HONG KONG VICTORIA PEAK

If Hong Kong is a city of jade during the day, it becomes a luminous pearl with a sea of lights twinkling in the streets after dark. Where is the best place to enjoy the multi-colorful night scene that encompasses Hong Kong and Victoria Harbor? Victoria Peak is a good location to view its night scene. Being 554 meters (about 1,817.6 feet) above sea level, Victoria Peak is the highest point within Hong Kong and occupies the western part of the island.

How to reach Victoria Peak? Tourists can take the Peak Tram, a pleasant ride ascending the mountain. The tram has been in operation for over one hundred years, and to date, no accidents have ever occurred. Your journey aboard the tram will take eight minutes and upon reaching the summit you will see a seven storied building in the shape of a ship. This is the Peak Tower in which there are several attractions namely, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium, and the Peak Explorer Motion Simulator.
If you want to take a photo with your favorite movie or sport stars, then please visit Madame Tussauda Hong Kong. This museum exhibits over 100 waxworks of celebrities from all works of life from the middle ages to the present day, including President Hu Jintao. On the second and the third floors of the Peak Tower is a museum called Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium. From its name, tourists may image how bizarre the more than 450 exhibits collected from all over the world are. On the fourth floor is the Peak Explorer Motion Simulator. It is very welcoming to all visitors and equipped with high-tech projectors, sound system and motion chairs. Sitting on the chair and looking at the images on screen, it appears that you are actually there and witnessing what happens around you. Here you will enjoy an exciting journey.

Viewing Hong Kong at night is a must! The panoramic vista is one of the most beautiful night scenes in the world so a visit to the Lion Pavilion on the peak is a must. Standing upon the pavilion and overlooking the Victoria Harbor and the Kowloon Peninsula, a spectacular night view will unfold in front of your eyes. The Victoria harbour is one of the world's busiest harbors and has a constant ebb and flow of shipping all year round. With row upon row of skyscrapers stand prominently on the Central District which is Hong Kong's financial and economic hub. The most spectacular are the Bank of China Tower and the Central Plaza. The Bank of China Tower, with 72 stories soars skyward and is designed by an American-born Chinese architect Bei Yuming (Ieoh Ming Pei); with the bamboo-shaped outlook of the tower symbolizing that the Bank of China aspires to get better and better. The Central Plaza is a reinforced concrete building with 78 stories.
The whole city is swathed by glittering neon lights along the banks of Victoria Harbor. Another way to experience Hong Kong's night views is from Peak Garden. You can walk among fragrant flowers, butterflies and birds while enjoying the spectacular vista.

No matter when you come to the Victoria Peak, it will always give you a beautiful view of Hong Kong.


Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Garden
Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens is located on the northern hillside of Victoria Peak. It has a gross area of about five to six hectares (12 to 15 acres). Enclosed by Garden Road, Robinson Road, Glenealy and Upper Albert Road, the garden is divided into two parts by Albany Road. Two parts are connected by the Pedestrian Tunnel. The eastern part is the old garden, including the Children's Pleasure Ground, Aviary, Jaguar Cage, the Greenhouse and the Fountain Terrace Garden. And the western part is the new garden, used for feeding mammals and reptiles.
At present, the garden provides about 40 caged areas for animals. There are about 500 birds, 70 mammals and 70 reptiles. There you will see lovely primates, such as Bornean orang-utan, Chinese porcupine, golden lion tamarin and lesser mouse deer. Also you can find various birds, including American flamingo, Bali mynah and Red-crowned crane. The reptiles, such as Burmese python, Greek tortoise, and Chinese alligator, live there as well.
Additionally, there are 1,000 plants there. Most of them grow in tropical and subtropical zones. At the Fountain Terrace Garden, you will always see colorful blooms. In the Greenhouse, more than 150 native and exotic plants can be found, including orchids, ferns, bromeliads, climbing vines, and so on. 

LONDON DUNGEON, UK

At the London Dungeons you will experience gruesome events that span 2000 years of London's history. The whole tour, described as a museum of simulated horror from history, takes an hour and a half where you will see actors recreating events such as the Great fire of London, Sweeney Todd, the Plague and Jack the ripper.

There are several rides like the Boat Ride To Hell which moves around on sliders in the water to make you disorientated. At Sweeney Todd's barber you'll find the chairs move and Labyrinth of the Lost will drive you mad with its maze of mirrors. Worse of all is Extremis the drop ride to doom based on hanging! Watch out as you never know who will jump out of the shadows to scare you.

Small children and those of a nervous disposition will probably find this attraction too scary. There can also be quite a wait to begin the tour.

The London Dungeons are located a short walking distance from London Bridge tube station on the Jubilee Line and the Bank branch of the Northern Line underground lines.

TAJ MAHAL

 The Taj Mahal was built by a Mongul emperor named Sahah Jahan, for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. Sahah Jahan was born in 1592, while his favorite wife Mumtaz Mahal was born in 1593. They married in 1612 and had seven children. In 1628 Shah Jahan became the Mongul Emperor. Only three years later his beloved wife died shortly after childbirth. In 1632 Sahah Jahan began the project of building a mausoleum, or tomb for his wife, the Taj Mahal.

     The Taj Mahal is located on the banks of the Yamuna River. It took twenty-two years to complete with an estimated 20,000 workers. The building is surrounded by four 138 ft. minarets and sits on a 315 ft. square marble platform. Each side has a 110 ft. arch and center dome is around 200 ft. high. The building is built in an Islamic style of architecture.

Centered in the building is a tomb for Mumtaz Mahal. Next to her tomb, is the tomb for Sahah Jahan. The tombs in the building are empty. The bodies of the two are buried in a crypt below the building. The entire plan of the Taj Mahal is symmetrical, with one exception. Symmetrical means that one side of the building could mirror the other side if cut down the middle. The only exception is the tomb of Sahah Jahan which was added later to the building. There is a story which suggest that Sahah Jahan was planning on building a replica of the Taj Mahal for himself on the other side the river, though no evidence or plans of this has ever been found.

