By Patwant Singh, Channel NewsAsia
Rivers, ditches and even narrow log bridges: these are conditions
no one would want to tackle on foot, let alone in a car.
But for the 4-wheel drive vehicles at the Jeep Adventure in
Kuantan, Malaysia, it was all in a day's work.
The jungles and palm tree plantations in Kuantan provided the venue
for some exciting action.
Uneven terrain and steep climbs were just some of the obstacles
that the convoy of cars had to overcome.
But the machines were not the only ones that were put to the
test.
The drivers had to get out of their cars to build log bridges
across ditches and more awaited both man and machine over the two
days of driving.
The 4-wheel drive machines are not only adept on land but equally
comfortable in water.
The powerful machines are capable of trudging through about a metre
deep of water.
But while the Jeeps are tough, they are not invincible, and do need
a helping hand at times.
Winching or strapping the stranded vehicle posed yet another test
for the team.
Cindy Lee, Participant, Jeep Adventure, said: "Winching is a bit
tough because you need a bit of strength and building a bridge is
also difficult."
But the journey did not consist only of mud and dirt tracks.
The convoy also tackled "rock crawling" which was being tried for
the first time in this part of the world.
Marc Nicholson, Participant, Jeep Adventure, said: "The highlight
for me was the rock climbing. I never thought the cars were capable
of that."
And the organisers ensured that nature was left untouched.
Webber Arnold, Trainer, Jeep Adventure, said: "We do not jungle
bash, we do not go to where there are no roads. We go to existing
roads which are quite old like this one. And before we go into an
area we go and get the proper permission."
And after a gruelling ride in the jungle, the convoy ended its
journey with a leisurely drive on the scenic beaches of Kuantan. -
CNA /ch