8 Obscure Islands in Malaysia for an Exotic Beach Vacation

Eileen Fong



I love island life. I love the sea, the sand and the sun. Although in all irony, I live in Singapore, which is technically an island, I just can’t get the satisfaction of an island escapade/adventure. I always dream of island hopping in the Caribbean, so out of desperation, I sought relief from the islands at our next door neighbour – Malaysia. I’ve been to some on the list and there are others that I’m dying to visit, like #1 and #2.

Tiga Island a.k.a Survivor Island

Pulau Tiga is the first location for the popular reality TV show “Survivor”. The island is situated off the West Coast of Sabah in Borneo. There are trails, plenty of trails on the island (including one that leads to a mud bath). It may not be your typical luxury island getaway but this uninhabited place will certainly let you escape from reality – or perhaps bring out the Chuck No land in you?

Rawa Island

Rawa Island is another option close to Singapore (even closer than Tioman!) The only way to get there is by a 1 hour ferry ride (or 30mins speed boat) from Mersing Jetty. There are fewer tourist on this small island compared to Tioman, so it may be a better choice for those who prefer less crowd. Rawa is known for its soft white sand and coral reefs rich with marine life (as it is mostly untouched).

Tinggi Island

Also accessible from Mersing Jetty, Pulau Tinggi is bigger than Rawa but smaller than Tioman. Not only does PulauTinggi offer a tranquil island life, it is also populated with lush jungles. This island can be a great family adventure offering both water activities in the deep blue, as well as rock climbing or trekking leading up to waterfalls amidst the rainforest.

Tenggol Island

Pulau Tenggol is part of a string of islands including Pulau Perhentian and Pulau Redang, off the coast of Terrengganu. This island is more well-known amongst the divers as it offers an abundant of marine life compared to other commercialised islands like Tioman. Sightings here include sharks, rays and nudibranch. For the  interest of non-divers, I will quit rambling on and introduce you to Pulau Perhentian – #5

Perhentian Islands

The Perhentian Islands have been dubbed ‘paradise’ by some. It is made up of a big island (Perhentian Bersar) and a small island (Perhentian Kecil). Both islands are fringed by sandy white beaches, and the reefs and crystal clear water are host to a wide variety of coral, sea-turtles, jellyfish, small sharks and reef-fish. Expect yourself to be part of a scene in the Beach and the Perhentian Islands are certainly not a shabby alternative to Ko Phi Phi.

Pangkor Island

Pangkor Island is situated off the coast of the Perak state, somewhere between Kuala Lumpur and Penang. It was previously reported that celebrities such as Kiera Knightley, Sting and Anna Friel are fans of the island (or more accurately the privately owned sister island Pangkor Laut). Having said that the main Pangkor Island offers a more affordable getaway with beautiful beaches like Coral Bay and Teluk Nipah.

Redang Island

I don’t think Redang Island needs any introduction. It is a haven for all islanders. Period.

Layang-Layang Island

Layang Layang Island is also commonly known as Swallow Reef Island. It is one of the most popular diving destinations for enthusiast. For the rest, it is a serene island to basically chill out. Bird watching is also a popular activity on Layang Layang. For the wanderers, do be careful because there is a naval base and trespassing will result in detention! Otherwise, just stay underwater, there’s so much to see, or bask in your deck chairs. Either way, this is a blissful island retreat.

Mabul Island – (Sipadan)

Just look at the island from atop! I want to jump into the waters right there and then. Who needs Maldives when you have Malaysia?! (Haha okay I’m kidding, I want to go Maldives too). But this place is haven – friends who have been there swear by it. I’ve included Sipandan as part of Mabul Island as it is a beautiful diving destination but I’ve been told by Malaysian friends that you need a dive permit to head there. If you don’t have one, stay on Mabul Island, which is equally deserving. Though, being number 1 comes with a price, be prepared to burn a hole in your pocket!

