Latest news with #Rafflesia
Free Malaysia Today
27-05-2025
- Health
- Free Malaysia Today
Rafflesia and Orang Asli: beliefs, conservation, heritage
The Rafflesia holds deep cultural meaning for local Orang Asli communities, especially the Temiar and Jahai tribes, who believe the flower possesses a spirit and serves as an indicator of the forest ecosystem's health. (Bernama pic) KOTA BHARU : Known as the 'corpse flower' owing to its foul smell that resembles rotting flesh, the Rafflesia is found only in Southeast Asia. This unique plant has no leaves, stems, or roots of its own – instead, it lives as a parasitic organism, attaching itself to the roots of other plants to extract nutrients from its host. As of October 2020, there are over 40 species of Rafflesia, all of which are found in peninsular Malaysia, Borneo (including Sabah and Sarawak), and the Philippines. In the peninsula, nine species have been identified: of them, three are found in Kelantan. Beyond scientific characteristics, the Rafflesia holds deep cultural meaning for local Orang Asli communities, especially the Temiar and Jahai tribes, who believe the flower possesses a spirit and serves as an indicator of the forest ecosystem's health. 'Before entering a Rafflesia habitat, some Orang Asli groups perform rituals or seek permission from forest spirits to ensure the harmony of nature is not disturbed,' explained Rusli Angah, a tour guide from the Temiar tribe. The flower is also seen as a sign of environmental change. According to Orang Asli beliefs, a sudden abundance of blooming Rafflesia may signal prolonged rainy seasons or significant ecological shifts. From the perspective of traditional medicine, the Rafflesia plays an important role in the health practices of the Orang Asli community. Certain parts of the flower, including its roots, are believed to have medicinal properties, particularly in treating women after childbirth. According to Rusli, 43, a decoction made from the flower is used to help accelerate uterine contraction and restore a mother's energy. He added that the use of the flower in traditional medicine extends to treating fevers and boosting the immune system. 'Although there is no scientific research confirming its effectiveness, long-standing beliefs and generational experience have made Rafflesia a part of the Orang Asli's traditional healing practices,' he said. Zulhazman Hamzah, a researcher from Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, says the primary threat to Rafflesia in peninsular Malaysia is the lack of clear tourism guidelines in its natural habitats. (Bernama pic) Still, the community's use of Rafflesia is very controlled and guided by the belief that overexploitation could bring harm. They believe that harvesting the flower without good reason or in excessive amounts can upset the natural balance and bring misfortune to their community. Orang Asli and conservation Beyond their role as traditional users, the Orang Asli also play a key part in conserving the Rafflesia's natural habitat. As the original inhabitants of the forest, they are the first line of defence in detecting threats to the flower, such as illegal logging, land encroachment, and unregulated tourism. Rusli said the Orang Asli play a vital role as natural ecological monitors, significantly supporting efforts by the authorities and researchers to protect the Rafflesia from extinction. They often provide early information about new budding sites and potential threats to the flower's natural environment. The Rafflesia bud takes six to nine months to grow before it matures and blooms, lasting approximately five to seven days before dying and decaying. In the context of ecotourism, the Orang Asli serve as guides and caretakers of conservation sites, offering them both a livelihood and a role in environmental preservation. However, Rusli noted that various challenges currently threaten the survival of Rafflesia, including poorly managed tourism activities. 'Stepping near budding sites or picking the flower before it blooms can seriously disrupt its reproductive process,' he said, adding that without concrete measures, Rafflesia may face extinction in Malaysia – which would also mean the Orang Asli risk losing a part of their cultural heritage. 'Therefore, conservation efforts must be a shared responsibility to ensure the survival of this unique flora and the preservation of our cultural heritage.' Tourism threats Meanwhile, Zulhazman Hamzah, dean of the Faculty of Earth Sciences at Universiti Malaysia Kelantan, said the primary threat to Rafflesia in peninsular Malaysia is not land use itself, but the lack of clear tourism guidelines in its natural habitats. 'For example, in ecotourism areas like Lojing in Kelantan, tourists often do not receive proper briefings on Rafflesia survival and conservation – specifically, what they should or should not do during their visit. 'As a result, visitors frequently touch or get too close to the blooming flowers, disrupting the pollination process carried out by forest flies,' he said. He added that close human presence can compact and damage the soil, potentially harming the underground host plant that supports the Rafflesia. Tourists also often step on newly emerging buds by accident. In efforts to preserve the Rafflesia's natural habitats, the Kelantan government has gazetted several areas as protected zones. (Bernama pic) 'Another threat comes from land clearing for large-scale agriculture and infrastructure development. Forest clearing for logging, agriculture and infrastructure doesn't directly target Rafflesia habitats, but the resulting landscape changes and soil erosion can disrupt the ecosystem, hinder growth, and threaten the species' survival,' he told Bernama. According to Zulhaznan, Rafflesia flowers in Kelantan can be found in several locations. In addition to Lojing, it has been spotted in Gunung Setong, Kuala Betus, and Taman Negara Kuala Koh. He noted that efforts have been made to ensure the species' survival, including tissue culture and root transplantation techniques. However, most have yet to yield significant success. 'Root transplants have seen some success in Sabah and Bogor, Indonesia, but challenges remain. If Rafflesia were to be widely propagated, its unique value might be diminished.' 'In efforts to preserve the Rafflesia's natural habitats, the state government has gazetted several areas as protected zones,' he added. He said this initiative would not only protect the species but also provide economic benefits to local communities, including the Orang Asli, who can generate income through tourism activities.