     Sahah Jahan was overthrown by his own son and imprisoned in the Red Fort within sight of the Taj Mahal. He was forced to spend the last eight years of his life in prison till his death in 1666.

THE HISTORY OF GENTING HIGHLANDS

The Genting StoryWhen it comes to the Genting story, most Malaysians will recognise it as  synonymous with the rise of its namesake hill resort,Genting Highlands Resort. Many though may not have truly appreciated the mammoth task involved in its construction and the vast resources and reserves mobilised to ensure what has proven today to be an unprecedented success in resort development.

The BeginningOn 31 March 1969, the late YTM Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s first Prime Minister graced the official laying of the foundation stone for the company’s pioneer hotel, the then Highlands Hotel, marking the completion of the access road to Genting Highlands Resort.

The Prime Minister was impressed that the private sector, without the assistance of the Government, could develop a mountain resort for the enjoyment of all Malaysians; a gaming licence was suggested to help accelerate the development of this remote area.

In 1971, the first hotel at Genting Highlands was successfully completed and was then named Highlands Hotel (now renamed Theme Park Hotel).

The Development - Genting Highlands ResortSince the opening of the first hotel in 1971, Genting Highlands Resort continued to grow from strength to strength. The development of the area continued to this present day to enhance Genting Highlands Resort as the premier holiday destination in the region while ensuring that the natural beauty of the rain forest is maintained.

To date, Genting Highlands Resort has five hotels (namely Genting Hotel, Highlands Hotel, Resort Hotel, Theme Park Hotel and First World Hotel) and two apartment blocks (Ria and Kayangan Apartments) at the hilltop and Awana Genting Highlands Golf and Country Resort.

Together with integrated world-standard entertainment facilities encompassing various leisure, indoor and outdoor theme parks and gaming facilities, Genting Highlands Resort has become the "City of Entertainment" and Malaysia's Premier Resort.

In 1997, Genting Highlands Resort further boosted its facility attraction with Genting Skyway cable car system that provides a 3.38 km transport to the hilltop. Genting Skyway is also recognised as the "World's Fastest Mono Cable Car System" with a maximum speed of 21.6 km per hour and the "Longest Cable Car in Malaysia and Southeast Asia". 

The Expansion - Genting GroupGenting Group, founded by Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong and with Tan Sri Lim Kok Thay as its Chairman and Chief Executive, has since expanded and diversified from its initial hotel and resort activities to plantation, power generation and oil and gas exploration and production.

Today, Genting Berhad is a leading multinational corporation in Malaysia that has constantly been acknowledged by various organisations for its exemplary leadership and management. Genting Berhad was acknowledged as the No.1 Leading Company in Malaysia for 10 years, i.e. in 2004 and from 1994 to 2002 by The Asian Wall Street Journal 200 (formerly Far Eastern Economic Review 200). Genting Berhad was also rated No.1 in Malaysia and No.2 in Asia for Overall Best Managed Company for the Decade by Asiamoney.
The Passing of a Great ManSadly, our Founder Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong passed away peacefully on 23 October 2007 and was laid to rest at Gohtong Memorial Park on 29 October 2007. He will be greatly missed by the management and staff of the Genting Group.
 

INTERESTING PLACES IN HONG KONG

Victoria HarbourVictoria Harbour gets the number one spot on my list of top 10 places to see in Hong Kong because of the stunning panoramic views you get of Hong Kong Island (pictured) impressive skyline, especially at night when all the buildings are lighted up.
At night, you can also watch the amazing Symphony of Lights event from the harbour..
Victoria Harbour is also a great place to relax while seeing all kind ships and boats, and the best thing about this attraction is that it won’t cost you a penny!

Victoria Peak (The Peak)
Victoria Peak is located across Victoria Harbour on the Island of Hong Kong and it’s on my list of top 10 places to see in Hong Kong because of the memorable and breathtaking views you'll get of Victoria Harbour, the surrounding islands and central Hong Kong.
Apart from enjoying the fascinating views, The Peak boast a shopping mall - Peak Tower -, restaurants and a beautiful Chinese style garden – Victoria Peak Garden – which is one of the best vantage points on The Peak.
You can access The Peak by bus or taxi, but riding on the funicular is what makes the trip to The Peak memorable, the views you’ll get along the way are priceless!

Hong Kong Museum of History
The Hong Kong Museum of History should be high on your list of thing to do in Hong Kong, even if you’re not a fun of museums.
This museum is simply brilliant and one of the best places to learn and get an insight of Hong Kong’s history.
This place is for everyone, and war buffs will definitely enjoy visiting the Hong Kong Museum because of the sections on the Opium Wars and the British occupation.

Lantau Island
Lantau Island is one of the largest of the Hong Kong Islands and one of the top 10 places to see in Hong Kong because of the many fun attractions such as Hong Kong Disneyland and the Npong Ping cable car.
Apart from fun attractions like Disneyland, Lantau Island also boast many other tourist sights and things to see such as:
-Po Lin Monastery & Tian Tan Buddha – home to many Buddha statues and the giagantic Big Buddha bronze statue measuring over 80 feet high.

-Tai O town – home to 300 year-old stilt houses and fishing boats

-Tung Chung Fort – home to old granite cannons and arched gateways

-Trappist Haven Monastery –famous for producing the Trappist Milk

-Cheun Sha Beach – longest beach in Lantau Island

-Sunset Peak – the second largest peak in Hong Hong Kong

Nathan Road & Temple Street
Nathan Road & Temple Street are located just a short walk from the Hong Kong Museum of History and are two places not to miss in HK, especially if you’re visiting Hong Kong exclusively for the shopping.
Nathan Road boasts hundreds of small shops, markets and shopping malls, as well as lovely eateries where you can try out the famous dimsum and other delicacies.
Temple Street also boasts many shops and eateries but the beauty of this street is that many of these shops are hidden on the back roads.
Temple Street is also the place to come if you want to buy traditional Chinese medicines, and enjoy a bit of night shopping at the famed night markets.

Hong Kong Observatory
The Hong Kong Observatory is adjacent the Hong Kong Museum of History and if you are visiting this museum for the educational aspect, you’ll find that the observatory is just as educational and worthy of a visit.
The observatory offers guided tours but you need to arrange them in advance. The tours last a good two hours during which you will learn about the technology behind weather forecast and how forecasts are made. A really cool place to visit.