I dream of living in a beach house, by the deep blue sea and waking up to the waves crashing against the shore.

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South-East Asia: 8 tips for shoestring travel

TheStar

From taxi tips to cheap pints, here are some useful advice for backpacking on a limited budget in Southeast Asia.

WITH cheap digs, food and beer, Southeast Asia is the perfect destination for anyone looking to travel on a budget. Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos or Thailand; it doesn’t matter where you’re headed, Southeast Asia on a shoestring can be simple. But the cost of transport, trips and souvenir that can all add up and you might end up paying more than you expected. Here are eight top tips for making sure all those little extras don’t leave you out of pocket.

1. Take night buses or trains

Always try to book on to a night train or bus when you can. Long distance transport in South-East Asia is dirt cheap and the network pretty extensive. A lot of locals choose to travel overnight, when tickets are cheaper and your ride will be relatively comfortable. Most trains and buses have sleeper beds or reclining seats and decent air-con. Some travellers are put off by overnight travel because of safety concerns, but it carries the same risks as daytime travel, just be sure to always keep an eye on your luggage and be aware of your surroundings. It’ll save you on a night’s accommodation, plus you won’t have to sacrifice precious daytime that could be spent temple tramping or soaking up the sun.

2. Go for soft seat rather than sleeper berth

If you choose to go by night train, soft seats are the most economic choice. It may seem sensible to go for the sleeper seats, which are usually four beds on two levels per cabin, but these are often cramped and riddled with bed bugs. Don’t get the wrong idea, soft seats are not first class, but at least you get a bit more breathing space and they do recline all the way out, plus they’re the cheapest option for basic comfort. The trains in Vietnam are currently undergoing an upgrade and the rust buckets of the 60s and 70s are now slowly being replaced by more modern, often Korean, models. You’ll get the same facilities with soft seats as you would in a sleeper, including air-con and trolley service. Just don’t forget to pack your ear plugs.

3. Eat street food

A lot of travellers steer clear of street food, fearing upset stomachs or worse. The truth is that some of the freshest and cheapest food can be found on the streets of South-East Asia. You’ll pay a premium for eating “Western” food, compared with rock-bottom prices for tasty treats – from chicken noodles to sesame doughnuts – from roadside food stalls. Street food sellers buy their produce every morning fresh from the local markets so you’re sure to get the real deal. Pick a popular stand, do as the locals do and go for it.

4. Drink Bia Hoi

Go local on booze too if you’re sticking to a tight budget. Every day at about five pm, cafés across Vietnam spill on to the streets, filling the narrow pavements with miniature red plastic furniture and tubs of chopsticks. This means only one thing, Bia Hoi time. With 10p (RM0.55) pints and Asian bar snacks, including fried spinach and beef dumplings for about 50p (RM2.70) a plate, pull up a stool, watch the world go by and fill your boots for next to nothing. This daily ritual is quite common across South-East Asia and each country or town will have its own version of Bia Hoi, Hanoi’s home brew. So take advantage of these ridiculous prices, sample some tasty home cooking and meet some of the locals.

5. Haggle

Don’t be shy if you want to bag a bargain. Make sure you haggle in the markets to get the best price on everything, from tea and coffee to genuine fake designer goods. Stallholders will expect you to at least ask for a discount, so there’s no need to feel embarrassed. Often, the price will rise automatically once they’ve realised you’re a tourist, so you can guarantee he’ll have wriggle room on that “Prado” handbag or those silk slippers. Get stuck in and you’ll grab a few bargains, as well as have a few more coppers for the Bia Hoi fund.

6. Don’t bother packing a toothbrush

Many of the hostels and cheap hotels in South-East Asia provide complimentary toothbrushes, toothpaste, soap and even free razors. Granted they’re not the best quality, but they’ll do the job and you won’t have to buy all those toiletries which, like razors, can often be quite pricey. Plus, by not packing them you’ll save a bit of luggage space for an extra bikini or a paperback for the beach.

