Borneo's Giant Plant - The Rafflesia by Sylvia Arad

Borneo's Rafflesia is found mainly in the rainforests of Sarawak and Sabah. This parasitic flower grows to a diameter of more than 3 feet across with a weight of up to 22lbs. and is part of a family of about 20 species.

As a disembodied flower, the Rafflesia is a rootless, leafless and stemless parasite. It is nourished by its host vine, usually a Tetrastigma, related to a grapevine, and rampant in Borneo forests. The flower grows within the vine and first manifests itself as a tiny bud on the vine's stem. Over a period of 9-12 months, it expands and balloons to a cabbage-like head until it bursts open to reveal an astounding vivid-red fleshy five-petaled flower. The plant only flowers for 5-7 days before it begins to blacken and wither. As it withers, it emits a rotting, repulsive smell like rotting meat, in turn attracting to it insects and flies upon which the carnivorous plant then feeds.

Its rarity makes the Rafflesia difficult to view. In Tanbunen, Sabah, near Kota Kinabalu, a Rafflesia Conservation area has been established which provides information and trekking to view this unusual flower. The center, which serves as the entrance to pristine forest reserves, features an unusually high occurrence of the flower blooming for this otherwise rarely viewed plant.

Borneo's forests are home to thousands of types of flora and fauna, of which several are found only in this part of the world. These include the Nepenthes Raja, a giant carnivorous pitcher plant whose bell-like flower can hold more than 6 pints of liquid, the Paphiopedilum Rothschildianum, an extremely rare slipper orchid, and the Rafflesia, the world's largest flower.

The landscapes of Borneo provide adventure travelers a myriad of unusual flora and fauna - the Rafflesia being on the top of the list for unique viewing.

Orang-utans in Malaysia by Paul Buchanan

Found only in South East Asia on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra, orang-utans are one of our closest relatives with regard to DNA and can display significant intelligence and ability to reason. They differ from the other three "great apes" (chimps, gorillas and bonobos) in that they are the only type to be found in Asia, the only strictly arboreal ape (meaning that they only spend time in trees) and they are the only ones with a bright reddish brown colouring.

At present orang-utans are on the verge of extinction, as their habitat is being destroyed for wood and to make way for palm oil plantations. The orangutan plays an integral part in a complex ecosystem which some believe there is no replacement for, and if the animals become extinct in the wild, many people believe it would be an ecological disaster. Some people choose to visit orang-utans in their natural habitat whilst on holiday in Malaysia - as part of Malaysia is actually located on the island of Borneo. Whilst this part of Malaysia, known as East Malaysia or Malaysian Borneo, is less populated than Peninsular Malaysia (which shares a border with Thailand) it is still popular with tourists, particularly those with a fondness for orang-utans.

The famous Sepilok Orang-utan Rehabilitation Centre is located in the Malaysian state of Sabah, and allows visitors to come into contact with orang-utans in their natural habitat. The sanctuary, which is set in forty-three square feet of rainforest, helps orphaned or once captive orang-utans fend for themselves in the wild. Visitors to the sanctuary can witness young orang-utans being taught how to climb, and being fed their daily meals as well as partaking in all of their other day-to-day activities.

Of course, there's still plenty to do in this part of Malaysia, even for those who aren't too fond of nature. Kota Kinabalu is the capital of the Sabah state and is largest urban centre in the area, boasting its own science and technology centre, art gallery and botanic garden for tourists to enjoy. Similarly, Tamu Market and the weekly Gaya Street fair are popular amongst visitors to the area looking for the chance to pick up souvenirs away from the orang-utans whilst on their Malaysia holidays.

This part of Malaysia is popular with tourists for a variety of reasons, and whilst the area's connection with orange-tans makes it particularly suitable for nature lovers, between the busier urban areas, street markets and beaches in the area, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

Some Vital Details About Tongkat Ali Extract by Eli Green

Many Asian countries have been taking advantage of the medicinal effects of tongkat ali extract for many years now. The root of the tree it comes from is used for malaria treatment, as well as for it antibacterial effects. However, the most sought-after use of this supplement is for the enhancement of a male's sexual performance.

A visit to the all-natural health and food shop will reveal just how popular this substance is. It's a staple ingredient in most preparations that are said to help enhance the male libido. In addition, it also helps increase the energy levels of the body. On its own, it's commonly sold in liquid, powdered or capsule form. But it may also be used with other ingredients to increase the potency.

It's also known to be beneficial for those who suffer from erectile dysfunction. This is the inability of the penis to attain or preserve and erection. That's why males in many Asian countries, especially Malaysia, use this extract for such reason, even being called as the "Asian Viagra". There are also some evidences that it can increase the sperm count, providing help for males who are dealing with infertility problems.