2 INTERESTING PLACES IN INDONESIA

Merdeka SquareHistoric Merdeka Square is Jakarta’s most important square and one of the top tourist sights in the city to visit because of other nearby attractions such as Merdeka Palace, Istiqlal Mosque and the National Museum of Indonesia.

In the heart of Merdeka Square, you’ll find the famed National Monument (pictured) surrounded by beautiful sculptured carved works depicting the history of Indonesia.

Inside the base of the National Monument, you’ll find the National History Museum and the Hall of Independence, both great places to learn about Indonesian history.

The square is also the focal point in the city at night when the National Monument is lit up. Within the vicinity, you'll also many landmarks, statues, parks such as West Merdeka Park where you can witness fun events like the fountain water show.

Taman Park
Taman Park, also known as Mini Indonesia Indah, is another of the places to visit in Jakarta Indonesia where everyone can have a fun day out.

Taman Park is one of the largest green areas in the city and a great place to unwind, do some bird-spotting and enjoy a picnic while taking in the lovely scenery.

The park also boasts the popular Indonesia Miniature Park where you can get a nice scaled overview of places in Indonesia such as Sumatra and Borneo. Within the park, you’ll also find many museums, an IMAX theatre and an Aquarium.

MOUNT FUJI AND GINZA, TOKYO

Mount Fuji
Japan’s highest mountain (3776 meters, 12,377’) is unquestionably the country’s most iconic natural landmark. Photographed in all seasons from all angles, its near perfect cone is climbed by one quarter million people yearly, usually during the months of July and August. Its high visibility and traffic is partially owed to its proximity to the Kanto, or the plain surrounding Tokyo. However the best time to view the mountain is in the winter months when visibility is best. Considered one of the three holy mountains in Japan, along with Tateyama and Hakusan, there is understandably a collection of shrines on the crater rim. Since many people climb the mountain hiking trails and facilities are well established and there is a considerable amount of development on the mountain. The meteorological station marks the high point of the mountain and the country. Popular hiking routes to the summit are Gotemba, Fujinomiya, and Kawaguchiko. All of the trails have ten stations each, which are situated strategically to offer refreshments, lodging, and facilities for the hikers and tourists alike. Most hikers start from the 5^th station/s, which are located between 6,000’ – 7,000’ and have access by paved roads. However, Mount Fuji lacks train access. If you are interested in climbing and don’t have a POV the best way to get there is by catching one of the many Fuji-bound buses departing from Shinjuku Station in Tokyo during the months of July and August. Fuji,, a strato-, or composite volcano, last erupted in 1708 and is considered dormant.

Ginza, Tokyo
UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is not, but instead an unofficial shrine to Japan’s industry, technology, and material culture, if there is one. Ginza epitomizes Tokyo, if not Japan. It’s ground zero for neon, shopping, and as close to what Tokyo calls center, or downtown, for such a huge city. Within walking distance are the National Diet, the center of Japan’s government, and the Imperial Palace, a vast complex of buildings, which houses Japan’s Head of State, the Emperor of Japan and his administrative apparatus. Ginza is best experienced at night so you can view the electronic fireworks. There are so many interesting places in Tokyo and this is a logical place to orient yourself if you visit Japan’s largest city and capital.

LABUAN

There are several attractions and places of interest on Labuan. The military cemetery contains various war graves and memorials to the fallen of World War II. This includes British, Australian, Indian, Sarawaki, Bruneian, North Borneo and Empire troops. There is also a memorial celebrating the surrender of the Japanese to the Australian Forces in 1945. There are also remnants of Labuan's history as a Royal Navy Coaling station, including 'the chimney', a well known local landmark.

World war II Memorial

This is the Malaysia's largest war grave. Some 3,908 soldiers mostly Australians, Brithsh and Indian are buried here. A memorial service is held on Remeberance Day every year on a sunday closest to 11th of November. Many war veterans, families of war victims from Australia and other Commonwealth countries attend this service each year.

Peace park
Situated at Layang-layangan. This beautifully landscaped park was built as a memorial and renunciation of the horrors of war. A huge man-made mound is the focal point and there is a plaque signifying the renunciation of war.


Bird Park in Labuan
Located near the Tanjung Kubong Tunnel. This Bird Park exhibits a large variety of tropical birds from around the region such as hornbills, kingfishers, sharmas, mynas, herons and maybe even ostriches and peacocks.

Japanese Surrender Point

Also at Layang-layangan. This is where the 37th Japanese Southern Army surrendered to the 9th Division Australian Imperial Forces on 9th September 1945 which led to the end of WWII in Borneo. It is also in this area that Southeast Asia's first war crime trials were conducted.

Labuan International Sea Sports Complex

 Labuan International Sports Complex is a world class water sports center. It covers an area of 5.91 acres. Its facilities include a sea sports center, souvenir shops, eateries and viewing tower. The Labuan marine museum is also located inside this sea sports complex. The museum showcases a large variesty of marine fishes.

MELAKA

Malacca rose from a humble fishing village to become a major center of the spice trade forming a vital link between the East and the West. Melaka (Malacca) is rich with history. In fact, the earliest written records of the country made reference to the Malacca Peninsula, instead of the Malay Peninsula or Malaya. Since it's founding, circa 1400, by a fleeing Sumatra prince, Parameswara. The journey which Parameswara made during his flight to escape the wrath of the Emperor of Majapahit whom he had unsuccessfully tried to overthrown. At the height of its power, the Sultanate of Malacca extended its borders over the whole of peninsula to encompass Pantani in the North and on the west right into the neighboring island of Sumatra to included Aru, Rokan, Siak, Kampar and Inderagiri. This was during the mid-1400s. The Golden Age of the Malacca Sultanate unfortunately lasted only for less then a century.

