Hafizah (Bukit Patoi, Temburong, 10th November, 2006)

Stepping Stone

As this was my first trip to Temburong, I was quite thrilled that morning. Wait, dawn was more like it. : )

We left the jetty at 6:25am. The river view was scenic and relaxing. As the sun rose higher, the river sparkled with its reflections. I was as usual busy shooting photos. At some point during the river cruise, we entered Malaysian waters. The view was noticeably different from Brunei. The trees on Malaysian soil were much less in number and were of different types.

At 8:10am, we set off to the peak of Bukit Patoi. One of the things that never failed to amaze me was the giant forest ants (Camponotus gigas). There were about an inch long! Other enchantments of Bukit Patoi were its HUGE tall trees, moss-covered boulders which added to the enchanting air of the forest, different types of fungus, Batu Tergangam, and of course, the breathtaking view at the summit!

This trek benefited me in a number of ways. One, I learned a lot of names of plants and trees, including their uses and medicinal values. Second, I became increasingly appreciative of the natural environment. Third, I had the opportunity to explore and see new places. Last but not least, this trip up the Patoi hill was in a way or another, served as a stepping stone to higher and far more challenging hills and mountains!

Bkt. Patoi, Temburong (10th nov.) - Puspa Rahayu

Friday, November 10^th, 2006 we had our final expedition for this semester at Bukit Patoi, Temburong. We left female hostel at about 6 in the morning by using UBD’s bus. We reached at Jalan Residency Jetty in Bandar Seri Begawan in 15 minutes. Around 6.30am we left the jetty by using boat and arrived at Bangar jetty at approximately 7.15am. So, it took us about 45 minutes. Along the journey to Bangar, we could see mangrove forest and we were told by the boat driver that we could see crocodile by any chance relaxing at the river bank. When we arrived at Bangar, we used buses to go to Bukit Patoi which is located about 15km from Bangar town and it took us about 15 minutes. We started our hiking at 8 am as we need to wait for the ranger to come and guide us walked to the peak of Bukit Patoi. While waiting for the ranger to come, we were asked to wander around and I was attracted to the tortoise pool as well as the different type of tree such as Kumus, Damar Hitam, Kembang Semangkok, Kapor Bukit, Kapor Paji, and Resak. I also took the chance to see the map of Bukit Patoi Forest Recreation Park. From there, I could see other hill which is Bukit Perdayan. Besides, Bukit Patoi is actually part of the Perdayan Forest Reserve which has been designated as a recreation forest by the Brunei Department. The ranger said that if we were going to complete the whole passage, it would take for about 8 hours. On the other hand, our journey to the peak of Bukit Patoi would only take about 2 hours (for slow walker like us). The distance was stated on the board that is, 1601.9 m for Bukit Patoi whereas 4601.9 m for Bukit Perdayan. Before we started our walk, they gave us a brochure about Bukit Patoi. Around 8 am we began our expedition from the Guard Post at the base of Bukit Patoi. The pathway was quite good but halfway through, there were a lot of rocks and boulders which were slippery as they were covered by the fungi. There were steps made of wooden (board-walk) and along the way, there were sits as well as Pondoks (huts) for resting purposes. As we trekking to the summit, I could see some plants like Lianes (climbers), buttress roots that supported massive trunks, fungi on the trunk and on the forest floor, and ants and termites nest. Moreover, there were few things that impressed me, namely, Batu Tergangam, Batu Berdinding and Batu Gangsa. The ranger also told me that one of the Batu Berdinding’s corners used to be a meditation place. At 9.20am, we reached the peak and had a rest for about 10 minutes. We did capture group photo for us to keep it as our sweet memory. Then, we only need less than one hour to go down hill. By 10.20am, we already had a rest outside the Guard Post while waiting for the others. We left Bukit Patoi by bus at 11 and had our lunch at Bangar town as we arrived there. Around 11.45am, we left Bangar jetty and arrived at Jalan Residency Jetty at 12.30pm. It was such a beautiful day and pleasant experienced as it was my first time to Temburong. I gain a lot of new knowledge. For me, this is the best jungle trekking compared to our other trip. I would love to rate it 9 out of 10. Superb! and Fantastic! (0^_^0)

