brad brace contemporary culture scrapbook

November 10, 2012

Filed under: borneo,culture,General,global islands — admin @ 7:06 am

Filed under: borneo,disaster,global islands,tourism — admin @ 6:55 am

November 9, 2012

Borneo info more

Filed under: borneo,culture,disease/health,global islands,tourism — admin @ 3:23 pm

If you want to see how the Rungus people make gongs, you should head to Kampung Sumangkap Banggi: Sri Maliangin Homestead.

JE virus (JEV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus, is the most common vaccine-preventable cause of encephalitis in Asia. JE occurs throughout most of Asia and parts of the western Pacific. Among an estimated 35,000–50,000 annual cases, 20%–30% of patients die, and 30%–50% of survivors have neurologic or psychiatric sequelae. No treatment exists. For most travelers to Asia, the risk for JE is very low but varies on the basis of destination, duration, season, and activities.

JE vaccine is recommended for travelers who plan to spend a month or longer in endemic areas during the JEV transmission season and for laboratory workers with a potential for exposure to infectious JEV. JE vaccine should be considered for 1) short-term (<1 month) travelers to endemic areas during the JEV transmission season if they plan to travel outside of an urban area and will have an increased risk for JEV exposure; 2) travelers to an area with an ongoing JE outbreak; and 3) travelers to endemic areas who are uncertain of specific destinations, activities, or duration of travel. JE vaccine is not recommended for short-term travelers whose visit will be restricted to urban areas or times outside of a well-defined JEV transmission season.

Two JE vaccines are licensed in the United States. An inactivated mouse brain–derived JE vaccine (JE-VAX [JE-MB]) has been licensed since 1992 to prevent JE in persons aged ?1 year traveling to JE-endemic countries. Supplies of this vaccine are limited because production has ceased. In March 2009, an inactivated Vero cell culture-derived vaccine (IXIARO [JE-VC]) was licensed for use in persons aged ?17 years. JE-MB is the only JE vaccine available for use in children aged 1?16 years, and remaining supplies will be reserved for use in this group. Introduction

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus, is the most common vaccine-preventable cause of encephalitis in Asia. Japanese encephalitis (JE) occurs throughout most of Asia and parts of the western Pacific. Among an estimated 35,000–50,000 annual cases, approximately 20%–30% of patients die, and 30%–50% of survivors have neurologic or psychiatric sequelae. In endemic countries, JE is primarily a disease of children. However, travel-associated JE, although rare, can occur among persons of any age. For most travelers to Asia, the risk for JE is very low but varies based on destination, duration, season, and activities.

JEV is transmitted in an enzootic cycle between mosquitoes and amplifying vertebrate hosts, primarily pigs and wading birds. JEV is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, but disease develops in <1% of infected persons. JEV transmission occurs primarily in rural agricultural areas. In most temperate areas of Asia, JEV transmission is seasonal, and substantial epidemics can occur. In the subtropics and tropics, transmission can occur year-round, often intensifying during the rainy season.

This report provides recommendations for use of the two JE vaccines licensed in the United States for prevention of JE among travelers and laboratory workers. An inactivated mouse brain–derived JE vaccine (JE-MB) has been available since 1992 for use in travelers aged ?1 year. In March 2009, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new inactivated Vero cell culture-derived JE vaccine (JE-VC) for use in persons aged ?17 years.

Origin

Rice wine, or lihing in the Kadazan-Penampang language, is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented glutinous rice. The origins of rice wine are unclear, but it is possible that it has been around for as long as modern man. The world over, people have transformed their staple foods and others into alcohol, and lihing is certainly none of the worst!

Fermentation Process

Rice wine is not an actual wine, which is defined as a beverage made of the naturally fermented juice of any of various kinds of grapes (Vitis vinifera). Rice wine, being made from a cereal, should actually be called a beer! However, there is an important difference in the brewing of beer when compared to rice wine: in the brewing of beer the mashing process converts starch to sugars; it is only after the mashing, which results in wort, that yeast is added to start the actual fermentation to produce alcohol. In rice wine the starch conversion to sugar and the fermentation happen at the same time (the so-called amylolytic process), making it considerably easier to produce though in chemical terms rice wine is not less complicated than beer.

Taste

The texture and taste of rice wine resemble often natural sweet wines such as Sauternes or, after aging, Sherries. Sometimes rice wine is also compared to ‘new wine’ (especially whites). This, plus the absence of carbon dioxide may be the reasons why rice wine is still called ‘wine’ and not ‘beer’. Rice wine can turn sour, or will turn sour for a number of reasons. If it is slightly acid it is still very much drinkable: it resembles apple cider! However, if it is too sour it is not enjoyable any more. The reasons for sour rice wine are numerous: insufficient hygiene during the making and / or fermentation process; contaminated yeast; contact with air etc.

Alcohol Content

Rice wine typically has a higher alcohol content (13-21%) than wine (10-20%), which in turn has a higher alcohol content than beer (3-8%).

Borneo info

Filed under: borneo,culture,global islands,tourism — admin @ 3:15 pm

Sabah Tourism, 51 Gaya, KK: +6088 212121 info@sabahtourism.com Bank hours: M-F 9:30-3:00

Thank you for your email and interest to stay in the proposed Tun Mustapha Park.

For accommodation you can stay at:

1) Karakit Town, Banggi Island (can be reached directly by ferry from Kudat) for RM500 per month in a home (a house on stilts on water with 2 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, toilet) with bedding and linen provided, except you need to bring a towel. There is no one living in the house, owned by a community member of Maliangin Island. However, you may have to share the house with WWF staffs (2 or 3 people) sometimes when we conduct activities on Karakit. Breakfast will be provided but you can cook yourself (cooking utensils and gas for cooking provided). Water source – government piped water.

2) Maliangin Island Homestay (located 15-30 minutes boat ride from Banggi island – depending on the type of boat you manage to hire) – stay with a family (3 houses to choose from), the family has household of 5 – 7 people in the house at all times and can cook for you, charging RM30 per day with 3 meals per day, that will total up to RM900 a month. However you might have to provide them with raw materials to cook. Water source – untreated spring water/well water. There is a basic squat toilet and shower facility.

Our Community Liaison Officer, Sofia Johari, recommends that you try to stay at both Karakit (longer term) and Maliangin (short term) as Karakit will have all the basic facilities you will need for a long term stay and for research (e.g., eating stalls, market, boat transfer, ferry, clinic, sundries shops and etc.) and Maliangin to experience life on an idyllic island.

You can also negotiate with people in Karakit to go to the other islands nearby as well; e.g., Patanunan, Balak Balak, Balambangan, Tigabu. Sofia can help negotiate if you don’t speak Bahasa Malaysia, and she can also make any booking or connect you to the relevant service providers. WWF is helping to promote the area for ecotourism and other sustainable livelihoods alternate to fishing.

For Maliangin check out: www.facebook.com/malianginisland Watch videos from the recently concluded Tun Mustapha Park Expedition: http://www.youtube.com/user/TMPE2012

Sincerely, — Angela Lim Communications Manager Sulu-Sulawesi Marine Ecoregion (SSME) Programme WWF-Malaysia, Suite 1-6-W11, 6th Fl, CPS Tower No.1, Jln Centre Point 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia Tel: +60 88 262 420, Fax: +60 88 242 531 Email: alim@wwf.org.my

Sofia Johari +6013 8638323 kawan@wwf.org.my, contactus@wwf.org.my, Hui Ling Liew

Howard Stanton www.tampatdoaman.com C/O Petit Surat 115, Kudat, Sabah, East Malaysia Telephone : +60 (0)13 880 8395 howard stanton couchsurfing: RM25/nite

KK Tourism: Tel: +6088-212121 Sembulan (suburb) – On the west side of KK and currently (in)famous for its water village. It’s populated by most illegal immigrants and as such not really maintained, resulting in it being a bit of a cesspool. The water village is being filled in and will soon be replaced by a brand new shopping centre and apartments. North Borneo Railway.

Howard Stanton www.tampatdoaman.com C/O Petit Surat 115, Kudat, Sabah, East Malaysia Telephone : +60 (0)13 880 8395 We can pick you up from Kudat (30km away) for RM 15 per person each way, if the transfer is needed before 2pm, after 2pm the transfer rate rises to RM 30 per person. The best way to get here is to jump in a shared taxi from a place called Bandaran Berjaya in Kota Kinabalu, the best time is in the morning between 8am and 10am, Cost: RM 25 each, give us a call / SMS when you are leaving Kota Kinabalu (013 880 8395) so that we can guage when you will be arriving in Kudat, about a three hour trip. If driving yourself ; head North towards Kudat , look for signs for the Tip Of Borneo (Simpang Mengayau) 20km south of Kudat and follow them. Upon reaching the beach look for the Tip Top signs as soon as you reach the beach and stop in and introduce yourselves to the friendly staff.

StepinLodge Address: 1st – 3rd Floors, Lot 1 Block L, Sinsuran Complex, Jalan Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. Tel: (6088) 233519 Fax: (6088) 236519 E-mail: info@stepinlodge.com the taxi is RM30 per way from airport to city during normal operating hours, another 50% midnight surcharge is levied from 12:00 midnight to 6am.

Richard Sulip Kaiduan Homestay +60128200338

Uncle Chang’s Sipadan Mabul Dive Lodge Semporna, Sabah Causeway Rd. S.O.T.C. (+6) 017-8950002 (+6) 089781 002 / 089 782002

Sipadan

Langkawi: rosidi daud www.pondok-keladi.com., booking@rainbowlangkawi.com, Amzar Motel +6049552354, The Cottage Langkawi No. 8, Kampung Haji Saad Jalan Pantai Chenang 07000 Langkawi Kedah, Tel : +6019-426 8818 / +6012-556 8998 (Mr Zul) thecottagelangkawi@yahoo.com Budget room : RM 60.00/Night Backpackers Hostel : RM 25.00

Pulau Tuba: Khairul Hakimin +6 019 2243 805 —

Seaside Travellers Inn Tel: +60-88-750555, 750313, 752067, 757999 Seaside Travellers Inn (STI) is located 20km south of Kota Kinabalu City (KK) along the Papar road, in a village called Kampung Laut Kinarut. It is 12km from KK Airport Terminal 1 and 18km from Terminal 2.