7. Avoid organised tours where possible

Sometimes organised tours are the easiest and cheapest way to get out and see some of the stunning sights South-East Asia has to offer, especially when you’re short on time or have to take ferries or infrequent local buses to get there. But, wherever possible, try and organise it yourself. In bigger towns, the local bus system will take you where you want to go for a small fee. Alternatively, hire a bike for a couple of pounds and cycle out, this way you’re guaranteed an adventure! For example, if you’re planning to visit Angkor Wat in Cambodia, rather than fork out on a bus tour through a travel agency, hire a bike and cycle out there at dawn. You’ll catch the sunrise and save yourself some cash.

8. Agree on taxi prices before you jump in

If you’re looking for a ride, tuk tuks and taxis are in abundance in most towns and cities. However, before you jump in, be sure to agree a price for your journey, and try asking for a discount. This ensures the price of your lift won’t suddenly sky-rocket when you reach your destination. Make sure you know the exact address of where you want to stop off at. It’s been known for taxi drivers to take detours to travel shops or other hotels to try and persuade travellers to book tours or change accommodation, then charge more for the extra trip. Agreeing to a price and knowing where you’re headed will help prevent this and make sure you’re not short-changed. – Skyscanner (www.skyscanner.net)

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Food haven in Penang

NST Press

Lebuh Keng Kwee is home to good fare but you have to queue up for it, writes Shuib Taib

LET’s face it. We love food so much we travel far and wide for it. Food aficionados go the extra mile for that fish with that special sauce even if it requires driving from Kuala Lumpur to Ipoh.

We patronise a certain stall or restaurant because we like the char kway teow. Sometimes, it is the generous serving and fast service. And food lovers don’t mind queuing for good fare.

You see this a lot in Penang, especially on Lebuh Keng Kwee, off Penang Road. There are two hawker stalls there selling ais kacang and cendol.

My rule of thumb is go for the crowded stall. And so I head for Penang Road Famous Teochew Chendul at 475, Lebuh Keng Kwee, within walking distance from Komtar and Prangin Mall. It opens daily from 10am to 7.30pm.

Although you may see many people enjoying the street food alfresco, not far from the stall is a coffee shop where you can enjoy your street “snacks”.

CENDOL

A sizeable crowd has already gathered around the cendol stall. Some are sitting on plastic stools, a bowl of cendol in hand. The coconut-milk-sugar mix must taste so good for these customers to look so engrossed. The “uncle” manning the business is multi-tasking. Using a ladle, he serves generous amounts of cendol into bowls while talking to customers. At times, he pours too much cendol into the bowl and it flows back into a big container.

Now what is it about this cendol that everyone makes a beeline for? The kidney beans are unusually bigger.Yummy! On a hot day, the cendol not only looks inviting, it is also delicious. The cendol is RM2.30 (eat-in) and RM2.50 takeaway.

ROJAK PENANG

Cendol is not the only thing you can enjoy here. A fan of rojak buah Chinese style, I order a plate of this fruit salad. The sight of dark shrimp paste drizzled over the fruit with crushed peanuts and sesame seeds sprinkled on top is mouthwatering. The combination of crunchy fruit, shrimp paste and crushed peanuts gives a sweet, salty and sour flavour. That can never go wrong. Just heavenly.

ASAM LAKSA PENANG

Another must-try is asam laksa, the quintessential Penangite favourite food. Leaning towards the spicy side, the broth, which has a hint of sweetness, is full of flavour, just to my liking. The secret to wonderful laksa lies in the broth. It should be slightly dark and thick. For kicks, I add shrimp paste and voila! My palate approves.

NASI KANDAR

A trip to Penang will not be complete without eating nasi kandar. Friends familiar with Penang tell me that Nasi Kandar Line Clear is the one to eat. Others say Penang has so many good nasi kandar restaurants that it really doesn’t matter which one you go to. But when we stumble upon nasi kandar at Restoran Deen on Jalan Jelutong, we just have to stop. Although I haven’t tasted the nasi kandar yet, I can tell that it is going to be fantastic, going by the queue. True enough, the mildly flavoured steamed rice accompanied by a variety of curry-based meat dishes and vegetables is simply out of this world!