Bkt. Serdang (nov. 1st, 2006) - Puspa Rahayu

On the1^st November 2006 (Wednesday) was our first trip after the fasting month. We went to Bukit Serdang at Jalan Kota Batu. Since only few people join the trip so we used cars as our transportation. It took us about 15 minutes to reach our destination. About 5pm, we started our walk. The slope was quite steep but luckily the slope was terraced in order to make it easy for people to climb up. The path looks like steps. At the top of the hill, we could view very nice and beautiful scenery. We could see some parts of Kampong Ayer, pulau Baru-baru, local fish farm as well as Brunei’s estuary. There were also evidences showing that it used to be a cultivation area such as tapioca plant plus the ‘sulap’ (small houses) for the farmer to take rest or stay overnight in order to look after their crops. Furthermore, we have encountered some plants such as pitcher plant, flower, simpur and others which were unknown or anonymous. At the foot of the hill, we could see some deforestation. The journey was quite leisure but somehow I still gain additional knowledge about the Brunei’s rainforest. It took us about one hour to complete the walk. Around 6.15pm we left the place and headed to Dr. Asmah’s house as she invited us to her ‘open house’. Last but not least….. Selamat Hari Raya Maaf Zahir & Batin (o^_^o).

trip to bukit patoi

last week, we have a trip to bukit patoi in temburong. we head to the jetty as early as 6.00a.m in the morning. we took the boat and reach Bangar 45 minutes later. we took the bus and reach bukit patoi 20 minutes later. upon ariving, we have to wait for the rangers to show us the way up the hill. the initial point was challenging as we have to climb up the stairs that is built there. moreover the hill was really steep and i have trouble balancing myself while climbing up.

the bukit patoi is an example of the tropical rainforest. here two types of forest are found, the mixed dipterocarp forest and the kerangas forest .the rainforest are known for their high diversity of plant and animal species. among the notable characteristic of the forest includes the height of the tree which can grow up to 60 metres tall. the trunks are columnar and often butresses with plant like extensions of roots. the trees are evergreen and there are gaps in the forest caused by fallen trees. other forms of plant life found in the tropical rainforest includes climbers, lianas and epiphytes. all these plants depend on other tress for support. too bad we did not see any animals around. maybe because it was aware of our presence but we do heard the sounds of the insects or animals coming from the thick forests.

as i walk along the walkway. i notice that there are a lot of leaf litter around. this is due to the leaves that fall to the ground which attract many decomposer organisms. among them are ants and termites. i also saw the nest of the termites which is as hugh as a ball. as we walk further up, which was around 700 metres from the walkway, we saw the sight of the Kerangas forest. the walk there was getting tougher as there are many big rocks along the walkway. we have to be very careful when stepping onto the rocks because it was covered with green moses and algae and it is really slippery. the algae covering the rock was really nice and it looks like a carpet grass. some of the trees around has bracket fungi grown on it. we spooted that the fungi grown in the mixed dipterocarp forest and the kerangas forest are actually different.

not long after the that we reach the Batu Berdinding. it was a really hugh structure of rock with water dripping out from it. the rock was wet and covered with some kind of algae or liverworths. we reach the peak of the hill after one and a half hour and it was really satisfying because i have accomplish the 1,600 metres walk. the scenery was really nice up there and we can even see our neighbouring country from there. after taking a few pictures, we head back down the hill again.

the trip to bukit patoi is really enjoyable and interesting. the forest is beautifully preserved with minimun destruction. this can be seen from the diversity of the plant and animal species found there. it is hope that other forest can be preserved so that we can enjoy the beauty of our flora and fauna species.

trip to bukit serdang

after the fasting month, we have our first trip to bukit serdang. i thought it was only a leisure walk but unfortunately it has not been easy for me. i have to climb up the steep hills and it was really tiring. it took us a while to reach the top since we have to stop occationally.

the scenery was really nice at the top. we can see the brunei bay and the islands around. after that, we continue our journey ahead. along the journey, we found some plant species that is available there. this includes the simpur, kodok-kodok, wild flowers and some species which i am not quite sure of. there was not much to see because of the deforestation. the place which was once a place for cultivation looks deserted. it would be nice if there is someone can clean up the place and restore the beauty of the forest again.