We are happy to offer you a room upstairs Boungain Villa at RM900 per month (USD300 equivalent roughly).  This is a fairly large room, fan-cooled and with a common bathroom (with hot shower, washbasin and toilet) right outside.  However, BV is nearest to the road so you may not find this room suitable if you like to sleep during the day or a light sleeper. James Ong (Operations Manager) SEASIDE TRAVELLERS INN Tel:  +60 88 750555, 750313, 752067 & 751794 Alternative Tel:  +60 88 757999 Fax:  +60 88 750479 E-mail:  stinn89@gmail.com  Alternative E-mail:  james@seasidetravellersinn.com.my Website:  www.seasidetravellersinn.com.my

Turn right as you drive out from Terminal 1 and head towards Papar. Not too long after the towns of Petagas and Putatan, you will see Lok Kawi Army Camp on your left and you will also see mangrove forests and the sea on your right hand side. Soon you reach the traffic lights at Lok Kawi junction, turn right and drive pass Shell and Petronas on your left and Lok Kawi town with surrounding housing estate on your right.

Drive 2km (from the traffic lights at Lok Kawi) on the Papar road and you will pass a pink school building (SMK Kinarut) on your left. STI is 1.4km further on your right hand side. Look for the Carlsberg and Guinness signs!

For those using KK Airport Terminal 2, turn right as you come out and soon you reach a roundabout at Tanjung Aru town. Go straight about 1km and turn right at the traffic light intersection to head towards Papar. After a few km you will see Terminal 1 on your right, from there just follow directions above.

Public Transportation:

To get to STI from KK, take mini-bus number 17C from the Bus Terminal next to “Wawasan Plaza”, located on the southern end of the city. You can also take the bus from Milimewa Superstore opposite KFC near Hyatt Hotel. The fare is RM3.00 per person per way KK/STI Kinarut and the bus leaves when full. They operate till about 9pm.

Taxis are easy as they are stationed all around KK. Just say you are heading to Kinarut. The fare is RM35.00 per way KK/STI Kinarut sitting up to 4 persons, although price may vary from one taxi to another. Charges are higher during late hours.

To get to KK from STI, mini-buses are available all day – just wave down any mini-bus heading downtown.

Taxi or hotel transport can be arranged at the Inn’s reception.

Location Address:

KM20 Kota Kinabalu/Papar Road Kampung Laut, Kinarut 89600 Papar, Sabah, Malaysia

Distance:

The Inn is 12km from Kota Kinabalu Airport Terminal 1 (15 minutes drive), 18km from Terminal 2 (20 minutes drive) and 20km from Kota Kinabalu City (25 minutes drive).

—— A good local café will have staffs wearing the green DBKK Health Card, utensils dunked in a mug of hot water and a trash bin underneath the table.

Kampung Karakit Mini Hall, complete with indoor badminton courts. Almost every evening, these courts are utilised by the residents to play badminton. The residents in Kampung Karakit get their health treatment services at Klinik Kesihatan Karakit or Karakit Health Clinic. Among the health services provided are the primary health care that encompasses out-patient treatment, pharmacy, laboratories and vector borne disease control. Other services include the mother and child health care as well as dentistry.

KK: Dr Vivien Lo Dental Surgery, Shoplot 2, 1st Fl Block A, Damai Plaza Phase 4 Tel: 088-270037 Dr Majid Ali Chiragdin, Sabah Dental Surgery, 5 Wisma Yakim, Kbu Tel: 088-215535 Dr Dick Wong, Lot 34, Damai Plaza Tel: 088-266580 Choa Dental Clinic, 1/F Lot 3, Block G, Segama Shopping Complex, KK Tel: 088-232196 Dr Alex Lo, 5th floor, Centrepoint. Ph. 88 265215.

KK car rental: Safie – cheaper, older “yachtie” cars and some better ones. Cheapest. Will deliver and pick up. 0168366507 eg Kancil RM80/day; RM70/day for 3 day hire or RM40/day for 1 mth hire

Hospital Kudat: Peti Surat No. 22 89057, Kudat, 89057, Kudat, Sabah * Tel 088-613 333 * Fax 088-611 875

WETLAND WILDLIFE AND FIREFLY CRUISE: Klias River or Tauran wetlands cruise to find proboscis monkeys etc. Includes high tea and dinner by the river. Afternoon & Evening trip. Cost approx. 185 RM pp. tour companies at Wisma Sabah, opposite the Merdeka bus stop. Try Borneo Icons, Excel Dive and Tours, Wildlife Expeditions, TYH Borneo Co TUNKU ABDUL RAHMAN MARINE PARK: 5 islands close by KK. Can do afternoon, morning or all day trips. Water sports available at extra expense. Cost approx. 170 RM for all day, pp. LOK KAWI WILDLIFE PARK: Zoo specialising in Malaysian and other Asian animals + botanical park. Day trip. Lunch included. Cost approx. 170 RM. You can drive yourself there – entry approx. 20RM for adults MONOSOPIAD CULTURAL VILLAGE : Kadazan cultural farmhouses, dance performance, stories & folklore. Half day trip, incl. entrance fees and guide. Cost 160 RM pp

Rungus Long House approx. 40 kms south of Kudat open to visitors. Labuan is a federal territory belonging to Sabah, and is a large island with 6 other smaller ones located just 8 kms off the Borneo coast, opposite Brunei. People usually access Labuan by ferry from KK, Brunei or Menumbok, at the entrance to the Klias River. It is a duty-free port, so most of the many stores there offer duty-free liquor, cigarettes, chocolate and perfume.

The Malay people in Sabah are a particular race from the Peninsula Malaysia. A large number of Sabah people are not Malay but indigenous Borneo people including Kadazans, Dusuns, Muruts, Bruneians, Bajau, Sino and others.There are also significant numbers of people of Indian, Chinese, Philippine and Indonesian origins.

KK Museum: We are located at Jalan Kebajikan off Jalan Penampang, opposite the Secretariat Building and approximately 4 km from Kota Kinabalu City. From Kota Kinabalu City Centre:

* Bus No. 13 with fares RM1.00 (one way) * Taxi fare: RM10.00 (one way). * (+60) 088 – 253199/254852/253551 * (+60) 088 – 225033

Kadazandusun

One of the major tribes in Sabah offers very unique food. Most interesting are the pickled food. 5 well-known foods are

* Tuhau (pickled tuhau plant with chili) * Bosou (pickled pork, fish or fresh water shrimp) * Bambangan (pickled Bambangan fruit – looks a bit like mango) * Butod (fat worm found in banana or sago tree stem which is eaten fresh/raw or deep fried) * Hinava (marinated raw fish in lime juice similar to ceviche or umai in Sarawak but different ingredient) * Lihing (rice wine) * Tapai (rice wine with fermented rice still inside and usually put inside a tajau – a clay pot container) * Montaku (distilled rice wine) * There is a variety of stews or soups with pork, chicken & beef, as the main ingredient. * Roast belly of pork is a particular favourite, both for the KadazanDusun & Chinese.

Chinese

Sabahan Chinese is predominantly Hakka with some Chinese belong to Cantonese, Hokkien, Foochow or Shantung dialect. Therefore, most Chinese foods here have Hakka cuisine influence.

* Beef noodle (meat or offal) – * Dumpling (pan fried or steam) – / * Seafood noodle (meat or lips/skin or fish head) * Pork noodle (meat or offal) – * Hakka braised pork with yam – * Chicken or prawn in rice wine –  / * Pork throttle braised in vinegar – * Steam/roast chicken rice * Stir fried sweet leaf (sauropus androgynus or sayur manis in Malay) – * BBQed pork & roast belly of pork

Muslim

Sabah is part of Malaysia after all. However, the Muslim food here is different from the rest of Malaysia, being influenced by the Philippines & Kalimantan styles. Peninsula culinary influence, however, is increasing.

* Satay * Nasi Lemak * Nasi goreng kampung (a good one will have some shrimp paste smell and anchovies are crunchy) * Nasi lalap * Soto Java * Soto Makasar * Air Kelapa Bakar (hot coconut drink – basically whole coconut is dump into hot fire pit and burn until the juice is close to boiling) * various dishes using Sabah indigenous products, like pakis, sayur manis, seaweed, basung and eggplant.

Indian

There is a small population of Indians in KK. Therefore, not suprisingly Indian cuisine is commonly found around the city.

* Roti canai * Roti Cobra (similar to roti canai but come with a fried egg and meat curry) * Roti Murtabak (roti filled with minced goat or chicken meat) * Nasi Briyani * Chapatti * Tosai * Teh Madras (milk tea Madras style, usually cardamom is used)

Northernmost tip of Borneo, the Simpang Mengayau, is only 40 kilometers from Kudat is a truly fascinating area to visit and

Simpang Mengayau has remained relatively undisturbed and was only recently “discovered” as a tourism destination. Pristine beaches, indigenous longhouses, secluded diving, intricate handicraft by the Rungus people – the ethnic entity that populates the Kudat Peninsula.

Over the last few years the peninsula has seen tremendous upgrading of infrastructure, and this very tip of Borneo Island is now accessible by car in little under three hours from Kota Kinabalu City.

A visit to Sabah should not be complete without having seen the very Tip of Borneo at least…!

Shortly after the British North Borneo Chartered Company leased the territory of Sabah from the sultans of Brunei and Sulu, they establish shed a settlement at Kudat and declared it their first capital in ISS2. Just two years later, however, water shortages forced the administration to move their capital east to Sandakan.

The Rungus the indigeous tribe on the Kudat peninsula and on the east side of Marudu Bay made their homes inland, while the coastline attracted Muslim Bajau, Irranun and Suluk. The Rungus called the Kudat area after the Tomborungus River that ran into an inlet nearby. When the British arrived and asked for the name of the place, the Rungus thought they wanted to identify the coarse grass growing there, so said Kutad. Eventually, the name was corrupted to Kudat, and was used in preference to the old name of Tomborungus. Because of a labor shortage, the British North Borneo Chartered Company engaged the Basel Missionary Society to bring in families of Christian Hakkas from southern China to help develop Kudat.

Accessible primarily by sea until less than 50 years ago, when a road eventually linked Kudat with Kota Kinabalu, Kudat’s past isolation has ensured that much of the original charm and tradition of the region remain relatively unchanged.

