Archive for July, 2006
Animal, Birds & Aquatic Life - Jurong Bird Park
Southeast Asia’s largest bird park, Jurong Bird Park is home to over 8,000 birds of 600 species from all over the world. Highlights include the world’s largest collection of Southeast Asian Hornbills and South American Toucans, and the world’s second largest penguin exhibit. Daily shows include Breakfast with the Birds (9am-llam), Birds of Prey, Penguin Feeding Time and the Jurong Bird Park All Stars Bird show. Opening hours: 9am to 6pm (Mon-Fri), 8am to 6pm (Sat, Sun and public holidays). Panorail: 9.00am to 5.30 pm. Location: 2 Jurong Hill, Singapore 628925
Getting there: Take the MRT to Boon Lay (EW27).
Jurong Crocodile Paradise
Located adjacent to the Jurong Bird Park, Jurong Crocodile Paradise includes over 2,500 crocodiles in a landscaped setting, with underwater viewing areas and a breeding enclosure. Attractions include crocodile shows at 10.45am, 11.45am, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. Opening hours: 9am to 6pm daily.
Location: 241 Jalan Ahmad Ibrahim, Singapore 629143
Getting there: Take the MRT to Boon Lay (EW27).
The Singapore Crocodilarium
Over 1,000 crocodiles can be viewed at close range. Additional attractions include a reptile product shop. Feeding time is 11am on Tuesdays. Opening hours: 9am to 5pm daily.
Location: 730 East Coast Parkway, Singapore 439172
Getting there: Take the MRT to Paya Lebar (EW8) or Eunos (EW7) and then take a taxi.
Singapore Zoological Gardens
In its lush jungle setting, Singapore’s renowned ‘open’ zoo is a haven for both animals and visitors. More than 2,000 creatures are housed in landscaped enclosures, with rock walls and streams replacing cages.
Special attractions include Children’s World, where kids can interact with animals and enjoy excellent playgrounds, the six island Primate Kingdom, the sea lion and penguin gallery, the air-conditioned polar bear exhibit and a miniature railway.
Feeding shows take place throughout the day; favourites include the primates, reptiles, elephants and sea lions. Among the zoo’s many endangered species is the world’s largest colony of orang utans, with whom you can enjoy breakfast or afternoon tea if you book in advance through your hotel. Allow a whole day to enjoy the zoo’s attractions. Opening hours: 8.30am to 6pm daily.
Animal Show times: 10.30am, 11.30am, 2.30pm and 3.30pm.
Location: Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826
Getting there: Take the MRT to Ang Mo Kio (NS16), then SBS bus 138.
The Night Safari
The dark holds many surprises… and more so at the Night Safari, where you can look a one-horned rhinoceros in the eye or hear the howls of a pack of striped hyenas. There are 1,200 animals of over 100 exotic species to watch out for. Strike out on your own along the walking trail or relax in a tram ride - whichever you choose, the Night Safari is a wild adventure not to be missed.
Opening hours: 7.30pm to midnight daily.
Location: Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729826 Tel: 62693411.
Getting there: Take the MRT to Ang Mo Kio (NS16), then SBS bus 138.
Arts, Cultural & Museums
Singapore History Museum
The Singapore History Museum, originally opened in 1887, is an architectural gem with each of its two levels reflecting a different order of Greek classical architecture. Of particular note are the three-dimensional reconstructions of historical scenes and events tracing Singapore’s development from a sleepy fishing village to the present day metropolis. Another exhibit shows the world of a wealthy Straits Chinese family at the turn of the century, complete with elaborate Peranakan furnishings and finery. The Children’s Discovery Gallery is another compelling attraction, with interactive exhibits designed to explain Singapore’s cultural heritage, visual and per forming arts. In addition to the Singapore History Museum, Singapore offers a number of museums with specific themes. Opening hours : 9.30am to 6.00pm (Tuesday to Sunday). Friday : 9.30am to 9.00pm, no admission charges after 6.00pm
Changi Prison Chapel and Museum
The Changi Prison Chapel, with its thatched roof and outdoor pews, is a replica of the original built by Allied prisoners of war in World War II. The Museum, which also features a souvenir shop, records the daily life of the prisoners through a display of photographs, paintings and sketches. It also features a pair of rail spikes from the infamous Burma railroad which claimed the lives of thousands. It is a tribute to the men who lived and died in captivity during those dark years. Opening hours: 9.30am to 4.30pm daily (closed on Sunday and Public Holidays).
Chapel service: 5.30pm (Sundays only). Admission: Free
Location: 20 km Upper Changi Road North, Singapore 1750 Getting there: Take the MRT to Tanah Merah (EW4).
Asian Civilisations Museum at Empress Place
Regarded as one of the finest neo-classical buildings in Singapore, Empress Place dates back to 1854, when it served as a court house. Today the building houses a world-class museum and exhibition centre, featuring cultural and archaeological treasures from China and other ancient civilisation - many of them being shown outside their country of origin for the first time. Allow two to three hours. Opening hours: 9am to 5.30pm (closed on Mondays). Location: 1 Empress Place, Empress Place Building, Singapore 0617
Getting there: Take the MRT to Raffles Place (EW14) and cross Cavenagh Bridge over the Singapore River.
Chinaman Scholar’s Gallery
This is a faithful recreation of the home of a Chinese scholar of the 1920s and 1930s, complete with kitchen, bedroom, dining and living areas. The Gallery houses furniture, porcelain, musical instruments and photographs from the period. Opening hours: 9am to 4pm (closed on Sunday and Public Holidays).
Location: 14BTrengganu Street, Singapore 0105
Getting there: Take the MRT to Outram (EW16), then start walking towards Chinatown; landmarks to look out for are: the Spices Department Store and the Sri Mariamman Hindu temple.
Mint Coin Gallery
The Singapore Mint’s exhibition gallery displays a collection of coins, medals and medallions from all over the world. Visitors can also mint their own souvenir coin at the gallery’s coin press.
