Nov MM: Discover the Mystery of Bukit Kutu

Greetings from Raleigh KL,

What are we doing this month? I am sure ex-IW participants will never forget the significant Bukit Kutu. We have been listening to stories about the rock, the chimney, the British cottage... What's actually up there?

Those who missed the fun of hiking Bukit Kutu with Raleigh folks, come join us on 7 November 2009. FYI in Dec09, we have secured a brand new IW camp site, so this is really a great moment to hike Kutu once again.

Not to forget, updates from the Borneo expedition venturers and PM - Celine, Richard and Stan (PM), Drake the Raleigh Bear who is currently traveling in Hong Kong, Regional Conference, 25th Anniversary celebration, and HOT news from other Raleigh support groups.

Come sign up for NOV Monthly Meet now!

Please meet at KL Sentral (KLIA departure exit) @ 7am SHARP!!

Agenda

7.00am depart from KL
8.30am reached KKB + Meeting
9.00am start hike
1.00pm cut off time (meet at peak or the rock) + lunch (will be provided)
2.00pm start to hike down
5.00pm dip @ kutu pool
6.00pm depart back to KL
7.30pm reach kl sentral
8.00pm proper dinner (optional)

What to bring? YOURSELF (please wear proper trekking shoes & attire, NO sandals), at least 2L of water, snacks, head torch, mess tin, small towel, cutlery, whistle, spare cloths, swimwear

Fees
Raleigh KL members RM15
Non-members RM20

** inclusive of transport + lunch + admin fee

** those who prefer to drive on their own and meet at KKB (with less than 2 passengers in car) cannot claim petrol or reduce MM fee

To register, please log on to: http://spreadsheets.google.com/a/raleighinternational.org.my/viewform?formkey=dDZTWnZUWGJxdmR5OWJSVkh0aWZZdXc6MA

Registration deadline is 5 November 2009 (Thursday) 11pm.
**Those who fail to register will have to arrange for your own transport

Any enquires please contact Marble at 012-6137525 / email: monthlymeet@raleighinternational.org.my

See you guys there! Cheers!

Best Regards,
Marble Goby

Raleigh - The Next 25 Years

"Our vision is that Raleigh will be recognised as a global community of active citizens passionate about making a difference to their world."

Stacey Adams

Global community

We've made a good start towards building our globalcommunity, with 30,000 alumni in 95 countries. Over the next 25 years we will build that to 100,000. We have societies in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Ghana, Bermuda, Singapore, among others. Raleigh China, our newest, was started in 2008 by local participantsof the 1998 expedition and already has 300 members. We are developing our communication network with these societies and with our alumni wherever they are. Our global outreach is impressive. In the future we want to create additional means of engaging with alumni that will help define campaigns and issues that our global community feel passionate about and on which we can all work together.

Active and passionate

Raleigh is full of can do people with drive; inspired by the sprit of adventure and discovery; trained to be social entrepreneurs back home by all that they have experienced on expedition. The Raleigh experience unites young people from different countries and backgrounds in the shared endeavour of making our world a better place. We will continue to grow our outreach and our opportunities to engage more young people in the local countries where we work and from all backgrounds and life experiences.

Making a difference

We know that we make a difference both to the individual and to the community in which they are working. We hold in balance the sometimes conflicting demands of the two with integrity. It is core to how we work and how we will continue to work in the future.The ippr report validates that we have been the turning point in so many young people's lives. We know we deliver a truly transformational journey and the passion that we as an organisation have for supporting young people to discover their values and purpose in life will continue at the heart of what we do. We will also remain dedicated to the pursuit of valued projects that deliver real benefits to the local communities and environments where we work. We will increase our impact by working with our Raleigh Societies to deliver more through our alumni as part of the fourth challenge. In 2009 Raleigh Singapore is planning to send 100 young people to build a health clinic for a rural indigenous tribal groupin India. A Raleigh Hong Kong group will be building a rural school and carrying out marine conservation. Raleigh Ghana has 300 volunteers doing local community health projects.We are rebuilding the network of Raleigh support groups in the UK and working in partnership with other charities like the Red Cross and People & Planet to send our alumni out into the world to follow their passions and make that difference.

