Meet the hornbill detectives of Malaysia


Great hornbills in a tree in the Belum-Temenggor Forest Complex. The area is recognised as the largest Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas in the northern part of the peninsula, and part of the critical Central Forest Spine. (See more photos in gallery below story.) — YEAP CHIN AIK/Malaysian Nature Society

It's a sunny day in Perak’s Belum-Temenggor Forest Complex as the boat piloted by Roslan Carang, 49, gently skims the emerald green waters of Temenggor Lake. Seated in the bow is Yeap Chin Aik, 46, occasionally bringing a pair of binoculars to his eyes, scanning the multihued semi-deciduous forest surrounding the lake for signs of life.

Rich in flora and fauna biodiversity, the 339,143ha forest complex – 4.6 times the size of Singapore – is recognised as the largest Important Bird and Biodiversity Area in the northern part of the peninsula, and is part of the vitally important Central Forest Spine.

The Star Christmas Special Promo: Save 35% OFF Yearly. T&C applies.

Monthly Plan

RM 13.90/month

Best Value

Annual Plan

RM 12.33/month

RM 8.02/month

Billed as RM 96.20 for the 1st year, RM 148 thereafter.

Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!

Next In Living

Planet-friendly pets: How to reduce the carbon pawprints of your pets
Heart And Soul: Counting blessings and looking forward as 2025 comes to an end
Masterful French and Italian fare at D Empire, Kuala Lumpur
Cattle tagging is key to slowing deforestation in the Brazilian state of Para
Whirl in white: Pantone’s 2026 Colour of the Year is a hue called Cloud Dancer
Meet Maximus, the Belgium Prime Minister's famous cat who is going viral
Surviving the cold, dark months: How Nordic people beat the winter blues
Why doing good also makes us feel good, during the holidays and beyond
A Peruvian festive feast: A Peruvian chef shares his family Christmas recipes
An Italian chef reveals festive staples on his Christmas tables at home

Others Also Read