Reflection of 2012

Time passes really fast. It's getting even faster nowadays. I wonder if it is because the sign of aging or because we are living in the world of technology where it brings everyone closer and helps us to multi-task. 

Regardless, time is something that doesn't wait for anyone. And something gone and unable to restart. We can do 'what-if' scenarios in the business world, we can delete and restart work/ document/ technology gadget, etc, we can reset a phone back to its factory setting... However, time/ life is something that we live now. Yes, time will pass, and we will age, I think/ believe, as long as we have breath, we still can restart or rather make our life correct/ better if we want to. 

Thus, I am really thankful for God. For He has helped me, forgiven, cleansed and accepted me again and again. For He never forsakes me. 

Actually, I started to think what had happened in 2012 right after Christmas and just before the end of the year. Seriously, nothing much that I remembered. I was trying to check a few of my own blogs to recall my memory. Some of things that happened, seemed like ages ago, and yet some are fresh like yesterday. 

So, let me try to just summarise what happened in 2012... 

Travel
- First time in my life that I went to US for work twice in a year. Stranded in Tokyo while transiting back from US on the 2nd trip gave me a chance to stay in Tokyo for 12-hour. 

- Stopover in HK and visited friends on the return from US. It was indeed a very good experience.  We walked almost the whole night, I think passed at least 2 - 3 MRT stations. Walked from Miu-kai to take the ferry. Went up to pun-shan (半山). Really went deep into the life of HK. From poor to rich. Also, encountered and understood what it meant by spiritual warfare as both my friend and I felt discomfort at miu-kai (庙街). And some weird smell at just that certain spot. Anyhow, we moved on as we didn't want to get into trouble, that's not our purpose. 

- Aside the normal Shanghai business trips, I took the opportunities to visit Hangzhou and Qiandaohu at 2 different trips. 

- On 1 trip, I made a 36-hour stopover in Taiwan to attend a friend's wedding in Taipei, visited a friend in Tainan, visited another friend in Taipei. Went to the 24-hour bookstore in Taipei at 11+pm (after the wedding reception at night)

- Had a family trip to Bali (first time)

- Went to Bangkok with mom, visited my friends there

- Visited a childhood friend in Houston, Texas, on my way back of 2nd business trip to States. It's my first time to Houston and we have not met each other for a long time. 


God
- Joined OCZ012 in July to Cambodia. Took up the challenge to lead a team of 12. A lot of challenges, spiritual warfare, a lot of tears. I shared Luke 19:1-10 Zacchaeus the Tax Collector to the youth (all boys). Sharing nothing is impossible, for with God, I M Possible. Also, learnt that, it is not with our strengths, abilities and mind, only through prayer and only when God starts to move, miracles, things happen. It is all about God's business and God's glory, not ours. 

- Healing. 2 very vivid memories on God's healing and only through faith. 
  1. My 2nd trip to US, when I was in Omaha, my right arm was in pain. It's so painful that it hurt even when I lifted my hands on the laptop to work. It could be from lifting my luggage.  As was chatting with a friend that night, I decided to stop chatting, started praying, praising God, asking and believing in healing. Then, it was better. Then, I told God, I wanted 100% healing. So, I continued to pray and praise God. Then, it was healed 100%. All within 30 minutes. 

  2. I kinda injured my back on one of the nights doing the exercise. I was in pain for few days. Then, one night, I remembered how God healed my arm, I can pray and ask God to heal me for the back ache too. Then, again, God healed me within 30 minutes, again. 

I really praise God on His healing. My personal healing experience from God. If this is not God, I don't know what is. If this is not faith, what could it be? 

- Went to Jakarta, Indonesia mission trip with the Chinese Church. It was indeed a very blessed trip. We were really treated very well. And being able to pray for, encourage my brothers and sisters there have been such a marvelous experience and blessing. 

- God has indeed blessed me in many ways, big or small. 


Changes of lives
Everything happened during my 10-day away on my 2nd visit to US on business. It was indeed very hard for me to take it, not just being so far, also, no one to talk to/ share with on the emotion part. 

- Pastor Sally went home to be with the Lord. I was thinking that I could make it back for her funeral, which I couldn't as I was stranded in Tokyo. 