Opening hours: 9.00am to 4.00pm (Monday to Friday). Admission: Free. Location: 249 Jalan Boon Lay, Singapore 2261
Getting there: Take the MRT to Boon Lay (EW27).
Peranakan Place Museum
This small museum illustrates the rich lifestyle of the Peranakans, descendants of early Chinese settlers who married native Malays during the 15th and 16th centuries. They are perhaps best-known for their unusual Nonya cuisine but the Peranakans’ architecture, fine furniture, intricate beaded embroidery and colourful porcelain are equally fascinating. Opening hours: 10.30am to 3.30pm (Monday to Friday).
Location: 180 Orchard Road, Peranakan Place, Singapore 238846
Getting there: Take the MRT to Somerset (NS23).
Singapore Air Force Museum
This museum traces the development of the Royal Singapore Air Force from its early days as the Malayan Volunteer Air Force in 1939 to the present day. From colonial cap badges to the Bloodhound missile, the museum boasts a vast array of artifacts, including early planes such as the Hunter Hawker, the SF 260 Marchetti and the A4-C Skyhawk.
Opening hours: 10am to 4.30pm (except Mondays and Public Holidays). Admission: Free
Location: Blk 78 Cranwell Road, Off Loyang Avenue, Singapore 1750. Getting there: Take the MRT to Tanah Merah (EW4).
Selangor Pewter Museum
This museum, the first of its kind in the world, is in the Jurong Industrial Estate. About 800 pieces of pewter are on display, some of them tools used over 100 years ago. Pewterware can also be bought here. Opening: hours: 9am to 5.30pm daily. Admission: Free, Location: 32 Pandan Road, Singapore 2260
Getting there: Take the MRT to Clementi (EW23).
Famous Districts in Singapore
Changi Village
Off the beaten track, Changi Village shows a more relaxed side of Singapore. The local beach has clean sand that attracts fishermen and bathers alike-especially at weekends the village itself, there are plenty of bargains to be had-T-shirts, electronics, car- pets, Indian cotton clothing, shoes, batik dresses, kimonos and all types of table linen. When hunger strikes, head for the food centre or try one of the restaurants along the main street. Relax in the shade of an umbrella, order up some fresh seafood and watch the world go by. Getting there: Take the MRT to Tanah Merah (EW4).
Chinatown
Chinatown Here amidst narrow streets of picturesque shophouses and restaurants brimming with life, the temple idol carvers, herbalists, calligraphers, traders and trishaw drivers pursue a way of life that has changed little for generations. Incense stream from the old temples, the elderly spread their wares out on the pavement for sale and sea cucumbers, regarded as a delicacy, dry in the sun.
Much of Chinatown has recently been renovated, but the old traditions endure. A walk around the streets of Tanjong Pagar reveals local craftsmen at work making clogs, kites and traditional seals for stamping documents. During Chinese New Year, the whole of Chinatown is lit up and buzzes with activity as stalls sell a variety of festive goods. Getting there: Take the MRT to Outram Station (EW16) or Chinatown (NE4).
Geylang & Katong
Geylang, traditionally the home of Singapore’s Malay, Arab and Indonesian communities, is alive with market stalls and bustling crowds, particularly during Muslim festivals. Spices and rattan from Indonesia, gems from Burma, cotton and gold from India and perfumes from Arabia - this is the place for the adventurous shopper who enjoys old shophouses as a backdrop to bargain hunting.
The Malay influence is strong throughout Geylang and this is reflected in both the shops and the food centres where nasi padang,a dish served with rice, vegetables and meat, is a particular favourite. Wander through the numerous lanes off Geylang Road for some delightful scenarios of local life and stroll down Joo Chiat Road for a glimpse of traditional Chinese businesses such as joss stick and candle makers. Also, drop by at Malay Village. Its shops display a potpourri of Malay traditional items like handicrafts, fabrics, prayer rugs, furniture and antiques. Getting there: Take the MRT to Paya Lebar (EW8).
Neighbouring Katong is a quiet residential area formerly colonised by wealthy Straits Chinese families or the Peranakans. Many of Katong’s new apartment blocks have spectacular sea views, while the older Peranakan homes, once seaside villas, now stand back from the sea. Parkway Parade is the place to find shopping bargains, but Katong is best known for its wonderful eating houses specialising m Peranakan cuisine and bakeries selling delicious curry puffs. For Chinese seafood, the shophouses along East Coast Road offer a really tasty treat.
Getting there: Take SBS bus 14 or 16 from Orchard Road.
Holland Village
This small area of Singapore still has the feel of a village about it, with its own wet market and shophouses selling everything from straw brooms to valuable antiques. Holland Village is a microcosm of Singaporean life, a curious mix between old and new old coffee shops and hawker stalls jostle for space with ritzy new wine bars and restaurants. The Holland Road Shopping Centre is alive with busy shops, including some selling Asian arts, crafts and antiques. Electronics and factory outlet clothing are other good buys. Weekends are especially busy, when much of Singapore seem to gather at Holland Village to shop, chat and have a meal.
Getting there: A 15 mins walk from Buona Vista MRT (EW21).
Housing Estates
Woodlands, Yishun, Toa Payoh and Tampines Many visitors to Singapore like nothing rnore than to get off the beaten path to discover how the locals live and enjoy life. Woodlands, on the Singapore side of the Causeway leading to Malaysia, has a strong Malay influence. The busy Woodlands Shopping Centre is one of the best places to buy fabric. Many of the colourful fabrics on display are used to make the shimmering traditional dress favoured by Muslim women.
Getting there: Take the MRT to Yishun (NS13), then SBS bus 856 from the bus interchange or take TIBS bus 952 from Somerset Road or Orchard Boulevard.
Yishun is a satellite suburb in Singapore’s north - the last stop on the MRT. Step straight off the MRT into the six-level Northpoint Centre, a modern shopping mall complete with all the big brand names to be found along Orchard Road. Right next to Northpoint is a high quality, eight-cinema multiplex. And on the other side is a row of shophouses selling food and bargain goods.
