KOTOBIAN TADAU TAGAZO DO KAAMATAN

The celebration has began ! I wish all Sabahan especially the Kadazan, Dusun, Muruts and all other ethnic groups, a very happy Harvest festival ! In Kadazan Dusun language .... "Kotobian Tadau Tagazo Do Kaamatan".

THE "NEW TRAIN" OF BORNEO

On the way to Beaufort Wetland 2 days ago, I spotted this new train of Sabah State Railway (formally known as North Borneo Railway) on it's way to Beaufort from Tanjung Aru. All train services were suspended in 2005 when the upgrading work on the railroad began. It is now finally back in operation with "new train" after a long break of about six years.                                                       

The Sabah State Railway is now using two locomotive Diesel Multiple Units (DMU) which have a capacity of 210 passengers each. It is indeed a good news as the public can enjoy this historical route again which started some 100 years ago.

The histroy of the Borneo train began in 1896 when the British started to construct the railroad. The whole route of 193 kms from Kota Kinabalu (formally known as Jesselton) to Melalap via Papar, Beaufort and Tenom was operational in 1905. 

                            

File picture of the "Steam Engine Train" in the early years.

The popular North Borneo Railway tour package from Tanjung Aru station to Papar, featuring a British Vulcan steam locomotive, was also suspended in 2005. I was told that this tour would be back soon in July this year. 

File picture: Onboard the North Borneo Railway coach.

TROPICAL RAINFOREST PARK

The Tropical Rainforest Park is another park where I do walking and some light exercise. This park was establised in early 2003 planted mainly with tropical trees and local flowers, like the hibiscus.Most of the trees planted are still young. The tropical rainforest image can only be materialized may be after 50 years or so.

This park will come alive after 16:00 when all the health freaks and joggers occupy the 800 meters long track. There is a huge struture in the center of the park. I never know what is it but I guess it must some sort of memorial monument. A play ground for the children.Children love this cafeteria as ice cream and soft drinks are available.

Different varities of Hibicus all along the jogging track.

The "flame of forest"

This park is also a good place for bird watching as many of them come to feed on the fruits.

AFTER THE CHERRY BLOSSOMS.....

Sakura was in full bloom at the Iwatsuki park and lasted for about a week or so. The whole landscape changed to totally green !After the Cherry blossoms comes the Azaleas, tulips and many other beautiful flowers

Now it's the best time to admire really spectacular colourful flowers in Japan. Miura san spent some time taking these pictures in the park and his home town recently.

Beautiful "Wisteria"

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY !

Mother's day is celebrated in many countries including Malaysia on this day (08May 2011). WISHING ALL MOTHERS A VERY HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!