- The aunty next door passed away suddenly. I told her that I was leaving to US right before I went.. there, i couldn't see her any more. Even till now, we still miss her, as we (family) normally chatted through the kitchen window. 

- News where friends mom or closed ones have terminal illnesses. :(


Easter musical drama: i was holding the treasurer position. Who said working in church is nice and friendly all the time?! hahaha.. Church is made up of you and me. And we are human too. So, extra grace, mercy and love are needed. 


On the good part, my younger sister got married. Ya. it's happy. Yet, I missed her very much everyday. Even after she has been married for 6 weeks as I am writing now. A lot of emotions. 

I started overcoming my fear (phobia) of water by enrolling myself to swimming class. I am learning breast-stroke now, improving a little in each class. :) A tadpole soon to turn into a frog. :D
Friendship: made some new friends, some friendships drifted further, some being straightened, some reconnected. On that, and don't know since when, the thought to disconnect from Facebook has come to my mind a few times already as thinking to spend more time on other more value adding things. 


2012 as an overall: God has been extremely good to me. I have been so blessed and hopefully I have been a blessing to others too. 

p/s: I realised I have written fewer blogs nowadays. Taken fewer photos. I am unsure why? Laziness? Nothing so exciting anymore? I want to discipline myself and really treasure every moment that I could by continuing to take pictures and jot down events.

Jakarta trip

It was a planned Jakarta church visit trip with Chinese church.

Indeed, we were blessed by a lot in Jakarta by the local church, staffs, pastors, ministries.

It was also the first time that I witnessed deliverance, it told me that we cannot allow any gap/ opportunity for the evil one to live in us. We should always look upon the Lord.

On Saturday, after attended the working adults, we rushed to Chinese cell group. It was really awesome doing and serving God in this way. :)

We attended 3 back-to-back services on Sunday: Hokkian, Bi-langual (Indon & mandarin) and Mandarin. It was a fantastic feeling. I never feel tired whenever I am in the house of the Lord. I really love dwelling in the house of the Lord. :)

Pastor Ramli took us to Puncak for overnight. A sister has a weekend home and we really enjoyed our time there.

It was indeed a very blessed trip. And seeing the revival and the hunger of Indonesian going after God's heart, it really encouraged me a lot.

Thank you Lord and all for the opportunities. :)

OCZ012 mission outreach to Cambodia

I have been trying to go for a short mission trip or outreach yearly since 2009. But, I couldn't do it in 2011 as I just changed job and not many annual leaves.

A lot of times, I think how good is it if there's someone who can sponsor me financially where I could just go for mission, for 2 years or so, or even longer. So, I shall continue to pray about this.

So, after saving my leaves, I have decided to go for OCZ (again) which was a 4 days conference + 10 days outreach. This time, I really want to go to Japan. Again, it didn't turn out as by the time I get the confirmation, the air ticket went up (missed the promo). Then, I was looking at what other country that do not require visa application. So, Cambodia came into the picture.

Then, I was approached if I could take up the role being Team Coordinator. I gave it a thought, prayed. Then, I was reminded not to say no on God's ministry. So, there, I agreed on the role. Later I was told there were 12 in the team. 12 means a big group (the max participants) to outreach country.

I have started to fast and pray (though sometimes forgot to pray) right after my China business trip, which was about 2 weeks before the program. I wanted to do this as asking for God's protection, strength and wisdom in this outreach. Thank God there was nothing happened (unlike previous 2 experiences) prior to that.

On Sunday (15 July) morning, dad took me to the conference site in PD. This is where I get to meet my other team members, get ourselves equipped and have the team preparation for the outreach field. The 12 of us came from Malaysia (3), Australia (1), Hong Kong (3), Taiwan (3), Korea (2) with 8 girls and 4 boys.

Throughout the 4 days conference, we got to know each other, other team members, attended workshops, attended sessions to allow God's word to prepare, back us up, soaked in us, have fun and many more. This time, I stayed in a dorm with another 5 girls.

Also, in the conference in PD, we had a night of prayer night where we will go to different stations (14 altogether) and spend time praying. And on the final night, we all will sit as a team to partake communion. Then, we were anointed with oil and go out (to the filed) filled with Holy Spirit.

