Expedition 12A Has Gone to the Land Below the Wind

It is the new year and a new start for Raleigh KL in general. A new batch of venturers has left for the first expedition of 2012, aptly coded 12A. 12A will be an adventurous and inspiring experience for all of them. There are 9 venturers in total coming from the K.L. side. Have you all wondered what do they do at expedition?

This time around, Borneo Expedition 12A will be building a kindergarten for the village kids and also other village kids too, three gravity water feed systems to ensure that they do get quick and easy access to water, helping with conservation of the Sunbear sanctuary, preserving one of Sabah's treasure, Danum Valley, a forestry survey in a remote region, along with the all popular trekking and diving!

Without further ado, let me introduce to you the venturers that are already there for their first week of training in Sabah. The names underlined are from expedition 12A.

On Gunung Nuang, at Kem Pacat.

Top from left: Chew Yoke Yuen, Choo Geng Qian, Evonne Lee.

Bottom from left: Jeremy Cheang, Lok Chen Haw

After Gunung Nuang, at the mount hill.

Top from left: Hock Soon, Shen Quang, Jia Yee, Hii Ning

Bottom from left: Liang Keat, Kit Yen, Chen Yang, Khai Ping, Yi Xiong

Missing from the picture is Liow En De

You can send them mail by snail mail at this address;

Venturers Name,

Expedition 12A,

Raleigh,

PO Box 14182,

88848 Kota Kinabalu,

Sabah, Malaysia.

You can follow their adventures at raleighborneo.blogspot.com as well.

Do write to them. That will be the few communication from the outside world that they would get.

If you want to look for your own expedition, you can email me, Shen Quang, at expedition@raleighinternational.org.my.

February Monthly Meet: Construction for a Cause

A quick overview of the project: this centre for Orang Asal (OA) children is being run by a semi-retired couple. It works something like a boarding school. The children are from various kampungs around Malaysia with parental consent and endorsement of the local native leaders.

The purpose of the school is to provide basic primary education i.e. reading and writing for OA kids. In addition, the children are taught discipline, responsibility and life skills. Since joining the school, there has also been marked improvement in the hygiene and health of the children.

The couple relies on donations from friends and contacts for things such as rice, books, stationery, and clothes. Most of the funds come from the couple’s own pockets. Right now they occupy a space at a community retreat venue that is available for most of the year, rented out to the couple on a ‘payable when able’ basis. The space houses around 10-15 children.

During our first recce in August, we found children who were barely over a metre tall, healthy and chirpy. They were reading, drawing, chasing chickens, doing kitchen duty and folding their own clothes. There is hope that these children will graduate from here, carry on with secondary and tertiary education, and eventually be leaders of their own community.

There have been more requests for enrollment from other Orang Asal parents. Now the couple wants to build a proper boarding school, with hostel for boys & girls and a bigger classroom. Some work has started on a piece of land in the area, purchased with the couple’s own EPF money. A volunteer has helped draw detailed plans for the chalet-style accommodation for the kids and the couple. They will use recycled materials, attap roof and little tree trunk blocks from the land they clear, also due to cost.

The work that is available to us now is as follows:
1. Clearing the shortcut trail to the work site
2. Clearing the proposed site for building the dorms
3. Making the exterior walls of the dorms
4. Extending electrical cables to the new teaching hall


Location: Bentong (Pahang)
Date: 4 – 5 February  (Public holidays fall on the 6 – 7 Feb)
Project type: Community Project
Meeting point: Gombak LRT Station
Meeting Time: 7:30am (Please be punctual or else you will be left behind!!)


Day trip (Package A): RM55

*Includes lunch, working tools, insurance and transportation fee


Itinerary:
Saturday 4th February
07:30am – Registration at Gombak LRT
09:30am – Reach project site
10:00am – Start work
12:30pm – Lunch
01:00pm – Raleigh Monthly Meet
02:00pm – Continue work
05:00pm – Finished work. Group photo.
05:30pm – Pack and leave
07:30pm – Reach KL

Things to pack: (*mandatory)
1. Change of clothes*
2. Towel / Sarong (for changing) + plastic bag*
3. A bottle of 2L water*
4. Messtin / Food container and metal / plastic cup + fork / spoon*
5. Daypack*
6. Your personal medication
7. Camera / Gadgets in waterproof bags
8. Insect Repellant*
9. Rain cloth / Poncho
10. Personal snack
11. Cap / Hat*
12. Sunblock
13. Small towel
14. Covered shoes & sandals*

**No sandal or slipper allowed at the worksite


2 days 1 night (Package B): RM85

*Include 2 X lunch, 1 X dinner, 1 X breakfast, working tools, insurance, accommodation (dormitory) and transportation fee