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Colourful Siem Reap

TheStar

While Siem Reap is known for its temples, you can discover another side of the city if you travel off the beaten path.

HONESTLY, I didn’t know what I was getting myself into when I bought my flight tickets to Cambodia. I went there without any expectations, and with last-minute planning and minimal research. Only equipped with wanderlust, I ventured into a country brimming with stories to tell.

Cambodia isn’t just about historical landmarks and architectural wonders; there’s more. It’s about children growing up with a thirst for adventure. Instead of being bothered about the existence of gadgets, they spend their time pretending to drive cars under coffee tables while their parents look after food stalls.

It’s about teenagers on the streets turning to the performing arts as a form of healing and now making a name for themselves by being stars of Phare, the Cambodian Circus.

It’s also about my tour guide, Sam, who wants nothing more than to see his country flourish and prosper.

“One day, I wish Cambodian riel will be used all over this country instead of US dollars,” he says.

Although the US dollar is used because people find it hard to calculate prices in riel – US$1 is equivalent to 4,000 riel – he hopes that one day others will acknowledge the existence of the riel when they travel in Cambodia.

Watch youngsters dance, sing and contort their bodies at Phare, The Cambodian Circus.

The first thing that really struck me upon arrival was how safe it was. I was not constantly looking around, clutching my bag a little bit tighter or fidgety when things seemed dangerous. Even if the country is still developing and the people use all the tricks in the book to get you to purchase souvenirs, including begging, but never harming you.

If that isn’t convincing enough, the tuk-tuks are the best form of public transportation here. Granted, some of these drivers think that they are in a Formula One race, swerving in and out of junctions, so you have to hang on tight. Riding in a tuk-tuk also allows you to interact with the locals; if you’re lucky, you’ll witness 20 guys trying to squeeze on top of a pick-up truck as though they were trying to break a world record!

My first time riding a tuk-tuk was to our first destination, Phas Chas (old market). It is the place to go to if you’re looking for local goods, souvenirs and affordable dishes. You’ll see vendors sitting on counter tops in the middle of the market selling fresh poultry and vegetables.

One of the bars situated at Pub Street with graffiti on its walls, inviting you to sit down for a drink.

When night falls, you can just walk over to Angkor Night Market. Just step into this place and you’ll fall for its rustic charm. It’s similar to the Old Market, just that you can get a massage at a mere US$1 (RM3.20)! Sit back and relax while the masseuse – some of whom I suspect are still in primary school – twist your limbs and relieve the tension from your body. It’s also the best way to unwind after a long and tiring day.

If you’re rejoicing because you can get a glass of beer for less than a glass of water in Cambodia, Pub Street is the way to end your night!

True to its name, this street is filled with pubs packed with people enjoying a few glasses of beer while swaying to the music. It wasn’t my scene, but I had the most bizarre meal throughout my entire trip there.

My travel buddy (aka boyfriend) and I dined at Easy Speaking Café Pub & Restaurant. Since we felt like splurging a little, we ordered the couple degustation set – which includes beef, crocodile, shrimp, snake, frog and side dishes. We added on ostrich meat just for the extra kick!

I was expecting a grand explosion of tastes in my mouth, but most of the time, I was just munching on tough meat, and trying to figure out if it was crocodile or snake. Nevertheless, it’s an experience to remember! The food in Cambodia is similar to that of its neighbours and it doesn’t disappoint.

While we were there, we did plenty of exploring on our own – and I highly recommend that. A simple Google search (preferably done weeks in advance) and being buddies with the hotel staff can get you anywhere.

