Showing posts with label [Selangor] ALL POSTS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label [Selangor] ALL POSTS. Show all posts
I've been so busy with work and I've had virtually no time to travel and update my blog. A hectic mundane life. ARGH! I felt like a slave - TRAPPED, CHAINED and LOST OF FREEDOM. Those dreadful feelings. All hope is not lost after all....the wait is finally OVER! I'm officially on two weeks holidays and enjoying every second of it. WOOHOO!
I'm travelling, photographing and writing again! YES!!!
The road trip to Melawati Hill (Malay: Bukit Melawati) in Kuala Selangor, Malaysia was a LONG......one. I decided to take the Kuala Selangor Omnibus (Number 141). It was a two hours trip from Medan Pasar Kuala Lumpur (Selangor Bus Hub) to Melawati Hill. A boring ride.
The morning was miserable with dull and cloudy sky. SIGH! To make matter worse, they were GAZILLIONS of mosquitoes...MADNESS! I had mosquito bites all over my legs and arms! UNBEARABLE ITCH! But it did not deter me. I took a few deep breaths, clear my mind, regain my focus and then walked all the way to the top of Melawati Hill.
The Silvered Leaf Monkey (Trachypithecus cristatus), also known as the Silvery Langur were hiding in the trees. I waited patiently for them - 30 minutes, 1 hour and then 2 hours gone. I almost gave up hope. Then, an elderly man arrived with a super bike....he's my SAVIOR!
I met him before. He is a retired police officer. He looked at me and asked "Monyet belum turun lagi?" (translation: "The monkeys not coming down from the trees?"). I nodded my head and expressed my displeasure. He continued "You kena sabar. Sekejap lagi dia turun" (translation: You need to be patient). I've waited long..... enough. It's time to go back.
Halfway walking down the hill, the elderly man rushed to a huge tree. He made some very loud noise...."HEY! HEY! HEY! GOO! GOO! GOO!" All of a sudden, the Silvered Leaf Monkeys came running toward him. My jaw almost dropped. WOW! THIS IS NOT A JOKE! He is an animal whisperer, our very own Doctor Dolittle.
The rest is history. I spent another few hours capturing these beautiful primates in action with my newly bought Nikon 3200 with 18 - 105mm VR Kit.
Title: The Chain Smoker?
About: Capturing a Silvered Leaf Monkey in A.C.T.I.O.N is not an easy task, but it can be achieved with patience (loads of them). You might ask "Is he really smoking?" Find your answer in Picture 2 :)
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/500 s
ISO: 2200
F-STOP: f/5.3
FOCAL LENGTH: 80mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: Nah...he's a bean eater!
About: The Silvered Leaf Monkey found himself a crunchy green bean. OM NOM NOM NOM...
Did you know? The silvery lutung is a specialist folivore (a herbivore that specializes in eating leaves). It does also eat fruit, and some seeds and flowers.
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/500 s
ISO: 1800
F-STOP: f/5.6
FOCAL LENGTH: 105mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: WHOA!
About: You gotta LOVE this expression! I'm not sure what's going on in his mind...but this is definitely a precious moment :)
View HI-RES
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/500 s
ISO: 1800
F-STOP: f/5.3
FOCAL LENGTH: 66mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: Show me some L.O.V.E ❤
About: This is one of my favorite shots. The comforting right hand and that deep thought on the face. I can't stop wondering what's troubling him.
Did you know? The silvery lutung is found across Borneo and Sumatra, as well as in parts of the south-western Malay Peninsula, the Natuna Islands, and other nearby islands. It inhabits mangrove swamps and nearby forest regions, and generally avoids travelling far from coasts or rivers.
VIEW HI-RES
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/125 s
ISO: 220
F-STOP: f/5.6
FOCAL LENGTH: 80mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: The CAUTIOUS look
About: A female Silvered Leaf Monkey looking out for potential danger.
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/500 s
ISO: 2200
F-STOP: f/5.3
FOCAL LENGTH: 70mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: HISS!!! I'm FIERCE and FURIOUS!
About: In a split second the female filled with anger. That aggressive look...I think this would scare the shit out of most people. But it is another valuable shot. Talking about being in the right place at the right time :)
Did you know? The social structure of silvery lutungs is matrilineal and harem based. Females remain in the group for life, while males leave shortly after reaching adulthood, living in small groups of their own until they can take over an established harem.