CELCOM: INTERNATIONAL OPERATOR SERVICE 24/7 by dialing 108 Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) +603 8776 4311 Celcom Careline +603 3630 8888 Emergency Number 112 To place a direct international call from Malaysia: Dial the international access code (00), plus the country code of the place you are dialing (U.S. and Canada 1, For local directory assistance: Dial tel. 103

Kota Kinabalu Branch Wawasan Plaza, Level 1&2, 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. 24/7 Payment Kiosk

Damai Branch Wisma CTF, Lot 4, Block B, Phase 3. Damai Plaza Luyang. 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

——- KK: Sensi Backpackers Hostel Unit No.103, 88000 Jalan Gaya, Kota Kinabalu. TEL: 088-272796 FAX: 088-272796 EMAIL: sensihostel@gmail.com Rainforest Lodge & Backpackers Inn Ground & 1st Floor, Lot 48, Jalan Pantai, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah TEL: 088-258228 FAX: 088-253228 EMAIL: info@rainforestlodgekk.com Kinabalu Hostel Kompleks Sukan Likas, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. TEL: 088-221567 FAX: 088-213953 EMAIL: kinabaluhostel@sabah.gov.my

KK:The Green Connection: Open 10-6pm every day. Last entry is 4:30 to make sure you have enough time to see everything. Feeding Show is at 11:30am and 4pm. Located at 2.5mile Jalan Tuaran, 10 minutes from KK in a taxi – RM15. Any green blue or purple bus from the Wawasan Plaza Terminal going to Tuaran, Mengatal, Innanam Telipok (get off at the stop after the Pagoda, Ask for Bukit Keramat) – RM1. Green/yellow/red city buses say sector 1 laluan 1

KK: the Lok Kawi Wildlife Park in Kota Kinabalu For birdwatchers, the Kota Kinabalu Wetland Center, located just a mile away from the city center, has recorded sightings of more than 80 species of birds. Diving — Only 15 minutes away from the city via speedboat, the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park is composed of five small islands and undamaged coral reefs and is popular among tourists and locals alike for snorkeling, diving and relaxation. Lying in shallow waters with gentle currents, the reefs are ideal for novice divers, and the rare marine creatures that inhabit them will interest even the most experienced divers and underwater photographers. The Mari-Mari Cultural Village features the traditional homes of the Sabahan ethnic communities: Bajau, Lundayeh, Murut, Rungus and Dusun. The ingenious and unique architecture of the houses and ritualistic ceremonies that are regularly performed by the villagers let visitors get acquainted with the rich culture of ancient Borneo. Travelers can also witness tribesmen demonstrating the art of blowpipe-making, fire-starting using bamboo, and tattoo-making, as well as learn about the mystical symbolisms attached to them. Seafood — First-time travellers must try the lat zi hai (crab in hot and spicy sauce), butter prawns, kam heong la la (stir-fried fragrant clams) and sayur manis or fern cooked with belacan (prawn paste) at Kampung Nelayan Floating Seafood Restaurant, located 10 minutes away from the city center. Diners at Kampung Nelayan can also enjoy nightly cultural performances.

KK: Signal Hill is the highest point in the city. The best place for a good view of Kota Kinabalu. Just a couple of minutes drive from Padang Merdeka will bring you to the airy deck where you can get amazing views that extend to the outlying islands of the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park and further. It is off the normal bus route. Taxi fare to the Signal Hill Observatory Platform is RM10-RM15. It is Open Daily from 8.00am till 12.00 Midnight. Admission is free.

Flying Via MAS WINGS, get yourselves to the airport (Terminal 1) for Kota Kinabalu to Kudat flights every Monday and Thursday, departing 2.00pm and arriving at 2.45pm. Kudat to Kota Kinabalu, departs at 5.15pm and arrives in KK at 5.55pm.The return flight cost per person will be RM 166 and RM 83 for one way. Call +60 88515224 or +60 515 226 or toll free 1300 88 300. Call before and we can arrange pick up at the airport! (RM 20 each way)

View Jungle Camp, Tampat Do Aman tampatdoaman@gmail.com

CATCH a shared taxi from Bandaran Berjaya Kota Kinabalu, RM 30, asking them to take you to Tampat Do Aman, Tiga Papan, Kudat, directly or go to Kudat town telephoning on the way or when you have arrived so that you can arrange for us to pick you up and bring you straight to the TDA area that you wish to visit. (RM 20 each way)

Kudat Field Office, No 541 Lot 2 Taman Pakka Choon, Jalan Tamanggong Kerantud POB 389, Kudat Tel. +6088612339

Kevin Chen 0149520692 Hotel Kinabalu (Kudat) No 1243, JIn. Melor, Lot No 182, Blok C, Pekan Tamborungus, Kudat, Sabah TEL: 088-612022 FAX: 088-615388

Marudu Inn Lot 61, JIn Tanduk, Pekan Goshen, Kota Marudu, Sabah TEL: 088-661200 FAX: 088-661167

HOTEL KINABALU Peti Surat No. 82 89057 KUDAT SABAH Tel : 088-613888 Fax : 088-615388 Bil. Rooms : 18 Rooms Rate : RM42- RM77

HOTEL SOUTHERN Peti Surat No. 59 89057 KUDAT SABAH Tel : 088-613133 Fax : – Bil.Rooms : 10 Rooms Rate : RM45 – RM60

HOTEL SUNRISE Pekan Lama Kudat Peti Surat No. 253 89058 KUDAT SABAH Tel : 088 – 611517 Rooms : 17 Rooms Rate : RM20- RM48

HOTEL DREAM GARDEN Peti Surat No. 222 89058 KUDAT SABAH Tel : 088-622633 Fax : 088-612496 Rate : RM48 – RM130

HOTEL GREENLAND Peti Surat No. 253 89058 KUDAT SABAH Tel : 088-613211 Fax : 088-611854 Bil. Rooms : 16 Rooms Rate : RM35 – RM154

HOTEL GRACE GARDEN Peti Surat No. 222 89058 KUDAT SABAH Tel : 088-612496 Fax : 088-612496 Bil. Rooms : 13 Rooms Rate : RM48 – RM96

HOTEL UPPER DECK Jalan Lintas Peti Surat No. 448 89058 KUDAT SABAH Tel : 088-622272, 622282 Fax : 088-622300 Rooms : 28 Rooms Rate : RM80 – RM160

HOTEL RIA Jalan Marudu, Ground Floor, Lot No.3, Peti Surat No. 82, 89057 KUDAT SABAH Tel : 088-622226, 622794, 622218, Fax : 623226 24 Rooms Rate : RM88 – RM266

3) Bavanggazo, a traditional longhouse for tourist: Situated in a valley about 41 kilometres south of Kudat town

The Maranjak Longhouse Homestay is located near Tinangol, not very far from the main road leading to Kudat

4) Sunjamal Resort, a uniquely designed, small retreat run by a Swiss lady that will appeal to the most discerning traveler.

About 45 kilometers before Kudat you come to one of the first tourism attractions developed in the area: Kg Gombizau, the ‘Honey Village’. Kg Gombizau is a ‘one village, one trade’ example, and most of its inhabitants are rearing honey bees. You can drive up to the village, where you have to pay a small entrance fee to go and see how the honey is collected. It is a good idea to buy some local honey here, which has many benefits for your health. A bit further north from Kg Gombizau is Kg Sumangkap, another ‘one village one trade’ example, and an extraordinary one: Kg Sumangkap is the gong-village of Sabah. A visit to the village will show you how gongs are made, and the locals will be happy to tell you more about the importance of this instrument, so typical throughout Borneo.

The next stop-over is just after Kg Sumangkap: Kg Bavanggazo. The Rungus traditionally live in longhouses of a uniquely practical architecture. There are over 200 longhouses on the Kudat Peninsula, but you hardly will see them as they tend to be a bit off the beaten track. Not many are built in an entirely traditional style any more with bamboo flooring and palm thatch. The longhouse of Bavanggazo was built as an example of the traditional style, and it is open to tourists with comfortable and quiet, traditional rooms to stay overnight. If you want to experience the Rungus life style the Bavanggazo longhouse provides you with a safe and clean alternative to roughing it out in a ‘real’ Rungus village where dogs and pigs roam under the houses and kids jump up and down the longhouse gallery, making sleep sometimes rather difficult. The hosts of Bavanggazo are as friendly as Sabah people can be, and will go out of their way to prepare you some local specialties for dinner, and later don traditional outfits to entertain you with their age old dances and gong music. Don’t worry of making a fool out of yourself when you are asked to take part in the dances – this just belongs to the traditions, and it would not be polite to refuse!

HOW TO GET TO KUDAT AND KOTA BELUD

Mini-buses for Kota Belud leave from the bus station in front of Centrepoint Complex, in Kota Kinabalu, throughout the day; the fare is RM10. Air-conditioned buses for Kudat and Kota Marudu, leaving from near the Padang at 7.30 am, 6.30 am, 12 noon and 1 pm, can be taken as far as Kota Belud (RM10), or on as far as Kudat for the same fare. In Kudat, buses for Kota Kinabalu leave from next to the Telekoms office, opposite the clothing market near Hotel Sunrise. It is possible to share a long-distance taxi (RM 25 per person) or to charter it for RM100, between Kota Kinabalu and Kudat; long-distance taxis leave from near KK Padang. Car hire companies offer self-drive sedans or 4-wheel drive vehicles for journeys to Kudat; sedans cost around RM1S0 per day, while a 4-wheel drive costs from RM250-300.

Most Vibrant Market The tamu or Sunday market of Kota Belud has been famous ever since it first began. Originally known as the Tamu Darat (Land Market), it was held on neutral ground where the indigenous Dusun could meet the Bajau, Irranun and Obian Muslims, as well as Chinese traders, to barter or purchase goods. Today, vendors come from all over the West Coast and even die Interior to take part in the tamu, which offers an unrivalled opportunity for discovering some of Sabah’s many different ethnic groups, as well as exploring an astonishing variety of produce. Everything from herbal medicine to mountain-grown vegetables, wild orchids to chilli-laced dried fish, luscious tropical fruit to edible seaweed is on sale. Medicine men hawk their wares; Irranun women enjoy an impromptu concert as they await buyers for their musical instruments; Rungus down from their longhouse preside over handmade brooms and woven baskets while Bajau women turn out a constant stream of deep-fried cakes. All the color and variety of the regular tamu comes to a grand climax with the annual Tamu Besar, with cultural displays, dances, handicrafts and, of course, the famous Bajau horsemen.

November 8, 2012

Borneo Mail

Filed under: borneo,culture,disease/health,global islands — admin @ 4:59 am

Hi Brad Brace,

Many thanks for the email.

We do have a room available from Nov 1st to Dec 11th. I have group booking from Dec 12th to 26th (yet to be confirmed). But free from Dec 26th till end of Jan.

