Friday, April 8, 2011
Sarawak election
Just as expected, Sarawak state election has come.
This time the opposition is hoping for another victory like 308 during the last general election.
Will they repeat the same victory like the last election? This is the question that most Malaysian will like to ask?
Lately, the ruling Barisan National, is heavily using the mass media to propagate the idea of One Malaysia. The Prime Minister is following the footstep of China's Prime Minister, Wen Jiabao, walking the street to the grassroots people. He walk into the places that he never walk in his previous political career. He seems to have gain some popularity among the ordinary people. He has account in social media, he had meetings with bloggers, he is into the internet technology to meet people. The promotion campaign on his personality is great, sometime it may look artificial and another commercial campaign for the coming election....but it revealed that he realized the time has changed, the old tactic cannot be used anymore.....
It may be a good transformation, people like it......
As for the opposition, the trouble is in their unity, there are problems in their component party, PKR(Parti Keadilan Rakyat), the political frogs jumping from the party seems to have no end. People are wondering did they select the right candidates for the election?. The political dirty tactic used by their own members for internal political struggles have damaged the reputation of opposition alliance. The ruling party has actively focus on the political attack on the opposition ruled state government, sometime not directly from their component parties, but cleverly make use of proxies to do it. Perak state government was collapse; Selangor state government have their own share, and was humiliated; Kelantan and Kedah state government having their attack on religion issues, especially on banning of alcohol and gambling. For DAP controlled Penang state government, the effective tools is the racial issues on the Chinese dominated political party.
Many of political attacks have no base, and dirty tactic, even the extends to downgrade a politician's personality. Alcohol and gambling were not the culture of Chinese, social drink like tea drinking on functions may be the culture, but not addictive drinking. No religion encourage addictive drinking and gambling, there is nothing wrong on banning gambling and addictive drinking(in entertainment outlets). We know the social ills of the habits. The people are worried about extremism, in politic, in religion, and in community, in NGOs, in Charitable organization, and anywhere, extremism is not welcome by Malaysian people, and never our culture. A clean hand shake is social etiquette, a friendly gesture, how can it be rejected in an open multiracial society?.
The opposition ask for change, not only transformation; they shout the slogan "Sarawak for Change" or "Jom Ubah Sarawak" , and use the Sarawak local hornbill bird as their mascot for the election campaign. The hornbill in the native language is "Ubah", which in Malay is literally means "Change". The opposition is anticipating a tsunami change like Penang in 308 in the coming election for Sarawak.
Our common enemies are corruption, crime, social ills, unfairness, discrimination, racialism, extremism..... not small petty issues. We uphold law and justice, we respect human right, we respect people elected government(ruling or opposition), we need clean environment(physically , politically, commercially, socially). We need alternative voices, we need good and top class education for our children , we need employment for the school leavers, we need fair business opportunities for our commercial sectors, we need fair competition and not discrimination in any ways....these are the major issues we faced, and should be the agenda for any political parties in the election.
No, not dirty political tactic; we need sincere and clean politician...
We need strong opposition...and alternative voices....
We need to say " NO" to the wrongs; we need to change(not only transformation)..Said No to corruption, say No to power abuse, said No to discrimination....
We need to vote wisely....
The people of Sarawak need to stand up for their right; no worry that there were a norm for a long time; you are the people of Sarawak, you determine the future of Sarawak. Not one person can determine your future, he is no God. You have much more right than that one person, we know who he is.....
Think about the issues..... that affect your daily life....did he sound and protect your right in Sarawak as your leaders?.....
Think of the mega projects in the state, did the project benefited the people of the state, or few individuals?...
Think of timber right, and the environment, is there any abuse of power in awarding timer concession, and have the natural environment adversely affected?...
Think of your native land, are they been protected as your right or taken away in the name of "development".... actual development or resale to the developer to gain more profits...
Think of your religion, can you use your language freely....
Think of nepotism, is the resources in the state fairly distributed or the government projects fairly awarded without favoritism......
Think of your children education....
Think of your community....
Think of your nation, a multiracial, multi-religion country (where Sarawak was once a classic example of the dream).....
Think all; did you need to change......
Then, said "NO" to the wrongs, and vote "Yes" for the right thing to do...that is your right as citizen, do not afraid.....
Remember we are Malaysian, we are all Malaysian; from East or West Malaysia; Malay, Chinese, Indian, Iban, Kadazan or orang asli; it is our right to enjoy our country, not the outside people, not one person...
It is not "One Malaysian's Malaysia"; it is "All Malaysian's Malaysia"...
No one man can played the role of One Malaysia, all Malaysian played their role for this country, it is Malaysian's Malaysia; black hair, brown hair, white hair and even you change your hair color to blue and yellow. White color alone is not always supreme, it is Malaysian of all color.
The Sarawak political issues are now issues for all Malaysian, regardless of political background, and the voice of people is "to change"....even the ruling component parties are calling for change, in a softer tone, transformation.....the message from the people is clear....to change....
Now the Sarawak Election 2011, is no longer a state election alone, it is the focus of all Malaysian, the attention by Malaysian all over the country. Their hearts are with the Sarawakian, hoping for a change in the state of Sarawak.....our support is with you Sarawak, have courage to change for better....
May God bless Sarawakian in their decision....your decision will have great impact not only to the future of Sarawak, but also the future of Malaysia....
