UK Agro Farm

After my Mt Kinabalu blogs, I thought I'm going to hibernate for at least a month or so.  I'm running out of time for my study, assignment and project.  And I think my brain is currently under 'construction', need some time to rejuvenate from all the exhaustion.  So, let the pictures 'speak' to you instead of written words.

I came to know about this UK Agro Farm from my sis.  She has been there a couple of times.  After browsing through the web for some reviews, many recommended this place.  So, I purchased 6 tickets from Matta Fair last year.  The tickets have been collecting dust since then.  Couldn't find the right time to go until this school holiday.  After all, it's going to expire by the end of April!

It was a two-hour journey from Melaka to UK Agro Farm.  We reached there around 9:30am.

We saw a few cows as we turned into the farm premise.  The sight of these creatures triggered some excitement in my children after a long drive.

Upon arrival, Andrew purchased two bags of feedstock and corn to feed the goat and ostrich during the tour.

 While waiting for our bus, we walked around the reception area and saw this iconic sheep statue.

Since it was still early, we dropped by the mini zoo and saw this beautiful peacock showing off his feather. 

Not a lot of animals there though.  So we went back to the reception and waited for our bus.

The bus was here but not the driver... 

The 3 hours tour is guided by a in-house-guide to visit feedstock processing factory, sheep and goat pen, goat milk processing centre, tropical aracde and fruit farm, turkey and ostrich farm, Jakun village, and mushroom farm.

Our tour guide spoke in Mandarin, so hubby, my FIL and the children couldn't understand much.

You may upgrade your ride to a horse cart with an additional fee.  We saw one on our way and took a picture with it.  Of course, the children wished they could ride on it.

The first attraction is "Sheep Grazing".  You will see the herds of goats galloping towards the grassy land for food.

Our next stop: Goat and sheep pen

Feeding time!!!

Such a hungry bunch of lamb and goats... they finished the bottle of milk in a blink of an eye!

The lamb is so so cute!!!  And it's very light compared to my children.  Apparently she's very hungry also, sucking a corner of my blouse while I was carrying her.  Erwyn dared not to carry her though.

After the feeding, we proceeded to the next station: Feedstock proccessing factory.

The field of grass could not satisfied the hunger of these goats and sheep.  So more food is processed here when the herds are back in the barn.

The milk proccessing factory is where they milk the goat, using air pressure machine to suck the milk out.

Slurp... milk is my favourite!!!

A cup of goat milk ice cream in a warm weather like this is definitely a must!

Looks like the bird in the farm doesn't mind a close encounter with my boy

An awesome scenery of the grassy land with the herds

Our fourth stop: Turkey and Ostrich Farm.  Only one ostrich was there and all the children fought to feed this big fellow...

On the other hand, these turkeys were not hungry at all and refused to eat any corns offered to them.

Moving on, the Jakun Village where the 'Orang Asli' demonstrated to us how they catch a prey up on the tree.

Tree house

Can you spot the two little kiddos?

Chill out time!  Refreshing coconut water at the fruit farm.

Finally, the Mushroom Farm.  Something else attracted the kids more than mushrooms itself.

My two kiddos love climbing.  Where there are stairs, they climb...

Presenting to you: the Lingzhi mushroom

Mushroom snack

The last activity of the day: Sheep Challenge!

Seriously, it is no joke chasing after these four legged creatures.  Fun but tiring.  After 2 minutes, my boy was so exhausted, he gave up.  So hubby took over.  We did not even managed to touch the fur on the sheep, let alone catch it coz they were really fast.  The staff told us that 5 people stand a better chance of catching them.  Anyone interested?

We left UK Farm around 1pm and headed for lunch.

Look at how tired my little boy was!!!  How can I miss this candid shot... :p

Overall, I think the farm is only average.  I was quite disappointed that the mini zoo is truly 'mini', only one peacock, a few ducks and a pig; there's only one ostrich at the Ostrich Farm and even the herds of goats aren't that many.  Maybe our timing was wrong.  Many other reviews mentioned that they saw hundreds of goats and sheep at the 100 acres of grazing land and the view is simply magnificient.  hmm... or perhaps my expectation is too unrealistic?  I was thinking more like the New Zealand kind of scenery.  So long, farewell, UK Agro Farm.  I don't supposed I'm going to visit you anytime soon.

Mt Kinabalu - Part Six: Home Sweet Home

The journey down was a long and tiring one.

Donna and I at KM8

We left nothing but our footprint in this awesome place

Couldn't imagine how we made it up, and now down

We descended back to Laban Rata for breakfast and packed our bag.  We were supposed to reach Timpohon Gate by 3pm but it took us forever to get there.  The hike definitely seemed more pleasant than the descend.  Perhaps it was the adrenalin rush.  We walked and walked and walked.  Though it was less tiring, it was unexpectedly arduous and seemingly an endless trail.  My legs were wobbling like mad and I vowed that it was gonna be the first and the last climb for me.  In fact, the last 3km Robbi had to hold Audrey and my hand all the way.  Audrey's dizzy spell was still lingering around whereas my knees were so weak that it was as though I was going to fall anytime.

