Escapy Escape Into A World Of Travel & Adventure
s t r A e h T d n A l e v Tra Glass Art
Kacha Art Case Galleries
Dancing With Lions The Art Of Lion Dancing
The Coliseum Cafe Kuala Lumpur
Pantau Iraga (Art Space)
Going Macro At Eco
Photograpphing The Tiny World Of KL Eco Park
Lots More Inside
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Dear friends, Welcome to another issue of Escapy, your free travel digital magazine and “Pockezine”; your magazine that is made to be read on mobile devices. In this issue we look at the arts and crafts in Selangor travelling into the creative minds of some of Malaysia’s renown artists from glass art to abstract paintings to art of lion dance. Who knows maybe in the future art could be a new category of travel just like how medical has become part of travel in the form of medical tourism. We also take a look at the indigenous tribes of Peninsular Malaysia starting with the Orang Asli Museum (Museum of the Indigenous People) and then touching a little on each of the tribes. There are a lot more information to be had but perhaps in future issues. Well my friends, I wish you plenty of travel and safe travels. Should you have any feedback do email us at info@theasianpublisher.com. Thank you for reading Escapy and have many, many wonderful adventures.
Cheers, Phil Foo Editor In Chief
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Contents
Click To Go Directly To Article
National Craft Institute, Malaysia
Glass Art
Pantau Iraga (Art Space)
Page: 6
Page: 18
Page: 30
Wheat Straw Art
The Making Of Lions
Page: 40
Page: 46
Orang Asli Museum (Museum Of The Indigenous People) Page: 60
Going Macro At The Legoland MalayEco (Park) sia Launches Lego Ninjago The Ride Page: 94 Page: 104
Sea Lion Hotel Kuala Selangor
The Coliseum Cafe Kuala Lumpur
Coleman Kickback Chair
Lovely Durian Desserts At The ARCH Cafe, Kuala Lumpur Page: 126 Page: 134 Coleman Compact Turtle Shell 2.0 Aluminium Flat Fold Speakers, Abu GarChair cia Hip Bag Large Page: 144 Page: 150
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Page: 138 STOCKHOLM V2 Card Holder Wallet Page: 154
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
National Craft Institute (Malaysia)
F
or those with an artistic mind, the Institut Kraf Negara (National Craft Institute) is one of the schools to go to to enhanced one’s artistic capabilities. Malaysia is not new to crafts. For decades Malaysia has been showcasing crafts and as early as 1967 training in the crafts have been introduced. > Tools for batik “chanting,“ or drawing of wax borders on cloth. 7
The establishing of the National Craft Institute was approved by the council of ministers in 2001 and since then students who want to major in the crafts flocked there to increase their knowledge and to gain themselves certificates and diplomas. > Batik painting of flowers.
The National Craft Institute offers certificates and diplomas in six categories and they are batik, Weaving, Metal, Ceramics, Wood, and Rattan. The National Craft Institute also provide spaces for students to showcase and sell their creations at the grounds of the institute. > A student weaving thread. 9
Visiting The Institute
Visitors can visit the National Craft Institute and see how some of these crafts are made. Former students who have graduated run stalls or rather huts showing how their chosen craft is made and visitors can completed masterpieces from them. > A demonstration on pottery.
Further Information
Address: No.1,KM.20 Jalan Ipoh – Rawang, Taman Rekreasi Templer, 48000 Rawang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia. Tel: 03 60915322 E-mail: webmaster@ikn.gov.my Website: www.ikn.gov.my > Clay head of a green superhero. 11
> Wood carving demonstration.
> Completed wood carvings. 13
> A beautiful box carved out of wood.
> A demonstration on weaving a rattan basket. 15
> This is what the rattan basket looks like when completed.
> Jewellery made of silver.
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Travel Guide
Glass Art
Philemon Foo
A
rt comes in many forms from the creative minds of the artist through to their hands (and feet) and onto all sorts of canvases. Glass art is art made substantially or wholly out of glass from various sculptures to decoration pieces and more. > A large flower made of glass. 19
The Artist
Glass artists are few and in Malaysia there is one who is very famous and has a following of collectors with master pieces commanding very very high prices. He is Raja Azhar Idris who’s works can be seen adorning homes of the rich as well as public places such as the National Heart Institute (Malaysia).
Raja Azhar Idris has always loved drawing and creating art since young. He used to be a street artist before heading off to Australia and later gaining a Degree in Fine Arts at the Victorian College Of The Art in Melbourne, Australia.
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His art pieces has since been exhibited in more than 20 galleries in Australia, Paris, Singapore, and Malaysia. He has also received numerous awards over the years mainly from Australia. > A large ceiling decor lamp masterpiece.
t r A e t a c i l e D
Working with glass is not something easy. Creating art with glass makes it even tougher. Raja Azhar Idris has had his fair share of accidents while creating his master pieces. Getting cuts is something normal. He even had a very deep cut to his leg that almost reach his bone and needed stitches but that is all part of his passion. > Art pieces in his oven. 23
s s e n i p p a H Art Brings
Despite the injuries and sometimes, disappointments (when all the hard work put into the piece ends up being spoiled in the oven), Raja Azhar Idris loves his art. He has created many masterpieces such as called Batik On Glass, Jellyfish, and plenty more. He has even designed art pieces including dining ware for royalties. > These glass plate series was made for the royal family.
t r A s i H g Teachin
Raja Azhar Idris is one artist who is willing to share his art. He does classes for anyone interested in taking up glass art. He has classes for children and adults at a fee of course. His would like to see more glass artists in the future. > Raja Azhar Idris at one of his workstations.
