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Monday, July 15, 2013

Aquaria KLCC


From exploring exotic tropical waters to wading through steamy rainforests, Aquaria KLCC takes you on a spellbinding journey of discovery. Experience first-hand a fascinating world teeming with life and learn more about their habitat and way of life.

We begin our journey from the source of water in the highlands to the swelling rivers and ultimately, the deep sea.

Take a step into an ancient rainforest and into the cacophony of our land-dwelling friends that play host to unique creatures above the water. Not to be missed are our creepy crawlies, chitinous & venomous predators who beckon you hypnotically as they sway with the rhythm of the jungle.


The Highlands

The journey of water is a tale that begins in the majestic highlands, a long road that begins as water evaporates & condenses into rain, wending its way back towards the sea through rivers & streams. As water makes its way back to the great ocean, it breathes life into its surroundings, providing both sustenance and shelter to millions of organisms both on the land and in the sea.

According to the theory of evolution, life on earth dates back millions of years and has adapted to change many times over.
To help you get started, our Evolutionary Wall provides a high-level overview on how fossils trapped in bedrock for millennia have given us a glimpse on how marine life has evolved to the creatures that they are today

Touch Pool

To gear you up for an exciting journey with us, we whet your appetite for adventure by daring you to tease our ravenous, flesh-eating piranhas in our Piranha Tank. Legends say that these denizens from the Amazon River are known to strip their victims' flesh to their bones in less than a minute during a feeding frenzy.

For those of you who prefer a more cheerful experience, children can make new friends at the Interactive Pool area. Over here, visitors are encouraged to grab the rare opportunity to observe, touch and feel our exotic exhibits such as the horseshoe crab, spotted starfish and our gentle bamboo shark. Do remember to take a photo before you say goodbye..

The Electric Zone

A short distance away, bear witness to one of nature's more intriguing forms of evolution, where animals defend themselves by discharging electricity. Our amazing exhibits include the Electric Eel, Electric Catfish and the Elephant-Nose Fish. Watch closely as they electrify their way when threatened by danger!

The Stream

Streams originate from precipitation and underground springs beneath the jungle terrain. They flow downhill and gradually swell into rivers which drain into the mighty ocean. Jungle streams, with its sandy floor and flattened rocks, are home to land and aquatic animals such as freshwater Alligator-Snapping Turtles, Giant Water-Rats and the Asian Small-Clawed Otters (courtesy of Zoo Negara) who are eager to entertain and bring laughter.

Jewels of the Jungle

Proliferating under the dense tropical rainforests, the effervescent surroundings beneath a canopy of leaves is home to a diverse community of life-forms that depend on each other in their survival. Plant your feet firmly and step into the jungle, only to gaze in wordless rapture as you approach these unique creatures. Look into the eyes of the tree-bound Coatimundi, freshwater turtles, tarantulas, lizards and poisonous snakes and heed the call and rhythm of the jungle.

Also, don't forget to check out our frog corner & insect section (courtesy of Museum Negara). Take a moment to understand more about our amphibious friends with a short presentation on the lifecycle of frogs, before heading over to discern a riot of shapes and hues depicting exhibits of colourful butterflies, moths and beetles

Flooded Forest

Nature is indeed a spectacle to behold. Every year, during the wet season, heavy rainfall swell up rivers and overflow their banks, leaving the surrounding forest submerged in water for many months.

As you walk down the steps, you will be greeted by an ethereal glow, illuminated by light reflected from thousands of silvered scales swirling within our tube tank. The tube tank ensconces an ancient tree trapped beneath the water to reveal a world filled with fervor and intent.

In the nutrient-rich waters of these underwater forests, aquatic life flourishes, becoming a nursery ground for hundreds of species of fishes including the giant catfish and the Arapaima from the Amazon – The world's largest freshwater fish that is known to grow up to 10 feet long!

