Yearly Archives - 2023

We are now in the anthropause, and this is unprecedented. A group of researchers recently coined the term anthropause, referring to the slow-down in human activities around the world. The Covid-19 pandemic pulled us backwards - with its pros and cons. Where are we going next after this pandemic? What does this mean for the tourism industry?

Across the world, governments are implementing lockdown to curtail the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. People mostly stayed indoors. We are also experiencing the slowing down of economic activities.

The reduction of the use of vehicles, air transport, and halted factories have brought down carbon footprint across the world. Most directly, what this means is cleaner air. In India, residents in northern Punjab are finally seeing the view of the Himalayan mountain range for the first time in 30 years.

With the lack of human activities, water quality has also improved in some places. The once busy water canals in Venice appear to have clear water during the strict Italy lockdown.

There are a lot more wildlife sightings in the urban areas, probably due to lowered levels of human interference. The reduction in noise and pollution in the city is less likely to stress wildlife out. Even mountain lions are taking a stroll in downtown Santiago, Chile. The once crowded Koh Samui in Thailand finally saw turtles laying eggs on its beach for the first time in decades.

However, the flipside happened for wildlife that is heavily dependent on human food provision or rubbish scavenging. Hungry monkeys were running amok and fighting for food in Lopburi, Thailand. Tourists usually feed these monkeys near the temple.

At a glance, less human interference is good for the environment. In reality, this issue is complicated. Overtourism is a problem, but how much is too much?

Tourism is one of the most affected sectors during this pandemic. The dimmed tourism industry also affected sustainable tourism that supports conservation and preservation of nature.

Striking a balance between the livelihood of the local community and the environment is paramount, Responsible tourism is what we need to embrace from now onwards. We need to balance development and environment.

Langkawi’s latest economic blueprint was drawn based on this current challenge. The priority for the tourism industry is to highlight Langkawi as a destination that is safe, clean and sustainable. This will also be a constant effort to stay true to its UNESCO Global Geopark status that emphasizes protection, education and sustainable development.

There are three main conservation areas under Langkawi UNESCO Global Geopark: Kilim Karst Geoforest Park that is surrounded by mangrove forests; the mountainous Mat Chinchang Cambrian Geoforest Park; and Dayang Bunting Marble Geoforest Park with an impressive lake.

These locations serve as pivotal points for educational ecotourism and geotourism areas that also benefited the locals on top of preserving the unique environment. The constant cultivation about the ethnic, cultural, archaeological, geological and biological treasures and harmonies, the geopark serves as a reminder about the crucial ecosystem and our role to protect it.

The middle ground has always been there - sustainable development. It is time we rethink our relationship with the environment and adapt for long-term resilience through sustainability.

Contact:
About Langkawi Development Authority (LADA)
Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) was established by the federal government to plan, promote and implement development on the island of Langkawi. LADA was officially established on March 15, 1990 under the Langkawi Development Authority Act 1990 (Act 423) and placed under the authority of the Ministry of Finance.

For further details, please visit www.lada.gov.my or visit www.naturallylangkawi.my

Langkawi Development Authority, LADA
Tel : 04-9600600
Faks : 04-9661019
Email : [email protected]

Published in TTR Weekly
https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/12/exciting-adventures-in-langkawi/

Langkawi is the place to go if you are seeking adventures. Everything from under the sea to up above the sky is ready to give you that thrilling adrenaline rush. What’s there to explore? Let’s dive in!

1. Scuba diving or snorkelling at Pulau Payar Marine Park
Just 30km off Langkawi island, Pulau Payar Marine Park is the spot to go if you’re looking for scuba diving trips! To get there, you can take a catamaran or a speedboat from Kuah jetty. Famous for the Coral Garden where colourful coral adorns the seafloor and teeming with marine life, you will enjoy both the scuba diving and snorkelling experience. Be sure not to touch any marine life and do not feed them to protect this pristine habitat and ecology.

2. Explore the Kubang Badak biogeotrail
One of Langkawi Geopark’s four wonders, Kubang Badak biogeotrail features 13 spots for you to explore and enjoy. Taking a boat off the Kampung Kubang Badak jetty, you will stop by mangroves, early settlement of the Thai community, interesting geological features, geosites full with trilobite fossils and the oldest rock in Malaysia - Machinchang Formation rocks. This trail is very eye-opening, and that is not just physically adventurous, mentally too!