In 1511, the first of many foreign invasions of Malacca took place when the Portuguese arrived. The Portuguese were determined to control the East-West trade; so Malacca still retained its importance as a trade center until 1641 when the Portuguese surrendered Malacca to the Dutch. The Dutch who had a stronger foothold over the Indonesia archipelago swung the trade center over to Sumatra. In the meantime, Malacca's trade also declined due to the silting of its port. In 1795 Melaka (Malacca) was given to the British to prevent it form falling to the hands of the French, where the Netherlands was captured during the French Revolution. By the time British took over in 1824, the focus of the trade has shifted from Malacca to Singapore and Penang. Malacca however becomes the focal again during the struggle for independence after the Japanese Occupation during the Second World War and the British Colonial period that followed. So when Malaya gained its independence, it was only fitting that the Declaration of Independence was proclaimed in Malacca, where it all began. In 1989, Malacca has been declared as Malaysia's history city.

LANGKAWI

Langkawi which means Reddish Brown Eagle in the Malay language is nestled on the Thai-Malaysian sea border and is the main island from a cluster of 99 islands during high tide and more than 104 islands in low tide.
Legend has it that Langkawi used to be the habitat of spirits and classical Malay literature Hikayat Merong Maha Wangsa states that Garuda, the mythological giant eagle rested in these islands.
Lying off the northwestern coast of Peninsular Malaysia, about 30 kilometres from Kuala Perlis and 51 kilometres from Kuala Kedah, Pulau Langkawi, as it is popularly known, covers an area of 32,848 hectares. The island is divided into six districts namely Mukim Kuah, Padang Matsirat, Ayer Hangat, Bohor, Ulu Melaka and Kedawang and has a population of approximately 45,000 inhabitants with most of them being the Malays.
Out of the many small islands surrounding Langkawi, only Pulau Tuba - a fishing village, is inhabited.
With a geological history dating back to 500 million odd years, the islands contain bizarre rock formations that stir one's imagination and perplex the mind. Numerous caves like the mystical Gua Cerita, the haunted Gua Langsiar and Gua Kelawar with their stunning stalactites and stalagmites, taunt the adventurous.
Fine beaches fringed with lush tropical vegetation offer sun-filled days of complete relaxation. The crystal clear emerald waters under azure skies provide a host of water sports and recreational activities, and a magical world of marine life. Unspoilt and rustic, it is a tropical paradise spectacularly endowed by nature.
But Langkawi is more than captivating beauty ' it is also a land steeped in legends and shrouded in mysteries. Its past is filled with legendary tales of wronged maidens and lovelorn princes, all of whom have left their mark for posterity.
The best-known legend is that of Mahsuri, a beautiful maiden who lived here some 200 years ago. She was wrongly accused of committing adultery and sentenced to death by those who were envious of her. White blood oozed out as soon as she was stabbed proclaiming her innocence.
With her dying breath, she laid a curse upon the island ' that it should remain barren for seven generations. The Mahsuri's Masoleum is a sombre reminder of the wronged maiden.
As it turned out, in 1821, Langkawi was savagely attacked by the Siamese. Upon knowing the inevitable fate of the island following the battle, Datuk Kerma Jaya, the headman of Kampung Raja, the ancient capital of Langkawi, ordered that Padang Matsirat, the village granary, be burned and all the wells poisoned in order to starve the enemy.
From then on, the island slipped into a slumber. This legend is perhaps the main allure of Langkawi.
Call it superstition or coincidence, the island's slumberous existence ended seven generations later. Modernisation crept-in swiftly and the lethargic landscape of the land was given a careful face-lift.
On 1 January 1987, the Federal Government declared Langkawi a duty-free port and in 1990, the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA) which is housed in the LADA Complex was set up to develop the island as a tourist destination, as well as to improve the socio-economic conditions of the local people. Today, Langkawi has blossomed from a once sleepy hollow inhabited by farmers and fishermen into a prime holiday spot for domestic and international travelers. Its main town, Kuah once a sleepy hollow, is now a thriving and bustling commercial district.
On 13 January 1996, Malaysia saw the launching of MEASAT I into the earth's orbit. Langkawi was chosen to house the MEASAT Satellite Control Centre to monitor and control all MEASAT satellites in-orbit operation. The erection of the centre at Gunung Raya, the highest peak of the island, brought Langkawi's name up further in the world map.
More and more tourists from all over the world are beginning to stream into the island for various reasons ' the idyllic pristine beaches such as the Pantai Cenang, Pantai Kok and Pantai Datai as well as the many small islands namely the Pulau Dayang Bunting, Pulau Payar and Pulau Singa Besar surrounding Langkawi.
Another reason behind the arrival of many visitors are the numerous international events held on the island. Some of the international events include the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Show (LIMA), Tour de Langkawi, Langkawi International Motor Show and Langkawi International Dialogue. The venue for most of these events is the The Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre, which covers a land area of 7500 sq feet.
To cater for the growing number of travelers flying into the island, Langkawi International Airport, located at PadangMat Sirat, has expanded three times within the last decade and undergone major renovations costing RM90 million.
Luxurious international class hotels and resorts spring up like mushrooms all over the island. Langkawi has suddenly gained worldwide attention as a prime tourist spot, the nation's aerospace centre and as a host of top-notch events.

THE ADVENTAGES OF TOURISM

Being the world’s biggest industry in the twentieth century, tourism has both advantages and disadvantages.
Let us commence on the advantages.
Firstly, many countries depend heavily upon foreigners traveling as a source of income.
With more tourists, more people are needed to build the accommodation, work in the tourist industry, sell farm produce to the hotels, and build new roads, car-parks, hotels, cable railways and restaurants, plus other infrastructure, which all provide employment both during construction, and in their subsequent operation.
This leads to the increasing of average standard of living and decreasing of unemployment.
Also tourism helps in slowdown of rural depopulation.
As we analyze advantages and disadvantages of tourism let’s say few words about problems concerning traveling.
First, it’s environmental damage: pollution, forest fires, destruction of sand dunes.
Another aspect is cultural, as sometimes foreigners act with no respect to national traditions (for example, the behavior of European women in Eastern countries).
The advantages and disadvantages of tourism can be in balance if we all become more attentive to each other and the world around us. The main social thing in travel industry is mutual respect.