On Thursday (19 July), different ones fly out to different fields. My team was separated into 2 departure to Cambodia, a morning team and afternoon team. And our team being the only team needed to cook for ourselves. On the very night on Thursday, Anita (HIS child personal from Malaysia too) briefed us again on our next day program.

On Friday, we went to Day Care and then, Team B (our team also split into 2 sub-team for different ministry) proceed to bus ministry, while Team A would go back and prepared dinner. First time being in the bus, we played some games with the local staffs who serves in bus ministry to get to know their names. Then, we also played the local Cambodia 'squeezing game' which is humorous, fun and yet torturing. Haeil being the biggest size didn't have to do anything and could win easily in this game.

We travelled on La-mok (a motorbike with a boat like of vehicle) as this is the cheapest way of transport. It is like a cheaper version of bus.

As we arrived the destination, the children are all waiting there for the bus. There were not many children that day as it might be due to the heavy rain earlier. However, we started the routine, cut their finger nails, play some games (london bridge is falling down), sing some songs (Deep Down in my heart), teach some simple English (It is raining, I am running, hiding in the house). Then, some Bible story, origami. This routine has been there as the bus ministry. Some destination of the bus ministry would have shower for the kids where it has to be fast so that more kids get to be cleansed. At the same time, some small cuts and wounds would be treated. At the end of the bus ministry, each child will get a loaf of french breach (12") to bring home. Some of them would share 1 bread and keep the other for their parents or the next day. All these children were so poor that they live by collecting rubbish and selling all the recycle items.

We also had village outreaches where altogether 4 villages were being visited in 1 week. Also, sometimes, 12 of us would split into 2 sub-team. And each team of 6 would again being separated to minister to the children and adults cell group. We repeated the games, songs with the children. For adults, a pastor would be there to share a message, or teaching of Khemer language. Then, we would share our testimony. They were amazed that we are all serving 1 God in all different languages and reading the same Bible in all different languages.

All villagers are in poverty. And most of the children are without clothes, some have the top, but, not the bottom. And their knowledge in health is close to none. Also, violence often happens in villages. However, all children are very excited and always wait in expectations to listen and to participate. Everyone was so discipline to line up, take turns and enjoy whatever was given to them. In one of the village, a skit of Hands were shared to the adult cell. It's practical to them as to remind them that God gave us hands to care, love and help.

On other days, we would also go to Children Center, Youth Center, kindergarten. Children Center is where all girls and boys (mostly orphan) would stay. Then, the boys get to the age of 15, they would be transferred to Youth Center. This is a place where they would get their education, food and feeding on God's word.

At the Youth Center, we played games (volleyball, basketball, badminton) with the boys. Then, we had devotion with them. I did a sharing of Luke 19:1-10 Zacchaeus the tax collector. It was quite a last minute preparation as I couldn't get any team member to share. I just prayed that the sharing did benefit them and God ministered to each of them individually. I encouraged them to go after God's heart, think and dream big allowing God to works and also keep in mind that things seems impossible to us, but, with God, I M possible.

I was encouraged that all the boys at their young age already had in mind what they want to become and they were indeed top students in their school. Children coming from broken family. It really touches my heart. Also, their attitude towards devotion time. Each of them were on time and have Bible ready, hunger to know more about God's word.

Our team took over the Sunday service except the praise and worship session where we think it is better to worship in their language. Then, we have Ben S (Australian) sharing the words of God, Gladys sharing a testimony. Then, we have a team presentation on Lord, I lift Your name on high. Earlier, we also took over the Children Church. A skit/ drama of David and Goliath was shared.

The main highlight of the event on this outreach was the Evangelism International Night (His International Night). This event of about 1.5 hours was totally on our own. As the name, it was an international and also evangelism night. So, aside sharing our cultures, we also need to think of the contents of evangelism. So, we have Seungman sharing with the rope tricks (small, medium and big sin), Cassie sharing her testimony, HK team on Hands mime. We had a closing songs on Thank you Jesus in Khemer and I love you Jesus. Then, it is fellowship time where hamburgers and canned soft drinks were given out. As we were broken into small team, each of us also have someone (from Youth Center) to help us translate and talk to the local.