Our room rate is RM110 per night for single occupation incl food and beverages as mentioned on our website www.pondok-keladi.com. Since you’re staying for more than a month, the rate for you is RM80 per day incl food and beverages as cleaning your room. If you stay less than a month, the original rate remains. I cant give you any further discount as you’re coming during the high season.

Please reconfirm your booking by giving us arrival details. I may need a deposit of 300 canadian dollars (non refundable) from you to be deposited into my Malaysian bank account once everything is confirmed.

As we only have six rooms, our policy is first-come-first-served basis.

Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Regards Rosidi

Will do…

On Sep 2, 2012 9:31 PM, “{ brad brace }” wrote:

thanks Rosidi: I’d need the room for the entire period (Nov-Jan), so please let me know if it becomes available

/:b

On Sunday, September 2, 2012, at 04:13 AM, rosidi daud wrote:

Hi Brad Brace,

Many thanks for the email.

We do have a room available from Nov 1st to Dec 11th. I have group booking from Dec 12th to 26th (yet to be confirmed). But free from Dec 26th till end of Jan.

Our room rate is RM110 per night for single occupation incl food and beverages as mentioned on our website www.pondok-keladi.com. Since you’re staying for more than a month, the rate for you is RM80 per day incl food and beverages as cleaning your room. If you stay less than a month, the original rate remains. I cant give you any further discount as you’re coming during the high season.

Please reconfirm your booking by giving us arrival details. I may need a deposit of 300 canadian dollars (non refundable) from you to be deposited into my Malaysian bank account once everything is confirmed.

As we only have six rooms, our policy is first-come-first-served basis.

Looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Regards Rosidi

On Sun, Sep 2, 2012 at 4:31 AM, { brad brace } wrote:

Hello, I’m a Canadian artist/designer (I make small books about small islands); looking for long term, secure, budget accommodation for 3+ months (November-January)… I like the sound of your place: hope you can help!

/:brad brace

You can try rainbow lodge…they do long stay and have plenty of rooms. Google for their contact number

On Sep 3, 2012 12:38 AM, “{ brad brace }” wrote:

thanks, I’d appreciate hearing of any other quiet, secure, long-term budget accommodation on the island   /:b

From: booking@rainbowlangkawi.com Date: Sun Sep 2, 2012 7:45:21 PM US/Pacific To: { brad brace } Subject: Re: long stay

Quoting { brad brace } :

hi, thank you for your mail.we have a house with one bedroom,a/c fully furnished with small kitchen a a living room.bathroom attached with hot shower.it’s rm2200 per month.please reply if you are interested.

regards,

hi, thank you for your mail.we have the accomodation around that figure.rm900 per month with basic accomodation,(double bed) with hot water (shower) and basic furniture.please reply if you are interested.

regards,

thanks! (rm = malaysian ringgit?) that’s too expensive for me: I only need something small/basic (but secure, quiet) for around $300US/month

/:b

On Sunday, September 2, 2012, at 07:45 PM, booking@rainbowlangkawi.com wrote:

Quoting { brad brace } :

hi, thank you for your mail.we have a house with one bedroom,a/c fully furnished with small kitchen a a living room.bathroom attached with hot shower.it’s rm2200 per month.please reply if you are interested.

regards,

Will try…

Then again you’re coming in the busiest months. Most of them make more money in these months for short stay guests.

Cheers

On Sep 5, 2012 1:32 AM, “{ brad brace }” wrote:

thanks very much Rosidi for this contact… I’d also be interested in a rural village homestay if you happen to know anyone interested… I could pay around $300US/month

/:b

hi, thank you for your mail.i will get back to u on that.on the meantime u can check our website.it have some photo.we will still did not uploads some of our picture.like i said,it’s a basic accomodation with fan, clean double bed.hot shower and basic furniture.porch.

thank you.

From: awieahmad@yahoo.com Date: Thu Sep 6, 2012 9:06:34 AM US/Pacific To: “{ brad brace }” Subject: Re: long stay Reply-To: awieahmad@yahoo.com

Hai brad…I can’t promise now…cause our room very limited…but we do have a small room maybe went ur arrive here u can c first…. Have a nice day…

Hi,

We do not do monthly rental. Our cheapest rate is RM60/n. If you are looking for monthly rental, maybe you can try at this place, Amzar Motel +6049552354.

Rgds, Afidah

Hi

Thanks for your email but I am sorry Gecko does not accept any bookings, just walk-in guests.  I do not do a rate for long term accommodation, its only a nightly rate which ranges from rm15 for dorm, rm35 fan room with sharing bathroom and rm50 for attached bathroom.

Thanks

Rebecca

Dear Brad Brace

I am Khairul

Please tell me more about your self and what kind of accommodation/package do you need. I will help you.

Thanks & best regards

Khairul Hakimin bin Haji Sahariman +60192243805

From: Sahariman Hamdan To: Khairulitm Hakimin Sent: Thursday, September 13, 2012 7:18 AM Subject: Fwd: Pulau Tuba homestay

Dato’ Haji Sahariman bin Haji Hamdan

Begin forwarded message:

From: Sahariman Hamdan Date: 13 September 2012 7:18:28 PG GMT+08:00 To: brad brace Subject: Re: Pulau Tuba homestay

Welcome to homestay malaysia, My members will get in touch with you asap.

Please tell me more about yourself and your visit n also what is the budget cost for you per day , for accomodation, meals, and etc.

Tqvm

Dato’ Haji Sahariman bin Haji Hamdan

Hi 

Good morning to you. 

For your information. Our minimun package USD30/day. Include accompdation & meal (bfast, lunch & dinner. 

Thanks

Khairul Hakimin bin Dato’ Haji Sahariman +6 019 2243 805

Sent from my iPhone

hi, we are a guesthouse running with small capacity of workers.it’s been busy lately and i don’t have a time to take a room picture yet but if you look at the room photo we have on our website,it’s almost the same.i’m truly sorry.

regards,

hello, still like the sound of this arrangement (3+ months: Nov-Jan): any other info/photos would be good… thanks /:b

I can discuss with our Homestay members to give 25% discout if 3 months. But the price we are talking is exclude activity. But dont worry we will help you to arrange the activity for you. The rest is your free time enjoing your stay. 

Thanks

Khairul Hakimin bin Dato’ Haji Sahariman +6 019 2243 805

Sent from my iPhone

On 17/09/2012, at 8:06 PTG, { brad brace } wrote:

thanks Khairul, at USD30/day that would be USD2700 (!) for three months — I was hoping for a discount considering how long I am staying (?)

/:brad brace

Reply-To: Stephanie Gunsalam Attachments: There are 8 attachments

Warmest Greetings from Maliau Basin Conservation Area (Sabah Lost World..)!

Dear M,

Attached, Please find the estimated cost for 5Days 4nights Package.

Please Bring Your own Sleeping Bag.

Dear Mr.Brad,

Please take note of the term and conditions that need to be complied before entering Maliau Basin Conservation Area. The terms & condition are as follows:

(1)  Each visitor who wishes to do any activities in MBCA are require strictly to have an insurance policy which cover helicopter evacuation.

(2) You are require to bring your own sleeping bag, First Aid Kit and useful tool for trekking such as flashlight, Leech socks, Rucksack etc.

(3) Maliau Basin is adopting A ZERO WASTE MANAGEMENT POLICY, in which, for every non-organic waste produced must be carried out of MBCA.

(4) Please note that for any activities especially trekking within the MBCA, the management will only provide ForestRanger as to caretakers to the visitor during your stay at MBCA, and will not provide tourguide or Naturalist.For visit arranged through travel agent, the tour agencies are required to provide a Tour Guide or a naturalist.

Please send us your full details  Such as Full Name, Copy of Insurance Policy, Passport No., Nationality and any other relevant information to our office.

For confirmation of your booking, please sign on the estimated cost as per attached as an agreement and email or fax it back to us the soonest possible.

For your further information, the payment method is by cashonly.

Thank you for your interest in staying with us at Maliau Basin Conservation Area. Please do not hesitate to contact us should you need further assistance.

NOTE : PLEASE RECONFIRM YOU TOUR TO MALIAU BASIN 1WEEK BEFORE THE DATE AS YOU REQUEST.

Warm regards Stephanie Gunsalam Reservation (Maliau Basin Office Tawau) Maliau Basin Conservation Area 2nd Floor, UMNO Building P.O.Box 60793 91017, Tawau, Sabah Malaysia

From: “Reservations Gayana” Date: Thu Sep 20, 2012 6:16:13 PM US/Pacific To: “‘brad brace'” Subject: RE: long stay

Dear Mr. Brad,

Warmest greetings from Gayana Eco Resort. Thank you for expressing your interest in our island resort for your upcoming travel; We would be appreciate if you can advise us on the exact date of your travel; So that we can check the room availability for you, as well as provide the best accommodation options.

We would be appreciate if you can advise us with more of your trip; Is there any special occasions such as birthday, anniversary, or any special dietary requirement, etc; That we need to pay attention to; So that we can be alert of these details during your stay with us in the resort.

Should there is further inquiries, please do not hesitate to revert to us via reply We’re looking forward to hear from you soon Thank you

Rgds Alvin

Dear brad,

 Your long stay at our resort or you are doing the marketing for us. Please advise.

 Siar Beach

From:brad brace [mailto:bb] Sent: Friday, 21 September 2012 6:45 a.m. To: dlpw@streamyx.com Subject: long stay

 hello, I’m a Canadian artist/designer  (I make small books about small islands), looking for budget/basic long-term accommodation (Nov-Jan). hope you can help   /:brad brace

Dear Brad Brace

Warmest Greetings From Travel Centre

Thank you for your interest to Gaya Island Resort.

We are happy to offer a very special rate for you at RM400++ (RM464nett) per room per night inclusive of daily breakfast for 2 Adults in our Gaya Villa

Our resort offers a full board Meal Plan which enables you to enjoy a 3 course lunch and dinner at any of the restaurants on the island without restriction. All meals can be selected from any of the resorts A La Carte menus. The Meal Plan is also inclusive of a Sunset Cruise onboard our teakwood Chinese Junk. If you are celebrating, or simply plan to enjoy a memorable evening, why not upgrade to a private dinner for only an additional RM100 per person.

