TAT Newsroom Short Documentary
The Seasons Episode 1: Into the Rainforest
Theme: Rainforest
Duration 3 minutes
Location: Hala-Bala, Yala and Narathiwat
EPISODE SYNOPSIS
The Hala Bala Wildlife Sanctuary, also known as ASEAN’s Amazon, is the largest tropical rainforest of the Malay Peninsula. It is also one of the four rainforests of the world that is globally recognised as true ‘Indo-Malayan rainforests’. Hala Bala is situated in Thailand’s southernmost tip, covering some areas of Yala and Narathiwat provinces.
Hala Bala is a wealth of biodiversity. More than 300 species of rare or endangered plants exist here. Densely humid all-year round, this rainforest has an ecosystem that richly nurtures a variety of rarely sighted indigenous wildlife species. Most rainy season mornings are covered in a dense fog, with only some tall trees’ crowns penetrating the gentle white vapour. The imposing giant Tualang trees stand amidst their peers of varying heights, whilst a chorus sung by over 10 hornbill species and 230 kinds of native birds resonates through the whole wooded expanse.
Today, Hala Bala is an enormous home where flora and fauna coexist in harmony. It is a paradise for not only wild animals, but also anyone who appreciates the beauty of serene nature. What’s more, Hala Bala also serves as a source of livelihood for the locals. On its own merits, Hala Bala is said to be a natural marketplace for the locals, a laboratory for researchers, a natural classroom for children, and a refreshing reward for visitors.
“The Seasons Episode 1: Into the Rainforest” follows the TAT Newsroom’s seven-part travel documentary series, titled ‘Insight Thainess’, to promote Thai values through the country’s unique way of life. To view the previous episodes, please log on to: TAT Newsroom’s Thai Travel VDOs.