The Coast

As the river meets the sea, mangrove swamps begin to thrive and provide a thriving breeding ground for many fishes including the archer fish that spits at their prey. The shallow waters are home to a variety of marine life, providing a close encounter with our friendly Spotted Rays, Bamboo Sharks, Giant Horseshoe Crabs and Porcupine Fishes that dart across the surface.

Oceanarium

The vastness of the open sea and the entrancing rhythm of life is recreated in our Oceanarium. This journey is experienced through a 90 meter transparent underwater tunnel and a moving walkalator to take you on your adventure beneath the depths.

Be mesmerized as you come face-to-face with our ferocious Sand Tiger Sharks, or pass unheeded as Giant Stingrays navigate through the corals, only to reveal the gentle dance of Green Turtles gliding through the depths. Take your time to soak in the atmosphere, as the waters envelop you with a sense of tranquility, as you become on with the ocean.

Be sure to watch carefully for the moments when the peace and quiet is occasionally shattered by the shoals of fishes swimming away from their deadly predators.

For those of you who have abit more time, you are definitely in for a real treat! A spectacular live show of our divers feeding these marine creatures is performed twice a day at our Aquatheatre for your viewing pleasure.

Weird and Wonderful

With oceans covering almost 70 per cent of the Earth's surface, it is left largely unexplored and uncharted deep beneath the waves. Here it is a place where thousands of bizarre and unusual life-forms call home .
Try to spot the venomous stonefish with its blotchy and textured skin. Their skin forms a near-perfect camouflage resembling an algae-covered stone against a cluster of rock. For some fish, it is the last thing that they see before they are consumed by our chameleonic predator.

Walk into the darkness and bear witness to the fascinating body patterns of the pinecone fishes as you wade deeper into the shadows.

Discovery Zone

Corals are made up of marine animals called polyps which are related to jellyfish and anemones. Millions of these polyps extract calcium and carbonate from seawater to build inner skeletons that form the framework of a coral reef. Take a seat and relax on a simulated boat deck of the Explorer II and discover the difference between hard and soft corals, and the alarming rate of coral bleaching caused by ocean acidification.

Further ahead, say hello to our Sea Jellies, a mysterious marine creature that are transluscent with no skeletal structure and even fewer internal organs. Watch intently to see the marvellous effects of coloured lights against the Phantom Jellies in our circular-shaped aquariums.

sources http://aquariaklcc.com







Thursday, June 13, 2013

Tangkak the "Fabric Town"

Tangkak is a district capital of Ledang, in the state of Johor, Malaysia. It lies close to the neighbouring state of Melaka, especially to Jasin town and district of the state and about half an hour drive from Melaka city centre. The town is nicknamed "Fabric Town" or "Syurga Kain" in honor of its many cloth shops. It is also well known as Gunung Ledang (Mount Ophir), which is the highest mountain in Johor, just 17 km away from the town centre of Tangkak. The mountain is clearly visible from any part of Tangkak
Truly fabric town! 
Numbers of cloth shop
Tangkak during night
Street view


whole year sale!
Row of fabric shops along the road!  

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Authentic Malacca ‘asam pedas’

Delicious asam pedas at Selera Asyura restaurant.
Located in Jasin but border to Johore state,beside the authentic asam pedas it also have nice view from Chohong river because it near to Tangkak Recreational Park.


Address: Gerai No1, Kampung Chohong,77000 Jasin Melaka
Contect: Rosmawati 013-6819316
Business Hour 8am - 8pm
Closed on Sunday

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Penang: What to See and Do!