I was greatly encouraged that the simple things and sharing that we did were impacting their lifes. A girl shared that the testimony of how Cassie has come from a Buddhist background helps her relate to her life, and she sees it as possible. Another girl said, she is like the medium sin. She attends church every Sunday, yet, without letting God take over her life, she is not change yet. And, another girl shared that, the mime of hands showed that our hands are to love, to care, not to destroy.

As we only did 1 and not full rehearsal for the event, I or many of us felt discouraged especially when some of the team members were not cooperate. Instead of spending time to practiced more, we just prayed and surrender the whole event into God's hand. Amazingly, God turned the whole event into a great success. Furthermore, the event was only expected 70-80 people. When Hyun-Mi (local OM missonary) told me what if more people come, we won't have enough? I don't know why will I said, don't worry. Then, just break the burgers into half. Indeed, we had 170 people came for the event. If it's not Holy Spirit, it would not be possible.

Personally, I experienced 3 spiritual warfare.
1. In PD conference: where I felt dizzy and stiff neck. I prayed, I text friends to pray. I told God, I must be alright to be effective. Then, at the Prayer workshop, I had Ann laid hand and prayed for me, I felt heat (first time) release from my back, and I was alright 80%. Then, at night, I prayed again, and I was 100% alright. I was told by Mike that I was strong in God, that's why I will face all these.
2. The arrival day in Cambodia. Felt discomfort physically. I whatsapp home to get friends and family to pray, shared with the team and we prayed. Then, I was alright.
3. At the killing field, where I felt discomfort and decided not to continue to walk but turned back, rested and pray.

Also, there were conflicts, misunderstanding within the team as we were all from different background. There was one night where I had a direct debate with another team member. I knew it affected others. I went downstairs, looked for Anita, shared and cried as the pressured and tension being a TC was too great. Further, different team members were sick and I was worried. Then, we prayed. And God changed things around. I apologised to the team the next night during devotion on my behaviour. Be it right or wrong, as a leader, I just feel that I need to do it to keep the team to move on as a team.

There was one night where I spent time praying with my housemates (12 of us were put into 4 different apartments). Then, I saw a vision of cross, where many hands holding to the cross. As I asked God on the meaning, it was showing that all the team members have one purpose, that's to serve God, but, all of us are not as united. I shared to the team, and praying that the team could be united as we were in the war. Yet, another vision, where many purple flowers flourish. Sun was shining at it. Message was that all our works done, God will take care and make it bloom. It was really encouraging knowing that what we have done were not wasted.

There were (are) so many things that I have learnt through this outreach though my main focus was on admin and I felt I didn't really touch the lifes or be a blessing:
- Total means 100% surrender to God
- Total dependance on God
- Pray. In all circumstances, just pray
- Accept each other as they are though may be different culture, different background
- God will make all things possible and beautify as long as we obey and willingly allow Him to do so
- It's all about God's glory, not us

Now that as I returned to my comfort zone. I constantly reminded myself on how blessed am I. And yes, I do miss my team. :)

Please continue to pray for Cambodia.

p/s: I was shared by Seung-Man that I am going to be a long term missionary on the return of a village outreach. I am not sure about that. Just pray. :) Please pray along with me as there are many other things to consider. 

Gunung Besar Hantu, Jelebu

Peter sent an email on climbing this mountain sometime ago. It was a tough call for me as it actually crashes with my Day 1 of mission outreach. Yet, this mountain has not been easy access as it requires 4WD to go in. Then, it was the battle within myself. Then, I decided to go for this climb and be a day late for the mission outreach conference. Felt sorry as I was the TC for our team. At the same time, I kept praying that God to protect me as I don't want to have any injury from this climb that will hinder my work for the outreach.

Gunung Besar Hantu is the highest mountain in Negeri Sembilan. And it's height is almost the same as Gunung Nuang. I tried to search from internet about this route, but, not many were available. Also, most of the trekkers use another route via Lata Kijang waterfall to summit.