Recognition

One of the priorities for the 25th anniversary year is to ensure that Raleigh gets the recognition it deserves for its impressive achievements. We will continue to research and evaluate the evidence of our impact as part of the development of Raleigh as a leading international organisation. The ippr research findings are clear: that we have made a real impact on the social mobility and life of those young people involved with us. Our work over the next two years with Birkbeck College at the University of London to create leadership accreditation for the Raleigh expedition will ensure that the Raleigh experience gets the recognition nationally and internationally that it deserves. Our partnership with Google Earth will build the evidence of our impact on the communities wherewe have worked.The final stage is to build the evidence of the impact of the fourth challenge. We hear anecdotally everyday of achievements of our alumni but we need to ensure that we have identified them, and published for the world to see what our Raleigh global community has achieved. In 25 years Raleigh will be known around the world as the organisation that created a new way of training and developing young global citizens, inspiring them to be part of an innovative international network of alumni who cooperate and work together to solve problems and build better sustainable communities and environments.

Stacey Adams CEO Raleigh

venturer updates and expedition news

Hello everyone !!

It has been a while, to be exact 15 days, Celine Chin and Richard Teh embarked on their 09K Raleigh Borneo expedition.
They're doing very well there. After attending a 5-days expedition training at Traverse Adventure Center, they both now are in their first phase already !!

[spot celine.chin in photo]

Celine Chin is now working on a kindergarten building in Kampung Minusoh (community phase), while
Richard Teh is working on our brand new environment project--BSBCC sunbear conservation project (environment phase) !!

Celine is probably now working very hard to ferry the heavy Belian wood, digging hole for kindergaten foundation and sawing wood for kindergarten floorboards..
Richard is probably digging deep holes for conservation centre fences and visiting the world's smallest bear--sun bear !

Want to know what exactly are they doing?

-visit http://raleighborneo.blogspot.com/ to know more about what is happening now in their expedition and their amazing expedition stories.

OR

-write to them. for sure they will be very excited to receive letter from any of you.
the address:

Celine Chin / Richard Teh
Autumn 2009 Expedition,
Raleigh Borneo,
P.O Box 14182,
88848 Kota Kinabalu,
Sabah.

-----------------------------------------

[ever build your own hammock? go expedition.]

Are you also interested in joining amazing expeditions like Celine and Richard? Want to make a difference in other people's life as well as yours?
Make your first step to contact the Expedition Officer.

Borneo February 2010 Expedition and India and Costa Rica expedition is still recruiting venturers! Places are limited ! Contact your nearest expedition officer(the one and only) to get more details .

Cheers.Have a good day everyone!

Best Regards,

SuLan Yang
Expedition Officer
Raleigh International Kuala Lumpur
e : expedition@raleighinternational.org.my

Drake says:...

Her name is Koong Hui Yein, as I was told, she just got back from Raleigh Borneo Summer Expedition 09E. She said, she spent an absolutely awesome 10 weeks at Borneo.

Before joining Raleigh, Yein felt constantly trapped in her current life, she keep asking herself, " now, beside studying, what else could I do? ". With this question in mind, she started to seek her own adventure. By chance, her cousin sister, who too joined the 10 weeks Borneo Expedition on 2006 told her about it. Since then, she's determined to join Expedition when there is a chance. In fact, she's bit scared of what would expedition be, she has always doubt if she can face the challenges ahead, expedition taught her that with determination and effort, yes it IS possible to achieve what she desires. It was the type of confidence expedition had taught her to possess. She's more calm and steady when dealing with stuff now. Now, she learns to live and laugh everyday~ she learned that there is always something around the corner, just waiting for her to explore. Expedition triggered her curiosity.