Getting there: Take the MRT to Yishun (NS13).
Toa Payoh visitors will find its central shopping area reminiscent of Singapore’s older shophouses. Here you can pick up garments at ridiculously low prices T-shirts and shorts at $10 for three items or children’s clothes for as little as $2. Toa Payoh town centre includes cinemas, hawker centres, coffee shops and a library. With the relocation of HDB Hub in Toa Payoh, alot more shops and restaurants can be found there.
Getting there: Take the MRT to Toa Payoh (NS19).
Tampines, an HDB estate in the north-east of Singapore, has the distinction of having won the coveted United Nations World Habitat Award for Excellence in Housing Design. With new schools, shops, markets, beautiful playgrounds, two golf courses, a swimming pool, a badminton hall and a stadium, it has all the facilities its residents could want. A Japanese department store, supermarkets and food chains have already been attracted to Tampines. Getting there: Take the MRT to Tampines (EW2).
Little India
Little India, centred around Serangoon Road, embodies the vibrant and colourful culture of the Indian community in Singapore. Women in graceful saris and turbaned Sikhs go about their daily business in the Zhujiao Centre, where a bewildering selection of food is on sale. Small shops abound, selling bolts of glittering silks, temple garlands, gold jewellery and spices that are ground in front of you. The Hindu religion plays an important part in the life of Little India, and the Sri Veerama Kaliaman and Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temples in the area are well worth visiting.
Getting there: Take the MRT to Little India (NE8).
Gardens & Parks
Bukit Timah Nature Reserve
Singapore is one of only two cities in the world to have a significant area of primary rainforest within its boundaries - the other being Rio de Janeiro. This 81-hectare reserve, only 12 kilometres from the city centre, contains more species of plants than the entire North American continent. At the heart of the reserve lies Singapore’s highest point - Bukit Timah Hill at 162.5 metres above sea level. Well marked paths lead through the jungle. Along the way, walkers can enjoy exotic birds, butterflies, inquisitive monkeys, squirrels, flying lemurs and other wildlife.
The nature reserve is open daily. Allow two hours. Admission: Free, Location: 177 Hindhede Drive, Singapore 589333, Getting there: Take the MRT to Newton (NS21) station, then take SBS bus 171 or TIBS bus 182.
Chinese and Japanese Gardens
These pleasant gardens, situated side by side, reflect very different landscaping styles. The Chinese Garden, with its curved bridges, pagodas, courtyards and fountains, sweeps down to a river edged with weeping willows.
Fort Canning Park
Fort Canning Park is a park rich in history - a sacred site where early Malay kings settled and the spot Sir Stamford Raffles chose to build his own bungalow, Singapore’s first Government House. Fort Canning Centre, which dominates the park, is now a venue for the arts. Getting there: Short walk from Dhoby Ghaut MRT (NS24) station.
East Coast Park
East Coast Park, located off the East Coast Parkway, is a favourite play area for Singaporeans, either at the beach or in the parklands where bicycle riding is much enjoyed. Hire a bike or go windsurfing, eat at one of the many fine seafood restaurants or enjoy yourself at the various leisure attractions. These include everything from a bowling alley to a golf driving range.
Mandai Orchid Gardens
The blooms here at Singapore’s largest commercial orchid garden provide a colourful display all year round. The garden is conveniently located right next to the zoo, and a whole hillside is covered in orchids. Opening hours: 8.30am to 5.30pm daily.
Location: Mandai Lake Road, Singapore 729825, Getting there: Take the MRT to Ang Mo Kio (NS16) station, then SBS bus 138.
Marina South City Park
Marina South City Park, , is a park that blends art with nature while affording fine views of the sea. A giant sundial and disc sculptures which revolve in the breeze are the artistic attractions of the park. The park’s open spaces and breezy environment also make it a popular haunt for kite-flying enthusiasts.
Getting there: Take the MRT to Marina Bay (NS27).
Mount Faber
Mount Faber offers a panoramic view of the harbour and neighbouring Sentosa Island, as well as a large measure of tranquillity. It is also a place to catch the cable car to Sentosa.
The only mode of public transport is by taxi or take the cable car from World Trade Centre.
National Orchid Garden
Located in the Singapore Botanic Gardens, the National Orchid Garden is the largest orchid display in the world and features over 60,000 orchid plants. It also houses the famed “VIP Orchids” named after visiting Heads of State .
Opening hours: 5am to 12 midnight daily. Admission: Free
Location: Cluny Road, Singapore 259569.
Getting there: Take the MRT to Orchard (NS22), then take SBS bus 7, 105, 106, 123 or 174 from Orchard Boulevard.
Reservoir Parks
MacRitchie, Peirce, Lower Seletar and Seletar Reservoirs are surrounded by a broad swathe of jungle and greenery which runs through the central northern part of Singapore. The cool reservoir parks of MacRitchie and Seletar are popular strolling and picnic spots for Singaporeans and their families.
Singapore Botanic Gardens
Spread over 52 hectares close to the centre of the city, the Botanic Gardens combine both primary jungle and manicured gardens which together hold thousands of species of plant life, including many rare specimens. Malaysia’s rubber industry had its origins in the Botanic Gardens in the late 19th century when colonial botanist Henry Ridley propagated rubber plants from London’s Kew Gardens. A lake adds to the serenity of the gardens, and is home to water fowl, ducks and kingfishers.
Opening hours: 5am to 12 midnight daily. Admission: Free
Location: Cluny Road, Singapore 259569.
Getting there: Take the MRT to Orchard (NS22), then take SBS bus 7, 105, 106, 123 or 174 from Orchard Boulevard.
Sungei Buloh Nature Park
Singapore’s first designated wetland nature reserve is a major stop-over point for birds migrating along the East Asian Flyway. Carefully constructed hides throughout the 87 hectares provide excellent observation points for visitors.
Opening hours: 7.30am to 7pm on weekdays; 7am to 7pm on weekends and public holidays. Location: Neo Tiew Crescent.Getting there: Take the MRT to Choa Chu Kang (NS4) station, then take TIBS bus SS7 to Woodlands Interchange. From Woodlands Interchange, take TIBS bus 925.