Below was the timeline shared by Peter:

4.10am - meet at McD, Tesco, S2. (Please make sure you already have your breakfast or you may want to eat in the car on the way there)
4.15am- depart for Jelebu and then to Kg Chennah (left hand turn as we reach Jelebu town).
5.45am. Reached Kem Rumah Bukit and parked our cars there. Warm up and toilet visits.
6.00am- Depart for starting point by 4WD
7.00am- reached starting point (Bukit Pegentar) and start the trek
1pm- Reached the summit. ( From what i have read it can be done in 6 hours).
1.30pm - Begin descent
5.30pm- reached ending point, at the base of the mountain where Lata Kijang waterfall is located. Clean up.
6.00pm- Depart for Kem Rumah Bukit
7.00pm- Reached Kem Rumah Bukit and depart for Seremban. (I don't know of any nice restaurant nearby here. So better eat in Seremban. Bring some bread to leave in car in case hungry)
8.30pm- Reached Seremban

Though we were 15-20 mins late from Seremban, the journey into Jelebu was dark and winding.

When we arrived at Kem Rumah Bukit, 21 of us were sitted in 3 4WD for an hour bumpy ride to the starting point. So, we started ascending at 8am instead of 7am (1 hour late).

 From Bukit Pengentar, the route was flat yet ascending. I saw leaches on the ground, on leaves, literally everywhere waiting for their meals/ preys. We took 1 hour to reach Sungai Kering, another team who moved faster was already resting and waiting.

Then, we moved on for another hour to reach Kem Orchid. Along the way, it was still rather flat and yet ascending. Some of the routes are already eroded by the rain, thus, we were actually on the cliffs, bushes where we have to literally use our hands to cover our face. Many of us were cuts by the dried bushes on our hands and legs. Also, we have to cross another river where bamboo was used as a bridge for us. Kem Orchid is a large empty place where many campers would camp overnight here. However, not many orchids could be found here.

We continued our journey after rested for about 10 mins. We were told it would be quite steep from this point onwards. Indeed, it was. The route was definitely steeper. I was curious that the vegetation didn't change into moist until quite high up.

There was one part where we have to cross a very narrow horse back. Also, a part where the route was literally made-up by all the roots. We were crossing that one after another.

Then, the moist vegetation portion came in as we reached certain height. Also, the path/ route became narrower. This is something unique. Many times, only 1 person can go through at a time where both parts were just huge rocks.

It took us 2 hours to reach the summit from Kem Orchid (12.30pm). So, we were actually ahead of the timeline shared by Peter. Turnaround time was set at 2pm. We couldn't have the view from summit as it was misty. However, it was good as it wasn't hot. :) Gunung Besar Hantu of 1462M/ 4799FT were summited with 4.30 hour. 

We started to descend at about 1pm though 2pm was the turnaround time. We wanted to descent to Lata Kijang, one of the highest waterfall in Malaysia. It took us almost 4 hours to reach the ladder part. Some of our team members have legs cramp and so we slowed down to pace with them.

Some of the ladder portion needs maintenance as there were rotten, towards the part near the waterfall, the ladder was actually broken and we needed aid from the guys. We were told to come down one by one. Some of our team members went for a dip in the waterfall, while others just enjoyed the cold water, cleaned-up and just enjoyed ourselves.

Then, it's another 1 hour 4WD bumpy ride out. We arrived back at Kem Rumah Bukit at around 7pm. Many went for a washed-up (I didn't). Then, we proceed to Jelebu for dinner before heading home.

It's definitely another good climb and company. :)

Peter has contacted En. Adi +6013-6121031 for the guide, 4WD. His service was excellent and at a reasonable price.

More read-out of GBH from my friends' blog:
http://euniceta.blogspot.com/2012/07/climbing-gunung-besar-hantu.html
http://jimbocyberdoc.wordpress.com/2012/08/01/climbing-the-big-ghost-mountain/

36-hour in Taiwan

Gavin has started to invite me for his wedding dinner on 16 Jun 2012 for quite some time. However, upon checking and considering, it's quite costly to fly to attend a wedding dinner. Then, it happened when I was in Shanghai for work and so got permission to have a stopover in Taiwan on my way home. 

I have had few transit in Taipei airports on the way to States, but, have never been into Taiwan. So, this is my very first time. Kinda excited about it.