Itinerary:
Saturday 4th February
07:30am – Registration at Gombak LRT
09:30am – Reach project site
10:00am – Start work
12:30pm – Lunch time
01:00pm – Raleigh Monthly Meet
02:00pm – Continue Work
05:00pm – Finished work. Group photo.
05:30pm – Trekking back to rest house (dormitory). Shower & free and easy.
07:00pm – Dinner
09:00pm – Surprise activity
10:00pm – Bed time

Sunday 5th February
06:00am – Wake up. Shower and prepare to trek to worksite.
07:00am – Breakfast
07:30am – Trekking to worksite
07:45am – Briefing
08:00am – Start work
12:00pm – Finished work. Trek back to rest house (dormitory).
12:15pm – Lunch
01:00pm – Transfer to famous Sg.Chamang waterfalls
01:15pm – Shower & Free and Easy
03:00pm – Pack and leave
05:00pm – Reach KL

Things to pack (*mandatory)
1. Change of clothes*
2. Towel / Sarong (for changing) + plastic bag*
3. A bottle of 2L water*
4. Messtin / Food container and metal / plastic cup + fork & spoon*
5. Daypack*
6. Your personal medication
7. Camera / Gadgets in waterproof bags
8. Insect Repellant*
9. Rain cloth / Poncho
10. Personal snack
11. Cap / Hat*
12. Sunblock
13. Small towel
14. Goggles and Personal floating device
15. Swimming wear/ Bikini*
16. Sleeping bag

**No sandal or slipper allowed at the worksite


How do I register?

Step 1: Register yourself at http://goo.gl/Cce8v

Step 2: To secure your seat, please bank in the full payment to our CIMB account within 5 days from registration.

Step 3: Take a photo of your bank in slip and email to monthlymeet@raleighinternational.org.my

Step 4: You will receive a confirmation email and details of what to bring on the day.


Please kindly bank in the full payment to:

Beneficiary Name: Pertubuhan Raleigh International Kuala Lumpur
Name of Beneficiary Bank: CIMB Bank Berhad
Account Number: 1430-0006860-05-5


Deadline for Registration is on 2 February 2012


FAQs


1. Will there be any proper accommodation and washroom if I am staying overnight?
Yes, you will be staying in a dormitory with bed and proper washroom.

2. Is there a public toilet at the worksite for us to use when we are working?
No. However, there are toilets near the accommodation, about 8 minutes by foot from the worksite.

3. Are there any mosquitoes and leeches at the worksite?
Definitely. Please do bring along your insect repellent. Leeches are usually only found near water.

4. Is breakfast provided on the 4th Feb morning (Sat)?
No, please have your own breakfast before the meeting time or you may pack some light food with you.

5. Is dinner included if I participate in the day trip (package A)?
No, dinner is on your own.


Any queries, call:
1. Qing (016-2050540) – sms preferred
2. Hii Ning (012-2263277)
3. Li Ann (012-2069443)
4. C.K (012-3852051)

The Rest House (dormitory)

Chamang Waterfall

A short hike to Sungai Chilling waterfalls

7.30am: A clear grayish-blue sky overlooked the skycrapers surrounding KL Sentral departure entrance. That was where participants gathered for headcount before departing to destination, the Sungai Chiling waterfalls in Kuala Kubu Baru.

8.00am: After registration, everyone hopped into the assigned car and set off.

9.00am: Within an hour or so, the convoy reached the welcoming arch of Sungai Chiling fish sanctuary. Joining us that day were the honorable Mr. and Mrs. Razak, together with their two adorable sons. Mr. and Mrs. Razak were the pioneering members of Raleigh International who went to expedition in Bahamas and Chile. It was a great pleasure to have them with us. Buzzing with excitement, we had a round of ice-breaking and also a hearty discussion on ongoing projects and expedition.

10.00am: Soon after the registration at the ranger hut, we started an hour journey on the wet and sandy trail. We crossed 6 rivers, some up to the waistline, till we were all drenched in sweat and river water.

11.00am: We reached the first waterfall. It was an amazing sight, with the fountain cascading down 5 storeys high of rock formations, and lush greenery surrounding the secluded spot. Fish were spotted loitering in the still pools, while hovering over them are stony platforms for people to sunbathe. Without much thought, we dropped our bags and waded into the water. Some clambered up onto the slippery ladders made of natural rocks, and plunged off into the gushing waters.

2.00pm: After some splish-splashing, we returned to land with a mounting appetite. It was a perfect time for a serving of steamy soup and hotpot ingredients. Everyone chowed down lunch.

3.30pm: Time flew. After cleaning up the area, we left the first waterfall and walked back towards the ranger’s hut. It started drizzling right after we stepped into the starting square.

