To Lawas, then Ba'kelalan (17-24July 2024)


17-24July 2024 - Our journey, from KLIA to KKIA to Lawas to Ba'kelalan. The view were truly scenic, a blend of untamed natural beauty and modern advancements. The photos taken did not do justice to what's in front of our eyes. From KKIA to Lawas was a long journey in van (3+ hours) with only 1 pit stop. Kaki cramped. Posterior also numbed :D  The route from KKIA to Lawas was paved roads. However, travelling up to Buduk Nur, Ba'kelalan requires a 4x4 vehicle. The 2nd half of this journey up to the highland takes ±5-hours.

The route up to Buduk Nur consists mostly of unpaved logging roads. In dry conditions, passengers in the back of a Hilux will need to wear masks as they'll end up covered in fine dust. If it rains, some sections of the road can become quite hazardous. During my trip, there was no rain, but a light shower occurred on the way down. This slightly wet the road but thankfully didn't turn it muddy. God is good!

Some of the foods are an experience in itself. The 1st picture below is known as Dabai in Sarawak, Kemayau in Sabah and Brunei. Also known as Sarawak Olives, it's a native of Borneo. Dabai is a seasonal delicacy in Sarawak. To prepare: the easy way: freeze, thaw & eat. Or pour hot water, let it soak to soften then eat. You cannot boil it - it will remain hard and not edible.

The Pork Pate ala Lunbawang style is an acquired taste. It's got a bold gamey, and slightly metallic taste. Great to eat with rice or bread. The pork came from pig raised in free-range environment.

Beras Adan (White Rice) grown in cool climate of Bario highlands. It's slightly sweet and sticky.

Organic³ - these vegs are left to grow naturally, only water and sunlight are required.
Purple Rice (Bali Keladi) - uncooked, it's deep black color but turned purple once cooked. Fragrant aroma, chewy texture and yummy. The sourish brinjal, best known as terung Dayak is 1 of Sarawak's indigenous crops.  
The scenic of the pictures below was the Lawas River, taken from Seri Malaysia Hotel. 

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