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y r e l l a G e h T
His gallery is Kacha Art Case Galleries Sdn. Bhd. where he showcases his masterpieces. It certainly is a lovely place to visit especially if one is into collecting art. Kacha Art Case Galleries Sdn. Bhd. also sells glass jewellery designed by Shareena Shahridan who is Raja Azhar Idris’s wife. > Glass jewellery by Shareena Shahridan.
> One of his more difficult pieces, the sort after Songket Collection.
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Contact Details
Kacha Art Case Galleries Sdn. Bhd. No. 8, Jalan Kelab Ukay 2, Bukit Antarabangsa, 68000 Ampang, Selangor, Malaysia. Mobile : +6019-311 8804 / +6019-220 9246
Click To Check Out Our
2016 Catalogue http://coleman.com.my/downloads/coleman-catalogue-2016.pdf
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
A
rt is an expression of the creative side and some become very successful creating art. One such artist who has become famous over the years is Awang Damit Ahmad a Malaysian abstract artist the founder and owner of Pantau Iraga (Art Space). > Awang Damit Ahmad working on another masterpiece. 31
This soft spoken man has certainly accomplished a lot as an artist. He was once an Associate Professor at one of the local Malaysian universities (UiTM or Univesiti Teknologi Mara / Mara University of Technology) being the head of his faculty. > Ahmad Damit Awang talking about art.
Good Value
His paintings are auctioned in big auction houses the likes of Sotheby’s, and Christies. With the most expensive to date being auctioned off at RM390,000.00 of which was resold by a collector. He has collectors from Hong Kong, Taiwan, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, America, Canada, Germany, etc.
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The Beginning...
It all started in the 70s where his love for art took him around his hometown, Sabah. He learned painting with various artists then. In 1979 at about 25 years of age he pursue a Diploma in Fine Arts at UiTM. He was top of his class and graduated in 1983. In 1985 he completed his first art series called Essence of Culture, drawing on inspiration from his childhood and working experience, as well as that of his father; a fisherman and farmer in Sabah.
Being hungry for knowledge and wanting to go further in the world of art, Awang Damit Ahmad furthered his studies at the Catholic University of America, Washington DC in 1989, pursuing a Masters in Fine Arts. While in the USA he joined Arlington Art Group and The Capitol Hill exposing himself to various aspects of art. 35
He returned to Malaysia 10 years later and worked on one of his famous series, Marista of which he completed in 2002. In 2011 he completed another famous series called Iraga. He is currently working on a new series and experiments with different sorts of materials including building materials. > An art piece inspired by his childhood.
When the Tsunami hit he started doing a painting about the tsunami. But after about three weeks he stopped for a year and just could not paint. He could not think nor could he get inspiration. Because the tsunami is a powerful force with big waves they overpower his emotions. He was also saddened by what happened. He managed to finish his painting a year later.
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These days he no longer lectures. He focuses solely on his art but he receives students from UiTM and UNIMAS (Universiti Malaysia Sarawak) at his workshop where they do research as well as their practical.> An art piece inspired by his childhood.
Want To Visit? The Pantau Iraga Art Space Gallery is open to public but by appointment only. One can get in touch with him at: Pantau IRAGA (Art Space) 921, Jalan Tanjung, Sijangkang, Telok Panglima Garang, 42500 Kuala Langat, Selangor, Malaysia. TELEPHONE NO. 019-2275469 (Awang) 017-394 4327 (Dayang Umi’ Atiah) 017-280 4643 (Muhammad Iqbal) Email: awangiraga56@gmail.com Email: bangkitaartstudio@gmail.com
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
Wheat Straw
Art
A
rtists are have the ability to create masterpieces out of almost anything and Haji mohd Yusuff Shamsudin has been creating beautiful pictures out of wheat straws for some 64 years. Now being 88 years of age going 89, Haji mohd Yusuff Shamsudin is still creating art with his son, Anuar Mohd Yusuff, carrying on his legacy. > Village scene made of wheat straw. 41
Quality Wheat Straw
While straw from any wheat, grass, jute, etc. can be used; Haji mohd Yusuff Shamsudin uses wheat straw as it is better in quality. Even wheat straws from different countries have different quality and texture. He tried using wheat straws from Bangladesh and found them unsuitable as it comes with a hard outer layer and does not stick well. The best wheat straws are from China of which he prefers.
Hard Work
Wheat straw art is hard work. Straws will first need to be boiled together with colour to infuse them with various colours. When the straws have dried he will have to slice them into different shapes and sizes, and then glue them to his canvases. It takes a lot of patience to do straw art. 43
Inspiration
Haji Mohd Yusuff Shamsudin draws inspiration from the many places he has travelled. Most of his masterpieces are of sceneries, somewhat like a landscape photographer’s photos. His masterpieces mainly of village scenes with paddy fields, beaches, or rivers, and mountains in the background. > The masterpiece.