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/500 s
ISO: 2500
F-STOP: f/5.6
FOCAL LENGTH: 105mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: Rock-a-bye baby, in the treetop ♪ ♫
About: A female Silvered Leaf Monkey carrying her young one.
VIEW HI-RES
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/500 s
ISO: 560
F-STOP: f/4.5
FOCAL LENGTH: 40mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: Mommy, I want milk
About: Hungry babies will do many things to tell you they are hungry. This newly born baby was having a deep eye contact with his mom.
Did you know? The female gives birth to a single young after a gestation period of 181 to 200 days. The young weigh about 400 grams (14 oz), measure about 20 centimetres (7.9 in) and are well developed, with a strong grip for holding onto the mother.
VIEW HI-RES
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/500 s
ISO: 500
F-STOP: f/5.6
FOCAL LENGTH: 92mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: Curiosity
About: Junior reaching out towards another sibling.
VIEW HI-RES
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/500 s
ISO: 720
F-STOP: f/5.3
FOCAL LENGTH: 75mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: The baby
About: Newborn silvered leaf monkeys differ considerably, as they have conspicuous bright orange fur with white hands, feet and face. The skin changes to black within days of birth, whereas the orange fur changes to the adult silver-black color after three to five months.
VIEW HI-RES
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/500 s
ISO: 720
F-STOP: f/5.6
FOCAL LENGTH: 105mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: Love and Protection
About: Snug, secure and comfortable right next to big momma :)
Did you know? The young are cared for by females communally, and are not weaned for 18 months.
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/500 s
ISO: 640
F-STOP: f/5.6
FOCAL LENGTH: 85mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Title: The beginning
About: An up close and personal shot.
Did you know? The silvery lutung is classed as Near Threatened by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), and is listed in Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species).
Its habitat is heavily threatened throughout its range by logging and the development of oil plantations. The species is also threatened by hunting for meat and by capture for the pet trade.
Photo Technical Details:
SHUTTER SPEED: 1/125 s
ISO: 280
F-STOP: f/5.6
FOCAL LENGTH: 105mm
CAMERA: Nikon D3200
Melawati Hill (Malay: Bukit Melawati) - Getting There, Directions:
By bus
Visitors can board Selangor Bus No. 141 from Medan Pasar Bus Hub in Kuala Lumpur. The bus departs half-hourly from KL between 6.30am and 7.30pm, and takes 2 hours (++) to reach the bus terminal at Bandar Melawati, Kuala Selangor. (The last bus for the return trip from Kuala Selangor to KL is at 7.45pm)
The one-way fare is RM7.30.
By car
Make your way towards Sungai Buloh exit from North-South highway and follow the road signs towards Kuala Selangor. Alternatively if you are starting your journey from Klang, you can drive towards Kapar and head straight from there towards Kuala Selangor. Either way, the journey should not take longer than 80 minutes.
Google Maps
View Larger Map
Melawati Hill (Malay: Bukit Melawati) - Things to See and Do:
- Silver Leaf Monkeys
- A huge lighthouse built in the year 1907. This century old structure is still in use today to guide ships that sail along the Straits of Malacca.
- Kuala Selangor Historical Museum.
- Poisoned Well
- Kuala Selangor Nature Park (at the bottom of the hill)
- Melawati Fort
- Bed Rock
- Place for sighting of 'New Moon'
- Royal Mausoleum. This mausoleum is the final resting place of the first three Sultans of Selangor.
1st Sultan of Selangor: Sultan Salahuddin (1742 - 1778)
2nd Sultan of Selangor: Sultan Ibrahim (1778 - 1826)
3rd Sultan of Selangor: Sultan Mahmud (1826 - 1857)
Melawati Hill (Malay: Bukit Melawati) - Read More and Useful Links:
Silvery Lutung (Wikipedia)
Kuala Selangor (Wikitravel)
Bukit Melawati (Journey Malaysia)
Last updated August 26th, 2012 (4:36 p.m.)
I've been complaining and ranting...too much. LOL! So today I'm going to let my pictures do the talking. It's Tuesday August 10th, 2010 (2:00 a.m.). I can barely keep my eyes open. YAWN! :) But I do want to mention something about the carnival. Overall Aboriginal Cultural Carnival 2010 has been declared a FANTASTIC success by both organisers and attendees alike. It was a real eye-opener for me to realize there are different aboriginal tribes out there. I’ve learned so much about indigenous culture and lifestyle. I just feel so privileged to experienced the carnival up close and personal.
