THE EURASIANS: Wonderful Coverage!

On 28th of October 2016, I got a message from my son that my story about THE EURASIANS was out in the STAR newspaper. Immediately, I went off to the city to get one copy. There it was on the page nation 36; EURASIAN PENS ROMANTIC THRILLER. It was a wonderful coverage indeed and I felt so happy with the nationwide exposure. I wish to thank Ruben Sario, STAR Senior Writer, who wrote this article and also STAR for such a wonderful publicity. I will remember this moment for the rest of my life.

As I had always told people, there are two main themes for my novel. The first is the usual theme that is common among romance novel; the circle of life. We might fail initially, but as we persevered, success will come; whether in love, career or business. But the second theme is more important; the environmental theme. "I wanted to express what Sabah (North Borneo) is all about, how we have been blessed with an environment that is constantly under threat." That was what I said as reported in the STAR newspaper.

Colorful sunset at Matanani Island

The pristine forest of the Crocker Range

Nature adventure at Kokol Hill

These are the background of my novel. Borneo, especially North Borneo have so much attractions to offer. The island most important assets which must be preserved at all cost are their endemic flora and fauna, unique multiracial cultures, their jungles, mountains, rivers as well as the ecological balance of the marine life. The characters are just actors in my novel. They are just figments of my imagination; and does not have any connection with real people, dead or alive. But the backdrops are real. Borneo indeed have beautiful environment which is now under threat. At the rate of destruction going on as I write now, within 50 years Borneo will have nothing beautiful left to offer to the world.   

Total destruction of the forest near the Crocker Range

Once again, coming back to the newspaper article about me and my novel, I truly appreciate what Ruben and STAR had written about me. 

 

 The first English romance-thriller from Borneo

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JESSELTON: Waterfall not far away!

Just imagine! Only 25 kilometer from the Jesselton city center, we are here; at the Kiansom Waterfall! It only takes 30 minute to reach this wonderful place. A friend told me that there are 7 waterfalls here but just those close to the entrance are already awesome. Indeed the water is chilled and refreshing. You won't mind jumping into the water over and over again. I am also fascinated by the flora around these waterfalls. Some are introduced species but most are endemic.

The source of these waterfalls is from Kokol Hill, where the highest peak is roughly 3000 feet above see level. On the other side of this hilly terrain there are numerous rivers and waterfalls that are equally interesting. However, it takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour to reach these places. So Kiansom Waterfall is the nearest place for visitors to drop by.

Kokol Hill towering above these waterfalls

Entrance to the waterfalls

The waterfall areas is currently maintain by village cooperative. Visitors can also buy foods and drinks at the stalls located near the entrance. To enter, we only need to pay two Malaysian Ringgit. There are also few gazebos for families to enjoy their picnic. As I said before, I can't believe myself; a local from Jesselton, to see such a beautiful place close to the city.

According to Wikipedia, a waterfall is a place where water flows over a vertical drop or series of drops in the course of a stream or a river. Waterfalls are commonly formed in the upper course of a river.

The first romance-thriller from Borneo
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THE EURASIAN: Launching at The Sabah Society

At last! My novel, THE EURASIANS was launched at The Sabah Society (TSS) on October 5, 2016 at 7.30pm. I am very grateful to the President of TSS, Mr Chiwon, and his committee members especially Maria Rowan and Monica for the support of this launching.

I am also deeply appreciative to Susan Sinsua, Farida Shukor, David de la Harpe, Ron Griffin, Claudius Frederick, my honored guests from United States; Grace and Allen Miller, David Yong, SM Muthu, to those whom I failed to remember their names (deeply sorry) and my family members.

I was excited to know that Susan and Farida is also actively involved in writing activities and they have been compiling short stories from Borneo which one day they will complete it and publish them. And I am also very excited to know that Grace Miller is also an editor. Susan and Farida told me their greatest problem, even as a qualified English expert, they still find it difficult when comes to editing. They were absolutely right! I told them I completed my manuscript for The Eurasians within three months in 2006. But my greatest dilemma was; how to edit my manuscript? That was why my manuscript was never submitted until Partridge Publishing called me up in late 2015. So, just imagine; what wonderful opportunity when I can meet the editor in person.  I am looking forward to meet all of them again.