When we reached the gate, we were welcomed by the applause of the staff.  hahaa... such an honour!  Poor Donna and Chu!  They have been waiting for us for an hour at the gate.

Robbi gave us our certificates from the HQ office; Donna and Chu took our packed lunch from the restaurant while Audrey and I rested at the bench.   

Yes, we did it!

We were so thankful with the perfect weather right from the beginning till the end.  I couldn't imagine how slippery and tough could it be with even the slightest drop of rain.

Soon, we boarded our tour bus and headed back to Marina Court with mixed feeling.

I called up Amazing Borneo office to make sure we were not 'forgotten' again by the Marina Court person-in-charge.  Thank God for the call.  By the time we reached KK town, the PIC had left but she made some arrangement with the guardhouse to give us our apartment key.  However, our luggages were left in her office.  There goes another drama where I made umpteen calls again.  Finally, she brought our luggages to our doorstep and apologized to us.

Audrey and Chu volunteered to buy KFC for dinner while Donna and I stayed at the apartment.  (Told you my teammates are awesome!!!)  I took the longest shower ever; just enjoying the water running down my smelly and tired body.  We rested early for the night and the next morning we boarded the plane back to KL.

Throughout the past few days, I am surprised to find myself not homesick or rather 'childsick'.  What amazes me more was my children did not miss me either!!!  Looking at the bright side: Perhaps this indicates that I could travel more often next time.  Andrew took good care of the kids.  A good father indeed.

The aftermath effect of the climb: I was limping for the next two days and in pain for a week.  But till today, I am still at awe, reminiscing the moment where I was at the highest top of Mt Kinabalu - a mountain standing so mighty at the height of 4,095 metres in East Malaysia - Sabah.





Sidenote:  I am so grateful to have Audrey, Chu and Donna as my climbing partners.  Thank you so much for everything!  Everything here means: The 100+ that Chu offered me after I reached Timpohon Gate; the 'scarry' stairs that Chu and Donna had to take after the climb just to get our packed lunch; the KFC dinner that Audrey and Chu bought after the climb; the Secret Recipe cake that Audrey went all the way out to buy for me... and the list goes on.  

Disclaimer:  All the photos in the Mt Kinabalu blogs are mostly taken by Audrey and Chu; with only a few from me.

Mt Kinabalu - Part Five: Top of the World

Chu and I woke up around 9pm with a headache.  We both took paracetomol to ease our pain and praying that we would feel better the next morning.  I did not fall asleep until 11pm.  Oh gosh... only 2 hours away before the climb.  Would I be ready for it?

The final attack took place in the early hours of the second day in order to catch the sunrise.  We woke up at 1am.  I was relieved that the headache was gone.  It was freezing cold and I put on 4 layers of clothes.  We climbed up to Laban Rata Resthouse for supper.  Gotta fuel ourselves for the final push.


Even though from Timpohon Gate to Laban Rata is 6km, and from Laban Rata to the peak is 2.72km; the latter was so much harder and challenging.  What we experienced the day before was nothing compared to this.

It was pitched black and everyone had their headlamps on.  I could see a trail of lights ahead of me moving higher and higher, giving hints of the route I was about to take.  The first kilometre was all steps and rocks.  And then there comes a part where you hold on to a big white rope, climb up a narrow path of steep, large rocks.  At some point, the level of inclination was almost 70 degrees, with only a rope separating us between life and death. 

Robbi, our mountain guide was with us all these while.  He was very helpful in instructing us where to put our foot on, even holding our hands leading us the way.  Did I mention he has been a mountain guide for 11 long years?!  No wonder he is so experienced.  He doesn't even need to hold the rope while climbing.  If anyone of us lose our balance, he'd pull us back up. 

Finally, we reached Sayat-sayat checkpoint.  Climbers need to check in here to report for the summit climb.  We took a break for awhile before continuing the hike.  Beyond this checkpoint, it was all rocky boulders.  Perhaps the scariest and the most dangerous part of the climb was over.  Our dear friend, Robbi, left us on our own, again!

Although Chu has acrophobia, Donna and her hike up the mountain like a rocket.  Audrey and I stayed slow and steady.  At one point I was practically walking every five steps and stopped...  It was less than 10°C, and on top of that the wind blasted like crazy.  It was insanely cold.  The strong wind causes the white rope to sway from the left to the right.  As a result, Audrey felt dizzy and uneasy.  She stopped while encouraging me to move on.  I felt so terrible for leaving her behind in such a condition, but I couldn't stay still with such a strong wind.  The weather up here is icy cold and although I was wearing four layers of clothing, it was impossible to stay warm and focused.  I moved slowly forward while hoping Robbi would find Audrey and assist her.