Everything looks perfect. But I want to see a bigger level of celebration of our treasured aboriginal culture. Put this carnival in Central Market, Merdeka Square or Star Hill. We need to educate public to learn to appreciate other cultures and to gain greater insights and understanding about each other's preferences, likes and dislikes.
Public education is the key to helping our younger Malaysians to understand Malaysian History in true form and to lead our nation into the future with the full understanding of the past, present and where they may best position. We should be proud of our Orang Asli cultural heritage!
Malaysia Boleh! (translation: "Malaysia Can Do It!") Orang Asli pun boleh! Click HERE to read Part 1
A few days ago, I was experimenting with different picture layout to make this Part 2 different or perhaps a li'l interesting. All in all I'm quite happy with the results ^_^ On a personal note I want to express my sincere thanks to all my readers. Your readership is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your ongoing support and encouragement. I promise I'll visit your blog as soon as possible. Alex Loke signing off. ADIOS and see you next time!
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 12:24 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [55mm f/5.6 manual 200 ISO 1/60 sec]
The carnival singer :)
According to Wikipedia, 'dondang sayang' is a type of Malay love ballad that is made up of 4 musicians who perform on the violin, 2 rebana and a gong or tetawak. The chief musician is usually the violinist who plays a primary role in dondang sayang, providing a counter melody to the vocal melody. Click HERE to watch the performance.
中文: 大家好! 我是歌手 English: Hello everybody! I'm a singer
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 2:30 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [32mm f/4.8 manual 800 ISO 1/320 sec]
A musician beating a type of gong aka bossed nipple gong.
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 1:40 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [55mm f/5.6 manual 800 ISO 1/80 sec]
Let the bamboobeat begin!
中文: 拍手, 土着山歌 English: Clap, indigenous folk songs
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 1:51 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [48mm f/5.6 manual 200 ISO 1/100 sec]
Getting ready for the big dance.
中文: 跳舞 English: Dance
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 11:33 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [35mm f/7.1 manual 100 ISO 1/200 sec]
Spread the LOVE!
中文: 姐姐 English: Elder sister
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 10:05 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [48mm f/5.6 manual 800 ISO 1/320 sec]
Charcoal sweet potatoes. A cook holding a pair of handmade gigantic bamboo chopsticks.
中文: 白薯 English: Sweet potato
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 11:49 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [20mm f/9.0 manual 100 ISO 1/320 sec]
Fish and chicks! WAKAKAKA!
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 2:25 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [44mm f/5.3 manual 200 ISO 1/60 sec]
Two ladies performing 'Dondang Sayang' - a type of Malay love ballad, originated in Malacca sometime in the 15th century and influenced by traditional Portuguese folk music. Loud but melodious vocal.
中文: 二重唱 English: Duet
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 2:29 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [55mm f/5.6 manual 800 ISO 1/400 sec]
Two musicians playing rebana. According to Wikipedia, rebana is a name that is used for several types of drums that are used in Islamic devotional music such as zikir, dance music, and other types of traditional Malay song and in dance Malaysia, Brunei, Indonesia and Singapore.
中文: 打鼓 English: Beat the drum
Chinese to English translation from Chinese Tools
Note: Here are the remaining photos that I have from my Aboriginal Carnival collection, which of course includes some of my very favorites pictures!
Great news! A Malaysian Photo and Travel Blog is now accessible on the ever-popular social networking site, Facebook.com! If you are on Facebook, I would love it if you would become a fan of my official page.
Last updated August 15th, 2010 (8:50 p.m.)
I've always complained about my life. Many times I asked myself, 'why is life so unfair?' I guess I found the answer at last - life is not fair and will never be fair. There seems to be purpose to the intrinsic inequality of life after all. But then again I just wanna live my life to the fullest. Nothing more, nothing less. There are so many wonderful things I want to do. I'm still searching for true happiness. Everybody wants peace, joy, to be happy and have real fun! It's easier said that done. LOL! Nevertheless, life can be beautiful and I found it at Aboriginal Cultural Carnival.