Book your boat tour today: https://www.facebook.com/people/Boat-Tour-Sungai-Kubang-Badak-Mangrove-Langkawi-Geopark/100063534764533/

3. Take a dip in the Dayang Bunting Lake
Another Langkawi Geopark wonder, Pulau Dayang Bunting is the second-largest island among the Langkawi archipelago. You can take a 15-minute boat ride from Kuah Jetty. This mythical island has a mountain range that akin to the silhouette of a pregnant lady - as the name suggests. The freshwater lake on the island is an excellent place to take a dip. So get your swimsuit ready for that refreshing swim!

4. Horse riding around the island
What if there’s a better way to explore Langkawi other than vehicles? Giddy up! Choose between riding on the sandy beach, lush rainforest or local villages. The ride through kampung is a one-of-a-kind experience where you meander through traditional Malay houses and experience the kampung life. This ride is suitable even for inexperienced beginners as staff will guide you along.

Book your ride now: https://www.langkawihorses.com/

5. Challenge yourself with Skytrex adventure
Arms up and swoosh! Fancy an arboreal experience at Langkawi? Skytrex Langkawi is located at Burau Bay. With safe set-up, you can fly, swing, glide and dangle in the forest with Machinchang mountain range as the backdrop. Flying fox, cable walk, hanging bridge and more activities are waiting to drive your adrenaline levels up. Lists of challenges are waiting for you to conquer.

Book your trip today: https://www.skytrex-adventure.org/langkawi

6. Trek and sweat to Telaga Tujuh waterfalls
Departing from the base at Pantai Kok, you can start climbing up the stairway towards the waterfall on top. Over 600 steps of the staircase is a cardio exercise that will make you sweat! But fret not, you can take a break and chill out in the seven pools on top of the waterfall. If you’re feeling even more adventurous, continue trekking to the top of Langkawi highest peak - Mount Machinchang peak at over 700 metres. So boots up and hike!

7. Up the sky and down we go - Skydiving
This activity will be the most adrenaline-pumping item on this list. Fly up to 14,000ft and jump down the plane. Scream your lungs away for a bit, and then you can enjoy the scenery of Langkawi from a bird’s eye view in awe. First-timer? Not an issue. The instructors will guide you along the process and give you a safety briefing. The last part of it is to land on the beach! You can even opt for a photo or video package to record this thrilling experience.

Book your fly now: https://skydivelangkawi.com/

Contact:
About Langkawi Development Authority (LADA)
Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) was established by the federal government to plan, promote and implement development on the island of Langkawi. LADA was officially established on March 15, 1990 under the Langkawi Development Authority Act 1990 (Act 423) and placed under the authority of the Ministry of Finance.

For further details, please visit www.lada.gov.my or visit www.naturallylangkawi.my

Langkawi Development Authority, LADA
Tel : 04-9600600
Faks : 04-9661019
Email : [email protected]

Published in TTR Weekly
https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/11/spotlight-on-langkawis-heritage/

Langkawi is not shy of cultural heritage to show the world. It is well known for its myths and folklore, yet there are more to discover in Langkawi. Skills and art from the older generation are what formed the present-day glory. Sadly, not all cultural heritage is preserved due to the lack of interests from the younger generation.

Jikey - Langkawi Folk Theatre
When it comes to having a good laugh at a wedding, shows and feasts, villagers would always turn to jikey troupes. Jikey is a form of multicultural folk theatre centred around comedy, following the beats of kompang (drum), gong and cerek (bamboo stick). The upbeat and lively jikey is contagious, combining both singing as well as theatrical performance. The stage was still energetic even at the wee hours. The spectators always wanted more! Back then, villagers would go home with an aching stomach from all the laughter.

That was the golden memories from those days. Not many youngsters know about this theatre nowadays. This 200-year-old tradition is at its dawn with only one surviving troupe - Ayer Hangat Jikey Troupe led by Tok Bibon (85), Tok Chan (78) and Tok Cho (94). All of them have been playing jikey since they were kids. As the last three elders that hold the knowledge of jikey, they are now passing the art to the coming generations. They hope that this remains a form of entertainment for the community.

Watch the micro-documentary here:
https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=666554467606993

Pandai Kayu who made living spaces a craft
Pandai Kayu, or the wood expert, is a Malay term that describes a carpenter with great woodcraft. Pak Dun is one Pandai Kayu who has learned how to build traditional Malay stilt houses since young.

Learning from his relative and bit by bit, from sharpening chisels and saws to woodcutting, Pak Dun was diligent and slowly got the hang of it. He only got to hold a pencil and try-square - a sign that you can finally figure out the architecture of the house - after nailing all the basic skills.