4.30pm: We finally reached Kl Sentral. It was a remarkable experience to see such beauty in the makings of Malaysian rainforest. Provided enough time and resources, some vowed to return and witness the wonders of the second and third waterfalls in Sungai Chiling area.  

January Monthly Meet at Sungai Chilling Waterfall

Sungai Chilling, a spectacular getaway for nature-loving weekenders

Cascading waters from lofty heights towering over a bed of sand grain, chilling winds chiming in the evergreen forest floors, Sungai Chilling waterfalls is truly a spectacular sight to behold.

Nestled ...among the confluence of mountains is the growingly popular weekend camping and picnicking site, Sanctuari Ikan Sungai Chilling. Aside from the breathtaking waterfall scenery, it also prides itself as a sanctuary for Ikan Kelah, a kind of indigenous fish which are harmless.

Located at approximately 55km from the hustling city hub of KL, it is easily accessible by car within an hour. With a mere fee of RM1 for up-keeping, the Sungai Chilling entrance is fully furnished with a well-kept washroom, camping site and a ranger’s hut.

The underlying path of rocks and wet soil which leads itself to a suspension bridge overlooking a river’s gushing flow, marks the beginning of an adventurous hike. Look out for bush spikes and slippery pebbles along the way.

Great for the lion-hearted, river crossing is inevitable. Waters can range from ankle high to waist deep determined by the weather’s pattern; therefore good shoes are a must.

Within an hour or more, the first waterfall is within reach. Watch the friendly neighborhood fish as they are expected to nibble at any feet or food in the pool. With a pair of goggles at hand, weekenders can dive in and bump into more fish.

Followed by the pool of Ikan Kelah, is the second and third waterfall located upstream, which rewardingly, is the lunch picnic area. Swimmers can immerse themselves while others can dip and frolic in the refreshingly cold water.

Although nature might have proven its beauty, waterfalls are extremely hazardous and unpredictable. Above all else, SAFETY is the priority.

So, slip in your Getah shoes and join us on the second Saturday of January 2012, together with your family and friends to this unforgettable getaway and be in awe of nature’s workmanship.

Oh! Did you know that we’ll also be having a steamboat that day? Come! Join the fun!


Before joining, read this:

Date: 14th Jan 2012 (Saturday)

Time: 7.30am - 4.00pm

Meet-up point: KL Central (KLIA Express Departure Hall Entrance – Opposite Sooka Sentral)

Fee (Pay upon arrival): RM20 Non-member
RM15 Member


Daily Agenda:
07.30am: Registration at KL Central
08.00am: Move out (8.00am sharp)
09.00am: Reach Sg Chilling entrance + Ice Breaking + Raleigh Monthly Meet
09.40am: Trek starts
11.00am: Reach waterfall + relax
12.30pm: Lunch is served
01.30pm: Free and Easy
02.00pm: Clean up + leave picnic site
03.00pm: Reach Sg Chilling entrance + toilet break + head to KL Central
04.00pm: KL Central drop off


Suggested Attire:
1. Comfortable clothes for hiking and river crossing (remember, we’ll get pretty wet)
2. Hiking shoes/Kampung Adidas/Shoes with good grip

Things to pack: (*mandatory)
1. A change of clothes*
2. Towel / Sarong + plastic bag*
3. A bottle of 1.5L water*
4. Messtin / Food container and metal / plastic cup + fork / spoon*
5. Daypack
6. Your personal medication
7. Goggles and Personal floating device
8. Swimming wear
9. Camera / Gadgets in waterproof bags
10. Insect Repellant
11. Rain cloth / Poncho

Food: Lunch (only) is provided

How to Register?
Join now by filling up the form at http://goo.gl/dfoIh
Please note that updates will be informed through emails.


Deadline for Registration is on 12th January 2012


Any queries, call:
1. Qing (016-2050540) – sms preferred
2. Li Ann (012-2069443)
3. Marble (012-6137525)
4. C.K (012-3852051)

Introduction Weekend Camp Dec 2011 is here and registration is now OPEN!

Ever fancied a life of adventure, discovery and excitement? Join a hundred strangers. Walk a hundred miles. With no change of socks. To sleep with bugs and bathe in streams. Would you give up the comforts of home in pursuit of a crazy dream?

Previous Raleigh International projects include building gravity feeds to supply fresh water to villages, building houses, schools, bridges and libraries; geological surveys, marine conservation work, working with rhinos & orang utans; as well as trekking across the Crocker Range, sea kayaking in Chile and trekking across some of the most arid parts of Namibia.