Soak in the sun at one of the many beaches, explore the quaint nooks and crannies of George Town, feast on delicacies from hawker street stalls, shop at the many quaint night markets and much more. Offering the best of Asia, Penang 's sights and sounds reflect the colourful heritage of her many races and the pride of her people. Be it lush tropical gardens or ornately designed temples and unique heritage buildings, Penang will give you a glimpse into a world where nature, tradition and history blend into a rich cultural tapestry.Live like a local and see what laid back Penangites love to indulge in - travel in trishaws and shop at the many quaint night markets. Be adventurous and explore!
Though there are definitely more than 10 interesting things to do in Penang, here's our Top 10 picks of “must-dos” when visiting the Pearl of the Orient.

no.1

The Streets of George Town

Experience the unique charms of Straits eclectic architecture and sights from our colonial past that has earned George Town a place in Unesco’s heritage site listing. Here, every clanhouse and building represents a page of  Penang’s colourful history and every street corner has a tale to tell.

Better still, join the guided walking tours organised by Penang Heritage Trust (from RM50/person) or do with ‘green wheels’ – via a bicycle or trishaw package tour by Metro Bike www.metrobike.com.my (from RM88/person).


no.2

Penang famous hawker fare

Penangites love to eat – that is a fact. And as the saying goes, when in Rome do as the Romans do! Penang street food encompasses Chinese, Malay and Indian “fast food” all served in a matter of minutes! Eating by the roadside stalls and coffee shops is an experience second to none as you watch locals of all races indulge in their favourite past time – food!


Penang Hill
no.3

Penang Hill

At 821m above sea level, Penang Hill visitors will be privy to some of the grandest colonial mansions (which are now restaurants and guests houses) while enjoying the cool, refreshing air and panoramic views of the island. Take a short 30-minute cable car ride up Penang Hill from the funicular station in Air Itam or trek up the hill via the Botanic Gardens – a three-hour hike through lush foliage of the rainforest.


no.4

Places of worship

Grand churches, elaborate Buddhist and Indian temples and magnificent mosques are all part and parcel of the local culture. Be it the St George’s Church (built in 1816), Kapitan Keling Mosque, Kek Lok Si Temple, Snake Temple (yes, there are live snakes inside!) or Sri Mahamariamman Temple, the different races often converge at these places of worship to practice their faith and it is indeed, a sight to be hold.

no.5

National Park (Muka Head)


While Penang’s National Park in Pantai Acheh may be the smallest in the country, it is by no means less impressive. Eco-attractions like the pristine Pantai Kerachut beach and meromictic lake (a body of sea water and fresh water that do not mix) provide the perfect spot for picnics and fishing, swimming and trekking. Boat rides can also be arranged or those who want to visit the nearby islands. Also, do look out for the old lighthouse which was built in 1883 – it is still operational and visitors are welcome!


no.6

The Weld Quay Clan Jetties

The clan jetties perched on the backwaters of George Town are home to five main Chinese clans – Lim, Chew, Tan, Lee and Yeoh. Today, the young ones, who no longer depend on the sea for a living, have moved out of the settlement while their elders continue to enjoy the wooden jetties’ laidback lifestyle. These humble, rickety jetties are a living heritage that serves as a reminder of the island’s stature as an important maritime port and the pioneer Chinese immigrants who came to seek their fortune here more than a century ago.


no.7

Flea markets, pasar malam and modern shopping malls

From the Lorong Kulit and Rope Walk flea markets to the Campbell Street, and Little India traditional shopping areas and modern shopping malls like Gurney Plaza and Queensbay (just to name a few), Penang is a shopper’s paradise.

Even if shopping is not your thing, do spare a few hours browsing (especially at the local antique shops and handicraft centres) because it’ll be worth your while! Bargaining is a skill that is best honed in Penang where the traders are quite a friendly lot.



no.8

Batu Ferringhi Beach

With its sandy shores and vast open sea, Batu Ferringhi offers an amazing respite from the hustle and bustle of town. Check into any one of the resorts that line the stretch and spend your afternoon soaking in the soothing sound of lapping waves and bright sunny rays of this tropical paradise.

At night, the popular tourist belt comes to life as traders hawk their wares while eateries bring out their best menus to satiate even the most discerning of palates.