Then, as I also have not met YaYing and Annette (my uni friends) for a long time, since I graduated, I have also decided to pay them a visit. When Gavin told me that he has arranged some friends to take care of me on Friday night and Saturday morning, I shared with him my plans. And I went with my plans, which was kinda crazy.. :D Super pengsan.. 

I arrived into Taipei on Friday 3pm. Cleared custom, checked-into hotel and catch a 5pm high speed train to Tainan. Arrived Tainan around 7pm, met Annette and family. Had dinner with them and spent the night at Annette's place. Thanks to the high speed train which travels around 290km/h, the journey really got shorten. 

On Saturday morning, I took a 10am train back to Taipei from Tainan. YaYing came to the MRT station with her son to take me for a lunch. We chatted, and I went to her house for more catch-up, met her husband and all the 3 boys. Wow!!! I left her house close to 5pm. Took a cab back to hotel, changed, and off to the wedding dinner. Dinner supposed to start at 6pm, I arrived at 6.30pm. And the dinner started at 7pm. phew.. Gavin throw-ed fairly handsome dinner at 86th floor of 101 Tower in Taipei. I make some new friends. Dinner was over by around 9.30 - 10pm. I took a cab back to hotel, showered, and off to the 24-hour bookstore, 诚信书店, at around 11pm. I was at the bookstore till around 2.30am when I kept sneezing that I think it's time to go back and have a rest. It was safe in Taipei. There were many cabs waiting outside the bookstore. And surprising so many people inside the bookstore at late nights. There is a cafe inside the bookstore as well. 

So, the next morning, I didn't go out with Gavin as he thought wanted to take me around. Instead I went to a few nearby sportswear shops to check out some climbing equipments. Rushed back to hotel at 12noon, checked-out and off to airport. 

It was a sweet and too short 36-hour in Taipei. I wish I could go back again one day. :) 
 

Weekend breakaway to Hangzhou 杭州

A few colleagues had mentioned that we would like to went out of Shanghai city on my next visit so that we can do some travel and short breakaway. Furthermore, May and June are good timing for travels and trips.

So, when I was there, I just let them handled everything and I just followed. I think it's easier rather than I have my ideas while I am not familiar at all. hahah...

A colleague (Cindy) came to fetch me and another colleague (Carmen) with her husband and son in their BMW. So, we departed from hotel at about 10.30am. And met with Bill and his friend at one of the highway rest area. We so many sports cars at the rest area.

It took us about 2.5 hours to reach Hangzhou as the traffic was heavy into Hangzhou. We went to 外婆家 for our late lunch, then, checked-in to hotel. Next, walk on the Westside Lake 西湖。 We had a short boat ride too. It's a big lake. So many people and happening there.

As Carmen needs to go back to Shanghai by high speed train, we went for early dinner at 状元馆。 I couldn't comment much on the food as I also let the locals to order. I told them, very easy, don't have to worry about me. Just order, I will eat what I can and dare to eat, some that I am not comfortable, I just pass. So, I just eat and no question asked on what is this and that. oh.. for sure, they said, once you are in Hangzhou, one must eat 东坡肉。 It's very fatty. ;P Still I tried, not the fat part. hahaha..

After dinner, we walked around further. The night market. And on the way back to hotel, Cindy and family decided to take a cab back as the son needs to rest. So, left the 3 of us continue doing our straw at 西湖。 The night scene was simply awesome with the lights. I like it. Yet, Bill got tired, and we all went back to hotel. Initially, we wanted to take a cab back. However, it's not easy to get taxi in Hangzhou, so, at the end, as we waited and walked, we ended up walking back to hotel. It's quite a distance, but, with the nice scenery, that's ok. :)

Next morning, as I woke up very early, I went to the lake again, all by myself. It's very bright by 6am as it's close to summer. There were many senior citizens having their morning exercise, writing on the ground by using the water from the lake. Saw joggers, bikers, etc. It's interesting to see the local lives.

When all have arise and shine, we proceed to another place, 九溪。 It's a reserved forest with 9 streams. It's easy walk as the paths are all done nicely for tourist. This place is simply awesome.

 

 

We headed back to Shanghai after taken our lunch at one of the local home style cooking, 农家菜。

Overall, it's just a short weekend breakaway. But, I truly enjoy every bits of it. So, where are we going next? hahaha...