I always heard famous authors "launched" their books, and carried out author signing activities. I thought authors job are only to write books. Marketing and promotions are carried out by publishers. I was wrong. Authors need to go out there and meet people telling them about their books and what experiences they need to share with others. It is tough and challenging; but what is interesting, it compelled us to meet new people and make more friends. That is why I like to thanks Partridge Publishing for the support they gave me in term of editing, producing and marketing my books. Even though they are handling my marketing activities on the international front, they told me it is still very important for me to launch my book locally. It is indeed a rewarding experience.

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JESSELTON: Our Green Lung

WHERE IS THIS PICTURE TAKEN? Danum valley? Crocker Range National Park? Or some faraway virgin jungle; which takes hours to reach? NO! IT IS SIGNAL HILL! I was amazed to see right in the heart of our city in Jesselton, we still have this intact forest. After shopping at Suria Complex or having lunch at the Little Italy, one could simply walk towards this hill and enjoy the scenery. I did just that; but only reaching the foothill. I could hear the songs of insects and birds chipping just like what we will hear if we go deep into the jungle. If you close your eyes, you will definitely feel your are in the middle of the forest.

I took these pictures from the Menara Jubilee (Jubilee Complex) because it is so difficult to find parking below. This place is actually a public parking bay for cars. From the 3rd floor right up to the 6th floor, the parking lots were filled up. I cursed for having to park right to the top of this complex. But as I came out of the car, I found out I made a mistake cursing. The sight up here is awesome; but because of the wonderful jungle nearby. The second picture above is facing north of the city and the third picture is facing south.

The green lung at Jalan Istana (Palace Street)

According to the Dictionary.com, green lung means; an area of parkland within a town or a city, considered in terms of the healthier environment it provide. Wiktionary define green lung as an area of natural parkland within an urban region; supposed to replenish the air with oxygen! Before 1970, within the forest of Jalan Istana, there used to be the nostalgic structures of beautiful colonial houses. Few shacks still can be seen nowadays hidden somewhere deep inside.

Just like the colonial buildings, I am very worried that these green lungs all around Jesselton will also disappear giving ways to concrete jungle. Right as I speak now, huge track of former green lung had been destroyed at Jalan Kolam (Pool Street) giving way for a huge courthouse. The problem is we Asian loves concrete jungle; and hates anything that is green! Unfortunately, our authority also shared this feeling. SO SAD!

THE EURASIANS: The maiden English novel of Borneo

Novels are very subjective. Some love them; others don't. Many however likes to read popular genres like horror, science-fiction, romance or thriller. When I first submitted my manuscript, I thought it was a historical-family saga. However, after editing, my editor told me it was Romance-Thriller. I was delighted because it falls under one of the important genres.

So obsessed with the historical part, I failed to see that the story was in fact romantic affairs of two important characters; Aaron Johnson and William Stewart. Their romance were the one that triggered tensions and eventually conflict. As we move towards the middle chapters, readers will see this novel is a page-turner. What is going to happen next? Why did he do that? How could she?

The character will be memorable. Some of them you will love; some hate. It started with an English gentleman, a Royal Air Force pilot; Aaron Johnson on a mission to North Borneo because of the Indonesian Confrontation in 1964. Aaron had no intention of staying in this wild and undeveloped country. But he fell in love with an Asian girl from Sandakan, married her and he was stuck here establishing a Eurasian family which started a chain of events. Aaron's destiny will cross-part with another young Eurasian, William Stewart, a mild-mannered young lawyer turned lobbyist. Because of love, their lives were turned upside down.

