The recce trip began with a 10-hour long ride to Kuala Terengganu on the 7th June. Sijie and I finally arrived at our destination in the morning and made our way to the Setiu Wetlands and Kampung Mangkuk. We were lucky enough to stay in a very decent accommodation called the 'Penarik Inn', which is situated in the heart of the kampung.
Thereafter, we hopped onto the bicycles we found at the inn and explored the surroundings. Kampung Mangkuk consists of many traditional malay wooden houses in clusters and other amenities like school and mosque. The people staying in this village are really friendly and affable. Sijie manged to catch a glimpse of some familiar faces that the previous team had worked with in Project Orion I.
Although our main task is to conduct turtle conservation activities, we are also involved in the painting of some local houses (5 in total) and the pink house (also known as the house for the pewanis). The pewanis is a local group consists of women who are determined to improve the living conditions of the village. The activities they do include computer and English language classes to upgrade themselves, and also the production of the banana chips. The pink house is also a place where English night classes is being held for the local children. Oh, not to mention, we will be spending our precious nights in the pink house as well! (: It is beautiful and pretty spacious, and it comes along with a bigger than expected toilet. Below is one of the houses that we will be painting in this upcoming project.
Although our main task is to conduct turtle conservation activities, we are also involved in the painting of some local houses (5 in total) and the pink house (also known as the house for the pewanis). The pewanis is a local group consists of women who are determined to improve the living conditions of the village. The activities they do include computer and English language classes to upgrade themselves, and also the production of the banana chips. The pink house is also a place where English night classes is being held for the local children. Oh, not to mention, we will be spending our precious nights in the pink house as well! (: It is beautiful and pretty spacious, and it comes along with a bigger than expected toilet. Below is one of the houses that we will be painting in this upcoming project.
I was indeed thrilled to see the turtle hatchery and real baby turtles crawling around during this recce trip. During the night on the second day, Sijie and I witnessed the releasing of baby turtles into the sea. The stars above us were spectacular and magnificent, and seeing the turtles made their way, little by little, really touched my heart. It is definitely a meaningful project, and I believe all of us are eager to embark on this fruitful journey. 26 June is our big day, and I hope to see everyone in great spirits at the airport! :DJia Wei
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