Bk. Serdang

Hafizah (Bukit Kampong Serdang, 1st November, 2006)

Vantage Point

Those who don’t come for this trek rugi (Cheong, 2006). I couldn’t agree more; she was right. The main reason being the scenic view that I could see as we climbed further uphill. From my vantage point on Bukit Kampong Serdang, I had a lovely view of Kampong Ayer, and the Brunei Bay. As I was the leader this week, I made a head start into the woods. Occasionally, I stopped momentarily so that the others behind me could catch up, and, well, frankly because I needed to take a short rest. Phew! Climbing hills isn’t as easy as I thought it would. Nevertheless, it was a rewarding experience! : )

At one point during the trek, for reasons I’m not sure of, I felt like I was in Mountain Patrol. Hm… Possibly because of the swallows that were flying up high in the sky, which reminded me of vultures, plus the bamboo hut. Strange, I know.

Flora and fauna encountered: Wild orchid, Melastoma, Kuduk-kuduk, Pitcher plant, ubi kuning, cucumber, bluish foliage (no kidding!), a white moth, and swallows.

The sad thing about Bukit Serdang was the considerably extensive logging. A few times along the path that I walked on, I could see fallen trees. A chainsaw massacre…

Hafizah (Lucky Garden, 20th September, 2006)

An Exhausting Experience

This trek was more challenging than the last. Well, it was neither the distance, nor the up-and-down journey that made it challenging (getting used to those already), but the pace at which I had to follow. We had to walk at a faster speed in order to reach the “finish line” before sundown. However, after covering one-third of the journey, we slowed down and eventually stopped momentarily, because one of our team members was in need of first-aid help. After we tended to her needs, we continued the trek, and this time at an even faster pace. We were trotting (as described by out leader) through the forest. At that speed, plus the uneven and occasionally slippery surface of the forest floor, I had to constantly watch where I tread, or I might risk tripping over the roots or something.

Oh I forgot to mention this: at one point during the trek, I encountered a trail of black ants, in which each ant had a baby ant (not sure whether it was a pupa or larva), between its mandibles. A friend told me that they were probably slave-raiding! Some species of ants would invade a neighbour’s nest, steal their babies, and bring them back to their own nest. Then, once they mature, they work for the colony that captured them. I was quite surprised, as I never knew about such behaviour in ants before. I certainly learned something new that day!

In three words, the trek was: exhausting, educational, and enjoyable! d(' ',)b

Hafizah (Rimba, 13th September, 2006)

A Series of Unusual Encounters

In my point of view, this trek was by far the most challenging, fascinating, and indeed an obstacle course. There were various sorts of plants that I encountered for the very first time. Unfortunately, however, I haven’t learned what their names are. The trekking was particularly challenging because the trekking path was narrow, occasionally steep and slippery, and the dense undergrowth that slowed down our pace.

I came across a pitcher plant, various types of ferns, developing ferns which curled beautifully, mosses, mushrooms, and two different architectural designs of ants’ nests: one that looked like a ball was built on tree branches, and the other, which appeared like it was melting away, was formed around a tree trunk.

Having emerged from the forest, we arrived at a housing construction site. The houses were all half-way to completion, and it seemed that they’ve been abandoned for quite a while. The thick and overgrown grass and the sunless interior of the houses created an eerie atmosphere. Another thing, it was as if the housing project was abandoned abruptly. There were still unused bricks lying around and a bagful of probably cement … as though they left in haste.

Then, we reached a vast open area, at which I felt like I was no longer in Brunei. Why so? Well, for one, it was the parched land. It reminded me of drought and famine. A close view of it resembled a jigsaw puzzle. Then, I saw hoof prints of a warthog, and Pumbaa from ‘The Lion King’ immediately came to mind. Later, in a natural structure that looked a tad like the Grand Canyon, were holes made by birds of an unknown species that functioned as nests. However, the most extraordinary encounter was a piece of land that was covered with flat-top peaks, and a miniature version of the Swiss Alps. Now, those made me feel like I was on Mars!