The Japanese Garden
Japanese Garden emphasises simplicity, with stone lanterns, shrubs, hillocks and a tea-house creating a soothing atmosphere.
Opening hours: 9am to 6pm daily. Location: 1 Chinese Garden Road, Singapore 619795
Getting there: Take the MRT to Chinese Garden (EW25).
Source : http://www.singaporeexpats.com/
July 31st, 2006
Singapore’s 1st International Garden and Flower Show - Singapore is the ideal global city for hosting the first international garden and flower show on the equator, after more than four decades of consistent and concerted greening efforts and establishing a hard-won reputation as the premier Garden City of the Tropics. The Singapore Garden Festival (SGF) is a floral fiesta of beauty and exciting cultural events to please the eyes and delight the senses. Positioned to take its place amongst the top flower and garden shows on the international calendar, the SGF is a unique showcase of outstanding creations by top award-winning landscape and garden designers, florists, and horticulturists specially invited to the Festival.
Getting There
City Hall MRT Station (EW13/NS25). Bus services to Suntec Singapore: 36, 97, 106, 111, 133, 501, 502, 518, 857, 700. Alight right in front of the Convention Centre.
Website http://www.nparks.gov.sg
Singapore Garden Festival
July 31st, 2006
Come celebrate great food at the annual Singapore Food Festival in a country where eating is a national passion! The festival promises to be a gastronomical treat, featuring the many Uniquely Singaporean cuisine and local food delights which this Food Paradise is known for. All visitors to Singapore will get to savour the Singapore Chilli Crab for FREE, with compliments from Singapore Tourism Board. Simply collect the redemption voucher at the Singapore Visitors Centres at Changi International Airport Terminals One and Two; at Orchard Road or at Singapore Cruise Centre and head down to any participating restaurants to enjoy this lip-smacking treat!
* Other Terms & Conditions apply.
Contact Person/Event Organiser
Singapore Food Festival 2006 Secretariat
Reed Exhibitions Pte Ltd
The Signature 51 Changi Business Park Central 2
#07-01 Singapore 486066
Tel: (65) 6780 4681 Fax: (65) 6588 3798
July 31st, 2006
Deepavali, the most important date of the Hindu calendar, occurs on one day during October, and in the ethnic quarter of Little India, the festivities last practically for the whole month of October. Deepavali is the Festival of Lights, and marks the defeat of the evil King Narakasura by the Lord Krishna. All round the world, Hindus celebrate this day as the triumph of light over darkness, and of good over evil. It marks the new beginning for Hindu devotees, and is a great time of rejoicing and renewal.
During this time, Little India throbs with evening roadside stalls, booming music and strings of colourful lights. Shoppers throng the streets in search of the perfect sari to wear, or to fill their baskets with Indian foods and spices. Hindu homes are lighted with oil lamps , and offerings of sweetmeats and garlands of jasmine are placed at the family altar.
The streets and temples of Little India are lit up with streamers and fairy lights lining the streets and forming arches and gateways to the night bazaars.
Source : www.visitsingapore.com
July 31st, 2006
WAKATOBI – Kalau kita sempat pelesiran di daerah tenggara Sulawesi, jangan lupa singgahi Pulau Hoga dan Kaledupa, di Kepulauan Wakatobi. Selain bisa menyelam untuk kepentingan penelitian, kita juga bisa menyinggahi masjid tua, yang memiliki keunikan batu bertuliskan Nabi Muhammad SAW di pusat bangunannya. Wakatobi yang merupakan kumpulan pulau bernama Wangi-wangi, Kaledupa, Tomian dan Binongko, sebenarnya dahulu bernama Kepulauan Tukang Besi. Pada tahun 1996, pulau ini baru diresmikan menjadi taman nasional laut dengan harapan dapat menjadi daerah pelestarian alam demi fungsinya sebagai sistem penyangga kehidupan.
Selain Pulau Kaledupa dan Hoga (tak jauh dari Kaledupa) yang sempat saya kunjungi. Sebenarnya banyak daerah lain di Wakatobi ini yang memiliki potensi wisata menakjubkan. Seperti misalnya Wangi-wangi, dengan ibu kota Wanci, yang fasilitasnya lebih lengkap. Kalau masalah menyelam, Binongko dan Tomian mungkin lebih hebat kedengarannya. Meskipun begitu, keindahan laut Pulau Kaledupa dengan Hoga resort-nya tidak bisa dibilang kalah.
Surga
Tidak salah bila Pulau Hoga dianggap surga bagi para peneliti biota lautan. Di daerah yang penuh dengan pasir putih dan kelapa ini, memang benar pulau impian bagi tiap pencinta lautan. Bahkan tak urung, Sudomo, yang mantan menteri zaman Orde Baru dulu mengungkapkan agar jangan mati dahulu, sebelum melihat pulau ini.
Saat sampai di pelabuhannya saja. Sudah terasa magisme keindahan pulau ini. Air laut yang terlihat jernih, menimbulkan bayang-bayang saat seekor ikan melintas. Bekejaran membawa pandangan mata bertumbuk dengan pasir empuk berwarna putih kuning, tertimpa sinar matahari redup.
Beberapa penjual kelapa terlihat menyunggingkan senyum. Tak terasa mengganggu, atau ada niatan untuk itu, seperti layaknya pedagang di tempat wisata lain. Semua terasa tenang, nyaman, sejuk disela angin yang bertiup perlahan. Pilihan saya membawa hammock tidak salah kiranya.
Ketika mencari-cari tempat untuk tambatan hammock, pandangan saya tertumbuk pada sebuah lodge berlantai papan. Untuk mengitarinya perlu puluhan langkah, hingga akhirnya saya menangkap sesosok tubuh manusia dari jendela yang berbentuk lebar. Seorang pria bule, yang akhirnya saya kenal bernama Kevin.
