Sarawak and Sabah - July
Much have been said of how Malaysians from the Peninsular side hardly ever visited their neighbouring Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak. Not surprising since city dwellers may not find forest reserves, the sea, mountains, exotic animals (all the primary tourist attractions for both these states) that much exciting, plus a stereotype that most of the places there are under developed.
I for one had always wanted to find a reason to go there. Using the excuse that they have far hotter women than the Peninsular isnt something of an excuse (they do!). Thus two main events in July was the perfect reason (yes it was that long since my last entry!). That 2 events were the world famous Rainforest Music Festival (running for the 11th year) and the mind blowing adventure of climbing Mt Kinabalu, Malaysia highests peak and the 20th prominent one in the world.
Rainforest World Music Festival 2008, Sarawak
Where better than to celebrate the diversity of world (or ethnic) music than right in the middle of a serene and lush rainforest, where the gamut of ethnic music fused with world beats and jazzy fusions along with sounds of local / traditional musical instruments bring a harmony of wonderful melody. From the corners of Africa to deep in Europe to the edges of Asia, bands from all over the world come together annually to celebrate 3 days in a potpourri of music, cultures and traditions.
2008 was the 11th year and some may argue that last year's was better, but for a first timer like me...it was truly mindblowing and fantastic! The trip was more exciting especially seeing the motley crue of AIESEC trainees and international folks that were my travel buddies.
What surprised me even further was the fact the rainforest was right next to a gorgeous beach! And towering the beach and rainforest is the imposing Mt Santubong, making the scenery absolutly gorgeous. So imagine, lazing on the beach during the day and move into the forest for a jamming good time later at night! Now thats how you spend your holidays!
For those who care to read this blog, I truly recommend attending this at least once in your lifetime! Especially to those abroad, what better way for me to promote gorgeous Malaysia than this event.
As for me...I am definitely going back again!
Mount Kinabalu, Sabah
Right after the sun, sea and singalongs (I am trying to allitirate here...) 5 of us flew to Kota Kinabalu, Sabah for our next adventure...climbing to the summit of Mt Kinabalu. Much have been said of how much you DONT need to prepare for the climb as its probably the easiest of climb in terms of mountain climbing. So much so I didnt even bother to prepare proper climbing gears ie. gloves, proper sweaters, shoes etc.
Now who would have thought of it to rain in a tropical forest area?! Right...? Stupid Malaysian that is me! So with most of the climb in pouring rain, I've never froze so much and it ever I was close to feeling a little frost bite (ok over dramatic here), that was it. Nevertheless it didnt dampen the climb although it did hurt much on the ego knowing there are much smaller girls who climb faster than myself. So after reaching the halfway mark, it was done to warming myself up and getting some food. Not to mention cam whoring! It did get to a point that my DSLR was a wee bit heavy that I blamed it for slowing me down!
Well besides the gorgeous view on the way up, which I tried to capture despite totally not comfortable breathing in thin air, there werent many exciting side stories to share. I guess the focus was to just keep on going and be totally driven by it. During the 2nd half of the climb which was done at 2am onwards...to be honest I had to keep telling myself I had to do as the brink of giving up was soooo sooo close! Again, I blame my camera and unpreparedness...with low stamina coming a close 2nd! :D
Low's Peak (how ironic) was the highest peak and after several hours of climbin (I would consider it to be "hiking"), I finally reached the summit just in time for sun break at dawn. Fingers were bloody freezing that I had trouble clicking my camera even! But I had to make sure that I get the shot that I ve always wanted...
Picture of Mt Kinabalu plateau in the background of RM1 note which has Mt Kinabalu plateau in the background
And boy was it a picturesque peak! Didnt know how gorgeous rocks can be, especially looking down towarda the plateau. I dont know what I felt most, all I knew was its total joy and satisfaction muddled by heaps of tiredness. However I wasnt sure if its towards my achievement reaching the summit...or snapping heaps of amazing photos...or damn bloody glad its over!
Hmmm...come to think of it, the descend was probably far worst on my knees than the ascend. Although it was fairly less tiring than the climb of course.
Kanye sang "I gotta testify, come up in the spot looking extra fly...
For the day I die, I'mma touch the sky"
Bonz said the same...but he didnt die
He just went up high
High up the mountain sky
Muscles cramp i could bloody cry
Alt sickness, O2 low caused the lungs to dry
For more amazing photos;