The only downside of this trekking activity was that I didn’t get the opportunity to learn the names of the plants and natural formations that I saw. Otherwise, it was quite a rewarding experience! Therefore deserving a 7/10! d(‘‘,)b Two thumbs-up!

Raimie; Rimba; 13/09/06

Before this trekking, I did not know that a jungle that looked so undisturbed from outside, could be so destructed inside! It was really shocking! The obvious evidence? Ferns. They were everywhere and we had to walk through a very narrow route to pass this area. When we went deeper, we encountered lots of thin tree trunks and fallen branches that were blocking our way. Towards the end of this trekking, we found a pile of woods, which were evident from constructions. The beauty inside this jungle is that there were quite a variety of plants that I have never seen before. Unfortunately, they were only present in little amounts, which is very pity. Interestingly, we also found pitcher plants, hidden by the lalangs. One of the challenges that I faced was walking through the ferns. We could easily get lost if we were to walk alone.

I rated this trekking 7/10 because it made me realised that even though a jungle can look so beautiful from the outside, you will not know about the inside until you discover it yourself. This area is approximately 70% "ruled" by ferns. In 10 years time, who knows if they are able to monopolise the whole area and "destroy" the others. Is that what you want the environment in Brunei to be? Just ferns and no others? In my opinion, Brunei would be like a plate of plain, white rice with no extra variety of foods on it. It won't taste that nice.

The jungle in Rimba is just one of the examples. Who knows if there are more, who knows...

[Pictures will be uploaded later]

Trip to pantai tungku

We have a trip to Pantai Tungku last week. It was not quite as challenging as i thought it would be. We started off by walking along the beach. I was walking with my friend and we are quite isolated from the other groups as they are either far ahead or way back behind. I in fact didn't learn anything at all during the walk because there was no one there to explain to us about anything.

After the long walk, we reach back to the inital point where we started. We were given duty to pick up rubbish along the beach. Rubbish bags and gloves were provided. The most challenging part is where i have to pick up the rubbish using my bare hands because i didn't know there were gloves provided. The rubbish are quite smelly and disgusting. Almost everything were thrown there including dipers. The scene was really sore to the eyes.I would rate this trekking experience enducationally 5 out of 10. This is because I was really unprepared for the task and in terms of education, i 've learnt that there is a need to protect our beauty beach so that they will not be polluted. It is hoped that there will be more activities or campaigns that helps to promote awareness among the people to conserve the beauty of our beach.

Tungku Beach (6th September 2006) – Puspa Rahayu

This week our location was at Tungku Beach. It took us about 10 minutes to reach there. When I heard that we were going to Tungku beach at first, I felt so exciting since it was my first time to go there. Usually I just pass by the beach on the way back to hostel or back to KB. The scenery was very awesome. We were asked to walk and take a look at the surrounding plus we were asked to do sort of “cleaning campaign”. We picked up the rubbish that laid down everywhere and divide it into different bags for collection of cans, bottles and other rubbish. But I think the Tungku beach was quite clean compared to some other beach in Brunei that I have visited before. Not much we have learned during this trekking except building our self-awareness about the environment. I would loved to rate this trip 6/10 because of the pleasure scenery which made me felt peaceful and for reminding me how important to have such a clean environment. The trekking was quite unchallengeable if compared to our fist and second trip. Nevertheless, I still felt happy and enjoy the trip.

Don't complain unless you do something as he does--make the world better...

Hafizah (Pantai Tungku, 6th September, 2006)

Sandy Strides

As always, before every trek, I would feel excited, because we would go to a different place each week and therefore enriching our knowledge of the environment. This time around, we went to the beach (Pantai Tungku), unlike the last two treks, which were in the forest.