I strongly believe this is the first English romance-thriller novel written by an author (that's me) from North Borneo and its stories most of the time revolving around Borneo. The landscape of the early chapters are historical; Indonesian Confrontation, British and her allies supporting her former colony and also it touches on the Malaysian Agreement 1963 which is a hotly debated topics nowadays in Borneo. Towards the middle chapters, the backdrop are environmental, political and business, an important issue for Borneo starting from the early 1980's. Indeed environment is one of the pillars of this novel.

I also wish to remind readers that few of the passages are colored with controversies. I had no intention of creating a polemic; I only want to make my story flow. Great stories from famous authors have far more controversial issues than mind. That's what made their novels great. However, I wish to apologize in advance, if indeed those controversies offended you.

For those of you who are interested to buy a copy of my book, THE EURASIANS, you can contact me through my email donaldrosli@hotmail.com or call/watsapp me at 012-8214206. I could also be contacted through my twitter @donaldrosli or my Facebook DONALD PETER. The book can also be purchased directly from CLICK HERE

THE ULTIMATE MALAYSIAN BUCKET LISTS by Sil

I once made a joke to my Malaysian friends about the general Malaysians travel attitude towards domestic travel, I blurted, “Malaysians have been to Bangkok more than their own county states!” and I received a lot of answers packaged in one phrase, “Actually, that is true!”

In the Philippines where I am from, people love to travel domestically as it is expensive to travel outside of the country, we have to pay taxes to get out and travel internationally. Imagine that! So when I decided to move to Kuala Lumpur and earn my career here, I made a promise to explore the country during weekends and holidays whenever I can. Here are my top picks:

1. Climb Mount Kinabalu (Kota Kinabalu)

Mount Kinabalu is the highest peak in the Malay peninsula and has received the world known UNESCO World Heritage status. Reaching the top may seem impossible, but you will definitely feel proud and accomplished once you get there. It's one of the things you must be able to conquer: Whether it's your fear of heights, or actually reaching the peak itself. Stamina is all you need.

 

2. Bargain at Malacca's Jonker Street Night Market

The night market is home to tons of clothes and trinkets you will be able to bring home as souvenir to your family and friends. Coming at affordable prices, you can still badger and negotiate with the friendly salespeople. Try scoring a deal or two! Although my local friends told me that this place is always packed, I don’t mind, I’m a visitor. Haha!

 

3. Swim with the fish in Sipadan Island

For those who absolutely love the waters, this must be on your bucket list. To swim with marine life and watch how fish live and the beauty of the corals under the clear blue waters... Now that's the life! You'll be able to find the best of waters and marine life of Malaysia in Sipadan Island.

4. Join the Penang Bridge International Marathon

For the runners seeking a challenge, the Penang Bridge International Marathon is right up your alley. The Penang Bridge is the 5th longest bridge in Southeast Asia. It's not only for serious runners but for those who want to check out the beauty of the sunrise when on the bridge! It is definitely one of the best things you can do in a TRIP TO MALAYSIA

 

5. Stay in a real Malaysian Kampung in Sekinchan

Staying in KL, the city can be quite toxicating. Concrete walls and endless traffic paired with humid air can sure make anyone tired. Luckily, two hours away from the city is Sekinchan, an unassuming town famous for its paddy field. In there you can enjoy activities like seeing fireflies at night and have an authentic Malaysian kampung experience, just care free.

 

6. Become a Kid Again at Legoland in Johor Bahru

Johor Bahru has its own Legoland, filled with beautiful statues made of your favorite childhood toys! It's even got a water park, a resort, and a ton of rides and attractions. Just make sure to ready your wallet, as it doesn't come as affordable as you would think! But with that being said, the visit will definitely be worth it.

 

7. Gobble up Penang street food

Forget everything on the list but never this. It’s simply the one thing you must really try. No one would want to go home or leave without trying the best of Malaysia, and you can do that through checking out their street food in Penang! If you're just there to eat, then Penang should definitely be the place to stay.