The Batu Ferringhi night market offers some eye-catching knick-knacks including wood carvings, silver jewellery, crockery and display items.





no.9

Upper Penang Road and Chulia Street

For those who love to drink and party, the Upper Penang Road party hotspot in George Town comes alive when the sun descends on the horizon. Here, you will find pubs, karaoke lounges and clubs with live bands where the drinks keep flowing and the beat keeps thumping! At nearby Chulia Street, backpackers chill and bond in little budget motels, coffee shops and watering holes that serve relatively cheap(er) beer and drinks.



no.10

Butterfly Farm


This tropical butterfly farm in Teluk Bahang is so famous that it was visited by former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and his wife when they came to Penang for a private holiday in 2008. A live museum with winged beauties fluttering about as well as a breeding research centre, the farm is an eco-tourism gem indeed.

Penang: What to Eat!

Penang gourmet ranges from street food to fine dining but her myriad of flavours are definitely unique to the island state.
With each race offering their own traditional fare, foodies will be spoilt for choice.
Although every culture has their signature dishes, they are also influenced by other cooking styles and have managed to come up with their own special creations that represent a beautiful blend of tastes and spices.

no.1

Nasi Kandar

Rice served with an unending list of curries and dishes meticulously prepared with fish, chicken, squid,
prawns and beef – a hearty meal for those who love aromatic spices!



no.2

Laksa

There are two variations of the Laksa – one is sour and tangy while the other is cooked with rich coconut milk.



no.3

Char Koay Teow

This flat, fried white noodle dish has been described as a taste of heaven and it is certainly no exaggeration!



no.4

Hokkien Mee

The Penang version of this dish is craved by many including those who do not hail from the state. The yellow noodle cooked in tasty prawn soup is definitely a local favourite!




no.5

Nyonya dishes, deserts and kuih

The Nyonya community’s cooking skills are legendary. Infused with herbs and spices, the dishes are a perfect accompaniment to steaming white rice while the desserts and local cakes (kuih) are a sight to behold with their unique soft texture and colourful appearance – sinfully delicious.

no.6

Rojak

A delicious mix of fresh fruits and vegetables like pineapples, cucumber and water apples with cuttlefish slices. Generously topped with a local prawn paste dressing, it is a heady combination indeed!



no.7

Bukit Tambun Seafood

Bukit Tambun on the mainland is only a short distance from the Penang Bridge and serves some of the cheapest and freshest variety of seafood in the country! Indulge in succulent prawns, tasty crabs and your favourite fish dish without burning a hole in your pocket.



no.8

Pasembur

A slightly different version of the Rojak, the Pasembur features a mix of deep fried items and shredded vegetables. The dressing is a peanut-based sweet sauce that will leave you hungering for more.


no.9

Eurasian food

Sourcing for authentic Eurasian cuisine maybe a bit of a challenge because the community is dwindling in numbers. However, the Little Penang Street Market at Upper Penang Road (only on the last Sunday of each month) and a small Eurasian restaurant tucked away along Kelawai Road serve very good Eurasian specialties. Among the popular dishes are the Debel (Devilled) Curry, pickles, sweetmeat, roasts, patties, spicy Mulligatawny Soup, kedgerees, stews and pies.



no.10

Bak Kut Teh

Pork ribs simmered in herbal soup, Bak Kut Teh is a well-loved Chinese dish. Often, regulars will request for “extras” like pork intestines and pork skin. Eaten with white rice, nothing beats a steaming hot bowl of Bak Kut Teh!

Thursday, January 3, 2013

Gua Tempurung, Ipoh


Location: The cave is located in Lembah Tempurung (Tempurung Valley) near Gopeng, Perak, Malaysia. It is 25 km to the south of Ipoh, the capital of the state of Perak.

Exact Site: It is a massive cavern inside Gunung Tempurung (Tempurung Mountain) standing at 497 metres high. It is visible from the North-South Expressway near Gopeng.

Classification: Karst cave. It is a cave of marble limestone (calcite calcium) of the Kinta limestone type.