One of the main purposes of the trek this time was maintaining a cleaner and greener environment. Sad to say, but it is a fact that litter-strewn beaches are a common sight in Brunei. Rubbish such as plastic bottles, Styrofoam containers, and plastic bags make up a large percentage of the rubbish seen at beaches. Not only these rubbish pollute the environment, but they can also harm sea animals. For example, plastic bags that get carried away into the ocean may cause death to turtles -- thinking they are jellyfish, they eat them and get choked.

I find it quite ironic that people go to the beach to relax, find peace in the calmness of the ocean, have a good time with family members or friends, and yet, they are the ones who “help” to pollute the seashore! Rubbish bins ought to be made available, and the citizens of Brunei should be more aware and responsible of the cleanliness of their surroundings. If they don’t care, who will? They should not simply wait for others. Brunei is our home, and we are the ones who should see that it is well taken care of!

The challenge that I encountered this week involved large stacks of rocks. On one occasion, we had to climb down a steep pile of rocks, and the other, walk on them. Mind you, those boulders had gaps between them, and some weren’t really stable. I found the experience adventurous, nevertheless. : )

Again this time: minimal animal encounter. The only animal that I remember seeing was a bee. Oh yea, and lots of cocoons suspended on coniferous trees! (' ',)b

Raimie; Tungku Beach; 06/09/06

Before this trekking, I did not know that there were lots of morning glory plants lying on the ground. It was fascinating. I also did not know that there were quite a few of acacia trees in this beach. Hadizah told me that these trees are undergoing extinction, which is really sad. During this trek, I felt so relaxed seeing all those plants everywhere, so beautiful and feeling the cool breeze and listening to the waves and birds. However, I also felt sad seeing rubbish everywhere especially those under trees and three piles of old woods lying on an open area. The rubbish found were mostly plastics, which we all know are non-biodegradable. If this beach is not cleaned up regularly, plastics will keep on accumulating and eventually, damage the earth. I was mesmerized when I encountered lots of big shells, which I even collected some of them home. This trekking experience benefited me in a way that I tend to be more cautious about my surrounding. I rate this experience 7/10 because I have learnt so much about admiring the environment more than I would before I joined this course. The feeling of exploring an area, admiring the beauty of the environment and think about the dangers that the environment is facing make me to be more aware about what is happening around me.

My second trip to Jln Kebangsaan

Our second trip was to the Diplomatic residential area at Jalan Kebangsaan. We took off at about 4.45 pm and reach there at about 5.15 pm.I have to admit that this trip is more exciting than the first one because it involves walking in the rain as well as climbing up and down the steep andn slippery slope not to mention the stream we have to cross.

As soon as we arrive at the site, our first challenge was to climb down the steep slopes. we have to be very careful as it was quite slippery and there is not much trees or branches we can hold on to. Probably the most challenging part for me is when i have to cross the stream by walking onto the unstable logs which seems to sunk halfway into the water. some members help out by putting logs on the side so that we can hold on to it. but still it was scary to me as i was unable to balance myself but luckily i didn't fell into the water ( it will be quite embarassing if i did hehe...). then we continue our journey and reach to a point where we have to climb up the steep slopes. we have to be careful with our steps as it was quite slippery due to the rain which was still pouring. however, the foliage has protected us from the rain and we only suffered a little wetness.

Then we have to walk along a narrow path which is surrounded by thick, bushy ferns with leaves branching out. it was quite dangerous as the branch have this sharp little thorns which can cut our skins or clothes if we are not careful. I was disappointed once again when i know that i have to cross another stream. this time the task is even more difficult as there is not enough logs to laid down for us to cross. The gushing of the running water is very cold and i couldn't see very clearly of what i was actually stepping because the day was getting darker. But due to the encouragement from my group members, i manage to cross the stream safely although my shoes have been entirely soaked with water.

By the time we came out from the forest, it was already dark. As usual we were offered drinks to quench our thirst and tiredness. but overall the trip was fun and exciting and i hope we can have more of this kind of trip in the future.