So, I met Yein at Kota Kinabalu on 8th of September, I joined her to visit Kampung Pinapak, a small little village in the district of Pitas, Sabah. It was located somewhere up North of Sabah. I was told that it was one of the poorest region in Sabah. Yein was at Kampung Pinapak for her community phase. Her project aimed to build a water gravity feed system for the village. I was so excited when she told me about the project, so I decided to tag along the group which consist of 4 girls - all ex-Venturers of Raleigh expedition ( Yein, Su Lan, Shu Woan & Kar Lye) for their post-expedition trip to Kampung Pinapak.

On 09/09/09, we departed from Kota Marudu to Kampung Pinapak in the afternoon. We travelled there by a four-by-four. After a 2 hour bum-bumped road, we reached the beautiful Pinapak.
According to Yein, we were going to overnight at Mr. Jeffrin's house, a very generous uncle who gave us such a warm welcome and made me feel that I am not a stranger at all. So, after we stopped by Mr.Jeffrin's house for half an hour, Yein was anxious to see how was the outcome of her hardwork and sweat for the past 3 weeks, and decided to go and see the dam she and her team built. Together, we walked up 2 big and 3 small steep hills before we reached the entrance of the trail. That trail, which was 300 metres, lead us to the water source for gravity feed system and was where the dam was built. It was quite well hidden among the trees. The water was so clean and clear, compared to the river.

Said Yein, before the gravity water feed was built, villagers relied on river and rain water for water. The river was claimed to be polluted, so there's no promise to the villagers that they are having clean and safe drinking water. After seeing the dam, we went to the hall where the tap is located. The girls turned on the tap and saw water flowing out! Yein felt really happy to be part of this project because she felt she has made a difference.

So, after the visit, the girls went to cross the newly-built suspension bridge which its existence will overtake the present low-level crossing at the river. Hmm..I realised that Kar Lye was extremely afraid of heights. Though I am small, it was significant that i was much more braver than her as I could cross the bridge without hanging on the handler, but she kept both of her hands tight on the handler while yelling and can't stand still to her feet.

After some pictures-taking moment, the girls decided to go for a swim in the river. I couldn't join because I saw a tag on my a*s saying that " Dry Clean Only". Oh well, I could just sit there and enjoy the marvelous view of the river and the river bank.

At night, Mrs Jeffrin and the rest of us as well as her daughter went to the river bank and had a mini bond fire. We had corns which were bought from Kota Marudu to roast with. Then, by chance, Mrs.Jeffrin spotted shrimps in the river. They could be easily spotted because the river water was clear on that day. So, holding Yein's parang made in Long Pasia, she bang the shrimps with it. So, all the girls were excited by the catching of the shrimps and started the shrimps hunt. Other than shrimps, they spotted small fish too !! They ended up having corns, shrimps and fish for barbeque, all the fresh food with the natural freshness. I couldn't eat as, you know... Beside the fire, I too enjoyed gazing the stars. Then when it was near 11pm, suddenly, the little girl, Jeffrin's daughter spotted a black figure not far from us. We were scared, especially when that figure became closer and closer. That was when we started to pack our stuff and get ready to leave. So, when it get so close, we all walked quickly to leave that spot, but strangely while we stareted to walked, that figure ran away, so quick we couldn't really see what or who was it! weird.... We really really had a wonderful night. What a day for a night, and what a night for a day~

With strong reluctance to leave in our heart, we departed from Kampung Pinapak to Kota Marudu in the morning. I could say for now, how awesome it was to be part of Raleigh International because it could take you to places where humanity and warmth can be discovered.


my name is Drake, the Raleigh bear.

posted by koong hui yein (the author can be contacted at huiyein@gmail.com),
09E Raleigh Borneo Expedition 2009

feel free to contact expedition@raleighinternational.org.my should you have any queries about expedition.