Suggested websites/articles:
1. Movement for Change Sarawak, http://mocsarawak.wordpress.com/
2. Keadilandaily, http://www.keadilandaily.com/10000-penduduk-miri-beri-isyarat-untuk-ubah-sarawak/(Party website of Keadilan)
3. Softly but sweetly, the winds of change head for Sarawak ,by Selena Tay, Malaysia Chronicle, http://www.malaysia-chronicle.com/index.php?option=com_k2&view=item&id=10263:softly-but-sweetly-the-winds-of-change-gather-speed-for-sarawak&Itemid=2
4. A hornbill joins the battle for change, by Regina Lee, http://www.malaysiakini.com/news/160298
5. Sarawak, Bangunlah. Ubah Nasib Rakyat Bumi Kenyalang!(Party website of SNAP) http://www.sarawaknationalparty.org/2011/03/sarawak-bangunlah-ubah-nasib-rakyat.html
6. Sarawak for Change, http://sarawak4change.com/(website for DAP)
7. DAP Sarawak Chairman, http://holeng.dapsarawak.com/
8. DAP Malaysia, http://dapmalaysia.org/newenglish/
9. SUPP, http://www.supp.org.my/
10. Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu, http://www.bumiputerasarawak.org.my/
11. Anti-Taib protests in Ottawa and London, 28 February 2011,http://malaysia-today.net/mtcolumns/letterssurat/38443-anti-taib-protests-in-ottawa-and-london-28-february-2011
12. Sarawak voters must question Taib Mahmud's disproportionate wealth, the destruction of Sarawak's forests and Indegenous people's lives, http://www.sarawaknationalparty.org/2011/04/sarawak-voters-must-question-taib.html
13. http://www.stop-timber-corruption.org/
14. http://www.bmf.ch/en/?lang=en
15.Exposed: Taib's stash of secret foreign assets,http://en.harakah.net.my/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2311:exposed-taibs-stash-of-secret-foreign-assets&catid=34:primary&Itemid=56
Friday, March 4, 2011
Remember 308 in Penang
Election heat in Penang soared with an unprecedented turnout of almost 30,000 people at DAP's final election rally leading up to the polls.
As early as 7pm, thousands had already gathered at the Han Chiang school field - the same venue that hosted the 10,000 who attended a joint PKR-DAP ceramah. At the peak of the ceramah, the crowd of about 30,000 spilled out onto the school compound and outer perimeters to listen to DAP candidates speak.
Organisers have hailed this as the biggest rally organized by BN opponents in Penang thus far. DAP leaders - Secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, party supremo Lim Kit Siang and party chairperson Karpal Singh - received thunderous welcomes as they arrived at different times of the night. It was a sea of red - with many supporters donning the colour -the color of DAP, listening attentively and cheering each time as the speaker drove home a point or took a swipe at the BN.
Taking the stage first, Datuk Keramat state candidate Jagdeep Singh Deo restated the case for a pro-opposition vote. "We are not asking for a change of government, we are asking for a stronger opposition in state and parliamentary (representation)," he said.
Addressing the crowd of all ages, Bayan parliamentary candidate Lim Guan Eng also urged Penangites to "lead the change". "Let us translate this show of force, people power into a people's victory," Lim added, prompting the crowd to cheer at length. Drawing on Mahathir's comment that Malaysia needs a strong opposition, Lim asked the crowd to applaud the former premier for his remark. "It's a bit late but better late than never," Lim quipped.
The atmosphere turned carnival-like as Jelutong parliamentary candidate Jeff Ooi took to the stage with an electric guitar to sing instead of deliver a speech. The popular blogger-turned-politician belted out a medley of three songs - two popular Chinese songs and the official "Marilah mengundi (Let's vote)" song with a few humourous twists.
Other DAP candidates in attendance included Bukit Mertajam parliamentary candidate Chong Eng, Bukit Bendera parliamentary candidate Liew Chin Tong, Komtar state candidate Ng Wei Aik.
(source: youtube)
The opposition won the 2008 state election and formed the new state government. Lim Guan Eng become the 4th Chief Minister of Penang.
Penang people are still excited about the 308, it was a historical day in history for the state......
It should be celebrated, isn't it?.....each year, to remind the Penang lang the event of the day 308, a political tsunami that was no equal in Penang history. A day to remember.....
Happy 308 day.....
Is that any changes in Penang state after 308? certainly there are. But since it is also the International Woman Day on 8th March 2011, we would like to know what happen to woman welfare in the Penang state......
Recently, prior to 8-3-2011, the state government has appointed urban planner Maimunah Mohd Shariff as new head of the Seberang Perai Municipal Council (MPSP), the second local council in the state to be headed by a professional woman.
In March last year, architect Patahiyah Ismail was sworn in as president of the Penang Island Municipal Council (MPPP).
Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said this was the first time the MPSP – the largest municipal council in the world in terms of land size (490 sqkm) – was being headed by a woman.
We know that the state government has now appointed two women to head the two state local councils in Penang. This is how the state provide capable woman from the state the opportunities for them to excel in their life. They are many woman from the state, who are professionals, teachers, nurses, factory workers, hawkers, and others from various economic sectors, including the housewives(home manager); who have contribute greatly to society.
Penang woman is now capable of achieve the best in their life; who know there will be possibly a woman Chief Minister in future....
The appointment also proved that the state government value capable talents from the state, regardless of race, gender, religion, and background. Both woman chief of local councils(MPPP & MPSP) are professionals, senior staff of the respective local councils. The appointments are based in their capability, not race or gender.