Why the supplement is capable of yielding these benefits is because of its testosterone-boosting properties. Testosterone is a male hormone which serves a major role, especially in the pubertal stage for the development of secondary sexual traits. For an adult male, it controls sex drive and function. Although it's chiefly produced in the testicles, the hormone is also produced by the female body.

Testosterone is responsible for many other things, other than those mentioned above. It also helps in regulating mood, energy levels, metabolism and maturation of sperm cells. Increase in muscular mass and strength are other contributions of this hormone. That's why athletes and bodybuilders take this supplement to improve the levels of the hormone in their bodies and boost their recovery and performance levels.

But just because it can be considered as all-natural doesn't mean it has no side effects. Commonly observed ones, especially with excessive usage, include anxiety, insomnia, restlessness and even fever. Children, pregnant women and those with heart diseases, kidney problems, liver damage and prostate cancer should also refrain from taking this supplement.

Tongkat ali extract comes from the tree with the scientific name eurycoma longifolia. It's the root of the tree that's said to be the most potent, although every other part possesses medicinal benefits. Read the packaging thoroughly and follow the proper administration given by the manufacturer.

Little Known Exotic Asian Desserts - Malay Kuih by Noraini Maskuri

An American friend on a visit to Singapore some time back stumbled upon colourful and delicious gooey desserts which he had never tasted or heard before. I said to him those were called Kuih or sometimes spelt as kueh, and these kuihs originated from the Malays, a race of people from Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore.

My friend thought it remarkable that these kuihs were little known to the western world, especially in the USA and Europe, where people love cheesecakes and puddings and fudge, they too would love to not only eat these kuihs, but make them as well. And so of course I packed for him a nice box of kuih as a gift when he left which I am sure he must have eaten them all at the airport.

If you must know, these kuihs were created in the deep Malay villages by resourceful grandmothers who created recipes made from whatever ingredients that were available then like tapioca flour, palm sugar, coconut milk, glutinuous rice, green beans, banana leaves, pandan leaves etc. And of course they had plain flour and sugar as well. They did not have ovens back then, so these kuihs were mostly steamed or grilled.

The end results are moist, rich, chewy desserts and for those that have palm sugar in them, would guarantee the equivalent of chocolate melt. And the colours will make any chef pleased and happy.

The kuih recipes had since then travelled from the deep villages of Indonesia and Malaysia when our forefathers migrated to the cities and other countries.

Today Malay kuih recipes have expanded into many versions but essentially using the base ingredients like coconut milk, sugar (white or brown),eggs, flour (several types), just like western desserts must have their butter, sugar, eggs and cake flour.

But that is not all. Variety is indeed the spice of life, no pun intended - these kuihs also come in savoury version where spices are sometimes added and eaten as snacks or in between meals. In fact, Asians eat sweet or savour desserts for breakfast, as snacks, at teatime or just in between meals. Or served to guests whenever they drop in.

I especially love Kuih Pulut Panggang where grated coconut cooked with spice is wrapped around steamed glutinuous rice and then wrapped in banana leaf and grilled. Imagine the smell and taste contrast of the plain glutinuous rice and the spicy coconut, heightened by the smell of banana leaf.

Many people have made a living from making and selling these kuihs, some at the back streets, at the market and little dessert stores. These days hotel chefs have started to serve them at functions and catering businesses have thrived as well.

Another friend recently arrived in Singapore and I got him about 8 different pieces of kuih. He said he couldn't possibly finish them all and would share with his room mates. But he ended eating them all because they all tasted deliciously and interestingly different.

Look out for the next article where I will share more information, tips and recipes of this glorious and exotic dessert called Malay Kuih.

Malaysia Tours - Explore Beauty of Top Tourist Destinations by Stive

Malaysia is a beautiful tourist destination in South East Asia. The sheer diversity of the tourism destinations is amazing. It is a beautiful country blessed with astounding attractions with rich culture and traditions, colonial hills, numerous pristine beaches, exotic wildlife parks and sanctuaries, world's oldest tropical rainforest and pleasing climatic conditions. On your visit to Malaysia you have wonderful opportunity to see and explore some exciting tourism destinations, which are one of its kinds.

On your Malaysia Tours visit to the famous cities that includes the famous Kuala Lumpur (the capital city), Kelantan (the Land of Lightning), Malacca, Negeri Sembillian, Penang, Perlis, Sabah, Sarawak, Terengganu, etc. These beautiful tourist destinations of Malaysia provide wonderful opportunity to see and explore some exciting range of attractions which exhibits the beauty and magnificence of Malaysia also called "Truly Asia".