The Star
23-05-2025
- The Star
Mega, malodorous jewel of our jungles
THE morning sun casts a soft glow through the dense greenery of Kelantan's Lojing rainforest, as hikers make their way up the mountain range. Accompanied by Rusli Angah, 43, a Temiar Orang Asli guide, the group treks towards their destination – the Rafflesia Conservation Area located about 350m above sea level. Their quest: To find a blooming Rafflesia. Having lived near the Lojing rainforest for over 20 years, Rusli leads the group with confidence. After nearly two hours of hiking, he points to a breathtaking sight on the forest floor – surrounded by a blanket of dry leaves, a single Rafflesia bloom with five brick-red petals speckled in white stands proudly, facing the sky. The parasitic flower is sensitive to human intervention as well as changes to its environment. Called the 'corpse flower' due to its foul smell resembling rotting flesh, it has no leaves, stems or roots of its own. Instead, it lives as a parasitic organism, attaching itself to the roots of other plants to extract nutrients from its host. As of October 2020, the Plants of the World Online website has listed over 40 species of Rafflesia, all of which are found in Peninsular Malaysia, Borneo (including Sabah and Sarawak) and the Philippines. In the peninsular, nine species have been identified, with three – Rafflesia kerri, Rafflesia cantleyi and Rafflesia su-meiae – found in the state of Kelantan. Tribal significance Beyond its scientific characteristics, the Rafflesia holds deep cultural meaning for local Orang Asli communities, especially the Temiar and Jahai tribes. The Rafflesia blooms for five to seven days before dying and decaying. They believe the flower possesses a spirit and serves as an indicator of the forest ecosystem's health. 'Before entering a Rafflesia habitat, some Orang Asli groups perform rituals or seek permission from the forest spirits to ensure the harmony of nature is not disturbed,' said Rusli. Additionally, the Rafflesia is seen as a sign of environmental change. Rusli said the Orang Asli believed a sudden abundance of blooming Rafflesia might signal prolonged rainy seasons or significant ecological shifts. Certain parts of the flower, including its roots, are believed to have medicinal properties, particularly in treating women after childbirth. According to Rusli, a decoction made from the flower is used to help accelerate uterine contraction and restore a mother's energy. He said the use of the flower in traditional medicine also extended to treating fevers and boosting the immune system. However, he said the community's use of Rafflesia was tightly controlled and guided by the belief that overexploitation could bring harm. They believe that harvesting the flower without good reason or in excessive amounts can upset the natural balance and bring misfortune. Buds take six to nine months to grow before they mature and bloom. Keys to conservation The Orang Asli also play a key part in conserving the Rafflesia's natural habitat. As the original inhabitants of the forest, they are the first line of defence in detecting threats to the flower, such as illegal logging, land encroachment, and unregulated tourism. Rusli said the Orang Asli were natural ecological monitors, significantly supporting efforts by authorities and researchers to protect the Rafflesia from extinction. He said they often provided early information about new budding sites. The Rafflesia bud takes about six to nine months to grow before it matures and blooms, lasting approximately five to seven days before dying and decaying. Rusli said various challenges currently threaten the survival of Rafflesia, including poorly managed tourism activities. 'Stepping near budding sites or picking the flower before it blooms can seriously disrupt its reproductive process,' he said. He added that without concrete measures, Rafflesia could face extinction in Malaysia – which would also mean that the Orang Asli risk losing a part of their cultural heritage. Universiti Malaysia Kelantan (UMK) Faculty of Earth associate dean Prof Dr Zulhazman Hamzah said the primary threat to the Rafflesia in Peninsular Malaysia was not land use, but the lack of clear tourism guidelines. 'For example, in ecotourism areas like Lojing, tourists often do not receive proper briefings on Rafflesia's survival and conservation – specifically, what they should or should not do during their visit. 'As a result, visitors frequently touch or get too close to the blooming flowers, disrupting the pollination process carried out by forest flies,' he said. He added that close human presence could compact and damage the soil, potentially harming the underground host plant that supported the Rafflesia. Tourists also often step on newly emerging buds by accident. Another threat, said Prof Zulhazman, was from land clearing. 