Congratulation, Penang woman.....
International Woman Day
International Women's Day (IWD), originally called International Working Women’s Day is marked on the 8th of March every year. It is a major day of global celebration of women. In different regions the focus of the celebrations ranges from general celebration of respect, appreciation and love towards women to a celebration for women's economic, political and social achievements.
Started as a Socialist political event, the holiday blended in the culture of many countries, primarily Eastern Europe, Russia, and the former Soviet bloc. In many regions, the day lost its political flavour, and became simply an occasion for men to express their love for women in a way somewhat similar to a mixture of Mother's Day and St Valentine's Day. In other regions, however, the original political and human rights theme designated by the United Nations runs strong, and political and social awareness of the struggles of women worldwide are brought out and examined in a hopeful manner.
The first IWD was observed on 19 March 1911 in Germany following a declaration by the Socialist Party of America. The idea of having an international women's day was first put forward at the turn of the 20th century amid rapid world industrialization and economic expansion that led to protests over working conditions
International Women's Day was first observed as a popular event after 1975 when the united Nations General Assembly invited member states to proclaim March 8 as the UN Day for Women's Rights and International Peace.
(source; wikipedia)
Happy International Woman Day, Penang.
What a good way to celebrate the double happiness, the historical day of 308 & the International Woman Day in Penang.....
Should 308 be a state holiday in Penang?......
Related articles
1. Urban planner named new MPSP chief, http://www.thesundaily.com/article.cfm?id=58291
2. Patahiyah set to become first woman council chief, http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2010/2/21/nation/5716820&sec=nation
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian did well in STPM 2011 result
SEBERANG PERAI (Feb 21, 2011): Eleven schools in Penang recorded a 100% passing rate in all subjects in the 2010 Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) examination. They are SMKA Al-Mashoor (P) with nine candidates, SMK Sri Muda (22), SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian (50), SMJK (C) Chung Ling (214), SMJK (C) Heng Ee (120), SMK Raja Tun Uda (6), SMKA Al-Irshah (20), SMK Bakti (27), SMK Dato’ Onn (37), SMK Telok Air Tawar (14) and SM Pendidikan Khas Persekutuan (2).
Announcing the state-level results today, Penang Education Department examination assessment head Yeoh Kok Kheng said of the 2,493 candidates in Penang who told the examination last year, 95.66% of them had passed at least of the subjects undertaken.
“This is slightly lower compared to 96.75% last year,” said Yeoh, who made the announcement on behalf of the state education department director Ibrahim Mohamad. Ibrahim is away on meeting in Putrajaya.
However, he said the passing rate is higher than the national’s rate, which is at 94.63%.
Yeoh added that 58 candidates had achieved a 4.0 cumulative grade point average (CGPA), with SMJK (C) Jit Sin and SMJK (C) Chung Ling Butterworth leading the pack with 13 and 12 candidates respectively.
The others schools with 4.0 GCPA students are SMJK (C) Chung Ling with eight candidates, SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian, SMJK (C) Heng Ee, and Methodist Boys’ Secondary School has four students each; Penang Chinese Girls’ School and SMK Bukit Mertajam with three candidates each; SMK Mutiara Impian has two candidates while Penang Free School, St Xavier Institution, SMK Penanti, SMK Tinggi Bukit Mertajam and SMK Tunku Abd Rahman, Nibong have a candidate each.
“Of the 3,241 candidates who took the examination last year, 2,649 were from government schools, 374 candidates from private schools and 218 private candidates,” Yeoh told a press conference at the SMK Dato’ Haji Ahmad Badawi in Kepala Batas.
From the list of the schools which scored 100%, SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian (50) is not an elite school, it is a school where normally parents will reluctant to sent their children to. SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian, has four students who scored full As with GCPA of 4. It now ranked equally with the famous and more popular elite school like SMJK (C) Chung Ling (214), SMJK (C) Heng Ee (120).
The results proved that SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian, a non elite schools can still do well. Thanks to the headmaster and teachers, and also the students themselves who have made the name of the school stand tall.
Now it is time, the government and the parents, the public provide support to the school, as they really need some upgrade of their school infrastructure. Their achievement is much more meaningful than other elite schools, as they are not expected to do well by the public opinion. The school was once considered as cowboy school, and only the last choice by parents. But not now, they can now stand equally with elite schools of the state, the students can now stand tall. They can do well if they work hard. Like SMJK (C) Heng Ee, the school is now a school to shine in the state, as well as the country, just like they have done well in the national level mathematics competition.
Congratulation, SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian, you are the best.
Announcing the state-level results today, Penang Education Department examination assessment head Yeoh Kok Kheng said of the 2,493 candidates in Penang who told the examination last year, 95.66% of them had passed at least of the subjects undertaken.
“This is slightly lower compared to 96.75% last year,” said Yeoh, who made the announcement on behalf of the state education department director Ibrahim Mohamad. Ibrahim is away on meeting in Putrajaya.
However, he said the passing rate is higher than the national’s rate, which is at 94.63%.
Yeoh added that 58 candidates had achieved a 4.0 cumulative grade point average (CGPA), with SMJK (C) Jit Sin and SMJK (C) Chung Ling Butterworth leading the pack with 13 and 12 candidates respectively.