Visit to Kuala Lumpur offers you to see the harmonious mix or medieval and modern charm, rich culture and traditions, sky striking building, ultra modern architectures and magnificent heritage buildings. One of the famous among all the architectural wonder is the world famous Petronas towers, the tallest twin buildings in the worlds. Here one can visit to the lovely Batu Cave, Lake Gardens ( Taman Tasik Perdana), Merdeka Square, Chinatown and the central markets. Beside these you can do lots of shopping in the bustling markets and malls of Malaysia and take back home memories and souvenir for a lifetime memories of tours in Malaysia.

Penang is also a beautiful holiday destination in Malaysia that deserves the attentions of tourists from all over the world. The perfect fusion of medieval and modernity, Penang a beautiful island destination in Malaysia offer tourists to see and explore some exciting tourism attractions that include Batu Ferringhi (top beach destination), Fort Cornwallis, Kapitan Keling Mosque, Kek Lok Si, Leong San Tong Khoo Kongsi, Queens Bay Mall (one of the biggest shopping mall in Malaysia), Snake Temple, Sri Mahamariamman Temple and Wat Chaiyamangkalaram. These beautiful attractions have truly enhanced by the beauty and magnificence of Penang and are now one of the major tourist attractions of Malaysia Package Tours. Truly you will have wonderful time in Penang that you will love to treasure to relish in forever.

Cameron Highlands is one of the most beautiful place which is must visit destination on Tours to Malaysia. It is a beautiful hill resorts with evergreen beauty, sprawling tea plantations, strawberry farms, flower nurseries, butterfly farms and on top the place in also famous for its pleasing climatic conditions. This beautiful hill resort never fails to impress the heart of tourists with its scintillating tourist attractions and the pleasing climatic conditions.

Apart from these Malaysia is also very famous for its well organized tourist attractions, hospitable people, rich culture and traditions, excellent infrastructure, easily accessibility of tourism destinations, delicious delicacies and world class accommodation facilities. All these have truly made Malaysia the most demanding holiday destination of South East Asia. Come for Malaysia tour and experince the beauty and charm of truly Asia in a delightful and memorable way.

Enjoy the real taste of Asian cuisine in the truly Malaysian style!!! by awaisminhas

Malaysian food is the representation of different aspects of Malaysian culture which differentiate every region and area. Malaysia has many diverse Ethnic groups which possess a different variety of dishes according to their region. But Malaysian food is also persuaded by Indonesian, Chinese, Continental, and Indian food. So speaking collectively, you might be coming from any part of the world; you can access all varieties of food here according to your taste. If you want to have food of your own region, you can have it and if you want to taste the typical Malay food that is already available. So all international travelers! Just forget all your worries about food when you are in Malaysia. Just think about planning vacation there and catching flights to Malaysia.

Illustrated by intense use of flavors, most of Malaysian food include staple food with rice, curries, boiling food, meat, poultry, pork, mutton, sea food, vegetables, and fruits. Malaysian cuisine is striking with an exhilarating collection of spices and cooking patterns providing the delicious and everlasting gastronomic experience. All these scrumptiousness are just at the distance of a flights to Malaysia Malay food is full of aromas and spices emerging from the utilization of intense and moisty spices by a combination of "rempah" and coconut extract. Famous Malay cuisine include Nasi Lemak which are creamy rice and making your breakfast complete, Rendang which is also famed as dry curry, Sambal which includes many sauces, Satay which is termed for barbequed meat, Mee Rebus which are chilli noodles, and lot more. All food lovers must avail the opportunity to catch flights to Malaysia and explore the wonderful cuisine of Malaysia. Chinese food varieties in Malaysia are very much admired not only by locals but also by the international travelers. These include some specialties like Bak Chor Mee, Bak Kut tee, Char Kui Teow, Chee Cheong fun, fish ball noodles, Hainanese chicken rice, Lok Lok, Steamboat etc. Indian food has very large impact on the Malay food due to its great taste. Famous Indian food includes fish head curry, Nasi Biryani, putu mayam, Rooti Canai etc.

Desserts are very popular and very much admired in Malaysia. Most of them are made in coconut milk and presents a very delicious taste. Few famous desserts are Cendol, Pulut Hitam, Bubur Cha cha, Pengat and a huge variety of pinapple tarts. 

Longhouses in Sarawak- Evidence of Ancient Architectural Excellence by Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Longhouses are ancient residential structures which were usually constructed with the use of wooden material. Evidence of such houses has been found in various parts of the world such as Europe, Asia and North America.