The resort Meal Plan costs RM280++ per person per day for adults if purchase at the resort. For advanced purchase before you travel, the price is RM280 nett, saving you RM45 per day. Children enjoy a 50% discount from the adult rate. Water, tea & coffee are included. Other drinks will be chargeable to your personal account.

Hope to hear from you and please do advice us on how to proceed from here

Regards Adi

Dear Brad,

Thank you for the email below, we are happy to offer you as per below details.

RM 4’200.00 nett per month (the best rate).

Including: Laundry Service, Breakfast, Sunday Roast Lunch for 1 or 2 person (Every sunday only) and wifi service.

Hope this will help you and if you need more details, please do not hesitate to send us an email.

Looking forward to hear from you soon.

Regards,

Irene

Hi Brad,

I can only tell you by end of oct if my room is free frm dec 12th to 26th. I,m actually reserving the rooms for my friends from abroad…

As for the homestay, a coupke of ownets I spoke to prefer shprt let as they make more money in dec and jan as high season.

The best bet is still rainbow lodge or you van wait till end of oct if you,re still keen on staying with us.

I,m in jakarta now. Back in langkawi on sunday.

Take care Rosidi

From: “SIPADAN.COM” Date: Sun Sep 30, 2012 10:16:48 PM US/Pacific To: bb Subject: Re: Sipadan Inquiry Attachments: There is 1 attachment

Dear brad ,

Thank you for your email and time ,

If you are staying for 16 night 17 days , Firs you need to buy the package first for 3 night 4 days package for RM 650 pp ( 7 x boat Snorkeling trip around Mabul / kapalai

Extra night : RM 70 pp / night + full board of meals . x 13 night = RM 910 per person

Total RM 1560 pp

Extra snorkeling trip is RM 50 pp / boat trip around Mabul / kapalai But you can decide when you are here .

Package includes as follow :

* 16  night stay at budget accommodation base on twin shared basis , shared bathroom / fan * 7 x boat snorkeling trip around Mabul / kapalai * Full boar of meals * Full set of snorkeling gear equipment * Return boat transfer from Semporna to Mabul island

Our diving / Snorkeling schedule :

8:00 am first dive 10:30 am second dive 1:30 pm third dive 3:30 pm sunset dive

 boat transfer :         Semporna to Mabul : 8 am         mabul to Semporna : 4 pm         out of schedule : additonal RM 50 per person per way

This package is excluded :

    Jetty fee : RM 10 per person     Airport transfer that transfer you from Semporna to Tawau airport and forth     night accommodation In Semporna (dragon Inn)

If you are unable to catch our boat schedule, it is suggested to stay a night in Semporna before leaving to Mabul the next day. We may assist you to reserve it. Kindly pay directly to hotel lobby upon arrival :

    Dragon Inn – private room : RM 77 per room     Dragon Inn – Dormitory : RM 22 per person

Airport transfer : (if needed, kindly fill the airport transfer box in the booking form)

   RM 80 per car per way at day time     RM 100 per car per way after 6 pm

Shall you proceed to a reservation , please fill the form attached

Thanks, 

Aini

Hi Brad Brace,

 Thanks for your interest on Summer Friends.

 Our accommodation rate is at MYR90 (approx. USD30) per pax per night inclusive of 3 meals daily. However, we only accept week term for accommodation only. It means you have to rebook on a weekly basis and we reserve the right to reject the next renewal with at least 2-day notice.

 Your kind understanding is highly appreciated as we will have to prioritize our rooms for package bookings.

 Many thanks and have a great week ahead!

 Regards,

Janice

SummerFriends Tour and Dive Sdn. Bhd.

Email: crew@summerfriendshomestay.com / janice@summerfriendz.com

Website: www.summerfriendshomestay.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/SFHomestay

Dear Brad ,

Thank you for your email and time ,

If you are staying for longer 3 months +++

RM 40 pp / night + full board of meals in dorm bed RM 100 pp return boat transfer

OR

RM 60 pp / night + full board of meals ( base on twin shared basis / shared bathroom / fan RM 100 pp return boat transfer

Trust the above are in order ,

Thanks, Aini

On 10/1/2012 10:11 PM, { brad brace } wrote:

Hello, I’m a Canadian artist/designer (I make small books about small islands); looking for long term, secure, budget accommodation for 3+ months (November-January)… I like the sound of your place: hope you can help! Not all that interested in diving… snorkeling perhaps…

/:brad brace

Hi

Thanks for mailing us.

Are you planning to stay in the dorm room for 3 month? You plan to snorkel and do not dive at all?

our dorm room price is rm70 per person. if you stay with us for 3 month, i can offer you rm50 per person per night, it is 4 bed room with attached bathroom and fan. there is a boat transfer charged for semporna-mabul-semporna of rm100 and this included already your snorkel at mabul with boat at 9.30am and 2pm everyday.

for the mask and snorkel, i suggest you to buy your own and you can use it in the long term instead of renting them :)

Thank you and hear from you soon!

Jamilah

Uncle Chang’s Sipadan Mabul Dive Lodge  P.O. Box 37, 91307 Semporna, Sabah Causeway Rd. S.O.T.C. (+6) 017-8950002 (+6) 089781 002 / 089 782002

Brad, 

How’s it going ?

Great to hear that you would like to head this way, I think that it best I put you in touch with WWF as they are organising a few things on Banggi and the adjacent island Malaianggin and I am sure that they could point you in the right direction, please see the copied in address above.

If you need a break from the island and would like to head to my place you can check out : www.tampatdoaman.com

With best wishes , 

Howard

C/O Petit Surat 115, Kudat, Sabah, East Malaysia

Telephone : +60 (0)13 880 8395

109 Evesham road, Stratford-Upon-Avon Warwickshire England CV37 9BE Tel : (01789) 415910

— On Sun, 7/10/12, { brad brace } wrote:

From: { brad brace } Subject: BANGGI ISLAND To: Stanton_howard@yahoo.co.uk Date: Sunday, 7 October, 2012, 18:33

Hello, I’m a Canadian artist/designer (I make small books about small islands); looking for long term, secure, budget accommodation for 3+ months (November-January)… on Banggi Island, Hope you can help!   /:brad

Brad, 

Sorry to say that I am not too sure, Sophia will know more and be able to advise, she may also point your in the direction of Malianggin island, this would probably be a good thing.

With best wishes, 

Howard

C/O Petit Surat 115, Kudat, Sabah, East Malaysia

Telephone : +60 (0)13 880 8395

109 Evesham road, Stratford-Upon-Avon Warwickshire England CV37 9BE Tel : (01789) 415910

— On Mon, 8/10/12, { brad brace } wrote:

From: { brad brace } Subject: Re: BANGGI ISLAND To: “howard stanton” Cc: “Sofia Johari” Date: Monday, 8 October, 2012, 1:55

thanks very much Howard!

I read that there are only two guesthouses on Banggi — the cheaper one owned by the government — do you think I might get a discount for a long stay (?) and would I have trouble finding accommodation during the holidays? are there other options?

I’ll definitely keep your place in Kudat in mind.

/:b

Brad, 

Great and all good, I reckon you would be best to stay in KK for that night and then head up our way in the morning , I have cc’d in Karen from Step in Lodge as I would suggest that you could stay there. I also attach our generic E mail we send out to all enquiries so that you can see what you are letting yourself in for , have a look at our web site too : www.tampatdoaman.com

With best wishes and safe journey, 

Howard

A very good morning to you.

 Great to hear that you might be heading this way, yes we do have availability for the dates you have said and we would love to see you up here. The area is fantastically beautiful, very undiscovered and a great place to get out and explore. Hire a bike and some snorkel gear to get the best out of the place or head off into the jungle with one of our guides.

 The rates for your long house / “semi permanent tents” are RM 30 per person per night.

 We can pick you up from Kudat (30km away)  for RM 15 per person each way, if the transfer is needed before 2pm, after 2pm the transfer rate rises to RM 30 per person.

 The best way to get here is to jump in a shared taxi from a place called Bandaran Berjaya in Kota Kinabalu, the best time is in the morning between 8am and 10am, Cost: RM 25 each, give us a call / SMS when you are leaving Kota Kinabalu (013 880 8395) so that we can guage when you will be arriving in Kudat, about a three hour trip. Our usual meeting place is the Ria hotel, they have a cafe underneath with free WiFi .

 Hoping that all is good with you, please confirm the dates so that we can book you in.

With best wishes,

Howard and the Tampat Do Aman crew

Hi, very sorry on the late reply, can you inform what kind help you need. Are you planning to come here?

regards Richard Sulip Kaiduan Homestay +60128200338 On 23 Sep 2012 00:19, “brad brace” wrote: > > hello, I’m a Canadian artist/designer  (I make small books about small islands), looking for budget/basic long-term accommodation (Nov-Jan). hope you can help   /:brad brace

From: Sofia Johari Date: Mon Oct 8, 2012 9:14:29 PM US/Pacific To: “{ brad brace }” Cc: howard stanton Subject: Re: BANGGI ISLAND

Dear Brad & Howard,

Here is my reply to your enquries (the same as my reply to Angela – our communication officer in Kota Kinabalu):

There are 2 options:

1) Stay in Karakit, Banggi Island (can be reached directly by ferry from Kudat) for RM500 per month in a home (a house on stilts on water with 2 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, toilet) – Nobody living in the house owned by community member of Maliangin island origin. However, will have to share the house with WWF staffs (2 or 3 people) sometimes when we have activity on the island. Breakfast provided and can cook in the house (cooking utensils and gas for cooking provided). Water source – government pipe water supply. Electricity – 24 hours

2) Maliangin homestay (located 15-30 minutes boat ride from Karakit, Banggi island – depending the type of boat) – stay with a family (3 houses to choose from), the family has household of 5 – 7 people in the house all the time, they can cook for you, usually they will charge RM30 per day with meals 3 times a day, that will total up to RM900 a month. However you might have to provide them with raw materials to cook. Water source – untreated spring water/well water. Have proper toilet and shower facility. Electricity – none

I would recommend try staying both in Karakit (longer term) and Maliangin (short term) as Karakit will have all the basic facilities you will need for a long term stay and your research (eg: restaurants,market,boat transfer, ferry, clinic, saundry shops and etc) and in Maliangin for a short period of time (as this place have none of the facilities mentioned above but have proper toilet and shower- harder to access other areas).

You can negotiate with people in Karakit to go to the other islands around Banggi island (eg: Patanunan, Balak Balak, Balambangan, Tigabu etc.). WWF staffs in Kudat will be able to help with the negatiations if needed.