The others schools with 4.0 GCPA students are SMJK (C) Chung Ling with eight candidates, SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian, SMJK (C) Heng Ee, and Methodist Boys’ Secondary School has four students each; Penang Chinese Girls’ School and SMK Bukit Mertajam with three candidates each; SMK Mutiara Impian has two candidates while Penang Free School, St Xavier Institution, SMK Penanti, SMK Tinggi Bukit Mertajam and SMK Tunku Abd Rahman, Nibong have a candidate each.
“Of the 3,241 candidates who took the examination last year, 2,649 were from government schools, 374 candidates from private schools and 218 private candidates,” Yeoh told a press conference at the SMK Dato’ Haji Ahmad Badawi in Kepala Batas.
From the list of the schools which scored 100%, SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian (50) is not an elite school, it is a school where normally parents will reluctant to sent their children to. SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian, has four students who scored full As with GCPA of 4. It now ranked equally with the famous and more popular elite school like SMJK (C) Chung Ling (214), SMJK (C) Heng Ee (120).
The results proved that SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian, a non elite schools can still do well. Thanks to the headmaster and teachers, and also the students themselves who have made the name of the school stand tall.
Now it is time, the government and the parents, the public provide support to the school, as they really need some upgrade of their school infrastructure. Their achievement is much more meaningful than other elite schools, as they are not expected to do well by the public opinion. The school was once considered as cowboy school, and only the last choice by parents. But not now, they can now stand equally with elite schools of the state, the students can now stand tall. They can do well if they work hard. Like SMJK (C) Heng Ee, the school is now a school to shine in the state, as well as the country, just like they have done well in the national level mathematics competition.
Congratulation, SMJK (C) Chung Hwa Confucian, you are the best.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Uniquely Penang Island
"Uniquely Penang Island" take place on an island called Penang, which was formally inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008. The film was shoot in black and white scene without any dialog and selected few remarkable locations that strongly represent Penang Island originally.
The "Moon Seeker" play by a mysterious man, visiting historic and popular landmark of Penang Island, while holding white balloon and releasing in designated locations, to represent love and peace toward human kind and mother earth.
The black and white scene to show the support toward energy saving. The non dialog to represent the support toward less noise pollution from industries. And the white balloon to show the support of saving our mother earth from pollution.
Song credit: Hang on Little Tomato by Pink Martini
Monday, February 7, 2011
The lone Penang cyclist - Lim Chee Loon
Lim Chee Loon aka Ah Loon who wants to cycle from Penang to Shangri-la, China.
Who is Ah Loon? Penang lang lah, a ex-student of Chung Ling High School. I met Ah Loon at Li Teik School, Penang, talking with him as he shared his plan to cycle from Penang to Shangrila, China. I just come back from Shangri-la last December 2010, and had been to Laos and Khorat. I was able to share some traveling tips to him on Yunnan Province, China and Laos.
He will cycle alone from Penang, crossing Thailand, Laos,to Shangrila, China. I have been to Khorat(Thailand),Laos and Shangrila, China. The road from Penang to Bangkok, Bangkok to Nong khai(Thailand/Loas) border should be nice for cycling. From Nong Khai to Vientiane should be alright, but from Vientiane to Boten(Laos border town), Mohan(China border town) to Shangrila, it is a mountainous region, and may be challenging.
View Larger Map
The journey from Penang-Thailand-Laos-China
Malaysia
Familiar road of own country, and some cyclists will accompanying him until Hatyai.
Penang - Alor Star
Alor Star - Padang Besar
Thailand
The coastal road of South Thailand and road in Khorat(Isan) is good and flat, with beautiful view. There are towns and city along the road.
Padang Besar to Hatyai
Hatyai to Bangkok
Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat) — largest city of the Isaan region
Khorat to Khon Kaen. The highway from Bangkok ends here
Khon Kaen to Udon Thani
Udon Thani to Nong Khai
Laos
The cycling in Laos will be tough due to poor road condition in hilly area, and the region is remote and not populated. Moreover he will face language problem. This is the toughest of the whole journey.
After crossing Thai border over to the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge to Vientiane, Laos; the road is still alright. There are human settlement along the road, and it is easy to obtain the necessary supplies for daily needs and repair if need arise. But from Vientiane to the Laos/China border, the road become rough, and human settlement along the road may be some distance away. This is the toughest journey for Ah loon to travel alone. Moreover Ah Loon will be having problem of language barrier, unlike Thailand, where English or Chinese still can apply at the city, Ah Loon can only use his Mandarin in capital city of Vientiane, where there is still some Chinese community in the city. It will be minority, mainly Hmong (Miao) tribes all the way, unless Ah Loon can speak Thais, there may be some communication, as Thai is similar to Laos, but minority will have their own dialects. Ethnic Lao, the principal lowland inhabitants and politically and culturally dominant group, make up the bulk of the Lao Loum or lowland Laos, which is around 68% of the total population. This group are the branch of Tai people, which include Tai of China, Thai of Thailand, Shan of Burma, Laos of Laos, Ahom of South East India. Laos language is a tonal language of the Tai linguistic group, which include Thai language. The Lao Theung or Midland Lao are largely of Mon-Khmer stock, which consist of 22%. Lao Soung or Highland Lao are the Hmong and the Yao, the remaining 9%. The 1% left are the Vietnamese, Chinese and others.
The highways in Laos have improved in the past ten years, but the fact that 80% remain unpaved is a telling statistic. Still, the main routes connecting Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang and Savannakhet are now sealed. If you travel on your own...there are very few proper bike shops outside of Vientiane but also for bikes with 28 inches wheels you would have a hard time. The cyclist need to bring own equipment and make sure to obtain contact details to a supplier maybe from Thailand (Bangkok). The next city is Luang Prabang, which is 218.75 km or 135.93 miles away in Northern Laos.