”Bisa sampai 400 orang peneliti yang memenuhi pulau ini pada saat peak season,” ucap Kevin, sambil terus-terusan membetulkan kacamata minus bulatnya. Ia yang bertugas di sana sebagai instruktur selam. Yang menemani para peneliti tersebut selama tugas penelitian. ”Biasanya para mahasiswa peneliti itu datang pada bulan Juni hingga August,” tambahnya dengan bahasa Indonesia yang belepotan. ”Biasalah summer time,” gumamnya.
”Bagaimana bila saya datang untuk berwisata di sini,” tanya saya. Ia hanya menggelengkan kepala, memberitahukan bahwa mereka tidak memiliki trip wisata.
Sementara Kevin kembali ke kamar leyeh-leyehnya, saya memutuskan menutup hammock dahulu dan mencari jalan-jalan baru di sana.
Di belakang lodge saya temukan jalan semen yang kelihatannya masih baru. Beberapa ibu berpakaian sederhana tampak masuk menuju ke sana. Saya yang agak tertarik pada daerah baru, segera mengikuti langkah mereka. Setelah berjalan sampai sepuluh menit, akhirnya saya temukan kembali pinggir laut. Namun, yang ini tak berpasir. Hanya ada karang-karang tajam. Mencuat membentuk garis horizontal dengan cacat gerusan di bagian bawahnya, sangat indah.
Banyak penginapan yang bentuknya menyerupai rumah-rumah adat Buton. Tampaknya, rumah-rumah tersebut tak berpenghuni. Ada kemungkinan pemilikinya bukan orang lokal atau memang disewakan. Pertanyaan itu tak berapa lama segera terjawab, ketika saya bertemu dengan Dudiarto, di sebuah cekungan berpasir. Tampaknya cekungan ini merupakan tempat berlabuh tersembunyi bagi para nelayan sekitar.
Dudiarto yang datang bersama istrinya terlihat sibuk menurunkan jerigen-jerigen air. Yang ternyata untuk keperluan orang-orang di sana. ”Seharinya kalau untuk turis domestik kami memasang harga 25.000 rupiah,” kata Dudiarto. ”Itu dengan fasilitas kamar tidur dua dan air bersih tiap harinya,” tambah lelaki gemuk itu lagi.
Walah, ternyata mereka sudah mengerti tentang komersialisasi. Sekalian saja saya tanyakan, ”Apakah mereka punya trip bulan madu di sini?”. Dengan sedikit mengedipkan mata ia hanya tersenyum kecil dan mengucapkan bahwa semua itu bisa diatur.
Masjid Tua
Dua hari berselang, setelah menikmati pasir putih dan lautan Hoga. Saya sempatkan juga melihat kehidupan di Kaledupa. Ternyata orang-orang di sana teramat religius. Mereka selalu menyebutkan sebuah masjid tua di kampung Ollo. Kata mereka masjid itu teramat bertuahnya, terletak di puncak bukit, dan merupakan satu-satunya peninggalan moyang mereka.
Dengan mengendarai pick up yang banyak berseliweran di sana. Saya capai juga bukit berisi masjid bertuah tersebut. Agak aneh pandangan mereka, melihat saya datang dengan ransel dan kamera. Tak terlalu lama mendaki kemudian saya temukan sebuah masjid dengan pondasi batu karang semua, dengan warna dominan hijau.
Untuk masuk ke masjid ini, kita harus membungkuk dahulu, karena kecilnya pintu masuk ke dalam. Kemudian terhampar lantai luas dengan mimbar tua di ujungnya. ”Mimbar itu sudah ada semenjak masjid ini dibangun tahun 1401,” ucap penjaga masjid yang menemui saya. Agak terhenyak juga mendengar lamanya masjid itu berdiri.
Saya putuskan segera berjalan ke tengahnya. Dan benar saja, saya temukan sebuah batu bertuliskan nama Nabi Muhammad secara alami. Agak tak jelas memang, namun bisa segera diterka saat kita mendongakkan kepala. Karena di atas, di antara lembar kain lusuh berwarna putih, tertera huruf Arab bertulis Allah dan Muhammad.(sinar harapan-sulung prasetyo)
July 31st, 2006
A Sumatran pig hunting association is planning a hunt with up to a thousand men and dogs in an area adjoining one of the most important tiger sanctuaries in the world. Although the area
designated for the hunt is outside of Sumatra’s Kerinci-Seblat National Park borders, Critically Endangered and protected wildlife that will be threatened includes Sumatran tigers, Asian golden
cats, clouded leopards, Malay tapir, sun bears and at least four species of deer. Evidence suggests that the skins of two Sumatran tiger cubs seized recently in the area were from animals killed by pig hunters.
Porbi, a Sumatran pig hunting sports association will hold a mass pig hunt and demonstration of pig
baiting with dogs at a festival to be held on the 12th December 2004. The hunt, arranged in
conjunction with the Pesta Danau Kerinci festival is supported by the Kerinci district government,
but has dismayed local NGOs as the festival is intended to promote the area as an eco-tourism
destination.
Rusdi Fachrizal, a Sumatran conservationist working on tiger conservation in Kerinci district said
“We are very unhappy about this. The case of these two tigers cubs shows that pig hunters are
operating outside of the rules and without control. We do not think that encouraging big organised
pig hunting and pig baiting is going to help develop nature tourism in Kerinci and for so long as the
hunting groups are not supervised and do not operate within the guidelines, they are a threat to rare
animals in and around the national park.”
-Ends-
Notes for Editors
Recent seizure
The skins of the two Sumatran tiger sibling cubs were recently seized in a joint operation between
Kerinci-Seblat National Park and Kerinci District police officers based on information from an
undercover investigation by the national park’s tiger protection team. Examination of the skins
revealed that the cubs died in a frenzied attack by five or more men armed with spears and
machetes - injuries consistent with the killing being carried out by pig hunters. An eyewitness to the
killing has also confirmed that this was the case.