Drake visited Bali, with Lu Yi

Name: Yap Lu Yi
Date: 1st August 2009
Expedition: 08 Spring as Host Country Venturer (Sabah, Borneo, Malaysia)
What are you doing now: Freelance Public Relations Consultant


What has Raleigh meant for you:

The thought of helping the poor community was already in my mind since young but I do not have the courage and confidence to take a step further. My parents are very protective, always trying their best to provide me with everything that I demand for.

When I was introduced to Raleigh expedition, I was very excited about the adventure and community projects. I told myself if I let go the opportunity again, I’ll never get out there to help the people in need. Hence, I decided to challenge myself to fundraise for the expedition fees and be prepared to go on board on expedition in just a month’s time.

The 3 months on Raleigh expedition was definitely the most exciting, rewarding and challenging 3 months in my life. I have never liked trekking. But I survived the 12 days trek in Long Pasia. I can’t swim but I got my open water diving license, certified by PADI. All these mental and psychical challenges allow me to reevaluate my ability and prove to myself, even my parents that I am able to make a change in my life as well as others’.

Being the host country venturer also means being the communication point between locals and other venturers. I get to learn about Malaysian and British ways of tackling various issues. That was totally an eye-opening learning opportunity as I improved my communication and interpersonal skills. Meeting venturers who are younger than me but have already achieved so much in life provokes me to realize my dream to be a volunteer.

After coming back from expedition, I serve in Raleigh KL committee. I am glad and excited to send off more Malaysian youths to Raleigh expeditions. Raleigh has reminded me that there are a lot more to achieve in life besides performing well in studies and career. I am all geared up to embark on another expedition and involve actively in any volunteering opportunities.

My younger sister Lu Ying, who is also an ex-venturer and I visited Bali with Drake the Raleigh Bear in August. The trip served as Lu Ying's farewell trip (she is currently pursuing her degree in Hong Kong University). The photo was taken at Tanah Lot, an ancient temple by the sea.

December 09~ Introduction Weekend staff recruitment

Dear all,

Greetings.

It has been awhile after our previous Introduction Weekend and now announcing our next Introduction Weekend.

It would be at a new place, new settings, new team building games and also organized by new Introduction Weekend Officer but, we'll have the same objectives, same way of running it, same spirits and most important the same FUN !!!!!!

I'm now recruiting coordinators and staffs for the upcoming IW. For those who have been supporting us, welcome back! Nevertheless, for those who missed the chance or those who attended IW but ain't got enough;

Well, what are you waiting for? It is NOW, the time to join us!

The event wouldn't be a success if not for your patronage.

Dates:

5 November 2009 - Dateline for staff registration

28-29 November 2009 - IW simulation***

18-20 December 2009 - IW

*** more detail on IW simulation will be post up on the next announcement

Positions up for grab:

1. Registration Team* (2 Positions)

- In charge of participants registration, processing and direct contact person of

participants' inquiry pertaining IW.

2. Public Relation Team* (3 Positions)

-as the name suggest, publicize the IW via press release, notification in colleges and

universities etc.

3. Coordinators ( 10 Positions)

-To be the daddy and mummy of the participants during the IW and PIW**

-Only open to ex-ventures only.

4. Camp Team (5 Positions)

- In charge of the whole camp site which include water supplies, decent meals and not

forgetting the safety of both participants and staffs.

- Need a few recces to survey the place and IW simulation will ensure everything falls

according to plan.

5. Logistics Team (5 Positions)

- In charge of transportation of equipments, participants and staffs during IW and

IW simulation.

- Need a few recces to survey the place and IW simulation will ensure everything falls

according to plan.

- To coordinate a cleaning session (of equipments) some time after IW

6. Medics Team (3 Positions)

- Responsible for all participants and staff medical issue during IW.

- Must have related background knowledge.

7. Game Facilitators (16 Positions)

- To facilitate and adjudicate the assigned games + briefing and debriefing

- To make sure that the game site and equipments are safe to use

- Have to attend one of the training/briefing sessions

i.e IW simulation and the others will be announced in near future

8. Trailblazers (3 Positions)

- Responsible in making sure that the route of trek is clear and safe.