'Although forest clearing for logging, agriculture and infrastructure does not directly target Rafflesia habitats, the resulting landscape changes and soil erosion can disrupt the ecosystem, hinder growth and threaten the species' survival,' he told Bernama. Passing on the learning According to Prof Zulhazman, the Rafflesia in Kelantan can be found in several locations. In addition to Lojing, they have been spotted in Gunung Setong, Kuala Betis and Taman Negara Kuala Koh. 'New habitats for Rafflesia cantleyi have been discovered in the Ulu Sat and Chabang Tongkat Forest Reserves in the districts of Pasir Puteh and Machang, while Rafflesia su-meiae has only been recorded in Gunung Chamah,' he elaborated. He said Rafflesia conservation efforts in Kelantan began in 2008 through an expedition to Lojing by a UMK research team he led. 'We documented the flora and fauna of the Lojing Highlands, and based on the expedition's findings, we proposed to the state government that a 404ha area in Lojing be gazetted as a conservation zone. 'In 2010, the state government agreed and the area is now known as Rafflesia Conservation Park.' Prof Zulhazman said UMK also played an active role in educating the public on the importance of Rafflesia conservation by giving talks in schools, government agencies and Orang Asli communities. 'As a result of the awareness programmes, even more people in Kelantan are now aware of the flower's presence in their state.' He said preserving Rafflesia was not only crucial for maintaining balance in the natural ecosystem but also as a tourism attraction. Prof Zulhazman noted that efforts had been made to ensure the species' survival, including tissue culture and root transplantation techniques. He said most, however, have yet to yield significant success. 'Root transplants have seen some success in Sabah and Bogor in Indonesia, but challenges remain. 'If the Rafflesia was widely propagated, its unique value might be diminished. 'In efforts to preserve the Rafflesia's natural habitat, the state government has gazetted several areas as protected zones,' he said. Prof Zulhazman said this initiative would not only protect the species but also provide economic benefits to local communities, including the Orang Asli, who can generate income through tourism activities. 'With proper conservation, this flower can serve not only as a symbol of Malaysia's natural heritage but also as a valuable tourism asset,' he said. He further recommends stricter regulations and clear guidelines for tourists and tourism operators. 'This includes implementing entrance fees that come with mandatory briefings, limiting the number of visitors at any one time, and involving local communities and the Orang Asli more intensively in conservation efforts. 'If these measures are not implemented promptly, Malaysia could lose one of its most valuable natural assets,' added Prof Zulhazman.
The Star
17-05-2025
- The Star
Seven spectacular mountains in South-East Asia
For those who seek adventure beyond the cities and sandy shores, South-East Asia is the place to be. This is especially true if you're looking to climb some mountains. The mountains in South-East Asia range from misty summits that graze the clouds, to rugged peaks that challenge hikers and reward them with breathtaking views. Spanning across the entire region, these seven peaks are a must-visit for seasoned climbers or those in search of a worthwhile trek through nature and to the clouds. 1. Hkakabo Razi (Myanmar) Standing at a proud 5,881m, the Hkakabo Razi is said to be South-East Asia's tallest mountain. Hidden deep in the jungles of the northern Myanmar state of Kachin, this mountain is a difficult one to climb. Even reaching the base camp can take two weeks – according to reports – and this involves jungle treks, boat rides, muddy terrain and blood-sucking leeches. This is what makes it an arduous feat, with only two documented successful summits made. The various expedition attempts faced extreme weather, technical rock climbing and logistical issues. If you're a hardcore mountaineer looking for the ultimate test, this peak might be worth considering. It is recommended to go between November and April, as there is less rain and the weather is more stable. The Unesco-listed Kinabalu Park is home to Malaysia's highest peak. — ANTON ZELENOV/Wikimedia Commons 2. Mount Kinabalu (Malaysia) If Hkakabo Razi is the most elusive, Mount Kinabalu is one of the most accessible to climb. With a height of 4,095m, this Bornean beauty is not just Malaysia's tallest peak, it is also one of the most biodiverse places in the world. Located in Ranau, Sabah, the Unesco-listed Kinabalu Park is home to thousands of plant and animal species, including the giant Rafflesia flower. Though the hike