Earlier I received a Facebook invitation to visit Aboriginal Cultural Carnival at Muzium Orang Asli in Gombak, Kuala Lumpur (KL). At first, I wanted to reject the invitation. Just click 'NO'. I need some weekend rest badly. But it's an event not to be missed. During the last two years, I've met numerous aboriginal tribes in Peninsular Malaysia - from Cameron Highlands, Pahang to Mount Nuang, Selangor. Their smiles made my day. Everyone is always so friendly and pleasant to interact with.
Many times I have asked myself: How can they achieve happiness despite living in such social and economic conditions. It puzzled me. Sometimes I wish I could trade places with them. Back to the story...I decided to check out this carnival. My very first aboriginal carnival.
I had high expectations. According to the carnival activities, visitors were encouraged to participate in traditional aboriginal cooking demo, cultural dance, musical performances, games (such as blow pipe) and many more. The event was held at Muzium Orang Asli (translation: Aboriginal Museum) right next to Orang Asli Affairs Department (JHEOA) hospital.
As usual, I was one of the earliest visitors. The organizers and Orang Asli were putting the final touches to the event. So here I am...waiting for the official launching by the Director General of Jabatan Hal Ehwal Orang Asli (JHEOA). Halfway strolling down an aisle, I was stopped by an officer. He asked me:
"You dari mana?"
(Translation: Where are you from?")
I was asked that same question many times. DUH! I don't want to sound rude. Is it really important? This is a public event. Anyone is welcome to join...RIGHT? Now, don't get me wrong. Overall my host was excellent and made the whole experience very enjoyable. The staffs were wonderful and I felt completely comfortable from the moment I arrived. I was even introduced to the Chief Curator of the Museum, event manager and many other VIPs. WOW! I ENJOY basking under the limelight and LOVE the gracious hospitality. You don't see this very often in KL, Malaysia.
That's all for now. I still have PLENTY of photos and videos to share with you. Stay tuned for PART 2 for more exclusive shots and in-depth travelogue.
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 8:52 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [36mm f/5.3 manual 200 ISO 1/100 sec]
What looks like a simple shot, turns out to be a challenging picture to set up! I wanted to snap an up close and personal shot showing her hands mixing a pile of meat with spices. But she removed her hands whenever I zoom in my lens. LOL! I repeated to her many times: "I want your hands in the picture". At last she understood. We laughed our heads off. WAKAKA!
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 9:48 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [38mm f/5.6 manual 100 ISO 1/125 sec]
Breakfast and lunch ala Orang Asli (translation: Aboriginal people). The cooking demo was an eye-opener for anyone who loves food and those who haven't been exposed to the world of Malaysian aboriginal cooking. I've spent almost two hours observing the aboriginal elders preparing delicious indigenous delicacies.
In this picture: 'Ikan salai' aka smoked fish. These frankly ugly specimens were smoked for about an hour, turn out to be deliciously moist, meaty and fragrant, as fine as any imported mackerel. A dish served best hot with bamboo rice.
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 8:51 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [20mm f/5.0 manual 200 ISO 1/100 sec]
Looks like a lemang, smells like a lemang. These are bamboo goodies - with sweet potatoes, chicken meat, spices and natural chicken stock. Y.U.M.M.Y!
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 9:54 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [55mm f/5.6 manual 250 ISO 1/500 sec]
A cook flipping the smoked fish to ensure even cooking.
When the fish is about 70% cooked, flip it over and cook it the rest of the way through. Sprinkle some of the cooking oil over the top to add an extra crispness to the skin. LOL! I sound like Jamie Oliver :)
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 1:57 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [26mm f/4.2 manual 500 ISO 1/500 sec]
It was another hot and muggy day in Selangor! I was sweating like a pig. This is an open stage at the museum. By afternoon, I was getting tired. Luckily, the traditional aboriginal dances were exciting and kind of hip hop in a way :) I LOVE the music. Beautiful tunes created with simple musical instruments such as hollow bamboo sticks.
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 1:40 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [55mm f/5.6 manual 800 ISO 1/250 sec]
An aboriginal elder from Temiar tribe playing bamboo musical instruments for traditional Sewang dance. If you look at the picture carefully, you'll notice a state of intense concentration of energy and absorption. I called it 'Deeply Tranced'. Check out my YouTube videos for more.