Cave Age: More than 400 million years old.

Cave Length: 1.9 km.

Cave Height: 120 metres.

Number of Domes: Five gigantic domes with ceilings resembling coconut shell (tempurung), hence its name Gua Tempurung. Gua is the Malay word for cave.

Galleries: The five domes form the showcase galleries beginning with Golden Flowstone Cavern, Gergasi (Giant) Cavern, Tin Mine Cavern, Alam (Universe) Cavern and Fallen Warrior and Battlefield Cavern.

Underground River: The river is called Sungai Gua Tempurung. The river passage runs about 1.6 km through the cave inside Gunung Tempurung.


Spectacular Features: Large and intricate cave system with beautiful speleotherms like stalagmites, stalactites, rim stone pools, curtains, straws, calcite crystals and pillars. These and more form the natural limestone cave architecture. The most commonly known formations are stalagmites (growing on the cave floor) and stalactites (growing on the cave ceiling or wall). Just remember this “mantra”: the “mites” go up and the “tites” come down! They develop when the calcium bicarbonate containing water drips down joints in the cave roof. The drop can partially evaporate and it hangs a little. Small amount of calcium carbonate is also deposited and it leaves a cascading effect. When the drop drips, partial evaporation happens and when the drips splash on the floor, they cause stalagmites to grow. Generally, stalagmites are thicker than stalactites, which are thin and fragile. When stalactites grow too long, they break easily.

Cave columns are formed when the calcium carbonate deposits from above meet the ones below. There are also finger formations called helictites that originate from stalactites. Finger curtains are formed when water runs through a long crack in the roof, causing dripping to take place at several spots. When water continually flows down a wall or along a floor, a flowstone is formed. Ridge pattern effects occur when heavy rainwater falls over irregular surfaces.

The river or stream flows along the cave passageway at the lowest part of the cave gallery. The stream has potholes below the water surface, and pools where the floor dips. It has different water levels at different stretches, from ankle deep to chest high. The stream finds its way out of the cave and hillside.

Animals found in the caves include bats as well as various insects, worms and mites. Fishes also thrive in parts of the stream and pools outside.


Brief History: The cave was first identified in 1887 in the Map of Perak-Malay Peninsula, which indicated a mountain spelt as “Gunong Tempoo Rong”. The Department of Minerals and Geosciences estimated the age of the rock formations in the area of Gua Tempurung to be between 250 and 400 million years. The cave was also known locally as Gua Perah. Perah is a type of fruit similar to rubber seed. In the old days, there were many Perah trees near the cave. Before 1935, tin mining activities on small scale took place in the cave. During the World War 11 (1939 – 1945), the cave became a refuge for locals from the invading Japanese. The Malayan Emergency period (1948-1960) saw the cave being used by the communists as their hideout. The cave walls have hand drawn pictures and words by the communists. There are also inscription of hate slogans and song lyrics against the Japanese army. After the Emergency period, mining activities in the area resumed. In 1975, the Perak State Government appointed a cave researcher and enthusiast, J. Crowter of the German Society of Caving to carry out research on Gua Tempurung and to help turn it to become a recreation area and a tourist attraction. Circa 1994, the State Government carried out a feasibility study and in 1995, work to develop Gua Tempurung as a destination began in stages. The cave was open to the public in November 1997 and entrance fees were introduced and collected by a joint-venture company formed by Yayasan Perak and a private company, which managed and maintained the place as one of the state’s tourist attractions. In 2004, the State Government appointed APT Consortium Sdn Bhd to take over the management and maintenance of Gua Tempurung and the appointment remained valid till today. The cave continues to attract both locals and foreign tourists, with many coming from Europe, Australia, the United States, New Zealand, Singapore and other countries in the Asian region. The number of tourists has been increasingly steadily from more than 50,000 in 2005 to over 70,000 the following year.

 
Source:http://www.guatempurung.com