Yes, Coastal Management Module mounted another challenge on Bintan Island. This time we were very prepared not to be foiled by some evil master plan by the Cruise centre vendor or let our Prof spoilt our day by telling us the wrong time to meet haha. But don't get me wrong, I don't hate Prof wong, I swear.
The day started well, I wasn't late... thanks to Violet being around. Haha. The weather wasn't that great, it was cloudy and the seas were choppy thought. And we had to rush for breakfast... why? Because even after you left the company Of green... 'wait to rush, rush to wait' still applies.... and so being 'kan jiong' my Prof hurried us into the terminal. You know what is the worst thing? I was fooled to believe people could 'chimney' on the top deck of the cruise... damm. But it was rather a fun as well as bumpy boat ride.
Boat ride was so bumpy that Rita's face got distorted
Bintan Island seemed to me link a militarized holiday hotspot for Asians. The service staffs and drivers on the island appear smartly cladded in their uniforms... some really giving me the impression we are visiting an army camp. Some had mini badges and stuff... well not only that... they salute to one another...
So what did we do on the island? Well we went about learning all about coastal landforms, habitats, local communities (not those in the tourist areas) and the systems and links within these 3 areas. But apparently, we were not expected by the locals to be there... what do I mean? Prof Wong, didn't mentioned to the locals before hand that we were coming... so it was like... Chinese New Year arrived earlier for the locals... so all their chinese friends came to visit them without prior notice... since thats what people do, house visiting and open houses.
Village Tranquility
What students do when they don't pay attention
84 Team! Fire!
Hongster and his amazing 'bird'
Before
After 3 Hours of travelling
Well as travellers often travel around the Island, the villagers probably didn't really mind about us. So we moved about from point to point learning about coastal developments and habitats. We had lectures here and there but not many were taking notes or seriously engaging with the lessons ... that is obvious from the photos and fun we had. But I guess the best lessons in life aren't taught in the classroom... that is what I believe makes Prof Wong an interesting lecturer... yes he is an 'old-school' positivist and he is a bit long winded... but surely with his great field researches and knowledge, he is able to teach/ show us somethings we all were shocked at ....
Nobel Prize Winner and his indigenous knowledge
At the end of it all... I just felt it was an honor to learn from Prof Wong, Singapore only shared Nobel awardee. Yar ONLY k. He is able to draw your passion to the coast on a different level. If My Lee was the 'grandfather' of Singapore. Then honestly, Prof Wong should be given the title 'grandfather' of the Singapore coast.
Mission Accomplish - Bintan Conquered! ... Finally haha
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