Jln. Kebangsaan, near Malaysian ambassador residence, 30 August 2006, Khadizah Latiff

This second trip was quite challenging n i enjoy it..love the nature so much.. hope we will be going to more adventurous trips in the future..see u people

DOC Khaty

Spg. 370 Sg. Tilong, 23 August 2006, Khadizah Latiff

This is our first trip and even though i'm quite familiar with this place, i still think it was good.. On the first place, it was kind of frustrating coz the other bus was lost n we were so worried but then it turned out to be well..i nearly lost my way while leading the second group coz it was already dark in the forest..sorry people..luckily i remembered the plants that could be found there..anyway, it was really a good experience for everyone..i hope this course will open our eyes more on the environmental problems that we are facing right now especially the clearing of the forest for development..nw, hope we are going to enjoy the other trips..

Jln. Kebangsaan, near Malaysian ambassador residence, 30 August 2006, Hadizah

The walk was really great.. Even though the walk was a bit challenging than the first walk, I really enjoyed it.. Some friends fell down but luckily no one hurt.. There are a lot of ferns and some beautiful mushrooms. It really good to see at the beautiful scenery.. I really enjoy every second of the walk.. :)

COL Hadizah

Spg. 370 Sg. Tilong, 23 August 2006, Hadizah

It was a great experience.. I like the walk, even though one bus was lost at first but everything turned out to be okay.. The walk was fun and I saw a lot of plants species in the forest.. As I walked further into the forest, I realised how much human has caused destruction to the forest. We should appreciate the forest more or else there is nothing left for our next generation. It such a great experience. Looking forward for a more challenging walk..

COL Hadizah

Challenging experienced at Jln. Kebangsaan

Our second jungle trekking was on 30^th august 2006. As usual we met at CLT to divide ourselves into 4 groups. We started our journey at about 5 pm. This week we went to a jungle at Jln. Kebangsaan. It took us about 30 minutes to reach there. This time we had a very challenging jungle trekking just like in the documentary programme that i've saw in the TV. Now i know how it feel...hehe... We had to face very steep slope plus crossing two little streams. Since it was raining on that day so the path was quite slippery. It made us difficult to move up and down the steep slope. Like last week, we have been introduced to some of the plant in the jungle such as ixora, liana, etc. You can see some of the picture as shown above. We also met the biggest ant in the world (as explained by one of our senior). Unfortunately, I could not take the picture properly as the ant was running away from us. (I think the ant felt shy that’s why she/he avoiding us hehe…just kidding). We reached back to the starting point at about 6.30pm and had our refreshment. We headed back to UBD as soon as everyone gathered at the meeting point. Our trekking ended with a big smile on everyone face which showed that everyone felt happy for it, don’t you think so? I would rate this trip 8 out of 10.

our 1st trip

On the 23^rd august 2006, around 4 pm all of us met at the CLT room 1.11. Our lecturers who in-charge the Brunei Environment Appreciation (BEAP) course gave us some briefing about the course plus we had to sign an indemnity form as well as answering a few questionnaires in order to survey our knowledge about Brunei’s rainforest. Our first jungle trekking was at spg. 370, Kg. Sg. Tilong. We started our journey around 5 pm. We went there by using UBD buses. It took us for about 45 minutes to reach there but I think it might be less than that if we were not lost in the first place. We were divided into 4 groups and each group had their own leader and sweeper. I have joined the first group and we went inside the jungle for about 1 hour. We have been introduced to some plants such as wild orchid, ginger, a kind of palm tree and a plant which its leaves looks like “tongkat ali” leaves. We also have seen a death young snake. When we reached the top part of the hill we saw a mass destruction which was obviously for the development. But thank God there were still untouched area and hopefully it would be untouched forever. It was getting dark that we all rushed out of the bushes. We were given refreshment by the time we were out of the bushes. For me, our first exploration on that day was exciting and I can learn a lot of new things. I would loved to rate it 7/10. At about 7 pm we left that place and went back to UBD. It was so tiring but I enjoyed it and I know I’m going to have muscle pain the next day after the trip hehe…