Sofia

Hi Brad,

Yes, your passport must be valid for more than 6 months from the date of entry. Refer to the link below for more info:

http://www.imi.gov.my/index.php/en/main-services/syarat-kemasukan-ke- malaysia

Thanks and kind regards,

Linda Stephen E-BORNEO.COM TOURS & TRAVEL SDN BHD (862652-M ; KPL/LN 6169)

Lot No. 7, 2nd Floor, Block C Lintas Jaya Uptownship 88200 Penampang Kota Kinabalu, Sabah Malaysia Tel: +6-088-722606 Fax: +6-088-727606 URL: http://www.e-borneo.com/

On Mon, Oct 8, 2012 at 12:44 PM, { brad brace } wrote:

hello, I’m a Canadian tourist whose passport expires in May 2013 — I plan to visit this Nov-Jan — does my passport need to be valid 6 months from the time of arrival or departure? thanks   /:b

Dear Brad

Thank you for your email and interest to stay in the proposed Tun Mustapha Park.

For accommodation you can stay at:

1) Karakit Town, Banggi Island (can be reached directly by ferry from Kudat) for RM500 per month in a home (a house on stilts on water with 2 bedrooms, living room, kitchen, toilet) with bedding and linen provided, except you need to bring a towel. There is no one living in the house, owned by a community member of Maliangin Island. However, you may have to share the house with WWF staffs (2 or 3 people) sometimes when we conduct activities on Karakit. Breakfast will be provided but you can cook yourself (cooking utensils and gas for cooking provided). Water source – government piped water.

2) Maliangin Island Homestay (located 15-30 minutes boat ride from Banggi island – depending on the type of boat you manage to hire) – stay with a family (3 houses to choose from), the family has household of 5 – 7 people in the house at all times and can cook for you, charging RM30 per day with 3 meals per day, that will total up to RM900 a month. However you might have to provide them with raw materials to cook. Water source – untreated spring water/well water. There is a basic squat toilet and shower facility.

Our Community Liaison Officer, Sofia Johari, recommends that you try to stay at both Karakit (longer term) and Maliangin (short term) as Karakit will have all the basic facilities you will need for a long term stay and for research (e.g., eating stalls, market, boat transfer, ferry, clinic, sundries shops and etc.) and Maliangin to experience life on an idyllic island.

You can also negotiate with people in Karakit to go to the other islands nearby as well; e.g., Patanunan, Balak Balak, Balambangan, Tigabu. Sofia can help negotiate if you don’t speak Bahasa Malaysia, and she can also make any booking or connect you to the relevant service providers. WWF is helping to promote the area for ecotourism and other sustainable livelihoods alternate to fishing.

For Maliangin check out: www.facebook.com/malianginisland Watch videos from the recently concluded Tun Mustapha Park Expedition: http://www.youtube.com/user/TMPE2012

Sincerely, — Angela Lim Communications Manager Sulu-Sulawesi Marine Ecoregion (SSME) Programme WWF-Malaysia, Suite 1-6-W11, 6th Fl, CPS Tower No.1, Jln Centre Point 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia Tel: +60 88 262 420, Fax: +60 88 242 531 Email: alim@wwf.org.my

Dear Mr Brad Brace,

Greetings from “The Land below the Wind”!

Thank you for your enquiry, our profound apologies for getting back late.

We are happy to offer you a room upstairs Boungain Villa at RM900 per month (USD300 equivalent roughly).  This is a fairly large room, fan-cooled and with a common bathroom (with hot shower, washbasin and toilet) right outside.  However, BV is nearest to the road so you may not find this room suitable if you like to sleep during the day or a light sleeper.

Suggest when in Sabah, come over and check it out before making any commitment.

Once again sorry for the delay, if you have found something else somewhere, i will understand.

Please let us know if you have any other queries.

Hope to hear from you.

Best wishes…James (088 757999 t 019 8106161 hp James Leopard Ong fb)

“SIT BACK & RELAX”

James Ong (Operations Manager) SEASIDE TRAVELLERS INN Tel:  +60 88 750555, 750313, 752067 & 751794 Alternative Tel:  +60 88 757999 Fax:  +60 88 750479 E-mail:  stinn89@gmail.com  Alternative E-mail:  james@seasidetravellersinn.com.my Website:  www.seasidetravellersinn.com.my

“Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail” thanks Rini — how about a discount for such a long stay? I’m also interested in all the tours!

/:brad brace

Brad, 

All good and we look forward to seeing you, 

With best wishes, 

Howard

C/O Petit Surat 115, Kudat, Sabah, East Malaysia

Telephone : +60 (0)13 880 8395

109 Evesham road, Stratford-Upon-Avon Warwickshire England CV37 9BE Tel : (01789) 415910

— On Sun, 14/10/12, { brad brace } wrote:

From: { brad brace } Subject: Re: BANGGI ISLAND To: “howard stanton” Date: Sunday, 14 October, 2012, 13:50

[ hi Howard, just in case you missed the earlier email: ]

Howard: my flight gets in a little after midnight (so, Nov 6); Asiana OZ0757 from Korea

so, once I pick up a SIM, exchange some dollars, etc., I’ll be heading to your place on the 6th — please reserve an inexpensive room for me!

looking forward to my visit!

/:brad brace

Dear Brad,

Warm greeting from Step~In Lodge, Malaysian Borneo! 

Thank you for your booking and your booking is confirmed for1 non air conditioned private room at RM70nett single/double occupancy per room per night with breakfast from6/11/12 for 2 night(s) and check out on 8/11/12.Last minute of extending of stay is subject to the availabilityof the day and on first come first serve.

We’ve received the cc email from Howard as well and thank you for selecting us.

For your information, we do assist guests to plan their travel itinerary and book tour packages as well, so please feel free to contact us for any assistance or tour information. Meantime, look forward toreceiving your confirmation soonest possible. Booking shall be releasedautomatically 3 days after our reply if no confirmation received or last minute confirmation is subject to availability.Thank you and look forward to receive your confirmation soonest possible.

Regards, Karen

Brad, 

Not too sure, probably best you get them before you leave or in KK.

With best wishes, 

Howard

C/O Petit Surat 115, Kudat, Sabah, East Malaysia

Telephone : +60 (0)13 880 8395

109 Evesham road, Stratford-Upon-Avon Warwickshire England CV37 9BE Tel : (01789) 415910

— On Tue, 16/10/12, { brad brace } wrote:

From: { brad brace } Subject: Re: BANGGI ISLAND To: “Sofia Johari” Cc: “howard stanton” Date: Tuesday, 16 October, 2012, 13:27

Sofia/Howard: is there a medical vaccination clinic in Kudat/Banggi for Japanese Encephalitis? I’ll be needing these shots.

/:brad

Hi Brad there is a clinic in Banggi island, however it is better to get your vaccination in the government hospital/clinic in Kudat.

SJ

On Tue, Oct 16, 2012 at 8:27 PM, { brad brace } wrote: Sofia/Howard: is there a medical vaccination clinic in Kudat/Banggi for Japanese Encephalitis? I’ll be needing these shots.

/:brad

Thanks for your confirmation and the taxi is RM30 per way from airport to city during normal operating hours, another 50% midnight surcharge is levied from 12:00 midnight to 6am.

Not all clinics are having JE vaccination and usually they don’t carry stock, a 2 days notice is required to order the vaccine, therefore you may need to get it done early or pre order if you required the vaccination.

Regards, Karen

From: { brad brace } Sent: Tuesday, October 16, 2012 8:21 PM To: Reservation @ Step-in Lodge Subject: Re: Step~in Lodge Online Reservation Form

thanks Karen! sounds good

* what should the taxi fare be from the airport (at night)?

* is there a medical vaccination clinic for Japanese Encephalitis in KK (or in Kudat?)

/:brad brace

Welcome and see you soon!

From: { brad brace } Sent: Thursday, October 18, 2012 9:01 PM To: Reservation @ Step-in Lodge Subject: Re: Step~in Lodge Online Reservation Form

ok thanks Karen ! good info — see you soon :)

/:brad

On Tuesday, October 16, 2012, at 11:57 PM, Reservation @ Step-in Lodge wrote:

Thanks for your confirmation and the taxi is RM30 per way from airport to city during normal operating hours, another 50% midnight surcharge is levied from 12:00 midnight to 6am.

Not all clinics are having JE vaccination and usually they don’t carry stock, a 2 days notice is required to order the vaccine, therefore you may need to get it done early or pre order if you required the vaccination.

Regards, Karen

Hi Brad, I’ll get back to you on the appointment for JE vaccination! Regards, Karen

From: { brad brace } Sent: Wednesday, October 24, 2012 8:13 PM To: Reservation @ Step-in Lodge Subject: Re: Step~in Lodge Online Reservation Form

Karen, could you please pre-order the JEV for me and an appointment for Nov 7 in KK? I’d really appreciate your assistance on this matter.

/:brad

Hi Brad,

Yes sure, let me know when you are here in Kudat, will pick you up from somewhere or you can come straight to our WWF-Malaysia office in Kudat.

Here’s my number again +6013-8638323

Regards Sofia

On Tue, Oct 23, 2012 at 9:06 PM, { brad brace } wrote: Hi Sofia, I’ll be checking-out of the StepinLodge (in KK) and heading up to Kudat on the morning of Nov 8th. Would that be a good time/place to meet?

/:brad brace

Hi Brad,

The JEV course consists of 2 jabs, the 2nd jab will be 1-2 weeks apart from the 1st jab and the cost is RM80 per jab, total of RM160 for the whole course, the 3rd jab can be done a year later.  The nearest clinic is Clinic Malaysia which is 5 minutes walk from here and right now KK has total of 4 sets which is going to expire in December 6, 2012, new stock may not be the same price.  According to Dr Henry, in order to secure the stock, the clinic requires the full payment to order the vaccination and you may need to provide credit card to secure the stock if you would like to do it here.  Please let me know your decision, otherwise you may do it in your home town if that’s more convenience to you since it’s still enough time to have the vaccination.

Cheers, Karen

From: { brad brace } Sent: Saturday, October 27, 2012 6:47 PM To: Reservation @ Step-in Lodge Subject: Re: Step~in Lodge Online Reservation Form

thanks Karen: any time on Nov 7 will be fine I’ll be in Sabah for 3+ months so it’s worth getting the shots

/:b

Yes, you can get the 1st jab on Nov 7, that is why the Dr needs to pre order the vacine so you can have the jab on 7th!  I’ll forward your email to Dr Henry, perhaps he could answer your questions.