The tiger skins had been concealed in the house of a Kerinci police officer and were on sale on the
black market for USD550 each. It is not known what legal action is being taken against the police
officer.
Sumatran tigers
The Sumatran is the smallest subspecies of tiger, and is listed by IUCN (the World Conservation
Union) as Critically Endangered, with less than 400 individuals now surviving in the wild. They are
threatened by poaching for their skins and body parts (for use in Chinese traditional medicine), and
by habitat loss, which also leads to conflict as they increasingly encounter people and their livestock.
Over-hunting of their prey species by humans (such as deer and wild pigs) further increases the
likelihood of conflict, as they are forced to take livestock for food.
Kerinci
Kerinci district in the heart of Sumatra is famous as the site of Indonesia’s biggest active volcano,
Mt Kerinci (3805m), and for its spectacular scenery. It is surrounded by the Kerinci-Seblat National
Park, one of the largest national parks in Asia and one of the two most important tiger sanctuaries
in the world.
Kerinci-Seblat National Park
Kerinci Seblat National Park (KSNP) covers a total of approximately 1.35 million hectares (more
than 13,000 sq. km) of forest running for almost 400km north-south down the Barisan mountain
range of western Sumatra. It is the second-largest national park in Southeast Asia, encompassing
areas of four provinces of Sumatra - Jambi, South Sumatra, Bengkulu and West Sumatra.
Approximately 80 tigers remain within the park. Over the last three years Fauna & Flora
International (FFI) has worked with the Sumatran Ministry of Forestry to prevent tiger poaching,
establishing three Tiger Protection and Conservation Units (TPCUs) each comprised of one
National Park Ranger and three community rangers. FFI’s Tiger Protection Project found that in
2003, regular patrolling led to a significant reduction in the amount of snares discovered, suggesting
an overall reduction in poaching. Over the period that the project has been active, more than 91
arrests have been made both inside and outside the borders of Kerinci-Seblat National Park, for
offences including poaching and trafficking in Sumatran tiger parts and other species, possession of
illegal firearms and illegal logging.
Fauna & Flora International
Fauna & Flora International (FFI) acts to conserve threatened species and ecosystems worldwide,
choosing solutions that are sustainable, based on sound science, and take account of human needs.
Founded in 1903, FFI is the longest established international conservation organization, and is
currently supporting conservation through partners in more than 40 countries world-wide.
July 28th, 2006
Way Kanan is part of the larger protected area known as Way Kambas National Park. The park comprises an area of 130,000 ha. in Lampung province, south Sumatra. It contains a variety of lowland and coastal habitats, including one of the largest freshwater swamp forests in Sumatra. Approximately 80% of the original Dipterocarp lowland rainforests have been selectively logged and converted to grass-land and secondary forest. The relatively open character of the forest coupled with a few trails makes it a rewarding site, where you can observe several unusual species of bird and animal.
It is probably the easiest place in the world to see White-winged Duck and Bonaparte’s Nightjar and a good place to catch up with other difficult to find birds, such as Storm’s Stork, Cinnamon-headed Green-pigeon and Wrinkled Hornbill. Mammals of note include Elephant, Agile Gibbon, Siamang, Leopard Cat, Tapir, Sumatran Rhino and Sumatran Tiger.
Leeches are quite prevalent on the loop and forest trails but almost absent from the main access track. Tigers are present in the area, and the staff all carry bear alarms. A friend of mine visited a few months previously and came across a Tiger on the loop trail behind the guesthouse. The animal was found to be guarding a kill very close to the trail, so be careful.
The area is easily reached in about 7 hours from Jakarta, so you could add a trip here to a Java and Bali itinerary. Food isn’t available so take in everything you need; the staff will let you use the cooking area and may provide you with a some wild chilies or garlic to spice things up. The accommodation is basic, but fine and very cheap at around Rp 10,000 per night.
References
The book to take is Birds of Borneo, Sumatra, Java and Bali by MacKinnon and Phillipps. You might also find it useful to take Craig Robson’s Birds of South-east Asia. Paul Jepson’s Birding Indonesia is a fantastic reference to Indonesia in general and very useful for Way Kanan.
From Jakarta take a bus (c.Rp 12000) from any of the major stations (East, West and South) to Merak on the west coast of Java. From here catch a ferry across the Sunda Strait to Tanjung Karang in Lampung Province. From the small port here you shouldn’t have any problem getting anyone to take you to Way Kanan. It ought to cost about Rp 150,000 altogether for the three hour trip from the port to the park. Ask to be taken to Way Kanan or you’ll end up at the elephant training centre. To return either ask for a ride back to Bandar Lampung with someone from the centre and pay them for the favour (Rp 20-30,000 should be fine) or if no-one’s going that way cadge a lift back to the main road and wait for a bus. Tell the locals you want to go to Bandar Lampung and they’ll head you in the right direction.
Where to Go Birding
The are several good spots to go birding: the main track that leads to the camp, the short loop that starts behind the guesthouse and joins the main track, the camp clearing itself, the trail that leads along the river from the guesthouse, and the trail heading into the forest from behind the Tiger Project building. Bikes can be borrowed from the rangers but are so old and knackered that you’re better off walking. The main track is the easiest to work (virtually leech-free) and allows you to get good views of the birds as the area is quite open, and the secondary forest around here is stunted when compared to, say, Khao Yai or Taman Negara. The loop trail is good for skulkers, and the clearing is a good place to kick back and just see what flies over.
Birds
Around 300 species have now been recorded from this area, and your lists will be different to mine so instead of a long list of birds, many of which you’re sure to encounter I’ll just give details of some of the more interesting species (following MacKinnon and Phillipps):
Spot-billed Pelican can sometimes be seen way downriver - ask the guards and they’ll give you a price for a trip. Darters occur around the clearing infrequently. Storm’s Stork: I only saw one, soaring over the main track but it was enough! Lesser Adjutant: You might encounter one soaring overhead somewhere. White-winged Duck: We had a pair that flew into a tree across the river at dusk on several evenings - fantastic!