Should You Want One
Where To Buy? Should you be interested in buying his masterpieces you contact Anuar at: Straw Pictures Address: Lot 61 Jalan 11, Selayang Baru, 68100 Batu Caves, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia Contact : 0182051578 (Whatsapp: ANUAR) Email : anuarmy1963@yahoo.com.my
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
The Making Of
Lions
N
o this is not a motivation piece nor is it a biology paper on how lions breed. It is about a Chinese traditional dance known the world over simply as “lion dance.� Lion dance originated centuries ago in China and has been performed ever since all over the world. This dance form comes with elaborate costumes including a head (lion’s head). 47
An Art Form
Lion dance in its entirety is an art form. From the designing of the costumes and the various heads, to the dance steps and stunts; it is all a form of art. The lion dancers wear pants that are coordinated with the design of the lions body. The lion head is painted with various colours according to traditional dances as well as more new age colours. > A colourful lion head.
Dance And Stunts
The lion dance moves or steps all tell a story. The art here is how well the story is conveyed in coordination to the music. It has thus become an international sports now known as Lion Sport (or Lion Dance Sport) where teams from around the world come together to out dance each other with various routines of which includes dangerous stunts, and to convey their story in the best possible way.
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World Renown Master
In Malaysia we are blessed to have a world renown master whose team has won numerous lion dance competitions locally and internationally. This master is Master Siow. Master Siow is not only good with the dance steps, he has also done numerous things to improve the art of lion dance. >Master Siow talking about his art.
Dance And Stunts
One difficult thing to do is to learn the drums. It may look easy but as it is the main melody and rhythm of the dance routine, it is actually quite difficult. Lion dance masters around the world has been looking for ways to simplify this and Master Siow has done. Hs method of teaching is now used in many countries including China. 51
>Master Siow demonstrating the drums.
Reengineering The Head
Another thing that Master Siow has done is to reengineer the lion’s head. Traditionally the frame of the lion heads from China are made of bamboo. Bamboo tends to break and can be dangerous as they are sharp. Master Siow decided to use lightweight aluminium for its mainframe in place of bamboo eliminating breakage. This also gives the lion head a more rigid feel of which is better. > The “skeleton” of the lion’s head. Notice the alumini um structures. 53
>A clearer view of the aluminium sections.
>Shot from within the lion’s head. 55
> Painting a new head at Master Siow’s workshop.
Taking The Art Seriously
Master Siow’s students know how serious Master Siow takes the art of lion dance and they practise diligently. There is no fooling around as the stunts done during the dance routine are dangerous and can easily land one in the emergency room. Discipline and commitment to the art are both very important. > The “skeleton” of the lion’s head. Notice the alumini um structures. 57
When Can One See These Dances?
One will most definitely see lion dances during the Chinese New Year celebrations. Lion dances are performed all over the place especially at various shopping malls, certain tourist areas, certain houses, etc. as it is said to bring good luck. > Jumping and leaping from pole to pole. They even fly over a few poles at once. Thrilling to watch indeed.
> A superb performance by Master Siow’s lion dance troupe.
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Travel Guide
Philemon Foo
The “Orang Asli” (Indigenous People) Museum
T
he “Orang Asli� Museum or Museum of the Indigenous People in Gombak is one of those museums that few find in their tour itinerary but more tour agencies are bringing visitors there. It is a good place to discover more about the indigenous people of the Peninsular Malaysia. 61
Tribes
There are a total of three main tribes living in Peninsular Malaysia and they are Negrito, Senoi, and Melayu Proto (Proto Malay). Of these three tribes are many sub tribes: Negrito: Kensiu, Kintak, Lanoh, Jahai, Mendriq, and Bateq. Senoi: Temiar, Semai, Semoq Beri, Jahut, Mah Meri, and Che Wong. Proto Malay: Kuala, Kanaq, Seletar, Jakun, Semelai, and Temuan. > Ahmadmiswan Bin Sohiman (Assistant Curator) explain ing the various indigenous tribes.
Preservation Of History
Preservation of history is important and it is no different for the “Orang Asli.” It was Dr. Baharon Azhar Bin Raffie’i, the Director General of the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA) (1969 – 1986), who kick started the idea of preserving the history of the “Orang Asli.” It took 6 years and finally on 29th of September 1987, The “Orang Asli” Museum opened its doors to the public. > Scaled model of the museum. 63
Tribes
The “Orang Asli” Museum showcases the past way of living or rather the heritage of the “Orang Asli.” In the museum there are some information about the various “Orang Asli” tribes in Peninsular Malaysia, how they used to live, some of their tools, etc. > A contraption to pound paddy used by the indigenous people.
Also on show are some of the items used during certain ceremonies, traditional items, etc. There is also a room that plays a video on the lives of the “Orang Asli� in the days of old. >A large fish trap. 65
> A scaled version of a dug out boat used by the indig enous people.
Information
Orang Asli Museum Address: Km 24, Jalan Pahang, Gombak, 53100 Selangor, Malaysia. Tel: 03-6187 8786 Web: www.jakoa.gov.my Opening hours: 9am – 5.50pm daily
closed on Fridays.