Cheers, Karen

—– Original Message —–

From: { brad brace } To: Reservation @ Step-in Lodge Sent: Monday, October 29, 2012 5:35 PM Subject: Re: Step~in Lodge Online Reservation Form

thanks Karen — so, if I paid for the vaccinations on Nov 7, could I get the first jab then? and stay at your place (maybe just in the dorm), for one week waiting for the second jab? and how long before I’m protected? is JE very common in rural Sabah? do you know the name of the vaccine? (here you have to wait 28 days between jabs)

/:brad

Dear Mr Brad The only vaccine available in Sabah is JE Vaccine manufactured by Green Cross and diastributed by Propharm. You could get more information regarding this vaccine from http://www.mims.com.my/ or by looking in the Korean Green Cross webpage.

The product leaflet advises having an interval of 1 to 2 weeks between vaccinations and a booster after one year. JE is not common in Sabah. Therefore, the vaccine is not commonly available.

The current stock of vaccines with the distributor expires on 6 December, 2012. Therefore, if  we administer the first dose on the 7th November, we could administer the second dose between 14 – 21 November.

We require a deposit of the full amount of RM80.00 per dose before we transfer the vaccine from the distributor to our clinic. At present there are 4 doses available with the distributor in Kota Kinabalu.

I would advise that the payment be made in advance as it might take 2 to 3 working days to transfer the vaccine from the distributor to our clinic. There are a few public holidays in November.

Please liase with Karen with regards to the payment. Please do not hesitate to contact us for further information.

Thank you & Regards Dr Henry

From: Operations To: hrponniah@yahoo.com Sent: Monday, October 29, 2012 7:51 PM Subject: Fw: Step~in Lodge Online Reservation Form

Hi Dr Henry,

This is Karen from Step~In Lodge, Sinsuran.

Here are the questions asked by Brad, who is going for the JE jab, perhaps you could provide the answers to his questions please.

Regards, Karen

Hi Brad

It’s not been a concern the past few years, but if you can, might as well get it. However, you should prevent from getting bit by mosquitoes. Use insect repellent or wear long sleeve tops/pants if possible given the heat. Malaria and Dengue are more the worry.

Look us up in our office at Centre Point shoppping centre, if you have time: WWF-Malaysia, Suite 1-6-W11, 6th Fl, CPS Tower No.1, Jln Centre Point 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia Tel: +60 88 262 420

Safe travels, Angela

On Tue, Oct 30, 2012 at 5:30 AM, { brad brace } wrote:

Hi Angela, nearly ready to go!

Arranging some Japanese Encephalitis shots (JEV) in KK but wonder how common this disease is in Sabah/Banggi/Maliangin…?

/:brad

Hi Brad, You just need to stay 8 nites to get the 2 jabs one in KK, not necessary for the whole month.  Yes we do give 10% off for a minimum of 7 consecutive nites stay and 30% off for 30 consecutive nites stay.  Cheers, Karen

From: { brad brace } Sent: Tuesday, October 30, 2012 12:17 AM To: Operations Subject: Re: Step~in Lodge Online Reservation Form

thanks Karen — it’s sounding like I’ll need to stay in KK a while in order to finish these shots: could I get a special rate for staying with you for rest of the month of November?

/:brad

Hi Brad, Mosquitos is not a big problem in the Banggi house, in fact I dont remember being bitten by one inside or just outside the house. I also have never seen rats inside the house so far, maybe because it’s over the water. Monkeys, yes… so try not to leave your things on the verandah or outside the house whenever you leave the house.

However, it would be handy to have mosquito repellent cream with you all the time.

It is a simple house, sorry to dissapoint you, but with closed simple bathroom.

As for dos and donts, since majority of the population living in the coastal area are Muslim, it is not a norm to walk around the beach in bikinis or topless for women, for guys they can almost get away with anything, except for walking around naked.

Few issues on Banggi island: 1) Karakit has waste management issue, so you will see garbage along the populated area. My advice dont swim too close to the housing area. WWF-Malaysia and Banggi Youth Club (BYC) members are working on raising awareness about waste management through Green Lifestyle Campaign. BYC is doing weekly environmental education activities with the community especially with school children. 2) There are 3 groups of community in Banggi/islands around it, those with legal Malaysian status (with IC – Identity Cards), without ICs (IMM13 pass holder – war/political refugees from Phillipines), and theres who does not have any documentation at all who has been living there forever or from the Phillipines. Having one or not is a sensitive issue.

Majority of the population speaks Malay, Bajao Ubian, Sulug language. Other tribes/languages are Kagayan, Binadan, Bajao Sama, Dusun Bonggi. Not many can speak English.

By the way, from 5th-10th November there will be a handicraft training organized by Malaysian Handicraft Department and WWF-Malaysia in Karakit, Banggi Island. Handicraft makers from all over Banggi will be there to participate in the training.

SJ

On Wed, Oct 31, 2012 at 3:37 AM, { brad brace } wrote: Sofia, would there be few mosquitos at the Banggi house, as it’s over the water?

somehow I’m picturing a simple house over the water where I could bathe in the hot sun (which I love,) and work on my paintings, photos and sound recordings… but not cowering inside for fear of various mosquito flavivirus… I’d take precautions when going into town for meals/supplies; (and I’m imagining some great sound recordings in the Karakit badminton court.)

so _please tell me now how realistic my expectations may be

these island projects nearly always naturally generate collaborations with local concerns… and I’m always delighted to forge long friendships (I pick up languages quickly)

/:b

u r most welcome,

To my standard the house is secure :) We usually leave our things such as laptops and cameras inside, the daughter of Maliangin Island Head of Village is taking care of the house. Yes of course will be happy to introduce you to the neighbours

SJ

On Wed, Oct 31, 2012 at 10:19 AM, { brad brace } wrote: thanks Sofia!

is the house secure/locked? — can I leave my things inside without worry (I have a lot of electronic/photo gear and painting materials)? will you be able to introduce me to my neighbours? love to see the handicrafts!

/:brad

yes, there is locks on the doors Celcom coverage is full on Banggi island (particularly in Karakit Township), unless during black outs electricity in Karakit township and a few other major village is 24 hours there’s no farmed pigs on the island as most of them are Muslim, however there’s wild boars in the forest

SJ

On Wed, Oct 31, 2012 at 11:38 AM, { brad brace } wrote: questions questions questions :) so, no locks on the doors? Celcom coverage on Banggi? will I be able to boil water for drinking and/or buy bottled-water? any electricity? are there pigs, rice fields (JE) on the island?

/:b

Hi Brad,

I believe Dr Henry has already informed you regarding JE information in Sabah, should you have further enquiries, kindly contact Dr Henry Directly. Thank you.

Cheers, Karen

Hi Brad

Banggi is the largest island in Malaysia, not most populated but with humans and secondary bushes (not quite forest). The house is at the water edge of Karakit town, close to communities so lots of mosquitoes breeding. Bring insect repellent for day and night use. You can choose not to, if you don’t find yourself being a target :-) Maliangin is much smaller island with small forest, so also mosquitoes and sand flies (bites itch like crazy so bring some antihistamine cream too if you have sensitive skin).

Best, Angela

Ooops sorry, I think DDT has been banned in Malaysia too. But the Health Department do some kind of fogging in areas where there’s reports on Malaria or dengue cases etc. and I am not familiar with Rachel Carson’s work.

in the remote areas of Banggi, there’s Dusun Bonggi community, some of them still live in very traditional way, they use to build houses on trees (20m above ground), have very unique culture and most of them are pagan. Most of the WWF staffs working in this area are from Banggi island, so we have no problem communicating with the local tribes here, but most of the community here speaks Malay except for the elderly ones. Im not from Kudat/Banggi area by the way, Im from Kota Kinabalu, so I dont speak the local tribes in Kudat/Banggi language :D

Interesting website you have, would like to witness you working on your project in Banggi if you dont mind :) Oh yes, there’s so many photos of the WWF Kudat-Banggi team online….. we even have our own blog http://mamengstories.blogspot.com/

SJ

On Wednesday, October 31, 2012, { brad brace } wrote:

cool… but DDT? (I’m guessing you might know Rachel Carson’s work: Silent Spring, etc) in the USA, DDT has been long-banned (nearly killed-off the national bird: bald eagle)

so, who lives in the very remote villages? are these maybe centuries-old tribes?? are you able to communicate? indigenous culture is of particular interest to me — wish there were more health services…

here’s a brief sketch of my Global Islands Project I think I’ve seen some of your photos online (?) ;)

/:b

On Wednesday, October 31, 2012, at 12:42 AM, Sofia Johari wrote:

there’s wet-rice field and hill paddy field inland Banggi; in Karakit the water is treated tap water, other villages inland Banggi and smaller islands around Banggi island depends on either spring/gravity-fed system, well, rainwater. You can buy bottled water in Karakit and in other small villages inland Banggi, however if you want to drink water from other source, even the tap water, you have to boil it, just to be safe. Health department will go to villages on Banggi island and other populated smaller islands around Banggi from time to time to spray the areas with DDT.

Yes, I have visited most of the villages on Banggi island by road on 4WD and around the coastal areas by speed boat as these areas cant be access by road. I think there’s about 40 registered villages on Banggi island with more than 20,000 people living on it. Some village are so remote you have to cross a crocodile infested mangrove swamp to reach there… this kind of village I have not visited :)

SJ

Hi Brad

Mosquito control would be under the govt agencies and health depts. They do it whenever someone reports being hit by malaria/dengue – very much case by case. But it is not effective enough. Cholera outbreaks happen too, so would suggest that you make sure all the water you consume has been distilled and boiled. At the very least, boiled. Drinking straight out of the tap is a big no-no throughout SE Asia.

We have a blog site on the work done in Kudat, not been actively updated but will give you a nice overview of what we’ve been engaging with the communities and govt agencies. http://mamengstories.blogspot.com/

Best, Angela

On Wed, Oct 31, 2012 at 4:36 PM, { brad brace } wrote:

Angela, in Canada, spraying the larger urban centres, and the cold winter months, help to control mosquito and black-fly populations — there is no malaria, dengue or JE (… just a few rare recent instances of “West Nile Disease” which is maybe related to JE.)  Have there been efforts to control mosquitos in Sabah? Aerial spraying? Those lovely beaches/islands up North would perhaps attract more development in the absense of vector borne disease… or perhaps it’s the jungle’s unwitting defense mechanism ;) Have you visited many villages on Banggi? Are there indigenous tribes on Maliangin?