Try exploring on your own. It’s just something else altogether. Because we did that, we found the Old Market, Angkor Night Market and Pub Street. That’s where we discovered the existence of Phare, The Cambodian Circus.

It’s my dream to see the Cirque Du Soleil live one day, and although Phare is just a small show in comparison, I was really awestruck! These teenagers had a knack for bending their bodies, swaying dangerously on a trapeze and captivating the audience with their energy. It was worth the US$15 (RM48.15) fee!

You could get the front-row VIP seats for US$30 (RM96.30), which guarantee interaction with the cast members and a goody bag given as a token of appreciation. However, since it was a small confined area, sitting in the cheaper seats was good enough. Everything is spoken and sung in Khmer, but there’s a TV screen showing the English translation. You’re bound to bob your head to the music even if you are completely clueless.

The highlight of this had to be the background of the circus. About 20 years ago, eight young men whose lives have been changed, thanks to art therapy, founded Phare Ponleu Selpak. What first started off as an art school has now developed into a music and theatre school. These youngsters, who could have ended up on the streets, found their way out through the performing arts instead. Now these individuals have a chance to shine on stage while also earning decent wages to get them through life.

Still, I did the touristy things. In addition to travelling around on our own in tuk-tuks, we paid US$110 (RM353.15) per person for a two-day tour to experience Cambodia’s culture with live commentary. Our tour guide, Sam, who is fond of Khmer songs, was ever ready to endure the blistering heat to show us what Siem Reap has to offer.

With day one of our tour spent mainly visiting temples, Sam took us to the floating village the following day. I expected to see a busy village, with people going about their daily routine, selling their produce on the water. However, it was pretty disappointing. We had to endure the stench coming from the lake, although it was an exciting 10 to 15 minutes on the boat to the village. Upon arrival, I could only visit a souvenir spot for photo opportunities and a Catholic church. The journey to and from the floating village lasted way longer than the time spent at the floating village.

Another tourist attraction we checked out was the Cambodian Cultural Village, the one-stop destination for learning about the history of Cambodia and its different cultures, and watching short cultural shows.

If you’re hankering for more history, the Angkor National Museum provides just that. You will be transported back in time. And a walk around the museum is enjoyable. You start off at a briefing hall, then you get to explore the various sections – for instance, The Gallery of One Thousand Buddhas, Khmer Civilisation and Angkor Wat, just to name a few. Some sculptures are slowly wearing out, but still well preserved. Not only that, you get to sit at different galleries while enjoying a short video presentation, which is available in different languages for everyone to enjoy.

I would definitely travel there again, maybe even take the bus to Phnom Penh and explore what it has to offer. There’s just so much more to discover. Right now, I’m wishing for more US$1 massages to soothe away my backaches!

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Malaysian holidays: Places to visit in Malaysia

TheStar

Six of the best places to visit and things to do on holiday in Malaysia, from shopping and skyscrapers in KL to beaches in Langkawi.

TIRED of Thailand? Seen the sights in Singapore? Then head to multi-cultural Malaysia and explore a very different side of Southeast Asia.

Laze on the beaches in Langkawi or feast like a king in the foodie paradise of Penang, there’s so much to see and do, so here are six not to be missed places in Malaysia:

1. Langkawi

A tax-free haven, Langkawi is a firm favourite with honeymooners looking for luxury resorts and secluded sandy beaches. But if you’re working to a strict budget then there are still lots of alternatives. Spend the afternoon splashing around in the crystal clear pools at the top of Telaga Tujuh waterfalls.

2. Penang

The Cheong Fatt Tze mansion in Penang is one of the many places in the island where visitors can experience old world charm. - Filepic

Wander through the streets of Penang, past crumbling Chinese shop fronts and Peranakan mansions in search of some of the world’s most famous graffiti. Cool down with an ice bowl of cendol, a popular Malaysian dessert made from coconut milk and green jelly noodles, just one of the many dishes that has helped to put Penang on the culinary map.