 

8. Stay a night in the Sarawak Longhouse

If you have ever wondered how families in Malaysia live, then you can do so through staying at the Sarawak Longhouse, where you can meet families and see how life is. It truly broadens your perspective of cultures and diverse ethnicity tucked in South East Asia.

 

9. Go skydiving in Taiping or Segamat

For the ultimate thrill-seekers out there! BUT, you will need to work on it with the Kuala Lumpur Skydiving Association before you go, though. It's one of the best experiences one should do at least once in their lifetime, and Malaysia is the place to do it.

 

10. Adventure Caving at Gunung Mulu Park

I have not been able to do this yet, but I am planning to do this soon. Gunung Mulu Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site in Sarawak known as the largest natural room or chamber, so huge it can house 40 Boeing 747s, wing to wing with no overlaps. Inside you are able to find rare species of plants and animals only seen in the caves, a real delight for science geeks.

Malaysia is home to tons of activities and places to experience. With the many things you are able to do, not only will you have a new perspective, but you'll also be able to proudly say you accomplished feats and explored the area to the fullest extent as you can.

To be fair, Thailand is cheaper and nearby that’s why Malaysians prefer going there, but honestly speaking Malaysia too is a beauty. You'll find that there are so many things to do, and it isn't just to relax by your hotel room or booze away. It's time to explore and get lost along the way. It's through exploring parts unknown to you because Malaysia is huge man! All this experience and creating new memories with your loved ones. Where in Malaysia should you head on to next? For more information please see our website www.tripovo.com

Author's Bio: Sil is bitten by the travel bug the moment he
finished university, A radical sabbatical, Sil moved to Malaysia in
2013 to to expand his horizon, experience the local culture and
learning Bahasa. At his free time, he enjoys arts and crafts, and
exploring neighborhood gems of Kuala Lumpur.
 

JESSELTON: The City

The city center

What is unique about Jesselton? For one thing; it is strategically connected to one of the highest mountain in Southeast Asia, Mount Kinabalu towards the west and yet with a 20 minutes boat ride we can enjoy the sunny beaches of the islands of Gaya, Sapi, Manukan, Mamutik and Sulug east of the city. Imagine, in the morning, you go to one of the islands enjoying yourself snorkeling and sunbathing. Then suddenly, you feel like resting in a temperate environment at night. Well! You can travel back from the island to the city, and straight away shoot up to the Mount Kinabalu national park and spent your night there. It only takes less than two hours to reach the park.

Restaurant with a nice ambient in the city

Jesselton is a melting pot for so many cultures and people. That was why the foods are unique. I was told by a friend that the Hainanese were farmers with no knowledge of business before they left China in the late 1800's. But many of them worked as maids or butlers for the British administrators and planters in the old days. They learned to make continental breakfast. But nowadays, the Hainanese are famous for their Hainanese coffeehouse which serve toasted bread and half boiled eggs. They learned from the British to make jam. But they cannot find strawberry or blackcurrent to make it. Using their ingenuity, they made jam from coconut. Now the jam is called "Kaya" jam! This is one of the many cultural infusions that happened here in Jesselton. They are so many wonderful tasty foods in Jesselton because of the immigrants and expatriates settling here; Java, Indian, Chinese, Bruneien and recently Japanese and Koreans.

Jesselton in 1911

In the 15th century, Jesselton was part of the Brunei Empire. The British started to develop Jesselton when they moved the capital from Pulau Gaya to the mainland nearby. At that time, the British North Borneo Company was in charge of developing Jesselton. They moved to the new location because the town in Pulau Gaya was razed by fire in 1897. Jesselton used to be called Api-Api probably because of the fire in Pulau Gaya. Api means fire in Malay. Later on the town was renamed Jesselton after Sir Charles Jessel, the Vice Chairman of British North Borneo Company. Between 1942 to 1945, Jesselton was under the Japanese occupation. After that, the town was back under British rule until 1963. In 1967, the name Jesselton was replaced with Kota Kinabalu. In 2000 Jesselton became a city.