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 11:21 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [55mm f/5.6 manual 800 ISO 1/320 sec]
A photo of a male aboriginal dancer from Mah Meri tribe in Carey Island, Selangor. Their legends and myths are expressed through dance and song, as well as through elaborate costumes. Did you noticed? He looks like the extra-terrestrial warrior from Predator :)
Malaysian indigenous dance usually varies from one tribe to the next. The one thing these dances have in common is the elaborate costuming presented with each dance. Each costume is as distinct as the dancer.
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 11:19 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [38mm f/5.3 manual 800 ISO 1/400 sec]
According to Asiaexplorers, Mah Meri Mask Dance, called Mayin Jo-oh, is a traditional dance performed by the Mah Meri tribe of Orang Asli in Malaysia. The dance is performed to invite the ancestral spirits, or muyang, to join in the festivity. In this dance, the performers wear grotesque masks and perform with movements and gestures to relate everyday events such as fishing and celebrations.
There would be two male dancers and five female dancers. The male dancers are the ones wearing the mask. The masks worn in the Mah Meri Mask Dance depict the spirits of birds and other animals that inhabit the Mah Meri's surroundings, such as the swamp and the sea. The female dances wear skirts of mengkuang leaves and plaited mengkuang head dress.
The female performers dance anti-clockwise around an earthen mound, called a busot, while the male masked dancers performed clockwise around the women. The dance is performed accompanied by the music from the tuntog (bamboo stampers), jule (viola), tambo (double-headed drum) and a-tawa (brass gong). Accompanying the dance is a vocalist who will render out ritual songs.
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 11:04 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [26mm f/4.2 manual 640 ISO 1/500 sec]
This is one of the most energetic dances. It was LOUD and JUMPY :) An excellent show from Sali Babola Cultural Group.
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 11:04 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [18mm f/3.5 manual 450 ISO 1/500 sec]
The crowd was just SO SHOCKED that they erupted into applause only five seconds later. This picture reminds me of Micheal Greyeyes - a renowned actor, dancer, director, and choreographer from Canada.
In a Canadian magazine article, Michael wrote: "It is said the drum is the beat of Mother Earth, and we dance in sync with the Earth's rhythms. A dancer's heart also beats with the drum…When we hear the drum and see the dancers, each step reminds us that at this moment, past and present are linked."
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 10:48 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [40mm f/5.3 manual 200 ISO 1/80 sec]
I walked to the backstage and stumbled upon a group of dancers waiting for their next performance. Dealing up close with camera-shy indigenous people is REALLY difficult!
I assumed they were afraid to have their spirit stolen. But when I asked them if this was the case, they laughed and said, No, we just doesn't like to have our picture taken. I've felt the same way many times myself, so I realized that being camera-shy is just as prevalent in other cultures as it is here in Malaysia :)
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 9:45 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [34mm f/5.6 manual 100 ISO 1/125 sec]
I LOVE photographing kids! Beautiful innocent look, natural expression and raw complexion.
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 11:06 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [55mm f/6.3 manual 100 ISO 1/160 sec]
LOL! This kiddo was following me all over the carnival. I decided to snap a close-up shot. He posed for me with his treasured binoculars :)
Location: Muzium Orang Asli, Gombak, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Date: July 31st 2010 (Saturday), 11:45 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [55mm f/8.0 manual 100 ISO 1/250 sec]
A long line of eager photographers waited patiently at the backstage. The dancers were happy to oblige and many of them seemed particularly eager to pose...after much coaxing :)
Great news! A Malaysian Photo and Travel Blog is now accessible on the ever-popular social networking site, Facebook.com! If you are on Facebook, I would love it if you would become a fan of my official page.
Last updated August 4th 2010 (12:52 a.m.)
Aboriginal Carnival 2010 - My YouTube Videos:
Click HERE for complete playlist (Part 1 - Part 5)
Hi everyone! This is the second article in a three-part series on Putrajaya Flower and Garden Festival a.k.a FLORIA 2010. Yet another blockbuster trilogy in the making :) It's an article jam-packed with EXCLUSIVE floral pictures NEVER been seen before. FLORIA 2010 - the story continues below. Click HERE to read Part 1.
Putrajaya is a planned garden city that acts as a federal administrative hub of Malaysia. It is 46 km2 (17.8 sq mi) in size and covers 11 000 acres of land in Prang Besar, Selangor. This is one BIG place for civil servants! The federal buildings are ULTRA MODERN and ABSOLUTELY STUNNING!