Vientiane - Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang - Boten
Vientiane to Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng is on Highway #13 between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. It is a small riverside town in Central Laos. The ride to Vang Vieng is flat and one of those great little stretches where you can take a gentle pace, stop and chat with the locals over a meal of rice and fruit and feel good on a bike. There are no difficult mountain stretches and the scenery is beautiful.
From Phonhong (route 13) to Luang Prabang, it's hilly all the time. Phonhong is the cpital of Vientiane Province.
Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang, also Luang Phabang, Luang Phrabang and Louang Phrabang is the former capital of Laos and a UNESCO World Heritage city.It is the capital of Luang Prabang Province.
Luang Prabang to Louang Namtha/Bosten
Muang Xay (Lao: ເມືອງໄຊ) is a capital city of Oudomxai Province, Laos.
Oudomxay or Oudômxai (Lao: ອຸດົມໄຊ) is a province of Laos, located in the northwest of the country. The province capital is Muang Xai.
Louang Namtha (Lao ຫລວງນໍ້າທາ, literally "Royal Sugar Palm" or "Royal Green River") is both a province of Laos and the name of the provincial capital, located in the north of the country. China's Yunnan province in the north-east with the border crossing at Boten. Boten is a small town in northern Laos, sitting on the banks of the Mekong River. It is off the beaten track, enjoyed mainly by backpackers and intrepid travelers. It is the home of a Chinese-Lao border crossing so it sees a fair bit of through traffic.
China
The cycling in China should be nice, as Ah Loon will not face language problem, the only challenge he will face is possibly altitude sickness in the mountain area. If he can manage the altitude sickness, there should not be problem as condition of the road is good, except tunnels near border area.
Mohan(磨憨)- border check point at Laos/China border.
Mengla(勐腊) is a city in Xishuangbanna, a county under the jurisdiction of Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan province, China. It is located near the China-Laos border in Southern Yunnan. This is the first big town/city for travelers arriving from Laos. It is 60-75 km from border town of Mohan.
Jinghong (景洪) is the capital of Xishuangbanna in southern Yunnan. jinghong is 120 km from Mengla.
Puer- Pu'er City (普洱市) is a prefecture-level city in Yunnan Province, China. The urban administrative center of Pu'er is Simao District, which is also the former name of the city itself. Pu-erh tea is a major product from this region.
Yuxi - Yuxi (玉溪) is a prefecture-level city in the Yunnan province of the People's Republic of China. The administrative center of Yuxi is Hongta District. Yuxi is approximately 90 km south of Kunming.
Kunming - Kunming (昆明) is a prefecture-level city and capital of Yunnan province, in southwestern China. It is the political, economic, communications and cultural centre of Yunnan, and is the seat of the provincial government.
Chuxiong - Chuxiong City (楚雄市) is a county-level city and capital seat of the Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan province, China. Chuxiong is about 127 km west of Yunnan's capital city of Kunming on highway GZ65.
Dali- Dali City (大理市) is a county-level city in Dali Prefecture or Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan province, China. The new Dali city is actually called Xiaguan(下关);only the ancient city is called Dali or Gucheng, it is also call Daligucheng(大理古城).
Jiangchuan- Jianchuan (剑川) is a county in the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture located in southern Yunnan Province, China.
Lijiang (丽江市)- is a prefecture-level city in the northwest of Yunnan Province, China. Lijiang City is located in the northwestern portion of Yunnan and borders Sichuan. It is in a region where the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau converge.
Shangri-la(香格里拉) - It is the city in Shangri-La County, a primarily Tibetan county in northwestern Yunnan Province in southwest China and the capital of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The county was formerly called Zhongdian County (中甸县 Zhōngdiàn Xiàn) but was renamed in 2001 after the fictional land of Shangri-La in the 1933 James Hilton novel Lost Horizon, in an effort to promote tourism in the area
The flag off
Ah Loon will depart from Penang on 12-2-2011 at 5.45am from Gurney Drive, G Hotel. G Hotel is located at 168a Persiaran Gurney, 10250 George Town.
In conjunction with the above event, a simple flag off ceremony will be held at the following :-
Date : 12/2/2011 (Saturday)
Time : 5.30am
Venue : G Hotel Main Entrance
Breakfast will be provided by G Hotel for 70 pax from 5.00am.
A convoy of cyclist will be accompanying Ah Loon all the way to Hatyai, South Thailand for the 1st leg ride. Penang - Hatyai ride (total distance 243 km), Ah Loon will not be alone in his journey in Malaysia.
If you want to support Penang lang, please go to Hotel E on 12/2/2011 morning.
We are very proud of him as Penang lang to take up the challenge, to prove that Penang lang bolih.
Even he will be traveling alone, but the concern of his friends and family, and all the Penang lang will be with him.
Best wishes to Ah Loon. Jia yu...
For readers who want to follow up on the latest development of the cycling journey, you can read the Sin Chew Daily or website of his cycling club - G Club at http://www.gclub.com.my with the title "Ah Loon Updates".
Ah Loon is also cycling for charity, if you are interested to sponsor his journey. The bank account is CIMB 0713-0080930-522 under his name. Suggest RM100 for 10 km, it is hope that the whole distance of 4,000 km will be fully sponsored. The fund collected will be donated to charity in Penang.
