Sungai Tiang... a forgotten (unforgettable) jungle airstrip experience
Text reproduced from the diaries of Ismail Asha’ari as dedication to a dear fellow aviator who welcomed me into Malaysia's private aviation scene.
Taman Negara, Malaysia | 马来西亚 (4-6 April 2003)
This photo archive from more than two decades ago captures what was probably the most unforgettable bush flying experience I had in my early days as a blue-eyed private pilot privileged to explore the skies of West Malaysia.
Instead of my own narration, I have elected to reproduce the text from the diary of my dear Malaysian generation pioneer mentor, Encik Ismail Asha’ari from Systematic Aviation Services who lost a long bravely fought battle with cancer. His humility expressed through this simple diary illustrated the simple joys he derives from a no-fanfare leisure flying trip where bespoke was curated through the his genuine love for humble enjoyable moments and his unspoken care and concern for fellow aviators. His generosity and charm left behind a lasting legacy in the Malaysia general aviation scene.
It was a very successful outing. The most exciting bit was when Dr. Lee arrived from Melaka in his TRIKE after 2-½ hrs flight! He was mostly 500ft so we only heard him when he was very close. He came in high but landed with least difficulty... Ismail Asha’ari
Meng from Johor Flying Club in ZK-DIQ overhead and on finals to land.
Unlike 1998, this time we had 6 aircraft. Not many but a good start.
Lunch was provided by Penghulu Dollah – Tempoyak Patin. Great for the palate. Because of the great food, Zulhamin and Michael took up all the ladies that helped with the food for Joyrides.
AJ and Zulhamin then flew out as AJ has a very important appointment with Dato Leo Moggie……at the golf course!! Thanks AJ for your attendance, and providing 9M-EAX.
After seeing off AJ we went to Kelah Sanctuary gratis Jabatan Perhilitan with En. Zulkifli and Roslan.
Those who have not been do make a point to visit the sanctuary. Up Tahan River, a tributary of Tembeling river (the one beside the airfield), very clean water unaffected by Timber cutting and overhead covered by thick canopy of trees, the boat ride was a dream. We went to two Sanctuaries, stopping at Lubuk Nohong Sanctuary. En. Roslan briefed us about the Kelah Sanctuary, and the Kelah.
Demonstrating how tame the Kelah were, the Rangers sounded the bell and called out “Kelah, Kelah” and threw in the food. The Kelah, Jelawat, Sebarau were jumping out of the water!!
After that many aviators were swimming with the fish. In their undies! Real cool.
The evening, we spent putting up tents, except for KFC. They had the whole terminal building! Sleeping open air.
Capt. Zoul did his aerobatics in 9M-EPA. Everybody was thrilled.
Dinner was ayam hutan. Every bit of the dish was finished.
Day 2.
After breakfast, everyone had a ride on Dr. Lee’s TRIKE. I was taking pictures when Zulhamin in 9M-IBA flew near for a photo session, and wow the prop wash really tried the skill of Dr. Lee.
Lunch was with the people of Taman Negara. They had a big gathering with the local ADUN.
After lunch it was Canopy walk. 50 meters up the trees. My friend Gana had problem balancing. Some showed off walking without holding the side ropes. Others tried running. Everyone made monkey noises. Aviators!
9M-EAX and 9M-EPA then flew to Termeloh. EAX had hydraulic problem. It was fixed next morning. EPA came back with Talapia and Patin for the night feed cooked by Termizi.
Day 3
By 1030hr all aircraft flew home after some group photo.
Overall it was a great outing. In fact everyone was looking forward to the next one. A suggestion was made that the next one be done at Kota Baru two weeks from our Day3.
For and On Behalf of Fly-in Working Group.
Ismail Asha’ari
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