Lesser Fish-Eagle and Grey-headed Fish-Eagle both occur infrequently - I dipped both. Black-thighed Falconet: Often perched in the big dead tree across from the guesthouse. Both Crested Fireback and Crested Partridge occur on the main track and the loop trail, and Great Argus can be heard regularly from here too. I also had a small all-dark partridge here that was perhaps Black; the habitat is good for them. Red Junglefowl can be seen around the camp clearing, usually early a.m.
The main track is great for getting good views of pigeons - even without a scope. We saw good numbers of Green Imperial, Little Green, Thick-billed and a real surprise - 2 Silvery Wood-Pigeons.
Parrots could be seen anywhere, but the more open areas were not surprisingly better with Long-tailed, Blue-rumped and Blue-crowned Hanging Parrots all being observed. Large and Hodgson’s Hawk Cuckoos were seen on the main track as were Drongo Cuckoo and all five possible species of malkohas bar Green. Many of the malkohas afford wonderful views in the open forest - take a camera. Greater Coucal was regular around the camp.
Collared and Reddish Scops Owl were both found around or close to the camp while Gould’s Frogmouth was present about 1 to 1.5 km down the track. A Bonaparte’s Nightjar was seen on a few occasions around the camp. It appeared small and active, with all dark wings. Jizz and size should separate it from Malaysian Eared-Nightjar. It only called a couple of times - and very strange it was too!
Whiskered Treeswifts were common around the Rhino Project clearing about 4 km back down the track. Several trogon species are present but I only recorded Red-naped, behind the Tiger Project.
Rufous-backed, Black-capped and Banded Kingfisher can be found but Rufous-collared and Blue-banded are much scarcer; I dipped. Red-bearded Bee-eater was seen twice on the main track which was also a good spot for hornbills with several sightings of Wrinkled and Wreathed, often giving good views in the somewhat smaller than usual trees here. Great and Rhinoceros were both recorded from the guesthouse porch.
Several barbets can be encountered with views possible in the more open areas. Red-crowned, Red-throated, Yellow-crowned, Blue-eared, Coppersmith and Brown are all possible but much easier by voice.
Woodpeckers too are numerous; we encountered White-bellied, Buff-rumped, Grey-and-buff, Crimson-winged, Checker-throated and Sunda. Rufous Piculets are not uncommon.
It’s a fantastic place for broadbills with Banded, Black-and-red, Black-and-yellow and Green all seen on several occasions. The river trail close to the guesthouse was good for Banded and Black-and-red. The only pittas I saw were a couple of Hoodeds by the main track
Lesser Cuckoo-shrike and Large Woodshrike were recorded in dead trees on the main track - also a good spot to get views of Scarlet and Fiery Minivets, Green and Common Ioras and Greater Green and Blue-winged Leafbirds.
Loads of bulbuls are to be found here, among the best are Spectacled and Hairy-backed.
Drongos are represented by Greater Racket-tailed and Bronzed and a couple of times I’m pretty sure we had Sumatran too - spangled breast and wider, less forked tail - check them all out. As numerous as the bulbuls are the babblers. You should see lots, the more interesting include Short-tailed, Ferruginous and Fluffy-backed Tit.
White-rumped and Rufous-tailed Shamas are present but secretive while Dark-necked and Rufous-tailed Tailorbirds are less so. Very few flycatchers were seen, only Yellow-rumped and a cracking male Asian Paradise of note. Maroon-breasted and Rufous-winged Philentomas were both found on the loop and main track.
The whole area is rich in sunbirds and flowerpeckers with many species possible such as Crimson-breasted and Yellow-breasted Flowerpeckers and Purple-naped and Plain Sunbird.
Other species of note included Pin-tailed Parrotfinch and Thick-billed Spiderhunter, the former very high, the latter very low, on the main track.
Source : www.camacdonald.com
July 28th, 2006
Lampung is strategically located and easily accessible, particularly from Jakarta. Bandar Lampung, its capital, was formerly two separate towns, Tanjungkarang and Telukbetung. In the course of development these towns have spread out to one an other to become one single city. Lampung has its own traditions, high valued handicraft and art creations such as woven cloth, interwoven by gold threads called “tapis”. Sumatran elephants, tigers and hundreds of species of birds can be watched at the Way Kambas nature reserve. Rafflesia, the biggest flower in the world can be seen when it is blooming at Bukit Barisan Selatan National Park, on the southern coastline of Sumatra. The province has a great potential in agriculture, however, its population is small.
Agriculture provides the main income to its population, from farming, fishery and plantations. Clove, coffee and coconut grow extensively along the southern coast. While on the eastern part and hinterland they cultivate pepper, coffee, cassava, cocoa and rice, the tobacco growing area is around Lake Ranu in the northern part.
It is known that Lampung has been inhabited since prehistoric times. This was proven by the discovery of cultural relics in the form of megalithic sculptures at Kebontebu, Kenali, Pugung and Batubedil. There are historical remains showing that it was under the country’s greatest maritime empire Sriwijaya.
The stone inscriptions of Palas Pasemah and Batubedil in southern Lampung are among the relics of this Empire of the 7th century.
The influence of Islam is seen from the Tambra Prasasti inscription containing a contract of merchandise supplies between the Kingdoms of Banten and Lampung. Priorto Islam, the inhabitants of Lampung practiced a syncretic Buddhist-Hindu cult.
PLACES OF INTEREST
Bandar Lampung
The capital of Lampung has several interesting places such as the Museum and the Monument of the Krakatau Eruption. Worth while seeing or doing is the weaving process of Tapis textile, art and dance performances or just sunbathing on the beach.
Museum of Lampung
Located at Teuku Umar Street, it can be reached within 15 minutes from the centre of Bandar Lampung. It contains ethnographic and archaeological collections, Chinese ceramics, traditional music instruments, ancient Tapis cloth and ornaments.
Way Kambas Reserve and Way Wako River
Way Kambas is a 2-hour drive from Bandar Lampung. 130,000 hectares of area on Lampung’s East coast, Way Kambas is the best place to watch wild Sumatran elephants, tigers and many species of birds. Motorboats can be hired at Way Kanan for cruising around and up the river.
