Author: A. Geraldine

The young porter of Mount Kinabalu

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[Above picture] Mount Kinabalu porters taking a break after completing the 6km trek from Timpohon gate – the starting point of the climb – to the Panalaban base camp. – Pix by NSTP/Khairull Azry Bidin NOTE: From April 1-2, I climbed Mount Kinabalu and had the chance to talk to some of the most inspiring individuals, the mountain porters. Here’s what I learned. ****** STANDING at only 160cm and weighing 52kg, one would be forgiven for doubting Jvy Mius’ ability as a porter, carrying heavy loads up Mount Kinabalu. However, the sight of his lithe frame springing from one rock to another as he treks his way up to the Panalaban base camp of Malaysia’s highest mountain is a marvel to behold. Depending on the weight of the load, the 22-year-old Dusun lad from Kampung Waang in the highland district of Ranau can reach the base camp, located 3,272m above sea level, in under two hours. “That is if I am carrying light objects. If the loads are heavy, then I will reach the camp …

Being a tourist in Sandakan

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My weekend was well spent, playing tourist with mom and my six-year-old nephew. We went on a short city break to the east coast district of Sandakan, for an overnight stay. A night is a very short break indeed. But enough to explore the different sights of Sabah, and indulge ourselves with nature and wildlife, which Sandakan is known for. I often fly to the east coast for work purpose. But having to visit Sandakan as a tourist, I am slowly learning to love this quaint district. Our stay in Sandakan was great. If only it was not raining. We stayed at Nak Hotel, just a five-minute walk to the waterfront and the Habour Mall – Sandakan’s only biggest and grand shopping mall. The mall. Nothing much to browse or be excited about, except for the Popular bookstore and the Mc Donald (which my nephew was pretty much amazed.) It drizzled when we landed Sandakan Airport at 9.50am. We picked our rental car and headed to the Bornean Sunbear Conservation Centre (BSCC) – the only …