Structurally, these houses consisted of one large living area, as the purpose of these houses was to provide shelter from the forces of nature and animal attacks. Native Americans and several Asian tribes were able to perfect the art of building longhouses which were remarkably sturdy and long lasting. Some of these houses are quite amazingly similar to modern residential designs showcasing the architectural prowess of these ancient civilizations.

If you are interested in learning more about the architectural talents of the ancient natives that occupied Sarawak, you should definitely make the time to pay a visit to Sarawak Cultural Village, which is home to some of the most amazing longhouses ever built. These houses are testament to the innovative thinking of the natives and the engineering skill which they perfected mainly through trial and error. The Bidayuh Longhouse which was built with the use of bamboo is one of the residential structures that you will come across while at the Sarawak Cultural Village. Visitors will be able to see amazing carvings, musical instruments and much more while exploring the interiors of the houses.

The Iban Longhouse is built on stilts which protect the interior from floods and animal raids. Built by wood and held together with strong creepers, these houses are structurally quite sound and have been known to exist for several years, if not more. The Orang Ulu Longhouse, one of the tallest of its kind, can also be found at the Sarawak Cultural Village. As the Orang Ulu tribesman lived near riverbanks their houses needed to be elevated from the ground to ensure that an increase in water level will not affect them.

Looking for a state of the art serviced apartment Kuching? Somerset Gateway comes to mind as a favorable option for travelers to Malaysia. Known for its outstanding service, these Kuching serviced apartments are ideal for both leisure and corporate travelers.

Agar by jekky

The word "agar" comes from the Malay word agar-agar (meaning jelly). It is also known as kanten, China grass, or Japanese isinglass. The various species of alga or seaweed from which agar is derived are sometimes called Ceylon moss. Gracilaria lichenoides specifically is referred to as agal-agal or Ceylon agar. 
In Malay and Indonesian, it is known as agar-agar. In Japanese, it is known as kanten () meaning "cold weather," referring to the fact that it is harvested in the winter months. In Mandarin Chinese as hici () meaning "ocean vegetable", hizoqingzh () or dngfn (). In Taiwanese Hokkien it is known as chhi-in () meaning "vegetable swiftlet," i.e., similar in texture to the nest of the edible-nest swiftlet used in bird's nest soup. In Korea, it is known as hancheon (). In the Philippines, it is known as gulaman in Tagalog, Apayao, Bikol, and Pangasinan, guraman in Ilokano and gurguraman in Sambali. In Thai it is known as won (). In Tamil and Telugu it's called as paal kasuv. 

Kelantan's Natural Wonders by Janice Pelayo

Penang and Kuala Lumpur may be the first on the list when it comes to top Malaysia destinations, but for those who are looking for an alternative place to visit that is equally interesting, Kelantan in Kota Bharu is worthy of consideration. The Malaysian state offers numerous natural attractions, giving visitors plenty to see and do during their stay.

Kelantan has several inviting beaches with amusing names when translated into English, such as Pantai Irama or the Beach of Melody, Pantai Bisikan Bayu or the Beach of the Whispering Breeze, and Pantai Cahaya Bulan or Moonlight Beach. For those who look forward to going on a relaxing tropical holiday, Kelantan lets you have your pick of sandy shores and inviting waters.

Another natural attraction that Kelantan proudly offers is its waterfalls. Hidden in lush forests but can easily be accessed by roads coming from the state capital, visitors can go for a relaxing dip at these waterfalls or go trekking and camping in the surrounding area. Some popular ones worth checking out would be Jeram Pasu, Jeram Lenang, and Lata Beringin.

But if you're hard put to pick just one natural wonder to see in Kelantan, it will have to be Gunung Stong. One of Kelantan's highest peaks towering at 1,422 metres, this majestic mountain challenges avid mountain climbers and trekkers. It also treats visitors to fantastic views of the surrounding landscape, and caves that are just waiting to be explored. One of these is Gua Ikan, named after a rock that looks like a fish. It is said that the cave was once a hiding place for treasure during the Japanese Occupation.

If you're considering going to Kelantan for a vacation, an appealing place to stay would be the Dynasty Inn. Situated near most of these interesting local attractions, it makes for an ideal base for those planning to explore them. Offering comfortable, well-appointed accommodations, it is also an inviting place to go home to after a long day of sightseeing. Each air-conditioned room of this Kelantan hotel is equipped with all the necessities for a relaxing stay, having coffee and/or tea maker, daily newspaper, hair dryer, Internet connectivity in room, ironing board, private toilet and bath, telephone, cable television, DVD in-house movies, mini-fridge, small dressing table or writing desk with chair, and two resting chairs with small side table.