> Some musical instruments used during ceremonies. 67
Indigenous Tribes Of The Peninsular Malaysia Many of the indigenous tribes in Malaysia that used to be nomadic hunters, farmers, etc. living deep in the forests have been resettled into villages or settlements closer to modern civilization with the hopes of providing them with improved living. That said, there are quite a few of them who prefer their traditional ways of living and are unable to keep up with the modern world. Despite the efforts by the government most of these indigenous tribes continue to live way below the general poverty line.
> Water jugs made of driedout pumpkin. 69
Negrito Tribe Kensiu The Kensiu people live in the suburbs in the Baling District, in the state of Kedah and to date there is one Kensiu village in the said district of which is the Lubuk Legong Village. The Lubuk Legong Village has been equipped with electrical facilities, water supply and other infrastructures such as a Town Hall and a Children’s Counselling Centre. Their main source of income is a Rubber plantation developed by RISDA (Rubber Industry Smallholders Development Authority) in collaboration with the Department of Orang Asli Development. There are small pockets of Kensiu people living in the state of Perak and Kelantan where they share settlements and socio economic relations with another tribe called the Kintak. The Kensiu people of Malaysia are closely related to the Kensiu people of Thailand and thus cross border movements are a common thing.
> The orang asli are firm believers of spirits and demons. These wood crafts depicts their beliefs.
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Kintak The Kintak people live in the suburbs of the Gerik district, Hulu Perak, in the state of Perak sharing a settlement with some from the Kensiu tribe. To date there is one Kintak Village where the Kintak people live in houses made of timber and planks, provided by the Department of Aborigines Affairs.
Lanoh The Lanoh people lived in the rural parts of the Hulu Perak district, in the state of Perak. Although majority of the Lanoh people live in forests to date there are 3 Lanoh villages. The Lanoh were hunters and gatherers using the caves within the state of Perak as shelters during their hunting trips. These days they have settled down in permanent villages giving up their nomadic way of life. Charcoal drawings made by the Lanoh people can still be seen on cave walls.
> Another wood carved demon with chains. 73
Jahai The Jahai Tribe is the smallest sub tribe in the Negrito Tribe. They live in the state of Perak and in the state of Kelantan. In Perak they live at the Hulu Perak region of which is in Banun, Tiang River, and the Temenggor Dam. In Kelantan they live at Rual and Jeli River in Hulu Kelantan. Most of them live at the banks of estuaries and lakes. They build their homes using banana stems, bamboo, and leaves. Their homes are built simple as many of them still live a nomadic lifestyle as they move when there is a death, unknown diseases, and disputes within their village. They also move due to an increase in the village’s population and the need for more food or newer food sources. The Jehai are expert hunters with blowpipes and poison darts. It is said that Jehai boys enjoy spending the afternoon practising their blowpipe skill by shooting darts at tree branches.
> A traditional orang asli house (scaled down model). 75
Mendriq The Mendriq people live in the rural areas in the state of Kelantan with a village in the district of Gua Musang. They are believed to be one of the first groups of people to inhabit the Peninsula. They are mostly dark-skinned with frizzy-hair with features resembling Papua New Guinean or east African people. They are generally shorter than other Malaysians.
Bateq The Bateq people live in the northern rural areas of the state of Pahang, the western side of the state of Terengganu, and the southern side of the state of Kelantan at a place called Pos Lebir. They primarily inhabit the Taman Negara National Park and they are nomadic hunters and gatherers. The Bateq language belongs to the Eastern Jahaic sub-branch of Aslian languages which is part of a wider Mon–Khmer language family with mainly oral language and few written words written in a modified Latin alphabets. To date there are seven villages in the state of Pahang with five villages in the Lipis district and two villages in Jerantut. The state of Kelantan has four villages, while the state of Terengganu has one.
> A traditional orang asli house (scaled down model). 77
Senoi Tribe Temiar The selection of housing by the Temiar Tribe is at a location determined by the headman. This is done by way of spells or dreams. Places that are to be occupied need to be away from burial grounds, free from the existence of hardwood such as the Merbau tree (Intsia bijuga). They also do not make settlements in marshy areas (water reservoirs) for fear of ghostly apparitions. The same goes for areas with waterfalls and big rivers of which are considered unsuitable for fear that the river princess (falls) that will cause disturbance to their homes. They build houses of wood (other than the hardwood) working together as a village team of builders. In the early stages of settlement, they build long houses. After living in the long houses for a seemingly long time, individual families move to other sites and built their own homes. The Temiar people support their families via farming, hunting, and searching for forest plants.
> An adze styled by oragn asli of which were used to fell trees.
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Semai The Semai Tribe lives in scattered groups around the Titiwangsa Mountain range, from the Centre of Perak (state of Perak), the south of Perak and to the west of the state of Pahang. They are the largest indigenous tribe in Malaysia. A census done back in 1993 indicated their numbers to be about 42,000 people. As of now there is no new information with regards to its population numbers. The Semai tribe live in communities of 60 – 300 people per village. They are led by a headman (“Batin� in the local language) appointed from amongst influential people within their group of which are usually the handlers, the medicine man, and the traditional leaders.