Back then building houses is a community effort. Even the architecture of the houses is made for the feasts-loving villagers. The houses are roomy and with wide verandahs - all so that they can serve good food to the community in a lively gathering.

Pak Dun is passionate about the attentiveness in crafting every single wood that goes into building a house. In the olden days, houses were built using wedges and pegs only where no nails are needed. Each wood measurement must be precise, and accuracy is the key to a long-lasting house. Because of this craft, the house can be dismantled, moved and reassembled at a new location.

The traditional Malay stilt house is also facing a dead end with the younger generation preferring modern houses. This construction knowledge also finds no successor. Reviving this cultural identity of Langkawi must become a new way forward.

Watch the micro-documentary here:
https://www.facebook.com/walkaboutasia/videos/794482961293358/

This cultural heritage can become future attractions by highlighting cultural products as part of tourism. A series of micro-documentary videos now showcases various kinds of cultural experience in Langkawi through authentic storytelling.

Check out the rest of the micro-documentary below:
Pandai Kayu: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=794482961293358
Gua Pinang: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=1251615048509978
Beras Terbakar: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=382355279417590
Jungle Herbs: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=630144774305039
Jungle Herbs 2: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=241419733843370
Laktud (Green algae): https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=325649078756933
Jikey (folk theatre): https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=666554467606993
Kebuk Arang: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=775606843274664
Horse Riding: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=422624789129815
Mahsuri: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=337120777516206

Contact:
About Langkawi Development Authority (LADA)
Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) was established by the federal government to plan, promote and implement development on the island of Langkawi. LADA was officially established on March 15, 1990 under the Langkawi Development Authority Act 1990 (Act 423) and placed under the authority of the Ministry of Finance.

For further details, please visit www.lada.gov.my or visit www.naturallylangkawi.my

Langkawi Development Authority, LADA
Tel : 04-9600600
Faks : 04-9661019
Email : [email protected]

Published in TTR Weekly
https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/11/seven-travel-safety-tips-for-langkawi/

1. Stay safe!
Adopt the new travel norm. While having a fun time in Langkawi, remember to practise 3W:
● Wash your hands frequently.
● Wear your mask at all times except when you’re eating or drinking.
● Warn self and others to follow guidelines such as physical distancing.

We can make travelling at this time safe but don’t let travelling keep your guard down.

2. Be careful during your road trip.
Going on a road trip is a must in Langkawi. However, you wouldn’t want to pull a fast- and-furious car stunt during a relaxing trip, don’t you? Drive slow and look out for wildlife, pedestrians and other drivers. Also, remember to keep your steering steady even when you’re enjoying the scenery.

3. Keep your belongings safe.
Langkawi is one of the safest cities in Malaysia. You can pretty much travel worry- free here. Still, be aware of your surroundings. Keep valuable close to you and never leave your belongings unattended.

4. Go cashless.
Many places in Langkawi are now open for payment without cash. Just tap your credit or debit card, and you can consider various types of e-wallets as well. Paying cashless can also reduce contact and protect you and others better, especially during this time.

5. Prepare insect repellent.
Mosquitoes and sandflies can be a bummer for your holiday, especially during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are especially active. Spraying insect repellent from time to time will help you keep mosquitoes away.

6. Do not feed wildlife.
There is plenty of wildlife in Langkawi, but the Long-tailed macaque can get aggressive if you are feeding them and they want more food. Avoid the conflict and keep everything in your bag. On the same note, do not feed any wildlife on the island as this act will disrupt the food chain and animal behaviour.

7. Drink plenty of water and apply sunscreen.
Sunshine Langkawi welcomes you with all its warmth, including the big hot sun! Remember to hydrate all the time and get enough water during your trip. Protect your skin with sunscreen, wear a big hat, get as touristy as you can but don’t compromise your wellbeing.

Contact:
About Langkawi Development Authority (LADA)
Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) was established by the federal government to plan, promote and implement development on the island of Langkawi. LADA was officially established on March 15, 1990 under the Langkawi Development Authority Act 1990 (Act 423) and placed under the authority of the Ministry of Finance.