This year Raleigh International gives young Malaysians the opportunity to embark on life-changing expeditions to Malaysia, Costa Rica-Nicaragua & India. These expeditions challenge young people, between the ages of 17 and 24 through community and conservation work in some of the world’s most remote destinations. Volunteers help build homes, community clinics and work with wildlife experts on some of the world’s most endangered species.

To qualify for an expedition as a Venturer, you have to be between 17-24 years of age, speak basic English and able to swim 200m unaided and qualify yourself at an Introduction Weekend. This Introduction Weekend is designed to simulate the rigours and challenges you will face on expedition. The details for the upcoming Introduction Weekend are as follows:


Dates: 6pm on Friday, 16 Dec to 6pm on Sunday, 18 Dec 2011
Rendezvous: Rakan Muda Youth Club (refer to map)
Contact person: Cynthia: 017 - 954 8007
                             June: 012- 976 8519
Email: iw.secretariat@raleighinternational.org.my
Price: RM65 (before 28th November 2011) ~early bird~
            RM80 (after 28th November 2011)


You may download the form by clicking the url below:
http://www.mediafire.com/?kd1c7zxup4hz43p

This document is your application on Raleigh International Kuala Lumpur’s Introduction Weekend and is your first step to a chance of a lifetime.

Please fill in this form and submit back to us (iw.secretariat@raleighinternational.org.my) by 9th of December 2011. This document once completely filled and submitted will be your request to be accepted into IW and eventually Raleigh expedition. Please note that incomplete applications (incomplete fields, lacking a referral or photo) will not be considered.

December Monthly Meet - Sun burned for a cause

It was a very extraordinary sunny day. Extraordinary because it’s the raining season but the weather was unexpectedly sunny without a breeze. 22 dedicated volunteers gathered at the Sungai Buloh’s KTM station in the early morning. 5 drivers had to drive very carefully through an adventurous distance of muddy and bumpy road to enter the Furry Friends Farm from the main road.

 

When we reached the farm, we were greeted by Sabrina with a swift division of 3 teams – one to build concrete stand for 4 water tanks to supply sufficient water for the farm, one to paint the swings and build huge cages for the dogs and one to patch up holes on cemented floor. We were introduced to a few civil engineer uncles who also volunteered themselves to help up in the farm. The engineer uncles were very kind to teach us how to arrange the bricks to make a wall. We were almost burned and it was very unbearably hot when it was closer to noon time. But as dedicated volunteers we continued with our works.

We had our lunch and refreshing 100 plus drink at a very secluded place, but we still could not run away from the sun.

The work continued after lunch and it is so hot that we start to take turn to rest at the shady place.

 

Finally we are done at 3pm! We managed to build 8 walls which are 5 feets high, painted six swings white, and patch up almost all the holes on the cemented floor.

Sabrina then toured us around her farm to show us the dogs and cats. We managed to played with the cats and have some refreshing packet drinks. Then Sabrina briefed us about the farm and we presented her 8kg of dog food, 7kg of cat food and 22kg of rice as donations from Raleigh.

Then we departed back to KTM Sungai Buloh Station and reached there around 4pm and everyone is happy with what they had contributed to Furry Friend Farm.

Updates on Expedition 11K

Good day,

Do you know how long is a phase on expedition? In this case, it has been two phases down and now the Borneo Venturers are on changeover day. After this changeover they will be heading into their third and final phase. In the midst of the hot and humid tropical rainforest, the Venturers work tirelessly to impact the community and the surroundings in Sabah.

Shen Wah is the latest addition to the list of Malaysian Venturers in Borneo. She is on for the 7 weeks expedition.

Shen Wah concentrating on building the bridge for

the Sepilok Sunbear Conservation Centre

for Alpha 4.

Ng Zhi Min was on trekking mode for a while before going to dive island. And then she went on to trek again later on in the Crocker Range.

Zhi Min is seen here resting and

pondering on the beauty of nature in art form.

Lai Lee Keam (Jean) in Lingka Bugan to enrich the lives of children in the village by building a kindergarten.

Lee Keam with her Alpha 2 showing a funny face for the camera in Lingka Bugan

Liew Chia Sin in Kampung Alab to also build a kindergarten for the villagers.

Chia Sin with her Alpha 1 mate posing for the picture

You can write to the venturers at;

Venturers Name,

Expedition 11K,

Raleigh,

PO Box 14182,

88848 Kota Kinabalu,

Sabah, Malaysia.

Like to know more about expedition or follow the adventures of this 4 brave young women? Go to www.raleighborneo.blogspot.com. All pictures are taken from there.

Read up more on expedition on raleighinternational.org.my or email the Expedition Officer, Shen Quang at expedition@raleighinternational.org.my

Do write to them soon. They will be back in 3 weeks time to tell their new tale.