Semoq Beri The Semoq Beri Tribe lives around the outskirts of the state of Pahang and Terengganu. In Pahang there are 5 villages in the district of Jerantut, 5 villages in the district of Maran, and 2 villages in the district of Kuantan. In the state of Terengganu there is 1 village in district of Hulu Terengganu and 2 villages in the district of Kemaman.
> A plate / bowl made of bamboo.
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Jahut The Jahut Tribe lives in the districts of Temerloh and Jerantut in the state of Pahang. In Temerloh they live in the areas of Kerdau-Paya Paleng, Paya Mengkuang, Kuala Krau – Penderas, Mendoi, Seboi, Pasu, Piau, and Galong. In Jerantut they lived in the Kiol River and Kekwel (Kol). They support themselves by searching for rattan and resin to sell. They are do fishing, hunting, and farming; the main crops being highland rice, corn, and tuber.
Mah Meri Mah Meri of which means “Forest People� (Orang Hutan), are also known as seamen because they live near to the sea and work as fishermen. There is no exact historical evidence of their origins, but they are believed to have emigrated from the islands south of the state of Johor to the coastal regions of the state of Selangor while escaping their enemies. The Mah Meri community has since undergone a change in their way of thinking and development as they mix with other communities. The Mah Meri tribe is famous for their wood carvings especially their masks, something that has been highlighted over and over. This skill of theirs have made them one of the most known indigenous tribes in Malaysia.
> A smaller traditional orang asli fish trap of which is still quite big.
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Che Wong The Che Wong people live in the outskirts of the Raub and Temerloh Districts, in the state of Pahang. The Raub District has 4 villages while the Jerantut district has 1 village. There are still those who live deep in the forests where they continue to hunt, fish, and farm. The Che Wong people plant rice (hill rice), trade jungle beans (petai), fruits (durians), and sell rattan as well as resins as income. They also set traps for boars, deer, fish, etc.
> A plate / bowl made of bamboo.
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Proto Malay Kuala The Kuala people is believed to have originated from the Riau-Lingga archipelago in areas that are along the beaches in Sumatera, Indonesia and had migrated to the areas around the coastal rivers south of the Johor state. Now they live permanently in the Batu Pahat and Pontian districts in the state of Johor. Batu Pahat has 5 villages while Pontian has 4.
Kanaq The Kanaq tribe is the smallest indigenous tribe in Malaysia. The Kanaq tribe speak the Kanaq language of which is one of the languages grouped under the Austonesian Language family. They live in the Selangi Village of which is located in the district of Mawai, Johor. The Orang Kanaq were originally one of the Sea Gypsy people, from Pulau Sekanak (Sekanak Island) in the Riau Islands of Indonesia. They started to migrate to Peninsula Malaysia in around 1784.
> Depiction of orang aslis in Peninsular Malaysia.
87
Seletar The Seletar people or “Sea Gypsies� are a group of coastal and marine adventurers who used to live on boats, on the islands, coastal areas, and on estuaries. Their livelihood comes from the sea. This lead to their itinerant lifestyle. However changes in their socio-economy changed the way they live. Now, they live in a settlement that is organised and structured in the Coast of Southern Johor. They still depend on the sea catching fish but now using modern equipment. Some of them have decided to not partake in their traditional profession and have decided to work at the factories nearby.
> Blowpipes and poison dart carriers used by the orang asli on hunting trips.
89
Semelai The distribution of settlements of the Semelai tribe can be found in Central Pahang in areas such as the Bera Lake, Bera River, Teriang River, Paya Besar, and Paya Badak as well as the border of Pahang towards the state of Negeri Sembilan at Serting River, Lui River, and Ulu Muar. In terms of looks, the Semelai look similar to the local Malay people.
Temuan The Temuan tribe lives in these states; Selangor, Melaka, Pahang, Johor (Muar District), and Negeri Sembilan. They speak Temuan, an Austronesian language closely related to Malay. The Temuan Tribe in Negeri Sembilan practise the “Pepatih� custom (also known as Lareh Bodi Caniago) of which are customary laws that originated from the Minangkabau Highlands in Sumatra, Indonesia. They also follow the general Temuan customs and traditions as those practised by the Temuan tribes of other states.
> Orang asli craft on sale.
91
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Travel Guide
Escapy
Going
Macro At The Eco
T
he Bukit Nanas (Pineapple Hill) Forest Reserve is the only green lung in the city of Kuala Lumpur. It has since been called the KL Eco Park. It is a interesting place where one can go to and do some jungle trekking or enjoy a canopy walk. We featured this park in our last issue. http://www.theasianpublisher.com/magazine/escapy/issues/2016/08-aug/mobile/index.html#28
Click To Read 95
Take Out That Camera And Shoot
There are lots of things to point one’s lens at and shoot such as birds, plants, flowers, etc. There are also little things to shoot of which is fun for macro photographers or those that enjoy shooting little things. > The canpy walk.
Lit tle Things
Many insects call the KL Eco Park home. They hide amongst plants, leaves, wood, etc. Insects such as grasshoppers, certain bees, ants, etc. are a plenty but one will have to search them out. A keen eye is important. > A little grasshopper amongst the foliage. 97
Shooting Water
Another interesting thing to shoot is water. Water droplets in particular. Should you visit the park in the morning, chances are pretty good that you will be able to shoot water droplets. Take note though that the trails can get a bit muddy and slippery. > Watrer droplets on a leaf in black and white.