a trip to Sungai Tilong

Our first trip was to simpang 370, Jalan Muara and everyone was so excited about it. However, during the journey, we got lost as we were unable to find the simpang. It took us a while to find the location. We arrived at the site at about 6.00 p.m and started our journey into the jungle right after that. Our leader, Faye has provided us with some information about the forest. She introduces us to some of the plant and animal species which we have never seen before. She shows us the ginger plant, termite nests as well as the skin of the snake that has been shedded. Later we were brought to the destruction site where part of the forest has been cleared up for development. Trees are falling down due to erosion and it’s so sad to know that many species will lose their habitat. After that, we started to head back to our bus. As we go along, the day was getting darker and the sound of the insects and animals in the jungle are becoming more obvious. We heard the sound of the cicada and other insects which was very loud and echoing through the forest. We have to be careful with our steps as we do not bring our torchlight along. We manage to come out from the forest at about 7.00 pm. I was so tired and exhausted but the cool drinks are very refreshing. It was really an enjoyable experience for me. The trip has taught me much about the nature of the forest. It also make me realized the importance of conserving our forests.

Hafizah (Jalan Kebangsaan, 30th August, 2006)

Rain in the Rainforest

I must agree that the second jungle trekking was more challenging than the first. It had more obstacles, slippery slopes (and more slips), team effort, camaraderie, wet pants, squelchy shoes, and of course much more fun!

When we started our journey into the forest (5:15 pm), it had already begun to drizzle, and it continued throughout the trekking activity. However, being in the forest, with all the trees and foliage “filtering” the raindrops, we didn’t really get wet. However, we did get wet when we crossed a small stream in the jungle. Since the log that functioned as a bridge had partially sunken into the stream, we had no choice but to wade across. The water was knee-deep, filled with branches and had a squashy, muddy base. I actually slipped into the stream, accidentally of course. I hope nobody thought that I did it out of excitement. *LOL*

Overall, the trek was like an obstacle course. We had to climb up and down steep and slippery hills, go through dense ferns, cross a couple of streams, walk over and under fallen logs … that’s it, I guess. Hm… I thought that the experience would aggravate the cold that I had, but I was mistaken completely! The green experience instead was therapeutic; I felt much better after that! (‘ ‘,)

We emerged from the woods at around 6:20 pm.

Trekking activity number two, you deserve a 9/10!

Raimie; Jln Kebangsaan; 30/08/06

This time, the experience was extra exciting, extra fun and the most importantly, extra challenging!! The scenery before entering the jungle was quite scary. Then, when we were about to go inside, we encountered a very steep hill, where we had to climb down very slowly. The ground was damp and slippery due to the rain. There were lots of trees, ferns, pandan, lianas, mosses and mushrooms. I was really fascinated with this one blue, shiny, flower-like mushroom that was sticking on the side of a fallen branch. The ground was really covered with fallen leaves and branches. There were also fallen trees that sometimes, blocked our way. So we had to be very careful walking through the jungle. Again, no animals in sight. Just the sounds of insects and birds from the distant. Furthermore, we had to cross a stream, which felt really nice and cold. We had to be really cautious as the 'bridge' was slippery. Moreover, we came across a land of ferns, so we had to put our arms up to avoid from the sharp edges of the ferns. With all those great experiences, I rated this visit 8/10. To me, the environment was really, really 'two-thumbs up', even though few portions of the land were seen destructed by man. Well, at least, they were replaced by ferns, which I had been told, can be used as medicinal herbs.

I would not mind to come back here again...

Raimie; Sg. Tilong; 23/08/06

Before the trekking, I did not know that there were too many trees cut down especially when we were brought to a hill top and saw a massive of clear land with constructions in progress. When we were inside the jungle, no animals were in sight. There were trees, carpets of fallen leaves, rattan, ferns, lalang and lianas. These inner beauties in the jungle were really fascinating, despite the destruction that had been made by man. So for me, the experience was just alright, about 6/10. There were no challenges faced, apart from walking through the fallen branches and loose rocks, where we could easily slipped if we were not careful. The weather at that time was not that hot as it was already late. All in all, the scenary in the jungle was breathtaking. It also concerns me: Few trees; loss of shelter; clear land; soil erosion; landslide; destroy the livings. On second thought, we might want to support the government to clear the land and make Brunei a more developing country but that would be another different story...