Way Kanan River
Here we can sail along Way Kanan and Way Kambas by canoe or boat to watch the surrounding flora and fauna while in the mouth of Way Kambas, it’s good for fishing and swimming. In the morning, we can safari for 2 hours through the prepared track and listen to wild animals roaring and birds singing.
Elephant Training Centre
Way Kambas Elephant Training is an international project which is partly funded by the World Wildlife Fund. The aim of training them is to make the captured elephant be useful to mankind.
Most visitors come to Way Kambas to see the training centre and to have an opportunity to ride on an elephant.
Simple tourist facilities are available at Way Kanan such as lodges, wooden houses on poles, river boats and an observation centre. Way Kambas is accessible by car from Bandar Lampung. The activities and special interests are bird watching, jungle tracking, elephants safari, and river cruises.
Krakatoa
An uninhabited island Krakatoa is located on the southern part of the Bay of Lampung. Krakatoa is reachable in three hours by boat from Canti, a fisherman village near Kalianda, South Lampung. This group of islands consists of four islands, one of them is called Anak Krakatau (Child of Krakatoa) which has grown higher every year.
Anak Krakatau has emerged from the bottom of the sea between three other islands by early 1928 or 45 years after Krakatoa’s 1883 formidable eruption.
Pugung Archaeologicai Site
Located in Pugung Raharjo village, 40 km. northeast of Bandar Lampung, is a site of megalithic and prehistoric relics as well as of the classical Hindu Buddhist period. There are primitive trenched fortresses which almost surround its site. Stone inscription, ancient Chinese porcelains, Polynesian statue and the statue of Bodhisatwa are at the museum, a house on poles located on the way to Pugung Raharjo.
Merak Belantung Beach
Located 40 km south of Bandar Lampung on the way to the seaport of Bekauheni. The beach is ideal for swimming and wind surfing. Cottages and equipment for wind surfing are available.
Source : www.etm.pdx.edu
July 28th, 2006
In the nineteen thirties the Hungarian, Laszlo Szekely (1892-1946) returned from Medan to Budapest and wrote the novel Tropic Fever. This highly autobiographical story takes place on the east coast of Sumatra between 1908 and 1918, which was the pioneering period of Deli tobacco. The book portrays the harsh atmosphere surrounding planters lifes in the Deli area at that time. It also tells of the poor working conditions of the coolies. The journey by train from Belawan to Medan has been narrated as follows:
‘Nowhere a village, or even a house. Not even a coco palm. Only forest and swamp. Presently we saw the first campong: a couple of coco palms rose like huge paint brushes straight into the sky; among the large, crenated, light-green leaves of the papaya trees, their fruits glistened, yellowish-green and smelling like melons; the giant tattered leaves of the banana trees, shining as if lacquered, quivered in the noonday sun despite the lack of a breeze. Hidden in the dark shade were huts of palm leaves, a couple of skinny, mangy dogs, naked Malay children with fat bellies…. Then again forest, swamp, lianas, monkeys, jungle, thicket, stillness, dark pieces of water. Suddenly, as if marked out with a ruler, a huge clearing. Ditches dug in a straight line, paths, two-metre high tobacco plants in endless straight rows. As far as the eye could reach, there swayed a light-green sea of leaves. Everything one saw was carefully tended, almost exaggeratedly ordered. Among the Chinese coolies with their basket-hats was a European overseer; he waved to us with his thick, pointed stick….. Now one plantation succeeded another. The campongs were no longer in the forest, but around the plantations. One could see regular streets, natives bicycling, tinkling buggies drawn by ponies.
And all at once we drove into the station of the capital. Everywhere order and cleanliness. Pretty stone buildings, an iron viaduct, a glass-covered lobby above the platform. Native and Chinese coolies carried the baggage, Malay and Chinese travellers poured from the carriages, European railroad officials in white uniforms and red caps strutted up and down like peacocks among hens. In front of the station a large square. Smooth asphalt roads with mighty palms on both sides, pretty bungalows, lovely well-tended little gardens, strange flowers in variegated colours.’
Laszlo Szekely, Tropic Fever.
Source : www.trijaya-travel.com
July 28th, 2006
Pantai Punai may becoming your interesting destination, especially if you are Indonesian and likes a little bit adventure trip. This place is in the South East of the island, in exact opposite corner with Tanjung Binga. Pantai Punai is placed in Tanjung Kelumpang village. You will spend 1.5-2 hours journey by car from Tanjungpandan. It is good if you are interested to see remote part of Belitung. The nearest town is Gantung, for about 35km distance in the North. This place is totally not developed yet.
Beach in Pantai Punai is white sands and there are some corner complemented by granite boulder. It is not as nice as Tanjung Tinggi. This place is totally quite, except during weekend you may see some visitor. In front of beach there is a small island called Pulau Punai. If sea water surface decreased, you can walk to the island. This Tanjung Kelumpang area was main producer of coconut. This village is actually coconut tree plantation, including Pantai Punai. It makes a bit different than other beach, even though the view will not as good as Tanjung Tinggi.
Based on my experience, special activity in Pantai Punai is the fish. Trust me, taste of fish totally nice, much different than other place in Belitung. Please note, the best fish is only if it’s catch using tools called siro. Siro is a trap, built by fisherman down from beach to sea for about 100m length and wide. The trap will guide fish to come into a cage and fishes won’t be able to escape from cage. Fisherman comes to visit siro every morning. So, my suggestion, please pre-arrange your trip to make sure you arrive in Tanjung Kelumpang in the morning and you can join fisherman to catch the fish from cage. It is likes taking a fish from an aquarium. You just select whatever fish, crab, calamari that you like. This way of catching fish will guarantee its fresh and taste. Please make sure you do not spend more time, let’s grill or ask your travel guide to make gangan soup from that fish. For sure, the taste will never been forgotten.
July 26th, 2006
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