3. Cameron Highlands

Bored of the beach? Then head to the Cameron Highlands. Visit the butterfly farm, or walk through the jungle and discover over 700 species of Malaysia’s most unusual flora and fauna. Take a break from trekking and sip some of the finest tea in Southeast Asia at the Boh Tea Plantation, accompanied by scones and fresh strawberries which are grown in abundance here.

4. Ipoh

Ipoh, or the Bouganvillea City, is the perfect spot to experience life in British Colonial Malaysia. Walk along the banks of the Kinta River in the city’s old town and take in the Edwardian railway station and town hall. For bigger thrills, try your hand at white water rafting, jungle trekking and caving in and around Malaysia’s fourth-largest city.

5. Kuala Lumpur

Needing a city fix? Malaysia’s capital is packed with shopping malls and sophisticated skybars, perhaps the most famous being the one on the roof of the Traders Hotel which has a brilliant night-time view over the Petronas Towers. Escape the chaos and spend the day at the Batu Caves, a popular Hindu shrine and home to hoards of cheeky monkeys just outside the city.

6. Kuching

The famous Cat Statue near Padungan is famous tourism spot in Kuching. - Filepic

On the opposite side of the Chinese Sea lies Malaysian Borneo and the capital city of Kuching. Stargaze at the Sultan Iskandar Planetarium, Malaysia’s first, or get some retail therapy and bag a bargain at the Main Bazaar. Head to Padungan, an inner city suburb, for five-star hotels and the best nightlife in Kuching. – Skyscanner (www.skyscanner.net)

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Traveller’s tale: Klang’s heritage walk

NST Press: LAST month, I began my observations of the royal cities of the world and put forward my thoughts on our very own royal town of Klang.

With the Selangor Sultanate’s long and interesting history and the State’s many tourism assets, there is no doubt that Klang can carve a place for itself in tourism with the right approach and contribution from the tourism industry as well as the “Think Tourism, Act Tourism” attitude of the locals.

Here are some tips from Arshad Mustapa (popularly known as Pak Chat), the Selangor State director for the Ministry of Tourism and Culture as well as officials of Tourism Malaysia Selangor and Tourism Selangor.

KLANG HERITAGE WALK

Though modern, Klang has much to offer especially its rich history and attractions. It is well connected by excellent highways, train commuters, sea ports and airports such as the Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport in Subang and the Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Sepang.

One should experience the Klang Heritage Walk to explore the many heritage and pre-war buildings and premises.

You may start at the 1857’s Gedung Raja Abdullah (Tin Mining Warehouse) which was converted into Selangor’s Tin Museum in 1985, the Victorian-style Klang Old Fire station built in the 1890s and the Old Klang Railway station built in 1890.

Worth admiring is the Raja Mahadi Fort as a landmark next to the Klang Municipal Council Hall and the double-decked Jambatan Kota (Kota Bridge) of 1957.

The Klang Convent School, which opened in 1924 with only 19 students, is also an important building.

Klang has many significant houses of worship, including the 80-old year, white Church Of Our Lady Of Lourdes, Kuan Yin Temple (1892), the oldest Sri Nagara Thendayuthapani Hindu temple and the beautiful and newly re-built Masjid India Muslim Tengku Kelana, completed in 2009 with glorious Andalucia designs.

ISLAMIC TOURISM IMAGE

As the State is also promoting Islamic tourism, one icon that shouldn’t be missed is Sultan Suleiman Royal Mosque.

Interestingly this mosque was built in a combination of neo classical and western art deco styles. It was officiated in 1932 by the late Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sir Alaeddin Suleiman Shah and Sir Laurence Nunns Guillemard, High Commissioner of the British Federated Malaysia States.

There is an attractive Tangga DiRaja (Royal Steps) linking Istana Alam Shah and the Royal Mausoleum located at the mosque’s grounds.

Educationists and former students, may recall the glory of Kolej Islam Kelang (Klang Islamic College, established in 1955) which has since produced many well-known Islamic scholars.