- To scout and/or sweeper during IW

Please take note that a minimal contribution fee of RM10*` will be collected from all staff on the 18th of December during registration in IYC.

*Please note that both Registration Team and Public Relation Team will finish their task as we set off to the camp site, therefore there is an option to take up another role during the actual IW.

**For PIW, each team's Coordinators are expected to have at least one representative if not all (better still).

Therefore, please state your availability as arrangements will be made to accomodate one another's availability.

*`its a contribution for the 1 dinner @ IYC, 2 breakfast and 1 lunch and 1 dinner @ camp site, 1 tea @ IYC (closing ceremony) and the petrol sur-charge

Please address your interest to introweek@raleighinternational.org.my stating your info, contact number, IW/Expedition code that you have been on, and interested positions.

I will do the rest and get back to you in the shortest time. Please do not hesitate to contact me shall there be any queries.

Deadline of this IW staff registration: 5th November 2009. Due to overwhelming staff registration on the past IW; Staffs intake will be based on a first come first serve basis.

Here, I would like to thank you all in advance for the immediate reply/confirmation.

Again, Thank you!

Regards,

Dennis Gan

Happy 10th Birthday Raleigh KL

[PLEASE CLICK READ MORE FOR FULL POST]

Hey guys! How's your weekend? We had a great 10th birthday celebration back in end September and the Raleighians had great time singing Birthday song, recording MV, eating Malay cuisine, dangling lanterns around in conjunction with the mid autumn festival and much more!

Please enjoy the video yea and feel free to drop your comment about the video!

Lu Yi and Woon Chin saying HELLO to the camera with Drake

the RALEIGH Borneo tee 08H



tempting food! ummmm~yum yum~



'We are family! I've got all my sisters with me!'



Street poster


and last but not least......view THE VIDEO! [if the video does not appear due to browser incompability, here's the direct YouTube link]

Till then,

sabah: sebatikkk

I was whisked away to the land below the wind a few weeks ago. The place where some people disappear to for 10 weeks and returning with post expedition blues for the rest of their lives, I was told. I had the chance of a lifetime to visit loads of interesting places and meet a few Raleigh-ians (including the one that Kalaivani calls ‘THE LEGEND’) along the way.

An 8 hour bus ride from KK to Tawau had me waiting at the jetty for the ferry to Pulau Sebatik at 4am in the morning. Thankfully Kalaivani was there with me. I was informed beforehand that there is only one ferry a day coming out and entering Pulau Sebatik, and the island is half Sabah, half Indonesia. Currently an ex-venturer is residing there doing her postgraduate research in marine conservation - Irrawaddy dolphins to be exact. (Yes, there are dolphins in Malaysian waters! And yes, they are in the wild!)

Shu Woan’s research is to estimate the abundance of this species of dolphins, observe their behaviour as well as residence patterns. Ultimately, a conservation plan will be drawn up to protect their numbers from dwindling.

The research station is actually a wooden house on stilts! There is no electricity during the day, the generator runs from 6pm to 6am. There’s a space ideal for sunbathing during the day and watching fire flies at night. Very expedition-y.

I was allowed to tag along her sampling with one condition - I stayed in the super huge ziplock bag. I guess everyone was too lazy to give me a bath.

Though the idea sounds fun, research has to be carried out meticulously. Two species of dolphins occur in the waters here; hence one has to be able to differentiate between the two species.

The area surrounding Shu Woan’s study site is a logging area as well as oil palm estate. Furthermore, there are irresponsible trawlers who trawl at shallow areas. Shu Woan hopes that her research will eventually bring changes to this area. She also mentioned that guest (err... volunteers) are most welcomed.

On the eve of Kalaivani and me leaving Sebatik, Shu Woan decided to join us on our mini loop. My whereabouts after Sebatik is another story......