Jungle Trekking in Malaysia

JUNGLE DISCOVERIES

With is glorious vistas, verdant undulating terrain and varied tropical landscapes, Malaysia's ancient forests offer vast possibilities for trekking and camping. Malaysia's extensive array of national parks and wildlife reserves are ideal for communing with nature and discovering her secrets.

From the primordial rainforest of Taman Negara to the wildlife sanctuaries at Danum Valley and the Kinabatangan floodplains, some of Asia's best-preserved environments offer nature lovers a wealth of experience.

While amateurs may try Malaysia's many easily accessible recreational forests near urban centres, seasoned explorers can go for challenging week-long treks up mountains such as Gunung Tahan (Mount Tahan), the tallest peak in Peninsular Malaysia (West Malaysia).

For the uninitiated, having a trained local guide is necessary to ensure safety and to learn about the amazing and precious diversity of flora and fauna in the ecosystem. Tropical jungles are dense, and the thick vegetation provides camouflage for the jungle denizens. It takes patience and a trained eye to see them.

DIVERSITY OF ENVIRONMENT

Swampy mangroves, extensive river floodplains, dipterocarp rain forests and montane hillscapes are among the varied environments that can exist even within trekking distance of each other. Each possess its own ecosystem and wildlife characteristics.

The tidal mangrove forests act as vital buffers against coastal erosion and as protective breeding nursery zones for numerous fish and aquatic species.
There are mangrove belts along most of Peninsular Malaysia's west coast as well as in Sabah and Sarawak in East Malaysia. Some such as in Kuala Selangor Nature Park have boardwalks for safety and convenience of visitors.

The most common type of rain forest is the dipterocarp forest. It is one of nature's most complex ecosystem, a habitat for thousands of plant species from tiny lichens to exotic palms, ferns and vines and huge trees rising well 50m to the skies. Each has its own functional place in the jungle's cycle of life.

Further up the hills and mountain slopes, montane forest environments take over with their cooler ambience and presenting spectacular views that are well worth the trek.

Jungle trekking can take an hour or more and, with camping, as many days as desired. Among the best periods to go trekking in Peninsular Malaysia is in the "dry season" from March to September when the rainfall is less. In Sabah and Sarawak the "wet season" is from July to October.

In many areas, jungle trekking can combines with other interesting activities such as river expeditions.

TREASURES AND SENSES OF THE JUNGLE

Malaysia's primeval and unexplored rain forests offer intrepid trekkers great opportunities to observe tropical flora and fauna. The wilds of Malaysia overflow with fantastic plant and animal diversity that fulfill the competitive conditions of the ecosystem. Many species are exotic, rare or even endemic to the particular region and are protected. Endau Rompin in Johor is a rare milieu of lowland and mountain forests which is home to the largest population of endangered animals in the country. The Sumatran rhinoceros, tigers and elephants are among the protected species in Endau Rompin.

Generally most rain forest animals are shy or camouflage themselves to avoid predators or to hunt. Bumbun or tower hides and canopy walks, such as at Taman Negara, aid those searching to spot the inhabitants.

Take the time to spot the many insects and butterflies flitting about in the forests of Peninsular Malaysia. Marvel at the pendolous nose of the proboscis monkeys found at Sukau in Sabah and Bako in Sarawak. Listen to the swooshing wing beats of colourful hornbills in the vales of Sarawak or the call of gibbons echoing at dawn in Danum Valley in Sabah.

Besides wildlife, the natural terrain features cool rivers to ford across and enchanting waterfalls to splash around amidst the natural surroundings. A visit to the jungle requires the full use of one's senses to discover all the features and creatures of the forests.

Part of the the adventure is to discover how they all fit together.

JUNGLE ADVENTURE TIPS

• Find out about the trail and surroundings, be sure that you have enough time to complete the entire route before darkness falls. Do not stray off the path to chase after animals.
• Use good judgement regarding the fitness level required for the trek, and know your physical limits.
• Always inform the park officials or let someone know of your plans and destination for the day, especially if going alone.
• Take plenty of water and pack a few easy to eat snacks to keep energy level up. Unless trekking with a local guide, it is not advisable to eat jungle fruit or drink from any water source.
• In the highlands try to trek on the ridge tops to save energy traversing the steep slopes and to catch a cool breeze.
• Be as quiet as possible to avoid scaring any wildlife. Getting an early start during the dawn provides the best chance to sight animals seeking food and the warmth of the early morning sun.
• Wear thin, loose, preferably cotton clothing to remain comfortable.
• Cover arms and legs with long trousers and long sleeved shirts to ward off mosquitoes and to provide protection against thorny plants.
• Wear leech socks or long socks to prevent leeches from finding an entry way.
• Choose sturdy footwear with proper ankle support and good traction.
• Be prepared for sudden rain showers by carrying a poncho that wraps over both body and your carrying pack to keep everything dry.
• A wide brimmed hat helps to shade a trekker from the heat of the tropical sun.