For further details, please visit www.lada.gov.my or visit www.naturallylangkawi.my

Langkawi Development Authority, LADA
Tel : 04-9600600
Faks : 04-9661019
Email : [email protected]

Published in TTR Weekly
https://www.ttrweekly.com/site/2020/06/take-a-lesson-from-the-butterfly/

Amid this unfamiliar time of pandemic, many of us are facing challenges in life that is uncertain. Our way of living has changed when we have to adapt to a “new normal”, a way of living that most of us are still figuring out and adjusting into. Normal now is about having a space to stay safe and using alternative ways to establish a human connection. We need to rethink about our health, leisure activities and work and home settings. Whether or not, this transition is comfortable, it is a move that we have to make in order to survive.

Looking at the bright side, this new normal is also about humans allowing nature to take its course and live freely. While we are on this “break”, we let the trees grow, the sea creatures to swim and the birds to fly. An insect that we could all relate to at this moment would be the majestic butterflies. Every stage of its life cycle, takes its body into a different shape and size. A fascinating phenomenon to watch as they break from their eggs into caterpillars that feed and moults up to seven times until they are ready to become their adult form. The outer skin hardens forming a protective shell for the caterpillar to develop its body and wings.

Once ready, the new butterfly will come out of its shell and spread its wings. One of the best places for butterfly watching in Malaysia is Langkawi, a place better known for its recreational and duty free attractions. Nevertheless, Langkawi is a home to more than 500 butterfly species. For those who are new to or are interested in butterfly watching, mark Gunung Raya and Telaga Tujuh on your map and plan for a trip in the near future.

Many new butterfly watchers would ask: how do you differentiate a butterfly and a moth? Generally, butterflies are active during the day while moths are active at night. The best way to identify a butterfly is with its club-like antenna that looks like a matchstick. Moths however, are heavy-bodied with antennas that are usually hairy.

Butterfly watching can be interesting if you know what to look out for. You could start off with identifying the six families of the insect. Ranging from small to large, they are Lycaenidae, Pieridae, Nymphalidae and Papilionidae. And if you are lucky, you’d be able to find some rare ones like the Riodinidae. These families are called the “true” butterfly families.

The Lycaenidaes are the smallest ones among the 6 families with measurements between 20mm to 35mm for each butterfly. A common name for this family is the Blues as most of them are blue in colour. You could find the Blue family members, Cycad Blue and Grass Blue fluttering by the roadsides or in gardens. The other non-Blue butterfly family are Coppers, obviously for its copper-orange wings and Common Pierrot with black and white pattern wings. That is just the very few Lycaenidaes among the 140 species documented in Langkawi.

Moving on to the Pieridae family, the medium sized Whites and Yellows. Out of 24 species, the little white butterflies flying close to ground are called Psyche. They are about 30mm to 40mm in size with all white wings. As for the Yellows, look out for the pale Tree Yellow with a dark tip on the upper side and the Banded Yellow with dark ring around the edge of its forewings. The Great Orange Tip is the largest of the Whites and Yellows family in Asia. Approximately 80mm to 100mm in size, its wings are white with bright orange tips on the forewings.

The Nymphlidae family has so many different shapes and colour wings. They are also known as the four-footed butterfly because their front pair of legs is non-functional. Common Tiger is one of the Nymphalidae that stands out for its bright orange forewings and white hindwings wrapped with dark veins. The checkerboard black and white Tree Nymph is known as surat, which means letter in Bahasa Malaysia. The nickname might have come about from the way it ‘floats’ in the air, flapping its wings slowly like a piece of paper.

The dark and mysterious Papilionade usually has black wings with markings of various colours. If you take the road up to Gunung Raya, you may spot the black and yellow Golden Birdwing flying high in the air. The Great Mormon has a soft metallic grey or blue sheen on its velvety wings. But they are pretty rare and can only be found in thick forests.

The Hesperiidae on the other hand, is known as the Skippers. The Skippers are usually small or medium sized with antennas tapered at the end. It might be a bit hard to spot a Skipper due to their fast flying style and the dull earthy coloured wings.

Let these butterflies remind us of the metamorphosis of life. We need to stay hopeful and endure this journey together, and not forget the importance of finding joy in the simplest of creatures.

Author: Dr. Hezri bin Adnan (Former CEO of LADA)

Contact:
About Langkawi Development Authority (LADA)
Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) was established by the federal government to plan, promote and implement development on the island of Langkawi. LADA was officially established on March 15, 1990 under the Langkawi Development Authority Act 1990 (Act 423) and placed under the authority of the Ministry of Finance.

For further details, please visit www.lada.gov.my or visit www.naturallylangkawi.my

Langkawi Development Authority, LADA
Tel : 04-9600600
Faks : 04-9661019
Email : [email protected]