KOTA KINABALU

It only takes a visitor one look at present-day Kota Kinabalu, or KK for short, to surmise that this is a fairly new city. The only colonial remnants of an almost century-long British control are the old post office building and the Atkinson Clock Tower in the older part of the capital. With many of its office buildings and commercial edifices sporting today's façades'some still with that fresh-paint look?and with constructions going on at almost every major intersection, one could even be forgiven to think KK was built just yesterday.
Indeed, KK received its city status only recently on 2 February 2000, but its history dates more than a century back to the days when the British North Borneo Chartered Company discovered it by accident, after a fire burnt down its former administration centre on Gaya Island. KK was then a small fishing village, sited on a narrow strip of land with hills on one side and sea on the other. It was named Api-Api, loosely translated as 'Fire-Fire?, to denote the blaze that destroyed the former administration centre. It was later renamed Jesselton, after Sir Charles Jessel, then Deputy Manager of the British North Borneo Company.
Under the Chartered Company's control, Jesselton became a trading hub for local produce such as rubber, rattan, wild honey and wax. A railway line was built to transport goods from the deep interiors to the harbour. (The railway has undergone refurbishment and now runs heritage trips inland). While the Chartered Company did bring about tremendous change to the land and its people by quelling piracy, planting tobacco, developing rubber estates and importing Indonesian and Chinese labourers to work. There were some local tribes who were displeased with them and staged a few upheavals.
It was, however, during the Japanese Occupation of the Second World War that Jesselton encountered its worse attack. Only three buildings were left standing from the Allied bombings, which forced the Japanese to surrender. Unable to finance the enormous cost of reconstruction, the Chartered Company bowed out and North Borneo was handed over to the British Crown and made a colony.
Jesselton became the capital in 1946. Then in 1963, when North Borneo joined the Federation of Malaysia and became known as Sabah, the colonial name Jesselton gave way to Kota Kinabalu. Jesselton now is but a name of an established hotel.
Since then, KK has grown into a reputable financial, economic and tourism centre in the region. It has certainly moved on with the times, with numerous deluxe hotels, roads stretching to the west and east coast towns, and modern structures like the imposing Sabah Foundation Building standing as symbols of advancement.
Yet, despite all the progress and power changing hands from the British to the Japanese, to the British, and back to the people of the land, the rich cultural diversity and stronghold to traditions and customs remain intact.
Nowhere is this diversity more visible than in cosmopolitan KK, where the natives, comprising the Malays, Chinese and some 32 ethnic groups, have assimilated well with the immigrants who flock the state in pursuit of better opportunities. This multi-cultural trait is well represented in the wide variety of cuisines available in and around town. To catch a glimpse of the traditional dance and costume of each ethnic group, come in May for the Sabah Fest and Kaamatan. For a quick run through the city's history, visit the State Museum, or simply explore KK on foot, make day trips inland and see for yourself the land's alluring culture and natural treasures, much of which remains unscathed by rapid development.

SANDAKAN

The Sandakan Memorial Park commemorates a tragedy and an atrocity. The tragedy was the death, between January and August 1945, within sight of Allied victory in the Pacific War, of approximately 2,400 Australian and British Prisoners of War held by the Japanese in the Sandakan POW camp, North Borneo. The atrocity was the manner of the death inflicted upon them by their captors - starvation, overwork, beatings and punishments and the forcing of over 1 000 sick and weak POWs on three marches under brutal physical conditions.
In 1942 and 1943 the Japanese brought to Sandakan about 2,700 Australian and British POWs, the great majority of whom had been captured at the surrender at Singapore in February 1942. They were used as a labour force to build a military airstrip. In late 1944, as the Allies advanced in the Pacific, the airstrip was bombed and destroyed. Early in 1945 the Japanese decided to move the POWs 260 km west into the mountains to the small settlement of Ranau. On three forced marches between January and June approximately 500 prisoners died. The remainder died at the Ranau and Sandakan camps.
Of all those who had been alive in January 1945, by the end of August only six - all Australians - survived. Two of the six escaped into the jungle during the second march in June 1945. Assisted by local people, they were eventually picked up by Allied units. Another four escaped from Ranau in July and again, with the help of local people, were fed and hidden from the Japanese until the end of the war.
Today the POW dead, whose bodies were recovered, are buried in the CWGC's Labuan War Cemetery. Those who could not be identified or who have no known grave, are commemorated on Memorials to the Missing at Labuan and Singapore.

SEMPORNA

Semporna is a town located in the east coast of Sabah, Malaysia on the island of Borneo. Its population was estimated to be around 133,000.
The name Semporna means place of rest and was given after the British quelled resistance from the local Bajaus in the mid-1880s, changing it from Tong Talun. Another story is that Semporna was called place to settle or meeting place.
The majority of the population is Bajau, many of whom live in sprawling stilt villages over the water on the outskirts of town and is visited by tourists as a base for scuba diving or snorkeling trips to some of the country’s finest diving sites including the world knowned Sipadan Island and Mabul Island.
Marine products are still the mainstay of the local economy. Pearl culturing is a major component of this industry.
Semporna is also known for the Regatta Lepa traditional boat races which occur annually in April. Their unique Lepa Boat resembles the modern day’s catamaran vessels, with two adjoining legs for added stability when roughing the wild Celebes Sea.
Semporna was also the location of the finish line of Eco-Challenge: Borneo, held in 2000. Off the coast is a marine park called Tun Sakaran Marine Park also known as Semporna Islands Park. It was gazetted by Sabah Parks in 2004.

SINGAPORE AIRLINES

Singapore Airlines (SIA) is the one of the most profitable airlines in the world. SIA hold the mission “Singapore Airlines is a global dedicated to providing air transportation service of the highest quality and to maximizing returns for the benefits of its shareholder and employees”. Senior executive marketing is workers which very important for increases the profit of business and must always moving forward. Marketing is a creating customer value, build strong customer relationship and in order to capture value in return.