I’ve been following WWF online: huge political challenges but you do good work! (I’m still remotely involved in eco-tourism issues in Bangladesh — all stemming from a Global Islands Project there some years ago…

/:b

On Tuesday, October 30, 2012, at 08:05 PM, Angela Lim wrote:

Hi Brad

Banggi is the largest island in Malaysia, not most populated but with humans and secondary bushes (not quite forest). The house is at the water edge of Karakit town, close to communities so lots of mosquitoes breeding. Bring insect repellent for day and night use. You can choose not to, if you don’t find yourself being a target :-) Maliangin is much smaller island with small forest, so also mosquitoes and sand flies (bites itch like crazy so bring some antihistamine cream too if you have sensitive skin).

Best, Angela

On Tue, Oct 30, 2012 at 6:04 PM, { brad brace } wrote:

thanks Angela — wouldn’t there be few mosquitos at the Banggi house, as it’s over the water?

somehow I’m picturing a simple house over the water where I could bathe in the hot sun (which I love,) and work on my paintings, photos and sound recordings… but not cowering inside for fear of various mosquito flavivirus… I’d take precautions when going into town for meals/supplies; (and I’m imagining some great sound recordings in the Karakit badminton court.)

so _please tell me now how realistic my expectations may be

these island projects nearly always naturally generate collaborations with local concerns… and I’m always delighted to forge long friendships (I pick up languages quickly)

/:b

On Monday, October 29, 2012, at 05:13 PM, Angela Lim wrote:

Hi Brad

It’s not been a concern the past few years, but if you can, might as well get it. However, you should prevent from getting bit by mosquitoes. Use insect repellent or wear long sleeve tops/pants if possible given the heat. Malaria and Dengue are more the worry.

Look us up in our office at Centre Point shoppping centre, if you have time: WWF-Malaysia, Suite 1-6-W11, 6th Fl, CPS Tower No.1, Jln Centre Point 88000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia Tel: +60 88 262 420

Safe travels, Angela

On Tue, Oct 30, 2012 at 5:30 AM, { brad brace } wrote:

Hi Angela, nearly ready to go!

Arranging some Japanese Encephalitis shots (JEV) in KK but wonder how common this disease is in Sabah/Banggi/Maliangin…?

/:brad

I have never worried about all these deseases whe Im travelling abroad or even in forested areas, maybe I should be aware of this kind of thing in the future. I hope you have fully recovered and get your vaccination soon.

The Dusun Bonggi people are very interesting indeed, they are quite shy, you can only find them in Banggi and another island nearby, Balambangan island. Maybe you want to live with them for a few days to get to know them better. Me and my team members stayed with one family for one night, they were reluctant to accept us at first but we somehow managed to persuade them in the end. I dont know about their culture and sea snakes, but finding more about this would be very interesting. Not many people know about this tribe and their culture. They have a unique dance called Tabadak, a dance traditionally danced to celebrate a person who had just recovered from a life threatening illness (I think… maybe you can confirm this for me in the future). Dusun Bonggi build houses on trees mainly to avoid pirates and so they can easily attack the pirates from the comfort of their tree house :D, Ive tried finding the remaining tree house but I have not been successful so far, the villagers said tree houses still exist somewhere in the interior area of Banggi.

I also believe there are so many great stories to be uncovered on the island if you can connect with the community in Banggi and the other island nearby.

I didnt realized that so many town names begin with ‘K’ until you mentioned it, I will make it my short term goal to find out….

Theres 2 major types of destructive fishing method used around this area; fish bombing and sodium cyanide. Most of the materials can be found locally and in the nearby Philippines islands like Mangsi island which is only about half hour boat ride from Banggi, the international border between Malaysia and Phillipines in this area is quite porous. Villagers from Banggi travel back and forth to island such as Mangsi to get groceries and goods to be sold in their tuck shop because it is a lot cheaper there. It is againts the law to use fish bomb and sodium cyanide to fish. The villagers here are quite a chemist, since its not that easy to get sodium cyanide supply anymore the villagers use chlorine and mix it with something else to stun fish instead. The long term consequences of eating sodium cyanide caught fish is unknown, but people dont get sick from consuming fish caught by this method (sodium cyanide breaks into some other substance in seawater). However sodium cyanide impacted coral reefs badly, that is why we have a anti-fish bombing and use of sodium cyanide campaign here.

How they use sodium cyanide; they mix sodium cyanide with sea water and pour it into a plastic bottle, then they dive and look for crevices where fish such as grouper hide and squirt the substance into this crevices and wait for the fish to get stunned and float out from its hiding. Then they will catch the fish using net. Usually these fishermen will hold their breath for a few minutes underwater or they use air coming from a long hose attached to a compressor on their boat so they can stay longer. They can dive as deep as 60m with this compressor on their boat. Maybe you want to try when you’re visiting, but not for squirting sodium cyanide to catch fish….

SJ

On Thu, Nov 1, 2012 at 2:22 AM, { brad brace } wrote: ok/sure/thanks Sofia; earlier this year I came back from remote Fijian islands (I do this all on a very ‘shoestring’ budget with no regular job) — no malaria, dengue, JE — but somehow I contracted some weird typhus condition (I was transferred between planes in a wheelchair: big infected lesion on my ankle made it impossible to do anything but painfully hobble)… which scared the daylights out of me, as I’ve never been sick in my life…. so of course now I hate/fear mosquitos… (along with the predatory US hospitals which charged me a fortune, which I couldn’t pay, for essentially nothing)… so I might postpone this trip at the last moment if I can’t arrange the JEV in KK… let you know… it’s seems to be a rare disease in Sabah lately but I’d be especially vulnerable with little immunity… same probably goes for Dengue and maybe Malaria (although I have doxy tabs)

the Dunsun Bonggi sound very interesting! is their culture associated with the sea-snakes? I’ve read accounts about huge masses of them swimming together in the sea… but I suppose they can readily climb trees… so did the Dunsun build their houses in trees to avoid tribal conflict?

I remember innocently asking an Okinowan islander how long his family had lived there… without a moment’s hesitation or qualification, he simply stated “forever.” And that may very well be exactly correct and natural and a dismissed association these days… though even I could sometimes feel the ancestors’ presence in sacred spots… there are great stories… (!)

why do so many towns’ names begin with the letter K? :) read all of your blog :) thanks! so, where do “fishermen” find cyanide? do they just dump it in the water? aren’t the fish then deadly to eat?

/:b

Dear Mr Brace According to the Medical Department in Sabah, there are no local cases of Dengue or Jap Encephalitis in the islands you plan to stay in. The cases of Dengue usually orginate from elsewhere (not endemic) However, Malaria is endemic in Bangi. You might want to go on Malarial Prophylaxis whilst staying there. We can arrange for Malarone, which is one of the safest types of Malarial prophylaxis to be available before you leave for the islands. The dosage is 1 tablet daily. Start one to two days prior to entering the endemic area and continuing for a week after leaving the area. However, it is costly and is currently priced at RM230.00 per box of 12 tablets. Regards Dr Henry

From: { brad brace } To: henry ponniah Sent: Monday, October 29, 2012 11:58 PM Subject: Re: JE Vaccination-Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

thank-you Dr Henry!

I’ll be staying on rural Banggi and Maliangin Islands in Northern Sabah for three months — do you think JE poses a significant threat? Is Malaria/Dengue a concern?

/:brad brace

Okay, no problem to cancel the booking.

From: { brad brace } Sent: Friday, November 02, 2012 7:48 PM To: Reservation @ Step-in Lodge Subject: Re: Step~in Lodge Online Reservation Form

Karen, I’ve decided to postpone my visit, so please cancel my reservation — I very much appreciate all your help and wish you well.

/:brad brace

you are most welcome Brad. You will learn Malay fast, its easy to learn :)

I love working with the community here, most WWF staffs especially those working in the field are on project/contract basis, so the job is pretty much depending on the fund that we are getting from donors.

I dont know much about the Phillipines pirate, some of the pirates we have here are local pirates, but dont worry its quite safe here. I believe some pirates live among the local community here… I was also told that there’s undercover police living among the community to keep an eye on this kind of things.

SJ

On Fri, Nov 2, 2012 at 7:45 PM, { brad brace } wrote: thanks Sofia — I really appreciate your responses! (sorry I don’t know much Malay yet)

do you think you’ll continue to work for the WWF? (seems like a great organization)

can you tell me more about the Philippine pirates?

the Medical Dept in Sabah says that malaria is endemic on Banggi, with no local cases of dengue or JE there or Maliangin

/:b

Hi Brad

No idea on chemicals used. Banggi being larger would have been inhabitated longer, so Maliangin would be more recent in comparison. There probably was more interaction with the Philippines before Malaysia was formed, but there are cross-site visits between distant relatives currently.

Best, Angela

On Fri, Nov 2, 2012 at 7:57 PM, { brad brace } wrote:

thanks Angela; do you know what chemicals are used in the mosquito spray? has Maliangin been more recently inhabited than Banggi? is there much interaction with the Philippines?

/:brad

Hi Brad, Sama sama (ur welcome)

Unfortunately I dont have photo of the Bonggi house… sorry, will need to find one first :)

Let me know when you arrive in Kudat. Me and the WWF-team are in Banggi now.

SJ

On Sun, Nov 4, 2012 at 8:43 AM, { brad brace } wrote: terima kasih banyak-banyak!

do you happen to have any pictures of the Banggi house?

/:b

On Saturday, November 3, 2012, at 07:11 AM, Sofia Johari wrote:

you are most welcome Brad. You will learn Malay fast, its easy to learn :)

I love working with the community here, most WWF staffs especially those working in the field are on project/contract basis, so the job is pretty much depending on the fund that we are getting from donors.

I dont know much about the Phillipines pirate, some of the pirates we have here are local pirates, but dont worry its quite safe here. I believe some pirates live among the local community here… I was also told that there’s undercover police living among the community to keep an eye on this kind of things.

SJ

On Fri, Nov 2, 2012 at 7:45 PM, { brad brace } wrote:

thanks Sofia — I really appreciate your responses! (sorry I don’t know much Malay yet)

do you think you’ll continue to work for the WWF? (seems like a great organization)

can you tell me more about the Philippine pirates?

the Medical Dept in Sabah says that malaria is endemic on Banggi, with no local cases of dengue or JE there or Maliangin

/:b

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