Updates 25/5/2011
Ah Loon will be completing his trip to Shangrila soon, he is now at the final leg of his ride. We have not read anything about his trip in Sin Chew Daily, and finally today there is an article about him. It is good news that he is going to complete the last leg. It is difficult to get internet contact with social media like facebook or skype or even your private blog, as some of the social media are ban in China. Facebook is ban here, the only contact is your e-mail. Line may be difficult from Dali onward as the area is at the highland. The same problem with Lijiang, which is at higher gorund, Shanggrila will be worst, at the border of Tibet.....
The actual journey done by Ah Lone
Flagging off Penang to Hadyai on the 12 Feb 2011, 1st leg of Ah loon Shangrila ride.
Ah Loon(in the center) surrounded by friends and members of Gclubs.
12 Feb 2011, 1st day in Hadyai, South Thailand
13 Feb 2011, 2nd day in Ranot, South Thailand, via Songkla, along coastal route 408
14 Feb 2011, 3rd day in Nakhon, Si Thammarat South Thailand
15/16 Feb 2011, 4th and 5th day in Surat Thani, South Thailand & more photos
17/18 Feb 2011, 6th and 7th day in Chumphon, South Thailand & more photos
19 Feb 2011, 8th day at Bang Saphan, South Thailand
20 Feb 2011, 9th/10th day, arrived at Prachuap Khiri Khan
21 Feb to 1 Mar 2011, 11th day in Bangkok
2 Mar 2011 20th day in Saraburi
3 Mar 2011 21st day in Sung Noen
4 Mar 2011 22nd day in Chatturat
5 Mar 2011 23rd day in Phu Khiao
6 Mar 2011 24th day in Nong Bua Lam Phu
7 Mar 2011 25th day in Viang Chan (Vientiene)
10 Mar 2011 28th day in Vang Viang
15 Mar 2011 33rd day in Luang Prabang
16 Mar 2011 34th day in Pak Mong
19 Mar 2011 36th day in Udomxai
20 Mar 2011 37th day in Mengla, China
21 Mar 2011 38th day in Jinghong
24 Mar 2011 in Kunming..
(lost contact...)
6 Apr 2011 in Lu Feng
7 Apr 2011 targeting Chu Xiong
16 Dr Lim, Lee and group of cyclist cycling from Lijiang to Shangrila with Ah Loon...
Related articles
1. Going far for the Befrienders, http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/9/8/north/6991071&sec=north
2. Cyclists endure gruelling ride to raise awareness for Befrienders, http://thestaronline.com/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/9/17/central/7034398&sec=central
3. Custom pannier rack for Ah Loon, http://mrain.com/thelonecyclist/?cat=20
4. A Slow Bike To China , by Wayne & Kristina Carpenter, http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/?o=RrzKj&page_id=22262&v=S1
5. Challenging China – Boten – Mohan, Mengla & Jinghong, by Chris Leakey, http://www.bikeabout.co.uk/blog/challenging-china-boten-mohan-mengla-jinghong/
6. Sin Chew: Ah Loon’s ride to Shangri-La, http://www.baikbike.com/sin-chew-ah-loons-ride-to-shangri-la/
7. 展開檳城―香格里拉4千公里腳車之旅‧阿倫單騎尋夢去了！, http://mykampung.sinchew.com.my/node/131429?tid=4
Who is Ah Loon? Penang lang lah, a ex-student of Chung Ling High School. I met Ah Loon at Li Teik School, Penang, talking with him as he shared his plan to cycle from Penang to Shangrila, China. I just come back from Shangri-la last December 2010, and had been to Laos and Khorat. I was able to share some traveling tips to him on Yunnan Province, China and Laos.
He will cycle alone from Penang, crossing Thailand, Laos,to Shangrila, China. I have been to Khorat(Thailand),Laos and Shangrila, China. The road from Penang to Bangkok, Bangkok to Nong khai(Thailand/Loas) border should be nice for cycling. From Nong Khai to Vientiane should be alright, but from Vientiane to Boten(Laos border town), Mohan(China border town) to Shangrila, it is a mountainous region, and may be challenging.
View Larger Map
The journey from Penang-Thailand-Laos-China
Malaysia
Familiar road of own country, and some cyclists will accompanying him until Hatyai.
Penang - Alor Star
Alor Star - Padang Besar
Thailand
The coastal road of South Thailand and road in Khorat(Isan) is good and flat, with beautiful view. There are towns and city along the road.
Padang Besar to Hatyai
Hatyai to Bangkok
Bangkok to Nakhon Ratchasima (Khorat) — largest city of the Isaan region
Khorat to Khon Kaen. The highway from Bangkok ends here
Khon Kaen to Udon Thani
Udon Thani to Nong Khai
Laos
The cycling in Laos will be tough due to poor road condition in hilly area, and the region is remote and not populated. Moreover he will face language problem. This is the toughest of the whole journey.