Shooting Flora
Being an eco park plants are of course a plenty. There are ferns, mushrooms, flowers, trees, etc, that one can point one’s macro lens at and shoot. > Whilst setting up I took this test shot of some ferns.
99
Beginners & The Pros
The KL Eco Park is a good place for beginners to practise and level their skills while the pros will find it a good place to create art. This only remaining green lung of Kuala Lumpur certainly is one of the good places for photogs to visit. > A little white Woolly Aphid walking slowly on a branch.
iTh ngs To Bring
Other than your camera and gears do bring along these things: Drinking water Mosquito Repellent Waterproof bag (should it rain) Rubber trekking shoes 101
Do Take Note
Outdoor macro photography is quite challenging especially since many of your targeted subjects are always moving. Do be patient with them and respect the natural environment. As the saying goes “take nothing but pictures and leave nothing behind but foot prints.� Happy shooting. > A gold ant. How cool is that?
> A red grasshopper looking insect an its tiny friend.
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103
Travel News
Legoland Malaysia Launches NinjaGo The Ride The First In Asia
Y
ou can now be part of the NINJAGO™ ninja warriors and go on adventures defeating evil helping Master Wu and his Lego ninjas. NINJAGO™ The Ride enables guests to use their hands to throw virtual lightning bolts, move shockwaves, send ice soaring and emit fireballs with incredible accuracy. >Welcome to Legoland Malaysia. 105
Big Big Big Investment
The over RM40 million ride is a fully immersive 4D darkride that allows guests to become their favourite characters and defeat enemies, from snake tribes, ghosts and skeletons to the Great Devourer under the guidance of Master Wu; using hand gestures to throw virtual projectiles. >Master Wu and his ninjas are ready to fight for all things good. Stellar cast of NINJAGO at the launch of LEGOŽ NIN JAGO™ The Ride.
LEGO® NINJAGO™ The Ride is experienced in 3D and features effects such as heat, smoke and wind throughout the adventure, giving guests the ultimate 4D experience. But the real highlight of the ride is its hand gesture technology. Manufactured by Triotech, a global leader in media-based interactive attractions, the technology enables guests to do as the ninjas do and launch fireballs, lightning, shockwaves or ice with hand movements. >Yg. Bhg. Datuk Seri Mirza Mohammad Taiyab (Director-General, Tourism Malaysia) & Young Pil-Kim (Interim General Manager, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort) test out the interactive activity, Nya’s Practice, in the brand new NINJAGO World. 107
Ready For An Adventure
Hi-tech sensors register these movements with great accuracy and seamlessly launch virtual projectiles towards the targets on display. Up to four guests sit in each ride vehicle and are guided through various scenes encountering villains and challenges. At the end of the quest, guests can view their individual scores on display. >Ready for an adventure and all prepared to take out the baddies.
Legoland Malaysia Levels Up
LEGO® NINJAGO™ The Ride certainly takes the Resort to the next level and with such an investment is certainly shows commitment to bring stateof-the-art play to the region – the way only LEGOLAND® can. >All smiles for the official launch of LEGO® NINJAGO™ The Ride. 109
> The four LEGO® NINJAGO characters and Sensei Wu master the four elements to launch the first LEGO® NINJAGO™ The Ride in Asia.
For More Information
PDF Readers: Click Link To Watch Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wMRXB1WQiAU
visit LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort’s official website at www.legoland.com.my Contact: +607-597 8888 Stay connected with LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort’s social handles (Facebook & Twitter) to find out more on online promotions.
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111
Where to Stay
Philemon Foo
l e t o H n o i L a e S r o g n a l e S a l a u K
W
hen one mentions Kuala Selangor, the first thing that comes to most Malaysian minds is firefly. For some reason fireflies have overshadowed the history of Melawati Hill, its monkeys, the fort, etc. Probably because fireflies are a unique sort of insect that emits lights, hence the attraction. >The reception at the Sea Lion Hotel, Kuala Selangor. 113
Firefly Themed Rooms
One hotel that certainly stands out from the crowd of hotels there is the Sea Lion Hotel. The Sea Lion Hotel is a firefly themed boutique hotel that is tastefully decorated with art pieces, nice furnishing, and little lights on the ceiling of their rooms that mimic fireflies. >The ceiling of the rooms look like fireflies. The colours of the lights changes every few seconds.
Room Configurations
The Sea Lion Hotel has 45 rooms of various configuration from the single rooms to family rooms. The rooms are tastefully furnished with a mixture of modern and artistically classic furniture. More important are the beds that they come with. These beds are comfortable offering a good night’s rest. >Well decorated rooms.
115
Unique Pool
Yes, they have a pool that one can play in. Unlike the usual dugout swimming pools, this pool is built on the ground and doubles as a water feature. It has a tiled seats for one to sit on and just hangout. Children will certainly enjoy playing in the pool.