SITES FOR NATURE AND JUNGLE ADVENTURES

West Malaysia (Peninsular Malaysia):

• Cameron Highlands (Highland and Mountain Rainforest), Pahang
• Endau Rompin (Lowland Rainforest), Johor
• Fraser's Hill (Highland Rainforest), Pahang
• Genting Highlands (Highland Rainforest), Pahang
• Gunung Ledang (Highland Rainforest, Johor)
• Kuala Selangor Nature Park (Mangrove Forest), Selangor
• Taman Negara (Lowland and Hill Rainforest), Pahang
• Tasik Bera (Freshwater Swamp Forest), Pahang
• Tasik Chini (Freshwater Swamp Forest), Pahang
• Tasik Kenyir (Freshwater Swamp Forest), Terengganu
• Templer Park (Mountain Forest), Selangor
• Ulu Bendol (Mountain Forest), Negeri Sembilan

East Malaysia (Borneo Malaysia):

• Bako National Park (Mangrove and Mixed Forest), Sarawak
• Danum Valley (Highland and Mountain Forest), Sabah
• Gunung Emas (Highland Rainforest), Sabah
• Kinabalu National Park (Highland and Mountain Forest), Sabah
• Kinabatangan Floodplain (Freshwater Swamp Forest), Sabah
• Lambir National Park (Lowland Rainforest), Sarawak
• Mulu National Park (Hill Rainforest and Limestone Pinnacles), Sarawak
• Niah National Park (Lowland Rainforest), Sarawak

CAMPING

Most National Parks in Malaysia provide jungle camping sites. There are also many mountain and beach sites which are suitable for camping. In picking a camp site, always take note of the weather conditions. The rainy or monsoon season during December to February renders some camp sites along the river trails of Taman Negara inaccessible. Always check with the relevant Park authorities first.

The lower altitudes or primary jungles like Taman Negara and Kenong Rimba Park in Pahang; Endau Rompin in Johor; Mulu and Lambir National Parks in Sarawak are humid, so your choice of tents should allow for good ventilation. All-enclosed nylon tents with sewn-in groundsheets are not recommended as they tend to condense air inside. Cotton tents get heavy after absorbing water.

When camping on high altitudes locations such as Gunung Jerai (Mount Jerai) in Kedah; Gunung Korbu (Mount Korbu)in Perak; Gunung Tapis (Mount Tapis) and Gunung Tahan (Mount Tahan) in Pahang, choose a site sheltered from the wind and avoid the higher peaks when thunderstorms occur. A self-contained tent with aluminium poles and stakes is best for mountain camping.

Only a basic set up is needed when camping at the marine parks or beaches in Malaysia, such as Pulau Payar (Payar Island) beach in Kedah; Port Dickson beach in Negeri Sembilan; Pulau Redang (Redang Island) in Terengganu; Pulau Tioman (Tioman Island) and Cherating beach in Pahang; and Tunku Abdul Rahman Park in sabah. A hammock or sleeping bag may do very well.

Although most of the national [parks and private tourist facilities furnish and rent out camping gear, it may be wiser to bring along basic camping necessities.

Remember t check on restrictions which may apply due to ecological or other reasons. If unsure, contact the park authorities.

CAMPING TIPS

Whether camping in the damp rainforests, on sunny beaches or atop mountain peaks, there are a few easy environmental tips to keep in mind t protect and preserve Malaysia's camp sites:

• Never cut down vegetation in order to make way for camp site.
• Always choose a clear camping site free of debris and away from rotten trees.
• Nights in the rainforests may get cooler than expected so bring along a waterproof jacket to keep you warm, as well as protection from the rain.
• During rainy periods, do not camp too near a river or at low areas.
• Whenever possible, try to avoid overusing popular camping areas and select an alternative location in order to minimise soil disturbance.
• Bring along reusable plastic cups and plates.
• Rubbish is to be collected and carried away when you leave, not simply buried.