Mas Zuraidah (Sg.Tilong 23/08/06)

As it was the 1st BEAP trekking, ofcourse, i felt very excited. Plus, i've never been to the forest at Sg. Tilong before. Ok..it was totally fun. We did come across an animal, but we didn't get to see it clearly because it ran away very fast. Our group leader said it was a rat. A huge one, that is. But my friend at the first glance thought it was a chicken.Hahahaha. Very funny. Moreover, i've learnt a name of a tree, but i don't know how to spell it. I know that it produce a nice smell and it has beautiful flowers that produces the smell. I'm an Economics student, all i know is about the Labour supply, GDP, unemployment, etc, so i have an excuse though.Hehe. What's more? I watched a live action on deforestation. It was my first time ever. Well, they did it on a good cause though. But i hope they don't destroy the whole forest. Otherwise, i'll go on strike. Well, no lah. I'm just kidding. Hehe. O yea! I nearly slipped twice because it was slippery. I just laughed it out. We also get to hear the sound of birds. Cute! But i didn't get to see them.

Anyway, the walk made me realized that i don't have to go to the gym if i do this often and also by controlling my diet.Hehe. Overall, the trekking was enjoyable. I would rate it 7/10. I'm really looking forward for the next trekking site. And the following sites also.

Cheers.

Hafizah (Sg. Tilong, 23rd August 2006)

A Walk with Nature
I believe a number of the members of the BEAP had previous experiences venturing out into the wood. For me, it was my first…well not exactly, but I’d consider this to be the first serious trekking activity that I ever had.

Before we departed from UBD by bus, we first had to fill in a few forms and questionnaires, all relating to our knowledge and experience with Brunei’s flora and fauna. After that, at approximately 5:00 pm we boarded onto the bus and left the campus. We arrived at the trekking site at around 5:20 pm, and about ten minutes later, we started our journey into the forest. I was in group four.

Since it was my first real trekking activity, I was particularly cautious and careful, especially about where I set my feet on. The forest floor was covered with roots, rocks, lots of leaves, and even fallen flowers! How sweet…! I must say, as a first-time trekker, I had yet to get use to walking on the forest floor, because the roots could actually make one trip and fall, which by the way, I almost did a few times.

Along our way in the forest, there were various sights and sound, and even scents! The background music was singing of birds, rustling sounds of scampering small mammals, twigs snapping under our feet, and the distant hum of vehicles at work. Occasionally, while admiring the beauty of nature, we could sense a pleasant floral scent in the air. We were told that it came from a type of flower in the forest known as Magnolis.

Before making our way back to the starting point, we stopped momentarily to look at a piece of land that had undergone deforestation. So, that was where the humming sound originated from. The previously evergreen land was now layered with tar and cement. That was my first encounter of deforestation. Before, I only saw it on the television, or read about it in articles. I’m not sure how to describe the feeling that I had when I saw it for real… Well, for one thing, it showed that Brunei is developing its land, probably for housing. However at the same time, a percentage of the forest’s occupants had lost their homes and shelter.

I would give this trekking activity a 7/10. Well done!

From Dr Irene - Instructions for Journal Entries

Dear Students of BEAP UBD 2006,
This is a space for you to share your reflections of the BEAP UBD 2006 trekking activities with your colleagues.
All members should write at least two sentences and maximum of 300 words for each trek they participated in.
All postings for each trek should be posted by the Sunday night 8pm of the same week the trek occured. You should post your journals by clicking CREATE NEW POSTS in the edit mode, do not use the COMMENTS button below unless you are commenting to other student's journal entry.
Please write in the title box the location and date of the trek and your first name only.
You can write about any of the following and other relevant reflections about the trekking activity you participated in:-
- What you learnt about the environment that you did not know about before this trekking activity;
- How you felt before, during and after the trek; Why you feel the way you felt;
- How you rate the trekking experience; Why you rated it as such;
- How the trekking eperience benefited you;
- What challenges you faced during the trek;
- If the learning expectations you had for the trek were met;
-and so on - concerning your educational experiences of the treks.
Thank you
Dr Irene