            Through my recommendation, the senior executive marketing not only use the way of low the tickets price, use the modern technology and others, but, we must look from the corner of passengers safety. The passenger is very valuable for make profits. In this case, the senior executives marketing must think tricks for make the passengers always feel safety. So, the senior executive marketing must promote the advantages with tell the passengers that the pilots have complete qualifications. Not only that, the good and modern planes also their can use to attract more passengers.

            Besides, many passengers easy to feel bored with the promotion from any airplanes. Basically, in holiday school many airplanes decreases their price to attract more passengers. So, the senior executives marketing must make one difference promotion from others. For example, they can use the ‘family tickets’ in school holiday for the airplanes in promotion. The ‘family tickets’ means in one ticket have 3 limit of passenger but in one affordable price. The passengers will think SIA have difference idea and merit from others airplane.

            Furthermore, SIA also have competitor which low cost price such AirAsia. Senior executives marketing must concerned about this. So, they can make new trip airlines for low cost price in short distance. Its can make the competitors of SIA will unable to fighting.

            Not only that’s, now we can see the Air China more spread their wings and upgrade their business. SIA must take serious this case and quickly develop their airplanes to Air China. The senior executives marketing must think how it can influence the Air China. In addition, SIA must enter the Air China before Air China get the Cathay Pacific.

The last my recommend, SIA must make spirit word to sure the workers always have efforts and the passengers more confidence with SIA. For example, ‘SIA everything can be felt’. SIA must more add the service and facilities to everlasting as one of the largest airlines and profitable.

15 YEARS AGO.........

“Fifteen years ago, companies competed on price. Today, it’s quality. Tomorrow, it’s design”.

15 years ago the companies compete on price. For me, the price is something that we can determine the money of ringgit. Although, life in the past was not too stable, but the company continues to compete in price for profit and success in the business world. According to my view, in the last 15 years, many companies are still difficult in terms of money. Given the difficulty many companies are still in, so they prefer the price. For example, in the 15 years ago, Ah Chong was farmers that have a field of sugar cane and always receive orders from many companies to process sugar. Ah Chong wants to improve its earnings are determined to open a sugar processing plant itself. When Ah Chong had opened the sugar processing plant, he found many to be the face all rivals. Ah Chong thinks for further expansion of its sugar processing plant to a higher level. So for the success of Ah Chong business, he had to compete with other companies, particularly in terms of price. Competition in prices also impacted the national economy. At one time, the state of our economy has become worse. 
Today the companies compete on quality. For me, the qualities of articles refer to the quantity and value. Today, the company prefers the quality of a product than other aspects. Companies rushing to satisfy consumer demand at present is inclined to the quality of a product. If a high-quality products, so many customers demand the product. For example, shampoo L’oreal paris. It’s is a high-quality products. Have many advantages in the repair of hair. Among them, branched hair, dull hair, and others. The materials used to produce this shampoo is very high-quality materials. Despite its high price, but the quality of goods is preferred. Another example, are women cosmetics. Women in this year prefer beauty. No matter the beauty based on the cosmetics, spa, or traditional material it has a high quality and can make them look good.

Tomorrow the companies compete on the design. For me, design is a kind of art does not necessarily look good. The design is also related to the applied arts, engineering and architecture. If we look, the business world increasingly finds its way to a more modern and always moving forward. Customers also certainly be wiser in evaluating a product. States compete in the design to make their companies more to get attention no matter within or outside the state. If tomorrow’s need and want of our customers is based on the design of a product, of course, many companies will try to produce an attractive design. For example, Mahmod companies produces shoes that women rapidly lost ground the times and send them to market. Shine was not getting the response from customers for designs that rapidly lost ground the times. Mahmod companies will suffer losses. Thus, Mahmod companies must more creative and think about demand of consumers.

If Robert Hayes says "fifteen years ago, companies competed on price, today its quality and tomorrow its design”, for me it is a needs, wants and demand from customers. Maybe in the future, companies will compete in comfort. Therefore, companies should be more stressed and find the changing needs, wants and demand of customers.

KAKADU NATIONAL PARK

Kakadu National park in Australia has been listed as one of the world heritage. Kakadu has beautiful scenery and its will make our tourist wonderstruck. Before we know about the positive impact and negative impact natural, I want to tell a little bit about natural in Kakadu National park.

For cultural, Kakadu National park have more than 2,000 plant species are recorded. Kakadu considered as a garden which many species of weed. Besides, in Kakadu National park, have the beautiful waterfall. The waterfall that very cold water and can cause the comfortable environment in our body called as Jim jim falls. Not only that, in this place also have 6 seasons. The first season from December to March is the ‘true’ wet season. The second season in April is the season when the rain clouds have dispersed and clear skies prevail. The season from May to mid-June is the third season and is relatively cool with low humidity. After that, the cold weather from mid-June to mid-August. It’s have low humidity. The next season from mid-August to mid-June is hot and dry. The last season, from mid-October to late December is the pre-monsoon season of hot weather that becomes more and more humid.

The dry season and wet season give advantages and disadvantages. From advantages of dry season, if we plan for camp, it’s will launch the camping and we will see many species of crocodiles because the crocodile more like to sunbathing. However, the dry season will give effect to waterfall because the waterfall becomes dry because it’s the long dry season. For the wet season, we will see more wildlife will roaring and all the plant become fresh. But, it’s will causes some roads might be flooded and closed. Besides, the dangerous insects will causes we will not able to camping and feel the beautiful scenery of Kakadu National park. As a tourism student, if I go to this place, I will get study about the species flora and fauna. I also get more a new knowledge and experience. The 6 season in this area also can give me special exploring of the tourism world.

SAGO FESTIVAL (PESTA RUMBIA)

The Sago festival (Pesta Rumbia) is very famous in Kuala Penyu. It was celebrated in 09 to 10 July 2011. Kuala Penyu located in rural part of Sabah. Kuala penyu has been declared as a full region in 1975. Kuala penyu have the own history. The name of Kuala Penyu are taken in conjunction with a large of patch rocks located in the area of river bank, which is similar to the rocks as a form of ‘Turtle’. In the early 60s, Kuala Penyu by the call name ‘si tompok’ for the people of this area as referring to the patch of rocks found there. However, today the stones are doesn’t see because of the erosion of sea water. Kuala Penyu becomes the attraction of tourist because the Pulau Tiga that takes only 30 minutes by boat. The Sago Festival is one that has been incorporated into the featival calendar Sabah Tourism Board.