Gunung Nuang via Janda Baik route

The team going to Mt. Kinabalu in Oct is having a scheduled training supposed to Gunung Datuk. Somehow a team going to Mulu, Miri in end Jun invited the team to Gunung Nuang via Janda Baik. 

Gunung Nuang is the highest mountain in Selangor and one can access it via Selangor, Pahang or Negeri Sembilan.

It was tempting to me to go, however, it was also quite crazy to climb Gunung Datuk the day before and Gunung Nuang. For Gunung Nuang has left me with memories of toughness. So, I was hesitating. And somehow I decided to go anyway being: 1. couldn't join the Gunung Nuang via Hulu Langat on 9 Jun, 2. challenge myself to summit, 3. stretch myself, 4. training

So, there were 2 groups of us. 1 from Seremban and the other from KL. For those from Seremban, we were told to meet at OK Tuck at Lobak at 5am. I picked Rachel Tan up at around 4.30am. Then, everyone car pool to KL. We use the route of Lekas highway link up to MRR (Middle Ring Road), then, to Janda Baik. 

We arrived at Genting Sempah R&R at around 7am. That's the meeting point for those from Seremban and KL. Pre-ordered nasi lemak was also being distributed out here. 

 

From here, it took about 30 minutes on a slow drive to the starting point. The entrance is not far away once you saw the ILMU building. It's quite easy, pretty much go straight all the way. It is not a big space for us to park our cars. So, some have to park quite far away. So, it is good to car pool. 

Upon counted the number of people as well as some short briefing, we started the trail at 8.30am. There were altogether 58 of us. And we also saw other groups on this route too. So, it is quite a busy trail. We were told that the climb would take about 4 hours to ascend and 3.5 hours to descend. We were told that turnaround time was at 1pm regardless.

Timeline was communicated via email earlier:

0800 Roll Call & Short Briefing.
0815 Start hike.
1200 Sweeper eta Summit
1230 Descend
1600 Sweeper eta Base
1700 Optional early dinner at the Janda Baik restaurants, opposite Selesa Homes


We have to cross the first stream. Most of us took our shoes and socks off. Some decided to just go through it. The first 20-30 minutes was slow incline with a lot of vegetation plants on both side. Some stretches are filled with tall weeds. Then, slowly it changed to muddy area with a lot of bamboo bushes. So, we have to bend, duck walk to proceed further. 

 

We came to the 2nd river crossing after walking for about 1 hour. Turning left is to summit, and detour by turning right (about 50m away) is a magnificent waterfall. Worrying that we will be slow, Rachel Tan and I agreed to continue the summit trail. 

It's not as wet once we passed the river, a little steep at certain part, some of the paths are not as clear, a lot of fallen trees, some we have to climb over, some required us to go under. 

I took the trail slowly so that I could enjoy the nature. :) 

It was not that difficult for me, but, I do having chocolates handy and keep replenishing myself with energy and drinks. 

 

After 2.5 hours, we saw a big rock. It's moss area after the rock. We met a few people on their way to descend, we were told it's 15-20 minutes away to the summit. Then, another big rock, where we have to pull ourselves up. There was a rope that we could use. 

 

And we came to a real horseback. It's a very narrow path where only 1 person can go through at a time, and it was steep drop on the left and right. Immediate after that, we need to think of way to pull ourselves up. So, ropes, roots, all sorts. 

I took 4 hours to summit (12.30pm). It was great view up there. My 3rd attempt of Gunung Nuang and 1st time summit of 1493m/ 4898ft. :) 

We started our descend after photos taking, lunch, rest at around 1.30pm. 

My boots was hurting me quite a bit, and I got tired towards the end. Also, slipped a few times as my toes were in pain. Once we were out of the bamboo area, it was scorching hot. Total exposure to the hot sun. (Got me more tanned). I took 3 hours to descend. And I did a small transaction in the bush for the 1st time. :D

This place does not really have facility to watch up, so, one has to think how to at least change and could utilise the water at the stream to clean up a bit. 

Overall, I think this is a good climb. Rachel Tan said, it's too easy climb. For me, maybe I have a climb the day before? Or, I am still weak or not as strong.. Still, I enjoyed it. :)