I dare to say this is one of the most expensive, purpose-built cities in the world. We have our very own World Expo in Putrajaya. And it's a permanent fixture. LOL! Anyway I guess it's not that bad, after all. Putrajaya reflects the better part of our country (Islamic, beautiful and modern); a real representation of how much Malaysia has developed.
Putrajaya FLORIA 2010 is the one everyone is looking forward to and the one everyone had really high expectations for. Sadly though, it takes very little time to realize that FLORIA 2010 doesn't quite live up to expectations: it looks small and budgeted. I'm disappointed in this year's toned down event. Well people have been complaining about the same thing. Now don't get me wrong, it’s still great fun, but it doesn't quite have same wonderful randomness it used to.
Anyway Putrajaya FLORIA 2010 is still the PERFECT place for a photography retreat. The Floral Avenue is gorgeous and enchanting! The sideways are decorated elaborately with flowers of every color and fragrance. Visitors can't seem to pass up the opportunity to have their picture taken. The avenue was packed with people, and that meant long lines! It's very frustrating but I've learned to be patient and enjoy the process :) There's a saying, "If you can't lick 'em, join 'em".
After that, I visited the Garden Bazaar. There are over 50 stalls selling flowers and potted plants, packets and bottles of organic fertilizers, traditional arts and crafts and many more. The bazaar is a must-see attraction for Malaysia visitors and tourists alike. Sadly there are only a few tourists. There are a lot of factors to be blamed for this poor turnout. The prominent being the lack of creative marketing and global promotion.
Sigh...Tourism Malaysia and Perbadanan Putrajaya (translation: Putrajaya Holdings) need to wake up to a glaring reality! Please be more CREATIVE! In today’s challenging tourism environment it takes more than just throwing millions of ringgit into advertising. Just look at our Malaysia Pavilion for Shanghai World Expo 2010. Marketing Malaysia as a premier golfing destination? LOL!!! I rarely see tourist playing golf - not even once. I wonder whose idea it was. Yes, it's bizarre.
Next, I walked to Laman Seni (translation: Art Square). Perbadanan Putrajaya invited many talented artists and craftsmen to Putrajaya FLORIA 2010. Public are invited and encouraged to participate in the workshops, art and craft sessions, talks and other artist activities. The Art Square is a hive of activity. Children love the opportunity to be part of FLORIA 2010. The children’s art and craft workshops at the Art Square give them that artistic experience and more. Kudos to the volunteer professional artists and craftsmen! Keep it up! You all worked so hard and the event went off like a charm, well done!
By midafternoon, it was HOT like FIRE! I quickly ran to the Floral Pavilion. It seems like everyone is waiting to enter the indoor air-conditioned building. This year’s floral festival has attracted ten participants from Britain, Canada, New Zealand, the Netherlands, Serbia, Australia, Japan and Taiwan. Some from Britain are coming fresh from the Chelsea Flower Show.
I was expecting to see top notch floral design from international award winning master gardener and floral experts. They did not disappoint believe me, there was some wonderful, creative and fun creations and I would like to thank all those who came to participate.
That's all folks! Putrajaya FLORIA 2010 is a small festival but still worth the visit. If you want to avoid the crowds, explore FLORIA 2010 early in the morning. This event runs until Sunday July 18 2010 (10 p.m.). Next, Putrajaya FLORIA Part 3 - End with a BANG! Stay tuned peeps!
FLORIA Garden Bazaar
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 11:15 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [18mm f/5.6 manual 100 ISO 1/125 sec]
There are plenty of makeshift stalls in FLORIA 2010 Garden Bazaar. The bazaar is a farmer's and wholesaler's market that set up daily along the eastern end of the avenue. This is the BEST place to buy dirt cheap fresh-cut flowers and potted plants.
The man in black (in this picture) is the boss of this orchid shop. This stall is a must visit for orchid lovers as it's one of the best places to buy award winning orchid plants. Look out for the shop covered with black colored mesh.
Oops!...I Did It Again!
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 12:49 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [32mm f/6.4 manual 100 ISO 1/160 sec]
Look at those brush strokes on the table. I guess the boy was trying to get the correct color for his stone painting. I should have auctioned off the white cloth at Christie's as a piece of Random Strokes by Picasso. LOL!
