"Jim and I cannot recommend Weng highly enough! As long-time birders, we have been out with guides globally, but our experience in Kuala Lumpur was truly a standout. Despite being new to the species of Southeast Asia, Weng’s incredible expertise and eagle eyes helped us identify over 50 species in a single day. It’s impossible to choose a favorite bird of the day, but viewing the stunning Orange-bellied Flowerpecker, Gold-whiskered Barbet, and a variety of vibrant broadbills and woodpeckers were absolute highlights of our trip.
Weng picked us up at 6:30 AM sharp, and we spent a full, rewarding day in the field until we finally called it a day due to a late afternoon rain shower.
Beyond the birding, we deeply appreciated Weng’s insights into Malaysian history and culture. It’s rare to find a guide who is as knowledgeable about local heritage as they are about avian behavior.
We were treated to a delicious, authentic breakfast and lunch that kept our energy up for a long day of trekking.
If you are looking for a professional, personable, and highly skilled guide in Malaysia, look no further than Weng. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned birder, he will ensure you have an unforgettable day." - Jim & Cathy (USA)
On February 25th, 2026, I had the pleasure of guiding Jim and Cathy from the United States for a day of birding in the verdant hills of Hulu Langat. We began our morning in the city centre, fueling up with a quintessential Malaysian breakfast of roti canai, which both Jim and Cathy thoroughly enjoyed.
The birding actually started before we even reached our destination! Just as we pulled away from the restaurant, Jim’s sharp eyes spotted a Painted Stork in flight—a wonderful "first bird of the day" to kick off our adventure.
Morning Melodies and Broadbill Magic
Upon arriving in Hulu Langat, the morning activity was nothing short of spectacular. The forest edge was teeming with life, and we were treated to a vibrant parade of species:
Broadbills: We were lucky enough to see both the Black-and-red and Black-and-yellow Broadbills.
Woodpeckers: A high-energy morning for drummers, including the Grey-and-buff, a pair of Orange-backed, and the Banded Woodpecker.
Forest Favorites: We added the Raffles's Malkoha, Scaly-breasted Bulbul, Little Green Pigeon, and the elusive Square-tailed Drongo Cuckoo to our list.
As the sun rose and the temperature climbed, we moved deeper into the forest to bird under the cooling shade of the canopy. This shift in strategy paid off handsomely. We encountered the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo, Grey-headed Canary-Flycatcher, and the Checker-throated Woodpecker.
The Highlights: A Green Gem and a Blue Jewel
The true "star of the show" for many was the Green Broadbill—its well camouflage plumage always make it difficult to spot it but Cathy found it first. However, just as we were preparing to leave the forest, a flash of blue caught my eye. A Blue-eared Kingfisher zipped through the trees near our car. After a thorough scan, I managed to locate it, allowing Jim and Cathy a stunning view of this "small jewel."
Later, near a local restaurant, we were treated to a second sighting of the Blue-eared Kingfisher, along with Blue-tailed Bee-eaters, a White-bellied Sea-Eagle, and Grey-breasted Spiderhunter.
A Rainy Finale
The afternoon tropical shower, provided a perfect excuse for a tea break. Once the rain eased into a drizzle, we made one final stop, adding the Blue-throated Bee-eater, Common Flameback, and Banded Bay Cuckoo to our tally.
While the rain eventually settled in for the evening—and a long day of birding had finally caught up with Cathy—we decided to head back to Kuala Lumpur. Despite some typical city traffic on the return journey, it was another incredibly successful day trip with a good species count and very happy guests.
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As I continue to immerse myself in the world of birds and nature, I am constantly inspired by the beauty and diversity of the natural world. I am grateful for the opportunity to share my work with others and to educate and inspire through my images. Your support and patience are truly appreciated as I strive to showcase the wonders of wildlife in the most authentic and impactful way possible. Together, we can raise awareness and appreciation for the importance of conservation and preservation of our planet's precious ecosystems. Connect with me today to plan your bespoke birding itinerary. Let's head into the field and find the birds that will become the highlights of your life list. The birds are calling!
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Check out the following bird families:
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Finding the right guide is the most important decision you'll make when planning a birding expedition. If you are currently researching the best local expertise for your Malaysian adventure, you are likely already familiar with the legendary hotspots of Peninsular Malaysia—from the montane magic of Fraser’s Hill and Bukit Tinggi to the ancient rainforests of Taman Negara, the coastal riches of Kuala Selangor, and the accessible birding of Hulu Langat.
For those looking to extend their journey into the wilds of Borneo, I provide specialized guiding to iconic locations including Kinabalu Park, the world-renowned Sepilok and Kinabatangan river, and the high-altitude wonders of Crocker Range.
To help you visualize your next big year or photography trip, I have curated several detailed itineraries. Click the links below to explore my proposed birding adventures and find the route that best matches your target list.
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