Facilities
When it comes to facilities and amenities the Sea Lion Hotel comes with the general facilities offered by most hotels such as hot water shower, hair dryer, hot water dispenser (public), free wi-fi, etc. One thing that helps them standout is that they cater to the less-abled (wheelchair), something more hotels should have. >I love this chair. It is comfortable and it looks good. 117
Strategic Location
There are a few must visit spots in Kuala Selangor such as the Melawati Hill where the Melawati fort, Altingsburg Lighthouse, silver leafed monkeys, museum, etc. are. About 5 minutes drive away from this area is one the jetties that takes visitors on eagle feeding trips during the day and firefly trips at night. All these areas are a mere five to ten minutes drive away from the Sea Lion Hotel. >Silver leafed monkey hanging out on a cannon.
The area around the hotel has food outlets and other shops. The famous seafood restaurants are about 10 minutes drive away. If you decide not to drive and do not want to walk much, just beside the hotel is a restaurant. >Fireflies shot with slow shutter speed during the fire fly watching trip.
119
Personal Experience
I recently visited Kuala Selangor with my family and our friends. We checked into the Sea Lion Hotel which was highly recommended by a friend, and the price suited our budget. Checking in was a breeze and they have lifts that took us to our floor. >Tasteful decor.
When I thought I could get to the room whip out my laptop and start working, I ended up taking a nap. My mistake was lying on the bed (was supposed to be for only 5 minutes) and ended up snoozing for an hour. The bed was really comfortable and the dim firefly effect helped with the shut eye. >Our room had a balcony. 121
While I didn’t go into the pool I saw kids enjoying themselves in it with one parent on the deckchair asleep. With the sound of waterfalls from water flowing off the sides into a catchment of which I believe sends it to a filtration system and back into the pool; resting there must be therapeutic. > Kids having fun in the pool. The pool is deeper at the other end.
All in all we certainly enjoyed ourselves and had a good rest. We didn’t have to rush to the sites as they were nearby. We had easy access to food and we love eating. Because of its location and facilities we had a really relaxing trip. We only wished that we had booked for a night or two longer. >Room prices. 123
Information
Address Sea Lion Hotel 21 Jalan Seri Temenggung 3, Taman Seri Temenggung, 45000 Kuala Selangor, Selangor, Malaysia. Tel: +603 3289 8121 E-mail: info@sealion.com.my Website: http://sealion.com.my/ks/
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125
For Foodies
Philemon Foo
O
ne of the oldest restaurants in Kuala Lumpur is the Coliseum Cafe. It is a restaurant that opened its doors in 1921 during the colonial era and this year it turned 95. It used to serve the British as well as the influential locals back in the day serving colonial Hainanese cuisine. 127
With the original cafe located on the busy Tuanku Abdul Rahman Road, Coliseum Cafe is a crowd puller till this day. Very much of the facade remains the same of which is a good thing. Personally I like it as it is like walking back in time and dining back in the late 70s to the early 80s of which was already historical back then. > The bar, still remains the same as in days of old.
Favourites
Of course we do not go there just for nostalgia sake or to soak in the ambiance of an era gone by. The food there is good especially if you like Hainanese chicken chop, fish and chips, and my personal favourite; sizzling tenderloin steak. The sizzling steak is tender and juicy; bringing me back to the first steak that I ate... of which was here too. Typing this article I cannot help but salivate. YUMMY. > Famous for the Hainanese Chicken Chop. 129
>Fruits skillfully carved. This is certainly an art.
If you visit Malaysia and have a few days to spend in Kuala Lumpur, give Coliseum Cafe a visit and enjoy the food. They do have other outlets but I personally prefer the original. The Original (HQ) No. 98-100 & 102, Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman 50100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Contact: Vivian +603 2692 6270 Plaza 33 Lot PG-02, Plaza 33,1 Jalan Semangat, Section 13 46100 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Contact: Sri +603-7932 3228 Mid Valley Shopping Mall Lower Ground Floor LG216, The Gardens, Mid Valley Mall Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Contact: Fizah +603-2202 0588 Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall Lot OB.G.(MS) Oasis Boulevard GF (Sunway main entrance front of Lion Head) Contact : Heng +603-5611 1921 131
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133
For Foodies
Escapy
Lovely Durian Desserts At The
ARCH Cafe
T
his here is a special food place for the sweet toothed durian lover who loves everything durian. The durian desserts at the ARCH Cafe, Kuala Lumpur is a must try. The Durian Imperial is a creamy and sweet durian treat. > The Durian Imperial served on a golden (coloured) Platter. 135
Shaped like a durian with sharp thorns that are made of cream, plus a chocolate durian stem; the makers or the designers of this dessert clearly had only one thing in mind, the king of fruits. So if you love all things durian just head on down to the Arch Cafe, Kuala Lumpur. > Mouth watering dessert.
Contact Information
ARCH Cafe KUALA LUMPUR CITY GALLERY No. 27, Jalan Raja, Dataran Merdeka, 50050 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Contact: +6 03 2698 3333 Email: klcg@archcollection.com.my >While the focus is on the Durian Imperial, the durian cakes in the background are equally tasty.