It's harvest time
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 12:49 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [32mm f/9.0 manual 100 ISO 1/320 sec]
Some exhibits by Lembaga Pemasaran Pertanian Persekutuan, FAMA (translation: The Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority). This is one of the many Special Garden Showcase at FLORIA 2010.
This paddy showcase by FAMA is rather lame and boring. The lack of interactivity to encourage greater public participation in these displays was a particular disappointment. The least they could do was to add more details.
A family affair
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 11:54 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [24mm f/5.6 manual 160 ISO 1/125 sec]
As we celebrate, let us bring our people closer together in unity, regardless of race, colour and religion. The floral festival is a wonderful way of bringing the family closer together; it's the perfect chance to meet many new interesting people. By the way, I ran into into PM Najib :) You really need to come to this festival!
Congkak, anyone?
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 12:41 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [45mm f/7.1 manual 100 ISO 1/200 sec]
According to Wikipedia, Congkak (a type of mancala game) is believed to originate from the word ‘congak’ which in old Malay Language means mental calculation (without writing it down). It is believed that the game originated in Malacca Kingdom where it became very popular and spread to the South East Asia region. The objective of the game is to capture more seeds than one's opponent.
Seven seeds are placed in each hole except the stores, which remain empty. The objective of the game is to capture more seeds than one's opponent.
Traditional woven basket
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 11:36 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [22mm f/8.0 manual 100 ISO 1/250 sec]
A makeshift stall selling hand woven basket and massage shoes. These baskets, hand-woven of rattan fibre, are a loose weave to allow water or air to pass through the basket and around its contents. Most of these items were made by Orang Asli (translation: aboriginal peoples) found in Peninsular Malaysia.
Big Bird
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 1:04 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [45mm f/5.3 automatic 100 ISO 1/25 sec]
The famous yellow colored cartoon character from Sesame Street made an appearance at FLORIA 2010. A floral Big Bird, you gotta LOVE IT! Manggis Garcinia mangostana eyes, ice cream cone-like beak and chrysanthemum feathers. Big Bird smells so good! There's a lot of hugging going on. Kids everywhere love the Sesame Street character :)
Floral batik
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 12:41 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [26mm f/6.3 manual 100 ISO 1/160 sec]
A beautiful piece of batik cloth created by an experienced artist at Laman Seni (translation: Art Sqaure). Batik is a cloth that traditionally uses a manual wax-resist dyeing technique. The batik workshop is a favorite among parents of all age groups.
According to Wikipedia, Malaysian batik can be found on the east coast of Malaysia such as Kelantan, Terengganu and Pahang, while batik in Johor clearly shows Javanese and Sumatran influences since there is a lot of Javanese and Sumatran immigrants in southern Malaysia. The most popular motifs are leaves and flowers. Malaysian batik never depicting humans or animals because Islamic norms forbid anthropomorph and animal images as decoration. However, the butterfly theme is a common exception. The colors also tends to be more light and vibrant than deep colored Javanese batik.
The white chick
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 1:07 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [30mm f/4.8 automatic 1250 ISO 1/30 sec]
Another cute looking cartoon character created with floral materials. Head shaped like a gigantic golf ball. LOL!
Gimme light
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 10:57 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [55mm f/8.0 manual 100 ISO 1/250 sec]
Existing light photography a.k.a available or natural light photography is the BEST! Natural light qualities such as direction, intensity, color, and harshness can change dramatically, not only depending on the time of day, but also the weather conditions.
Natural light is at its most beautiful and flattering in the couple of hours after sunrise and before sunset. Here is one of my favorite natural light shots taken during the recent Putrajaya International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta. Click HERE.
The beehive scepter
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 10:51 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [48mm f/8.0 manual 100 ISO 1/250 sec]
Beautiful and exotic flowers! The flower looks like the first man-portable and non-lethal deterrent weapon. LOL!
According to montosgardens, Beehive Ginger - Zingiber spectabile (Zingiberaceae) is erect, from 6-8 feet tall, and the inflorescences are basal. The bracts are pale yellow in a young inflorescence, becoming red as it matures, especially if it gets some full sun. All parts of the plant have a strong gingery fragrance. Attractive in the garden and as a cut flower. Blooms from July through November. Propagated by division, stem cuttings and seeds.
Bromeliad, the red star
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 11:26 a.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [55mm f/7.1 manual 100 ISO 1/200 sec]
A flower with star-burst red petals. I love the randomness of the petal size and directions. Simply GORGEOUS!