requires not much technical climbing skills, it is a long trek and you would still need to be in fairly good health to conquer this mountain. You first need to hike to the Panalaban base camp (3,272m) and then stay there overnight. The journey up to the summit, known as Low's Peak, usually begins before dawn from Panalaban and will take about three to four hours. If you reach the summit in time for sunrise, you will be rewarded with a horizon that glows in golden rays and a sea of clouds stretching endlessly beneath you. Climbers have to be well-equipped with rock-climbing skills to take on Puncak Jaya in Indonesia. — ALFINDRA PRIMALDHI/Wikimedia Commons 3. Puncak Jaya (Indonesia) Unlike other mountains on this list, Puncak Jaya – also known as Carstensz Pyramid – is a rock-climbing adventure rather than a trek or hike. At 4,884m, the peak is part of the Sudirman Range in the Papua region of Indonesia. Being equipped with just basic mountaineering skills is not enough to climb this beast, you would also need technical rock-climbing knowledge and proper equipment. With sheer vertical rock faces, jagged terrain, unpredictable weather and a remote location, it will no doubt be a gruelling journey for those who desire to take on one of the Seven Summits (the highest peaks on each continent; Puncak Jaya is geographically on the Oceania continent). Reaching the top of Puncak Jaya will grant you one of the most stunning views on Earth – a tropical rainforest merging into snowy ridges. A statue of the Great Buddha sits atop Vietnam's Fansipan. — Pexels 4. Fansipan (Vietnam) Nicknamed the 'Roof of Indochina', Fansipan is the highest mountain in Vietnam at a height of 3,143m. Located in the Lao Cai province, it offers a cultural discovery and a glimpse into the beauty of the region. The six-hour journey – following the Tram Ton trail – cuts through bamboo groves, tranquil streams and views of rolling hills covered in mist. Upon reaching the top, you will see a dramatic Buddhist pagoda complex and a giant bronze statue of the Buddha, adding a spiritual touch to the breathtaking view. If you want to experience the summit minus the trek, there are cable cars and a funicular train that can take you up there faster, for a fee. The twin pagodas on Doi Inthanon commemorate Thailand's former king and queen. — JJ HARRISON/Wikimedia Commons 5. Doi Inthanon (Thailand) Unlike other mountains that are prized for their height and difficulty, Doi Inthanon is revered for its historical significance. Just a two-hour drive from the city of Chiang Mai, the mountain stands at an elevation of 2,565m and is part of a national park filled with lush forests, waterfalls and villages of the Karen and Hmong hill tribes. At the top, you'll find twin pagodas honouring the reign of King Bhumibol and Queen Sirikit. The summit itself is shrouded in mist, and the cool temperature offers a nice respite from Thailand's tropical heat. You can choose to drive up the winding roads with picturesque stops, or you can hike your way up following any of the various accessible trails. Mount Apo in the Philippines is a dormant volcano with a lake crater. — Jdeligero24/Wikimedia Commons 6. Mount Apo (Philippines) The tallest mountain in the Philippines is Mount Apo (2,954m), a dormant volcano that's also a biodiversity hotspot. Located to the south-west of Davao City, Mount Apo serves as a refuge for the critically endangered Philippine eagle, one of the largest eagles in the world. The climb is a diverse adventure, taking you through mossy forests, sulphur vents and massive boulders left by previous eruptions. It will take you three days on average to reach the top, with camping spots and rest stops along the way. Reaching the top feels like standing on a different planet – a barren, rocky summit with sweeping views of Mindanao, and some water-filled craters below. Timorese often journey up Mount Ramelau as a spiritual pilgrimage. — COLIN TRAINOR/Wikimedia Commons 7. Mount Ramelau (Timor-Leste) For most climbers, reaching a summit is all about the view and experience, but for locals in Timor-Leste, Mount Ramelau is a site for spiritual pilgrimage. Situated to the south of the capital city of Dili, this 2,986m-tall mountain – also known as Tatamailau – is crowned by a statue of the Virgin Mary, making it a sacred site for many Christian Timorese. Mount Ramelau's trek is relatively short (two to three hours) – but no less rewarding. The best way to experience it? Start before dawn and hike under the stars. By the time you summit, you will be greeted with skies painted fiery orange, and if you're lucky, you can see an unobstructed view of the Timor Sea stretching across the horizon. The best time to hike here is between June and September as it is the driest period, providing the best chance of a great view at the top.