Eventually Robbi found her.  Audrey told us later that she tried to move forward without holding the rope but at some point it was rather impossible.  Robbi brought her back to Sayat-sayat checkpoint, and she rested in the container with a number of others who wished not to proceed further.  But she managed to catch a glimpse of the sunrise.  In fact, Robbi told her sometimes the view at Sayat-sayat checkpoint is better than the mountain peak.  I certainly believe she has made a good decision.

As for me, I continued to wrestle with the cold wind while taking every step with all my strength.  It was hard to concentrate.  I was coughing and my nose became watery.  I wasn't sure when did that happen but I was all alone at the mountain.  I could see lights ahead of me and way far behind me.  But no one was next to me.  It was at this point my headlamp began to... and suddenly it turned off by itself.

Does this sound like a movie scene to you?  Well, it was happening to me.  My first reaction was:  What am I going to do now?  Two options: Continue the climb until I meet someone; Or descend back to Sayat-sayat checkpoint.  I was very hesitatant as both options require me to climb in darkness.  I did not have a torchlight with me except my headlamp.  Perhaps I should stay still and wait?  But the wind was killing every bit of me.  Even with a pair of water resistant winter glove, I could feel the wind blowing strongly on the palm of my hands.

I am surprised to find myself calm and not afraid at all.  I tried several times to turn off and on my headlamp but it refused to work.  It was at this point I looked up and realised there were so many stars in the night sky.  The scene was awesome!  I have never seen such a beautiful night sky before.  I regret not taking any pictures then.  Perhaps I was too distracted on what should I do next than snapping away.


Then I remembered I have my mobile phone with me in my pouch.  I brought along hubby's old hp coz I did not expect any reception at Laban Rata.  And this old mobile phone may function as a torch light.  It may not be very bright but it was more than enough for me to see where to climb.  So, slowly I moved forward with one hand holding the rope, the other holding the mobile phone.

I was so delighted when I heard voices that sound like Chu and Donna.  They should be way ahead of me?!  I called out their names a few times but they did not hear me.  Finally they saw me and reached out to me.  I explained to them what happened and they expressed their desire to return to Sayat-sayat checkpoint.   Then a group of people moved passed us and their tour guide encouraged us to moved forward.  Sometimes a little support is all we need.  Moving quickly, Chu followed behind the tour guide, while Donna stayed with me to light up the way as we continued the climb.

At last, we made it to the top before 6am.  Donna and I snuggled behind a big rock, hoping that it would shield us from the freezing cold wind.  Chu was all the way at the peak where the sign was.  The tour guide led her there and left her there.  She dared not to moved around as she was afraid of height.  After assisting Audrey, Robbi came to look for us and he found Chu.  Later, he found us, too.

The very reason we climbed to the peak at the early hours is to catch the sunrise.  Before the climb, I imagined how awesome it would be to witness the glorious sunrise ever in my life.  Many described God's glory like the sunrise - so magnificent, so splendid.  But I was so so so cold, I couldn't take pleasure in it.  I did not pay much attention, in fact.  Every part of me was fighting the cold wind.

Soon, the summit became a little bit crowded as more and more climbers arrived.  As the day became brighter, the various peaks began to light up around us.

Rock face plateau - can you see it?

The beautiful clouds were underneath our feet... perhaps this is what we called 'Top of the World'

The rocky boulder

Robbi showed us the summit rock pool at KM8.5, where ice was found

To be continued...

Mt Kinabalu - Part Four: The Quest

The Kinabalu Park covers a staggering area of 754 sq. km.  Translated, it is bigger than Singapore island!  Established as a state park in 1964, this botanical paradise is blessed with an astonishing variety of flora and fauna that ranges over 4 climate zones.  It is Malaysia's first World Heritage designated by UNESCO in December 2000 for its 'outstanding universal values' and being the world most important biological sites.  (Information derived from malaysiatravelpedia.com)

Notice there are 2 climbing routes, one travel from Timpohon Gate; the other from Mesilau Trail.  We took the Timpohon route which is 2km less than the Mesilau trail.  If you are a more adventurous climber and possess an average fitness level (able to hike up to 3,200m in 6 hours), you may try via Ferrata route.  It is definitely a more exciting experience.

We reached Timpohon Gate around 9:15am and our mountain guide, Robbi, gave us his 'final' words and we checked in at the guard house.  Let the quest begin!  Mt Kinabalu, here we come!

Interestingly, the climb began with descending stairs.

400m later, we came across this beautiful waterfall.

From here onwards, the trail winds up a steep staircase.  And it is all the way up.  The climb will take approximately 4-6 hours depending on each one's fitness level.