The lost garden
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 12:29 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [18mm f/8.0 manual 100 ISO 1/250 sec]
A man-made tropical garden featuring plants with very large leaves (such as banana and Bird of Paradise).
Plastic garden
Location: FLORIA 2010, Precinct 2 Putrajaya, Selangor, Malaysia
Date: 10th July 2010 (Saturday), 12:16 p.m.
Camera: Nikon D60 [22mm f/7.1 manual 100 ISO 1/200 sec]
A creative garden by Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM). Billed as a unique fusion garden with a harmonious combination of natural plants and recylced plastic materials. One of the many university gardens in Putrajaya FLORIA 2010.
Last updated July 21 2010 (12:03 a.m.)
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Putrajaya FLORIA 2010 - Directions, Getting There & Maps:
This is a thumbnail screenshot. Click link to download.
FLORIA 2010 - Venue Overall Layout (1 page, JPG File, 568kb)
By Bus
1) Take Rapid KL bus number U82 from KL Sentral to Bandar Utama
2) From Bandar Utama, change to Bus U43 to Putrajaya Sentral.
Putrajaya Sentral is the main public transportation hub of Putrajaya.
Two major bus companies are operating in Putrajaya Sentral - both Rapid KL and Nadi Putra. Rapid KL take passengers from outside of Putrajaya from places such as Bandar Utama, Serdang and Cyberjaya whereas Nadi Putra routes are confined to within Putrajaya.
By Taxis
Coupon taxis from KL Sentral to Putrajaya cost a fixed RM35. For more information, please refer to the following links:
- http://tinyurl.com/ykjovmv (Putrajaya Sentral, main transportation hub of Putrajaya)
- http://wikitravel.org/en/Putrajaya (Wikitravel article about Putrajaya)
Putrajaya FLORIA 2010 - Google Satellite Maps:
View Floria Putrajaya in a larger map
Putrajaya FLORIA 2010 - My YouTube Videos:
Putrajaya FLORIA 2010 - Contact Details, Opening Hours & Itineraries:
FLORIA is located on a 25 hectares land along the Waterfront, Precinct 2, Putrajaya. It is located directly opposite the National Registration Department or Jabatan Pendaftaran Negara building. FREE entrance.
Opening Hours & Dates:
Start Time:
Saturday, July 10, 2010 at 8:00am
End Time:
Sunday, July 18, 2010 at 10:00pm
9am – 10pm
(Monday-Thursday)
9am – 12midnight
(Friday-Sunday)
Organizer Contact Details:
Perbadanan Putrajaya,
Kompleks Perbadanan Putrajaya,
24, Persiaran Perdana, Presint 3,
62675 Putrajaya
Malaysia.
Telephone : 603 8887 7137
Fax : 603 8887 5034
Official portal: http://www.ppj.gov.my/putrajayafloria/floria.html
FLORIA 2010 - Complete schedule of activities and programmes (15 pages, PDF File, 142kb)
Putrajaya FLORIA 2010 - Things To Do/See (180 Activities):
- Society and growers of heliconia, orchid, bonsai (annual showcase garden)
- Corporate, PBT & NGO showcase garden
- International showcase garden (Japan, Taiwan, Britain and others)
- School and university garden
- Floral Pavilion
- Garden bazaar
- Exhibition and garden talks
- Nature photography contest
- Watercolour competition
- Batik and wau making workshops
- Wayang kuilit (shadow puppet theater) performances
- Cultural shows (including dikir barat)
- Graffiti demonstration
- Laman Seni featuring arts and crafts
- Garden design competition
- Garden talks and demonstrations
Putrajaya FLORIA 2010 - Read More/Useful Links:
- http://tinyurl.com/2ar4zgl (All my articles on Putrajaya FLORIA 2010)
- http://www.ppj.gov.my/putrajayafloria/floria.html (Official portal of FLORIA 2010)
- http://tinyurl.com/2dakseb (Floral creations in Putrajaya a feast for the eyes, TheStar)
- http://tinyurl.com/29agzoj (More than 500,000 visitors expected at Floria Putrajaya 2010, The Star)
- http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/5flora/Article/ (Floral festival blossoms in Putrajaya, NST)
- http://www.nst.com.my/nst/articles/People_Passionforflora/Article/ (People: Passion for flora, NST)