It also has one of the top debate teams among boarding schools in the country. In 1989, it was renamed as Kolej Islam Sultan Alam Shah as a homage to Sultan Sir Hishamudin ‘Alam Shah Alhaj, the founder of the college.

LITTLE INDIA

Located at Jalan Tengku Kelana, it has all sorts of things related to Indian culture, from food to fashion and household items.

The biggest Indian street in Selangor, it is a shopping haven during festive seasons for the locals and people in nearby towns and villages as well as sailors who transit at Port Klang. One may even spot tourists from international cruise ships. With much to explore, Selangor, particularly Klang (which means waterway) offers an enthralling journey of stunning landscapes and layers of history that make this relatively unexplored State the most rewarding place to be and invest for its vast potential.

On my last visit, I also realised that Klang offers medical tourism with many specialists practising here.

GOING BEYOND UNESCO STATUS

Moving forward, by taking Klang as an example, it is time that the spectrum of historical products in the country be expanded beyond Unesco World Heritage City of Malacca and Penang.

More exposure should be accorded to the royal cities and for tour packages of these historical sites to be developed.

With eight more royal towns in the country, namely Seri Menanti (Negri Sembilan), Kuala Kangsar (Perak), Pekan (Pahang), Arau (Perlis), Anak Bukit (Kedah), Muar (Johor), Kuala Terengganu (Terengganu), and Kota haru (Kelantan), there is potential to create heritage tourism products for high end and special interest markets.

No doubt, this is the challenge of the State tourism bodies and other stakeholders to get the ball rolling and for travel suppliers to consider seriously.

More needs to be done to promote our culture and heritage to be appreciated locally and internationally. The effort should go beyond organising events alone.

Tourism needs powerful products and integrated promotions. Collaborative efforts with the media and institutions for documentaries featuring our royal heritage and traditions, such as the installation of the King in Twice A King and the installation of Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, should be applauded.

Finally, it is also important to mention that while congratulating all works done so far by the relevant agencies in conserving and preserving old palaces, we must not overlook another equally important aspect.

A historical assessment of an area should also be conducted before any development is made to record the structural landscape for posterity and, as a historical document of important sites, buildings and architecture, as even a small village, a small stream by the highway or toll plaza or a small lake in the city, has its own piece of history to keep and share with the world.

On that note, I wish all readers a happy 57th Merdeka Day!

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Cruise and get up close with wildlife

NST Press: Enhance your wildlife experiences on a new route at Singapore’s River Safari

VIEWS of clear blue skies, lush green forests and also wildlife basking in their habitat — these are some of the attractions offered by the latest boat attraction at Singapore’s River Safari.

15-minute River Safari Cruise plies scenic Upper Seletar Reservoir — one of the republic’s largest water catchment areas — and provides a rare opportunity to commune with nature in the breathtaking setting of tropical rainforest and shimmery waterways.

The cruise replaces the boat ride that was previously in operation at Singapore Zoo. This cruise embarks on a new route that meanders along the outskirts of Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, giving visitors a chance to spot wildlife such as giraffes and rhinos nestled on the edges of these parks.

You may catch a glimpse of elephants going on daily walks along the water’s edge and avid bird watchers can also observe an array of feathered creatures, from storks to herons, which may make a stopover by the banks or roost on the trees.

The latest boat attraction symbolises Wildlife Reserves Singapore’s commitment to create wildlife experiences across its four parks: Jurong Bird Park, Night Safari, Singapore Zoo and River Safari. 

The cruise complements the River Safari experience and the park’s focus on increasing awareness of freshwater habitats.

Tickets for the cruise are available online at www.riversafari.com.sg or at the park’s Boat Plaza.

Fees River Safari Cruise: S$5 or RM12.60 (adults) and S$3 (children between 3 and 12 years) Entrance: S$25 (adult) and S$16 (children) Operation hours: 9am to 6pm

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