping in air-conditioned malls and hypermarkets. Besides shopping, families have a choice of watching a movie, having fun at the bowling alley or enjoying the spread at the food court. Shoppers can also browse for interesting curious on display at the weekly flea markets. Join in the excitement of haggling at the night markets or pasar malam, an interesting feature of local life. The best time to enjoy fantastic discounts and special offers is during the annual Mega Sales.

SAFETY
Statistics prove that Malaysia is one of the safest countries in the world, with a relatively low crime rate.

For more information, please visit http://www.mm2h.gov.my/

Welcome to Ramsar site

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 08:17:53 +0800

Natural habitat: Aerial view of the Lower Kinabatangan-Segama Wetlands in Sabah.

KINABATANGAN: Nature lovers in Malaysia, especially those in Sabah, have welcomed the announcement that the Lower Kinabatangan-Segama Wetlands have been recognised as a Ramsar site.

The recognition is significant as the wetlands comprise rarely-found coastal mangrove swamps and peat jungles.

This recent development adds impetus towards conserving endangered animals like the Sumatran rhinoceros, proboscis monkey and pygmy elephants.

The recognition was announced at the 10th conference of Ramsar Convention signatories on wetlands in Changwon, South Korea, on Oct 28.
(Article is taken from TheStar Online)

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Mabul Island Oceanarium won't destroy coral

Fri, 21 Nov 2008 09:26:13 +0800

KOTA KINABALU: The proposed 33-hectare oceanarium resort in Mabul Island, located in the Sabah East Coast, will not destroy the coral reefs.

Rather, it would help ease pressure from the diving crowd coming from neighbouring Sipadan island, said state tourism, culture & environment minister Datuk Masidi Manjun yesterday.

He said the government was initiating efforts to restore the coral reefs which he claimed, had already been destroyed over the past 15 years due to illegal usage of fish bombs.

"I am not trying to defend the oceanarium... what the oceanarium is trying to create is a diving spot by rehabilitating the coral and marine life so that people need not go to Sipadan but just stay in Mabul.

"The whole idea is to disperse the diving crowd so that it eases the pressure on Sipadan," he told reporters on the sidelines of the state legislative assembly sitting.
(Article is taken from NewSabahTimes)

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Sabah Tourism Upcoming Event: Ranau Cabbage Fest (Pesta Kubis)

Tue, 18 Nov 2008 07:18:24 +0800

Journey to the district of Ranau for the annual Cabbage Fest or Pesta Kubis. This one-of-a-kind event celebrates the significance of the cabbage, one of the main products of the district that has long supported the livelihood of the local residents.

During the festival, enjoy a variety of activities including a cabbage cooking competition which highlights the array of cabbage recipes - a great opportunity to sample delicious Sabahan fare! Enjoy the upbeat performance of the Bamboo Orchestra and various song and traditional dance routines.
(Source: Sabah Tourism)