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137
Introducin’
Shared: The Asian Angler
Coleman Kickback Chair
H
igh quality outdoor chairs are some of the things that Coleman has to offer. One of them is the Coleman Kickback Chair, a folding chair that fold compactly and then easily placed into a carrying bag. This makes a good chair for anglers. campers, picnickers, etc. who intend to go for a days out fun fishing at a lake. 139
Lightweight Durability
The Coleman Kickback Chair is lightweight weighing only 2.4kg. and easy to carry making it ideal for camping trips, fishing trips, picnics, etc. It is made using strong and durable fabric that is tough and high quality strong steel legs that can take over a hundred kilograms of weight.
It comes with a relaxed type back rest with full support, a low design so that one can sit with legs out stretch for better relaxation, and has a large pocket at the seatback area. There is also a carry handle for easy carrying when the seat is fully open. >Handle for easy carrying and a large pocket at the back rest where the handle is. 141
Summary
The Coleman Kickback Chair certainly is a convenient and mobile chair for one to use whilst one enjoys the great outdoors with the family. It is tough, durable, lightweight, and folds up easily and can be compactly kept into its carrying bag for easy carrying as well as storage. >Good quality fabric for durability.
143
Introducin’
Shared: The Asian Angler
Coleman
Compact Aluminium
Flat Fold Chair
W
hen you go out for a fun day of fishing with your family, do it with some added comfort. You pack some food, some cold drinks in the cooler, a mat, etc. in anticipation of a fun day. Do bring along some chairs for all to sit on, such as the Coleman Compact Aluminium Flat Fold Chair. 145
Lightweight And Compact
The Coleman Compact Aluminium Flat Fold Chair is both lightweight and compact making them easy to carry. Just fold them up and secure the two bars together of which will not allow them to reopen. This makes carrying and transporting them easier. When it comes to storage, they are easy to store too.
Strong And Durable
Coleman Compact Aluminium Flat Fold Chair is made using tough canvas cloth, and high quality aluminium that are strong and durable. They can take over a hundred kilograms of weight. They also sit lower giving it a better centre of gravity of which translates to stability. >Strong and durable fabric. 147
Wooden Armrest
These chairs come with good quality wooden armrest that are strong and they look good especially with natural wood grains. They also give a certain amount of comfort.
Summary >Handle to hold the chair in folded position. Also to make carrying easier.
The Coleman Compact Aluminium Flat Fold Chair is certainly good to have when one goes out fishing, have a picnic, or a barbeque with the family. They are tough, durable, lightweight, easy to carry, easy to store, and they are comfortable. Certainly good to have. Coleman Concept Store LG2.137, Sunway Pyramid Shopping Mall No.3, Jalan PJS 11/15, Bandar Sunway, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia. Tel: 1300 88 8388 Contents Page
149
Goodies
Shared: The Asian Angler
Turtle Shell 2.0 Speakers
B
ehold the Turtle Shell® 2.0, Outdoor Tech’s most miraculous rugged, water resistant Bluetooth Speaker to date. We wouldn’t say something as clishe as “The best just got better”... it did though. Based off the popular original Turtle Shell®, the 2.0 brings more volume, more Hi-Fi audio, more battery life and a plethora of other feature improvements over its predecessor.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Dxnj_ANu24 Site: http://www.outdoortechnology.com/Shop/Turtle-Shell/ Note: May not be available in some markets.
PDF Readers: Click Link To Watch Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zLVUthj2Z-8
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151
Goodies
Shared: The Asian Angler
Abu Garcia Hip Bag Large Bag Camo w/rain case
S
hould one be on a fishing trip or out for a walk or on a sightseeing trip, and one has a need of a little extra carrying space but not the size of a back pack, the Abu Garcia’s Fishing Hip Bag Large Bag Camo is a convenient bag that comes into play. It is large enough to store lots of essentials such as a point and shoot cameras, cases for your glasses, wallet, keys, mobile phones, GPS device, water bottle, maps, compass, MP3 player, power banks, etc. Well, it can easily store all of them and more. It comes with a rain cover should it rain keeping the items inside dry.
Site: www.purefishingmalaysia.com For more information contact: info@my.purefishing.com Note: May not be available in some markets.
^Lots of storage spaces and places to hang things like carabiners, etc. .
>Bottle holder with insulation to keep drinks cool longer.
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153
Goodies
Shared: The Asian Angler
STOCKHOLM V2 Card Holder Wallet
W
hen out on an adventure be it fishing, travelling, etc. a water resistant wallet is good to have should we end up wet. It could be the rains, spray of salty seawater while on a boat, etc. that gets us wet. With the STOCKHOLM V2 CARBON Card Holder Wallet you do not have to worry as your cards and cash remain dry. Another thing to worry about these days are thieves using RFID devices to steal our data and with the STOCKHOLM V2 Card Holder Wallet you don’t have to worry anymore. RFID Safe : protects your cards from fraud Holds up to 10 credit cards Designed & made in France, waterproof, metal lock Genuine Carbon Fiber and polycarbonate Pattern : SergÊ
https://www.ogondesigns.com/en/porte-cartes-v20-aluminium-ogon-designs.php https://www.ogondesigns.com/en/porte-cartes-v20-aluminium-ogon-designs.php
Note: May not be available in some markets.
PDF Readers: Click Link To Watch Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyBBLFs2R6I
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155
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