Daily Express
14-05-2025
- Daily Express
Rafflesia sites as domestic tourism plus
Published on: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 Published on: Wed, May 14, 2025 Text Size: Joniston in a recent meeting with Albert (third right) and Timothy Teo (second right). Also pictured is Sabah Tourism Board product division manager Daniel Roman (left). Kota Kinabalu: Turning Sabah's rare Rafflesia blooms into a sustainable community-driven tourism product could empower rural villages while preserving one of the world's most unique natural wonders. In a recent meeting with Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, conservationist and Borneo Eco Tours managing director Albert Teo proposed that local communities take the lead in managing and guiding visitors to Rafflesia sites near their villages. He said the flower's rarity and short blooming period make it a high-value attraction, especially for eco-conscious travellers. 'There are already Rafflesia species growing close to kampungs, this is a chance for locals to generate income while protecting a fragile part of their natural heritage. 'With basic infrastructure and proper training, communities could host visitors through guided treks, supported by simple facilities like trails and information signage,' he said. Teo also put forward the idea of establishing a Rafflesia community alliance, a network that connects kampungs located near known Rafflesia sites. Joniston, who is also chairman of the Sabah Tourism Board, responded positively to the idea, saying the state government supports efforts that involve the community in tourism, especially when they are tied to nature and culture. 'Rafflesia has always been an iconic feature of Sabah's biodiversity. It's time we map out areas where kampungs can responsibly benefit from this rare flower,' he said. He added that the Sabah Tourism Board could look into identifying existing Rafflesia sites near villages, especially in Tambunan, Ranau and along the Crocker Range, areas already known for rural and nature tourism. 'Empowering locals will promote long-term conservation. When people see value in protecting something, they take ownership of it, and that builds both community pride and sustainability. 'This is in line with our Culture, Adventure, and Nature (CAN) approach to tourism development,' he said. Sabah is home to three of the world's 15 known species of Rafflesia, namely Rafflesia keithii, Rafflesia pricei and Rafflesia tengku-adlinii. Of the three, Rafflesia keithii is the largest species in Sabah, and Rafflesia tengku-adlinii is the rarest, named after Datuk Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin Tengku Mohamood, who played a pivotal role in the state's tourism and environmental conservation. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available. Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express's Telegram channel. Daily Express Malaysia
The Star
14-05-2025
- The Star
Hope blooms for villagers with Rafflesia trail
KOTA KINABALU: Apart from attracting nature lovers, Sabah's spectacular Rafflesia flower is set to become a symbol of empowerment for rural communities through an initiative that could turn conservation into a sustainable economic opportunity. Conservationist and Borneo Eco Tours managing director Albert Teo has proposed that villagers living near natural Rafflesia sites take the lead in managing and guiding visitors, making the flower a community-led eco-tourism product. He made the proposal during a recent meeting with Assistant Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai, adding that the Rafflesia's rarity and brief blooming period make it an exclusive draw for eco-conscious travellers. 'There are already Rafflesia species growing near villages. With basic infrastructure and training, locals could host guided treks and educate visitors while protecting a fragile part of their natural heritage.' Teo also proposed the creation of a Rafflesia Community Alliance, a network of villages with access to known Rafflesia sites, to encourage collaboration and strengthen local ownership. Bangkuai, who is also Sabah Tourism Board chairman, welcomed the proposal and said the state government supports tourism models that engage local communities, particularly when they involve Sabah's natural and cultural heritage. 'Rafflesia has long been a symbol of Sabah's biodiversity. It is time to identify villages that can benefit from this venture while ensuring responsible and sustainable tourism practices.' He added that the state tourism board would explore mapping Rafflesia sites near villages, particularly in Tambunan, Ranau and along the Crocker Range, which are areas already popular for nature-based tourism. 'Empowering locals fosters long-term conservation. When people see value in protecting something, they take ownership. That's how we build sustainability and pride,' Bangkuai said, aligning the idea with Sabah's Culture, Adventure and Nature tourism approach. Sabah is home to three of the world's 15 known Rafflesia species, namely Rafflesia keithii, Rafflesia pricei and Rafflesia tengku-adlinii. The third, the rarest of the trio, is named after Datuk Seri Tengku Zainal Adlin Tengku Mahamood, a key figure in Sabah's tourism and conservation movement.