Sago was the staple food for the people of Malaysia, for rate and certain ethnic groups in some local and states. Even during the Japanese era or after World War II, when the rice had been carried colonists, sago was the daily food. Sago or sago palm trees usually grow in swampy areas or river banks. Sago plants are widely available in the Kuala Penyu, Sabah. Indeed, the Sago festival held in Kuala Penyu to demonstrated the consolation of products including food from sago palms. In the process of sago, the stem is cut and the contents of the stem machined or grated to obtain the result. The contents of the sago is fine will be soaked in water, so the starch will settle and float. For the people who make the sago as staple food for it is eaten with steamed fish, preserved fish, forest fruits such as petai. Sago is the name of a palm tree, which is planted around Kuala Penyu, Beaufort, and Sipitang area. People also call Sago “The tree of a thousand uses” coz you can use different part of the tree for making various items, for example, the leave as roof, branch as building material, trunk as food for human and livestock. Therefore, every year Kuala Penyu organises a Sago Festival (Pesta Rumbia) at Sawangan Beach.

The government is committed to intensity and develop the tourism sector as a catalyst for economic development in Sabah in particular and Malaysia in general. Therefore, Sabah Tourism Board was held in conjunction with the Rumbia Package Festival Fiesta Fruit and Food 2011 in Kuala Penyu Beach Sawangan. In addition, with this package Rumbia Festival, tour operators in the state are encouraged to bring as many tourists from abroad and also in the state to come experience the uniqueness of this festival. Some of the products on display, such as production of handicrafts, food and agricultural products in accordance with the direction of the Sabah government, which focused on three main sectors namely, tourism, agriculture and manufacturing. The Sago festival was celebrated with many activities that can make our people will remember. It also have the own best attraction.

VAISAKHI DAY

Vaisakhi day also known as Baisakhi or Vasakhi is an ancient harvest festival in Punjab province, which also marked the beginning of the new sun year, and new harvest season. The vaisakhi day will celebrate on 14 April 2011.

It is the important festival to Sikhs. The history was start in March 30^th, 1699. The history start when Guru Gobind Singh that the Tenth Guru of the Sikhs founded the Akal Khalsa (Community of the Pure) at a ceremony established at Keshgarh Sahib near Anandpur. The Akal Khalsa played a significant role in resistance against Mughal rule.

To instill the courage of fellow humans, Guru Gobind Singh made ​​a strong oration, and showed them his divine mission to restore and maintain the Sikh Sikhism. At the end of his speech, teacher flashed a sword unsheathed, and said that every major act that starts with the same great sacrifices and demands a head for specific performances. To call the teacher, Daya Ram, a Khatri Lahore offers himself. Teachers bring in the tent. A few moments later he comes back with his sword dripping blood, and asked for another head. One by one four more serious fans namely Daram Das a Jat Delhi, Chand Mokham a cleaning of Dwarka (Gujarat), Himmat a cooking Jagannath (Orissa) and Sahib Chand a barber from bidar (Karnataka) who offered their heads. Every time the Guru took a person in the tent, he came out with a bloodied sword in his hand.

Amazed with attitude their teachers and believed that he was raging, people began to disperse. After that, Guru Gobind Singh appears with five men dressed in white works. He was baptized the five in a new and unique ceremony called ‘Khande in Pahul’ (edged sword Armit), today it’s called Sikh Amrit. After this, the Guru asked five baptized Sikhs to baptize him as well. They later title as Singhs, as the five people whom he loves, the first member of the new community, which will be called the Khalsa, meaning ‘pure’. Guru Gobind Singh state that the Panj Pyare or Five Beloved Ones will be the embodiment of the Guru himself, “Where there are Panj Pyare, there I am. When the Five meet, they are holy saints.” This “holy warriors” were to dedicate their lives to serving others and the pursuit of justice for people of all religions. Teachers also said that whenever and wherever five was baptized or Amritdhari Sikhs come together, the teacher will appear. All those who receive Amrit from five was baptized Sikhs will be infused with spirit of courage and strength to sacrifice. So with these principles, Guru Gobind Singh established the Khalsa Panth, Order Pure Ones.

Teachers also gave his new khalsa a unique identity, be debated, and different. Teachers give the gift of Bana, a special Sikh clothing and headwear. He also offered five symbols of purity and courage. These symbols, worn by all was baptized Sikhs of both sexes, which is known today as Five KS :

•           Kesh, unshorn hair

•           Kangha, the wooden comb

•           Karra, the iron (or steel) bracelet

•           Kirpan, the sword

•           Kachera, the underwear

This act of total surrender of one's life to the service of the AKAL (God), the Timeless One, and at the feet of Guru Gobind Singh created the Sikh religion. For many centuries after that, the first male child of all families of Hindus in Punjab was ordained as a Sikh.

TOURISM DEFINITION

Tourism is travel for predominantly recreational or leisure purposes or the provision of services to support this leisure travel. The World Tourism Organization defines tourists as people who "travel to and stay in places outside their usual environment for not more than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes not related to the exercise of an activity remunerated from within the place visited". Tourism has become a popular global leisure activity. In 2004, there were over 763 million international tourist arrivals. Tourism is vital for many countries, due to the income generated by the consumption of goods and services by tourists, the taxes levied on businesses in the tourism industry, and the opportunity for employment in the service industries associated with tourism. These service industries include transportation services such as cruise ships and taxis, accommodation such as hotels, restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, and other hospitality industry services such as spas and resorts.

IBN BATUTA AND MARCO POLO

THE HISTORY OF TOURISM (LEADER)

Marco Polo left his home in Venice in 1254 when he was seventeen years old to accompany his father and uncle on a journey to the Far East.[2] In the over twenty years that elapsed from the time of his departure to the time he returned home, Marco Polo traveled extensively throughout the Middle Kingdom, South East Asia, and the House of Islam. His travels did not take him to Africa, however, or very far into India.[3] Nevertheless, he probably traveled more during his life than any other European of his day.

