Merbok and Matang

Merbok and Matang are two places that boast a mangrove reserve, and so we visited them for our biology field trip this weekend. Mangroves are important for a variety of reasons, two being the immense biodiversity they host, and the filtering effects they have on the salt water along with the protection of the coast. We stayed in a Kampung (small local village) for the night, which had very primitive set up. Nonetheless, the food was good, and we survived the horribly horribly hot humid weather.

First we took a boat ride to just explore the river. We saw all the fishing nets and crab traps set up by locals. This river is literally the source of their income. Crazy. Later on we had to actually venture into the mangroves to get out data. We searched for crabs and snails, and noticed the different species of mangroves growing in the same area. Then, we went to another site and helped plant 60 new saplings. Leaving our mark on Malaysia :) That night, the village put on a demonstration of a traditional marital arts form. It was neat to watch, looked like dancing, but is apparently designed for the small statue of Asians. Utilized the opponents force against themselves.

We slept in tents on hard platform. Needless to say, not my best nights sleep. The next morning we helped out at the school in the Kampung. We were greeted like royalty and presented with a beautiful painting from an old local man. We did not deserve such pomp and circumstance but it was very touching. Before we left, we even got to take a quick ride on the kayaks they have. For lunch, we were invited to the celebration part of a traditional Malay wedding. We got free food and pics with the bride and groom. So hospitable and friendly. After, we traveled to look at a coal plant (wasn't interested at all) and then headed to Matang for the night.

Matang is an even larger mangrove forests, and they have synchronous fireflies at night. We came the weekend of the full moon so it was very dark for our boat ride into the cove. The synchronous fireflies were amazing. No other way to describe it. They blink together on a trees and light them up like Christmas. Nature is incredible.