As we were such an enthusiastic lot, we arrived well before 9.00am. Once we briefed on our expedition, we started our journey. We gathered at Bidor, just like as we promised before continuing our journey. This is to ensure that none of us got lost. We arrived at our destination at about 11.40am. The journey was certainly not a smooth one. We had to go thru dusty laterite roads, which had countless potholes. At one point we wonder whether we were participating Camel Trophy Adventure. Actually the roads were in bad conditions many lorries used them to transport timbers. Yes!! Felling (deforestation) of trees is being carried out here.

As soon as we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the officer on duty. He briefed us on the accommodation and facilities provided for us. We were greatly relieved that everything is ready for us. By now our tummy were growling aloud asking to be filled up!!!

Our accommodation was very comfortable although the chalets were a little dusty, probably they were not occupied for quite some time. Our first ‘activity’ then was to spring clean them. What surprised us was that although the building was old yet it was well maintained. The chalet had a living room, two bedrooms, a small kitchen and a bathroom. Such comfort!!!

Next, needless to say, our cook got in action. Contrary to the idiom ‘too many cooks spoilt the soup’ our ‘chef’ dishes our delicious Malaysian food. Soon we could smell fragrantly cooked rice, mouth watering chicken curry with spicy prawn ‘sambal’ followed by yummy noodles with shredded eggs. After lunch, our group was broken into two smaller groups. One group which comprises mostly of teachers (including yours truly) decided to explore the ‘water world’ in a stream nearby to study the living organisme whilst the other die hard birder do their stuff ie birding. This they do for the 2 days that we were at the reserve.

Our group began our adventure on water at about 1.15pm. It was then we realized that the view around our chalet was breathtaking. It was surrounded by dense forest with lush green trees. It looks as though we were in a green valley surrounded by tall, green trees. We wondered why we did not notice this picturesque scene earlier. The air here was fresh and clean, unlike the polluted city air. The beauty of the place and the freshness of the air somewhat lulled us to a relaxed mood. 

As we walked on for about 15 minutes, we found sheds that housed hundreds of deer. There was also a seledang farm, a pheasant centre and wow!!, there was even a baby elephant. Unfortunately it has an injured leg. The Sungkai Forestry Department was looking after it until its wound was completely healed. Then it will be release to its natural habitat again. This baby elephant was caught somewhere in Lenggong after it was found to be seriously hurt. When we tried to get closer and caress, the baby elephant appeared to be tame, of course it’s because it is still a baby!!!

Next we began exploring the nearby stream. Due to the hot climate, the river was very shallow and we were able to descant into the stream. We even manage to catch several species and some water organisme such as fishes, insects, dragonflies, shrimps also also frog’s eggs. Although the water was shallow, the water was ooo…..so cool and crystal clear.

For those who did not venture out with us, relaxed and lazed at the resting hut, taking in the breathtaking view that surrounded them; the richness of plants and habitats such as palms, creepers, epiphytes, parasites and saprophytes. Our group further divided into two, one group decided to venture deeper into the woods whilst the other group was into investigating the area surrounding the chalets. The chalets area came complete with a seminar hall, a guesthouse and even a dining hall. The facilities here are suitable as a camping site as well as a recreation spot for families. We gathered again at the chalet at about 7pm. The birding group returned, feeling satisfied with their ‘catch’ for the day. 

However, the hot topic of the evening was the sighting of wild boars roaming freely. It was after 6pm. The wild boars were not afraid of us and appeared not to notice us. They carried on with the task of scavenging for food. However, we were quite disappointed for not sighting any any seledang despite having waited for 2 hours. What an exhausting but satisfying day!! We decided to turn in early. As we were dozing off to slumberland, we were rudely awakened by some whispering and it seems to originate from the kitchen!!! On listening further, we realised it was Lee Yuat’s and Chuity’s. What on earth was going on!? And what a commotion they were making. They had found out that the water supply to our chalet has stopped!! Thus they were working ‘overtime’ carrying pails of water from outside and filling up the tubs in the bathroom. Those two dear souls were making sure we had enough water for consumption and washing up tomorrow morning.

The next day after breakfast, we decided to trek to an orang asli village in Kg. Jernang. Although it was only 7.30 in the morning, the sun was already up and bright, making its presence felt. Due to the heat we become tired easily. It was quite an adventure, as we had to trek for more than 15 km under the blazing sun before we finally reach the village. We made friends with some of the families. After a short stop, we continue trekking until we reach Sekolah Rendah Kg. Jernang. We rested for a while before making our return journey back to camp. This time it was truly exhausting. The heat was unbearable and our legs were too tired from walking. It was certainly a slow and painful walk. Although we were ‘entertained’ by the ‘jungle orchestra’- the sound of insects and animals – and the glittering stream, but the exhaustion simply overpowered us. Fortunately we were ‘saved’ by our fellow participants, the diehard birders. They were beginning to worry at our long absence. It had been almost 5 hours since we left!! It felt like heaven to be seated and driven back by Mah KW on his four wheeler. Thanks Mah. If it hadn’t been for you, most of us would be sprawled on the ground due to exhaustion. You were our saviour!!!

Back at the comfort of our chalets, we rested our tired bodies for almost an hour. Finally, our group got ready to return home to sweet ‘ol Ipoh. The trip to Sungkai Forest Reserve was a very entertaining and enjoyable one. Although we were very tired, we enjoyed every minute of it. It was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of city life. As for me, who is taking part for the very first time in a MNS Perak trip, it was a very exhausting experience….physically I mean. Were you testing me Ms L.Y.W?? I hope not Ha!!Ha!!Ha!!