After crossing Thai border over to the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge to Vientiane, Laos; the road is still alright. There are human settlement along the road, and it is easy to obtain the necessary supplies for daily needs and repair if need arise. But from Vientiane to the Laos/China border, the road become rough, and human settlement along the road may be some distance away. This is the toughest journey for Ah loon to travel alone. Moreover Ah Loon will be having problem of language barrier, unlike Thailand, where English or Chinese still can apply at the city, Ah Loon can only use his Mandarin in capital city of Vientiane, where there is still some Chinese community in the city. It will be minority, mainly Hmong (Miao) tribes all the way, unless Ah Loon can speak Thais, there may be some communication, as Thai is similar to Laos, but minority will have their own dialects. Ethnic Lao, the principal lowland inhabitants and politically and culturally dominant group, make up the bulk of the Lao Loum or lowland Laos, which is around 68% of the total population. This group are the branch of Tai people, which include Tai of China, Thai of Thailand, Shan of Burma, Laos of Laos, Ahom of South East India. Laos language is a tonal language of the Tai linguistic group, which include Thai language. The Lao Theung or Midland Lao are largely of Mon-Khmer stock, which consist of 22%. Lao Soung or Highland Lao are the Hmong and the Yao, the remaining 9%. The 1% left are the Vietnamese, Chinese and others.
The highways in Laos have improved in the past ten years, but the fact that 80% remain unpaved is a telling statistic. Still, the main routes connecting Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang and Savannakhet are now sealed. If you travel on your own...there are very few proper bike shops outside of Vientiane but also for bikes with 28 inches wheels you would have a hard time. The cyclist need to bring own equipment and make sure to obtain contact details to a supplier maybe from Thailand (Bangkok). The next city is Luang Prabang, which is 218.75 km or 135.93 miles away in Northern Laos.
Vientiane - Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng - Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang - Boten
Vientiane to Vang Vieng
Vang Vieng is on Highway #13 between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. It is a small riverside town in Central Laos. The ride to Vang Vieng is flat and one of those great little stretches where you can take a gentle pace, stop and chat with the locals over a meal of rice and fruit and feel good on a bike. There are no difficult mountain stretches and the scenery is beautiful.
From Phonhong (route 13) to Luang Prabang, it's hilly all the time. Phonhong is the cpital of Vientiane Province.
Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang, also Luang Phabang, Luang Phrabang and Louang Phrabang is the former capital of Laos and a UNESCO World Heritage city.It is the capital of Luang Prabang Province.
Luang Prabang to Louang Namtha/Bosten
Muang Xay (Lao: ເມືອງໄຊ) is a capital city of Oudomxai Province, Laos.
Oudomxay or Oudômxai (Lao: ອຸດົມໄຊ) is a province of Laos, located in the northwest of the country. The province capital is Muang Xai.
Louang Namtha (Lao ຫລວງນໍ້າທາ, literally "Royal Sugar Palm" or "Royal Green River") is both a province of Laos and the name of the provincial capital, located in the north of the country. China's Yunnan province in the north-east with the border crossing at Boten. Boten is a small town in northern Laos, sitting on the banks of the Mekong River. It is off the beaten track, enjoyed mainly by backpackers and intrepid travelers. It is the home of a Chinese-Lao border crossing so it sees a fair bit of through traffic.
China
The cycling in China should be nice, as Ah Loon will not face language problem, the only challenge he will face is possibly altitude sickness in the mountain area. If he can manage the altitude sickness, there should not be problem as condition of the road is good, except tunnels near border area.
Mohan(磨憨)- border check point at Laos/China border.
Mengla(勐腊) is a city in Xishuangbanna, a county under the jurisdiction of Xishuangbanna Dai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan province, China. It is located near the China-Laos border in Southern Yunnan. This is the first big town/city for travelers arriving from Laos. It is 60-75 km from border town of Mohan.
Jinghong (景洪) is the capital of Xishuangbanna in southern Yunnan. jinghong is 120 km from Mengla.
Puer- Pu'er City (普洱市) is a prefecture-level city in Yunnan Province, China. The urban administrative center of Pu'er is Simao District, which is also the former name of the city itself. Pu-erh tea is a major product from this region.
Yuxi - Yuxi (玉溪) is a prefecture-level city in the Yunnan province of the People's Republic of China. The administrative center of Yuxi is Hongta District. Yuxi is approximately 90 km south of Kunming.
Kunming - Kunming (昆明) is a prefecture-level city and capital of Yunnan province, in southwestern China. It is the political, economic, communications and cultural centre of Yunnan, and is the seat of the provincial government.
Chuxiong - Chuxiong City (楚雄市) is a county-level city and capital seat of the Chuxiong Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan province, China. Chuxiong is about 127 km west of Yunnan's capital city of Kunming on highway GZ65.
Dali- Dali City (大理市) is a county-level city in Dali Prefecture or Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan province, China. The new Dali city is actually called Xiaguan(下关);only the ancient city is called Dali or Gucheng, it is also call Daligucheng(大理古城).
Jiangchuan- Jianchuan (剑川) is a county in the Dali Bai Autonomous Prefecture located in southern Yunnan Province, China.
Lijiang (丽江市)- is a prefecture-level city in the northwest of Yunnan Province, China. Lijiang City is located in the northwestern portion of Yunnan and borders Sichuan. It is in a region where the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau converge.
Shangri-la(香格里拉) - It is the city in Shangri-La County, a primarily Tibetan county in northwestern Yunnan Province in southwest China and the capital of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The county was formerly called Zhongdian County (中甸县 Zhōngdiàn Xiàn) but was renamed in 2001 after the fictional land of Shangri-La in the 1933 James Hilton novel Lost Horizon, in an effort to promote tourism in the area
The flag off
Ah Loon will depart from Penang on 12-2-2011 at 5.45am from Gurney Drive, G Hotel. G Hotel is located at 168a Persiaran Gurney, 10250 George Town.