Ibn Battuta, however, was a little different from Marco Polo. Ibn Battuta was born a Muslim in Morocco in 1304. When he was twenty-one, he set out by himself on a journey of the entire Islamic World. [4]Although his travels eventually took him to China, he never traveled much in Europe.[5] In all, he traveled over 75,000 miles during his journey and reported meeting over 2,000 people including sixty rulers.[6] Thus, Ibn Battuta was probably the most widely traveled person of his day and certainly traveled much further than did Marco Polo.

DEFINITION OF S.W.O.T ANALYSIS

SWOT analysis is a strategic planning method used to evaluate the Strengths, Weaknesses, opportunities and Threats involved in a project or business.

~ Strengths refer to characteristic of the business or team that an advantage over others in the industry.

~ Weaknesses refer to characteristic that place the firm at a disadvantages relative to others.

~ Opportunities refer to external chances to make greater sales or profits in the environment.

~ Threats refer to external elements in the environment that could cause trouble for the business.

HARVEST FESTIVAL

Harvest Festival will celebrat in 30-31 May. Harvest festival or any other name is (Tadau Kaamatan) or in the Kadazan language was “Mangavau”. It is a special celebration ceremony in honor of “Bambazon” the spirit of rice. Celebration “Mangavau” is usually held after the rice harvest. Among the interesting celebration that held the dance Sumazau. This dance is danced by the peasants made up of men and women to wear traditional dress. This dance is in tandem with the gongs. This dance was danced with both hands raised to shoulder level, and flown like a bird wing.

In addition, from dance performances Sumazau, also held a singing contest called Sugandoi, bodybuilding show, ‘Unduk Ngadau’, and type of arts and crafts show. Competition like hitting the gong and sports people also become one of the major events in the festival.Among the popular dishes during the festival were drinking fermented or “kinomol”, a type of traditional liquor. Lounge is their traditional drink made from either rice or tapioca. The rice is fermented in a “Tajau” for a week or tapioca fermented for two to three weeks. Usually mixed fermented with yeast to accelerate up the process of “feel” to the fermented. They used a small stick called “Sumbiling” to draw water from fermented in large jars. Sumbiling usually used for drinking water which is made from fermented tapioca. In addition, they also use a special glass called “Singgarung” is made from bamboo.

According to the story orally, Kinoingan (God) and his wife Suminundu had a daughter named Huminodun. Kinoingan was killing him daughter to save our people from not enough food. Huminodun killed and his body was buried according to tradition more. Supposedly, the bodies Huminodun have been producing all kinds of seed plants are the main food for us now. One such plant is the seed of rice. As part of the body that produce seeds Huminodun, it come the belief that rice has a spirit named “Bambazon”.

Starting from this event Kadazan Harvest Festival started ceremony (Harvest Festival) as celebrated today. Festivals such provision will be hoping for better future and good. Ceremony tribute to spirit of the rice paddy that the harvest is complete and has been safety placed in Ketawai (Tangkob) of the former place to store rice.

Sumazau dance

It is a traditional dance, the people of Sabah which was famous in Sabah and in Malaysia. It is a traditional ethnic dance is often performed in Kadazandusun Tadau Kaamatan that means Harvest Day celebrated in the state of each month. Dance Sumazau this seems to indicate that farmers are driving the birds from eating their rice crops. Each dancer is the implementation this dance should be moved only a few centimeters from the other without touching the dancers. Fulfill various functions of ritual dance as the dancer’s dance Sumazau say gratitude for activities related to painting and harvesting rice, and also to reject army, spirit worship and treat illnesses.

Sumazua dancers of both men and women usually wore black and decorated with attractive patterns using gold thread. The women decorated with scarves and belts (Tangkong) that made of coin silver (trade dollars). The men will usually wear ‘tajak’.

REMEMBERING DOUBLE SIX

Remembering double six is one tragedy that plane crash in Sabah and give bad tragedy. This was occurs in 6.6.1976 and involving six (6) leaders in Sabah. The plane, operated by Sabah Air, coming from Labuan crashed in the district of Sembulan in Kota Kinabalu upon approaching Kota Kinabalu International Airport. On the plane were eleven passengers, including the Chief Minister and three of his friends Cabinet.

Many of the stories related with these events. One of the stories, the plane ran out of petrol and had sharply into the swamp in Sembulan.This event is touched on the political matters. The history of this events also relate with there are certain parties that have their own agenda to remove the Tun Mohd Fuad Stephens in order to get the oil importance and resources of Sabah, including that lot of logs.

Just like an airplane landing at Kota Kianabalu Airport (old) in Tanjung Aru evening, somehow fell into the sea near the coast in Sembulan and lost near the stage-house by a meter. All eleven passengers were killed. Chief Minister, Tun Mohd Fuad Stephens (also known as Dato’ Donald Stephens) has led his party to win in political of Sabah general selection just a few weeks ago in April, defeating the party led by Commitments USNO. Tun Mohd Fuad Stephens that a half-Australian and half-Kadazan, first became Chief Minister on 31 August 1963, the day North Borneo into Sabah, after getting autonomy from England. His resigned as a Chief Minister on 1 January 1965, opened the way for Dato’ Peter Lo, that first Chinese to become Chief Ministry of Sabah.

 In this incident, have 0ne black box which still cannot be found. The black box was the only one who can expose this incident. Until now the remembering double six still give question mark to our people.

 The list of persons that killed in the tragedy :

·         Tun Mohd Fuad Stephens (Chief Ministry of Sabah)

·         Datuk Peter Mojuntin (state minister of local government)

·         Datuk Chong Tahin Vun (minister of communication and public works)

·         Datuk Salleh Sulong (state finance minister)

·         Darius Binion (assistant minister)

·         Wahid Andu (permanent secretary of finance minister)

·         Syed Hussein Wafa (director of national economic planning unit)

·         Ishak Atan (private secretary)

·         Kopral mohd Said (bodyguard)

·         Gandhi J Nathan (pilot)

·         Johari (son to the Tun Mohd Fuad Stephens)