Chu and Donna were always ahead of Audrey and I.  I preferred to stay right at the back.  After all, I seemed to be the slowest of them all.  *shy

We completed the first 1km hike within 25 minutes.  Oh boy, that's pretty good right?  Well, it may sound that way.  But it's another 5km walking up and up and up the endless stairs.

Along the trail, there are 'pitstop' to rest and answer nature's call.  The shelters are about 500m - 1km distance from each other.

And there are friendly mountain squirrels to greet and entertain you in each shelter.

We usually rest for about 5 minutes in each shelter before proceeding.

Wooden stairscase

More stairs

Audrey's gorgeous smile even after all the sweat... notice the peak of Mt Kinabalu at the background?  Such a magnificient view, ya?!

Finally reached 2km!  This time it took us around 40 minutes.  Well, there's nothing much to look for unless you are a fan of fauna and flora.  So, these markers and shelters become our short term goal.  I was looking for the insect-eating pitcher plants for which Kinabalu is famous for but I found none.

We met many porters along the trail.  I simply adored these people.  Look at the weight that they are carrying at their back.  And their speed were immeasurable!  In fact, you could hire these porters to carry your backpack with only RM10 per kg.  If there's a need, they could even carry you!  hahaa... of course with a substantial $$.

Personally, the first 1km was a bit tough for me as my body adjusted to the momentum.  But the second kilometre was easier.  However, it didn't last long.  Soon I felt tired, exhausted, and every step is a power of will.

Another 45 minutes to reach the 3rd kilometre.  Thanks to Donna who kept track of our time.

Slowly, the path we trudged on changed from soil to rocks

Throughout my climb, I couldn't help but think of friends that have walked this path before me.  That reminded me of Hebrews 12:1  Therefore, since we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles.  and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.

The path may not be easy.  We may not know when it would end.  However, many have gone before us.  Many have ran this race.  We are not alone in facing the trials, challenges and difficulties in life.  Rest assured that God is with us.  Persevere on.  We will receive our crown of glory in no time.
 

We stopped for lunch at the next shelter.  Took a longer break, munching our sandwiches, replenishing our energy.

As we ascend higher, the forest becomes shorter.  Thus, allowing superb view of the mountain as we followed the trail upwards.

The next kilometre took us more than an hour.  Our legs were sore and every step just seemed to get harder and harder.

The mist-irous path

The temperature was dropping but we were sweating profusely.  However, you do feel a bit chilly when the wind blows. 

Our mountain guide was no where to be found all this while.  He was supposed to walk behind the last person in the group (that's me!).  We noticed other westerners' guides were with them all the time but not so if the group made up of local Malaysian. 

Another one hour plus to reach the 5th kilometre.  Just one more kilometre to reach Laban Rata where we rest for the night but it seemed forever to get there.

As you can see, climbing up Mt Kinabalu is pretty easy.  Just stairs, and stairs and stairs....

Finally, after five and a half hour of trekking, we reached Laban Rata!  You have no idea how happy we were.  Chu and Donna were already there waiting for Audrey and I.  Donna was so cute, she was on the look out for us at the edge of the cliff all these while.  And when she saw us, she was overjoyed and shouted aloud "They are here!  They are here!".  My teammates were awesome!

Located at an elevation of 3373m, Laban Rata Rest House is where all climbers rest overnight before continuing their climb to the summit the next morning.  We, however, were given the key to our dorm at another rest house called Waras Hut.

A non-heated room with 6 bunk bed, very basic but it felt like paradise after a 6km hike up.  It is located 2-minutes away from the reception hall where we will be having our meals.  Since dinner is served at 4:30pm, we decided to just hang around the hall for another one and a half hour before descending to our little cozy hut.  Our guide finally appeared! He gave us a short briefing of the climb for the next day.

You'd be surprised to find Maxis reception is excellent even at this altitude.  As we were climbing, I overheard a Malay lady answering her call explaining to her 'whoever' where the iron was.  It was quite amusing to me.

Perhaps it was the thinning air, or the lack of sleep, I developed headache on my way up the mountain. There is a Grocery Counter in the resthouse where we could purchase food and beverages, and limited stuff.  I purchased a can of 100+ with a price of RM11!!!  Well, everything is marked up here.  It is expensive but bear in mind that everything have to be transported by foot via the porters.  So I guess it is reasonable.  I felt much better after drinking 100+ and eaten triple the amount of food I usually take.  Yes, you read it correctly - TRIPLE!!!  I was surprised by my own appetite.  hahaa...

Waiting for our dinner to be served

Audrey and I with our ID

The porters and the mountain guides having fun after a day's work

After gobbling up the food and filling our empty stomach, we descend to Waras Hut to rest for the night.  Nope!  None of us bathed as the water was icy cold.  We simply used the wet wipes to freshen ourselves up.  It was only 6pm but all of us were far off in our dreamland.

To be continued...