In conjunction with the above event, a simple flag off ceremony will be held at the following :-
Date : 12/2/2011 (Saturday)
Time : 5.30am
Venue : G Hotel Main Entrance
Breakfast will be provided by G Hotel for 70 pax from 5.00am.
A convoy of cyclist will be accompanying Ah Loon all the way to Hatyai, South Thailand for the 1st leg ride. Penang - Hatyai ride (total distance 243 km), Ah Loon will not be alone in his journey in Malaysia.
If you want to support Penang lang, please go to Hotel E on 12/2/2011 morning.
We are very proud of him as Penang lang to take up the challenge, to prove that Penang lang bolih.
Even he will be traveling alone, but the concern of his friends and family, and all the Penang lang will be with him.
Best wishes to Ah Loon. Jia yu...
For readers who want to follow up on the latest development of the cycling journey, you can read the Sin Chew Daily or website of his cycling club - G Club at http://www.gclub.com.my with the title "Ah Loon Updates".
Ah Loon is also cycling for charity, if you are interested to sponsor his journey. The bank account is CIMB 0713-0080930-522 under his name. Suggest RM100 for 10 km, it is hope that the whole distance of 4,000 km will be fully sponsored. The fund collected will be donated to charity in Penang.
Updates 25/5/2011
Ah Loon will be completing his trip to Shangrila soon, he is now at the final leg of his ride. We have not read anything about his trip in Sin Chew Daily, and finally today there is an article about him. It is good news that he is going to complete the last leg. It is difficult to get internet contact with social media like facebook or skype or even your private blog, as some of the social media are ban in China. Facebook is ban here, the only contact is your e-mail. Line may be difficult from Dali onward as the area is at the highland. The same problem with Lijiang, which is at higher gorund, Shanggrila will be worst, at the border of Tibet.....
The actual journey done by Ah Lone
Flagging off Penang to Hadyai on the 12 Feb 2011, 1st leg of Ah loon Shangrila ride.
Ah Loon(in the center) surrounded by friends and members of Gclubs.
12 Feb 2011, 1st day in Hadyai, South Thailand
13 Feb 2011, 2nd day in Ranot, South Thailand, via Songkla, along coastal route 408
14 Feb 2011, 3rd day in Nakhon, Si Thammarat South Thailand
15/16 Feb 2011, 4th and 5th day in Surat Thani, South Thailand & more photos
17/18 Feb 2011, 6th and 7th day in Chumphon, South Thailand & more photos
19 Feb 2011, 8th day at Bang Saphan, South Thailand
20 Feb 2011, 9th/10th day, arrived at Prachuap Khiri Khan
21 Feb to 1 Mar 2011, 11th day in Bangkok
2 Mar 2011 20th day in Saraburi
3 Mar 2011 21st day in Sung Noen
4 Mar 2011 22nd day in Chatturat
5 Mar 2011 23rd day in Phu Khiao
6 Mar 2011 24th day in Nong Bua Lam Phu
7 Mar 2011 25th day in Viang Chan (Vientiene)
10 Mar 2011 28th day in Vang Viang
15 Mar 2011 33rd day in Luang Prabang
16 Mar 2011 34th day in Pak Mong
19 Mar 2011 36th day in Udomxai
20 Mar 2011 37th day in Mengla, China
21 Mar 2011 38th day in Jinghong
24 Mar 2011 in Kunming..
(lost contact...)
6 Apr 2011 in Lu Feng
7 Apr 2011 targeting Chu Xiong
16 Dr Lim, Lee and group of cyclist cycling from Lijiang to Shangrila with Ah Loon...
Related articles
1. Going far for the Befrienders, http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/9/8/north/6991071&sec=north
2. Cyclists endure gruelling ride to raise awareness for Befrienders, http://thestaronline.com/metro/story.asp?file=/2010/9/17/central/7034398&sec=central
3. Custom pannier rack for Ah Loon, http://mrain.com/thelonecyclist/?cat=20
4. A Slow Bike To China , by Wayne & Kristina Carpenter, http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/?o=RrzKj&page_id=22262&v=S1
5. Challenging China – Boten – Mohan, Mengla & Jinghong, by Chris Leakey, http://www.bikeabout.co.uk/blog/challenging-china-boten-mohan-mengla-jinghong/
6. Sin Chew: Ah Loon’s ride to Shangri-La, http://www.baikbike.com/sin-chew-ah-loons-ride-to-shangri-la/
7. 展開檳城―香格里拉4千公里腳車之旅‧阿倫單騎尋夢去了！, http://mykampung.sinchew.com.my/node/131429?tid=4
Wednesday, February 2, 2011
Happy Chinese New Year, Penang
Today is Chinese New Year and it is the year of rabbit. I would like to wish all Penang lang, Happy Chinese New Year.
Shin-nee-hor
Since today is also a Korean and Vietnamese New Year. I also wish all Korean and Vietnamese in Penang.
To the Korean; 새해 복 많이 받으세요(saehae bogk ma-nhi ba-deu saeyo)
To the Vietnamese; Vạn sự như ý （萬事如意）(May myriad things go according to your will)
Shin-nee-hor
Since today is also a Korean and Vietnamese New Year. I also wish all Korean and Vietnamese in Penang.
To the Korean; 새해 복 많이 받으세요(saehae bogk ma-nhi ba-deu saeyo)
To the Vietnamese; Vạn sự như ý （萬事如意）(May myriad things go according to your will)
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
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