A Z U A N B I N T I A L I A S M A R Z A I D A H B I N T I M O K H T A R M U K H L I S A H D A Y A N A S A F A R U D D I N A M I R U L H A Z R E E N A M I R R U D I N B A K I N U R A I S Y A H T U L H U S N A B I N T I A S R A N I “There are still resources around us that human beings can use”
D I Y S U R V I V A L E B O O K “There are still resources around us that human beings can use” A Z U A N B I N T I A L I A S M A R Z A I D A H B I N T I M O K H T A R M U K H L I S A H D A Y A N A S A F A R U D D I N A M I R U L H A Z R E E N A M I R R U D I N B A K I N U R A I S Y A H T U L H U S N A B I N T I A S R A N I
First Edition @Politeknik Merlimau, 2024 Published in 2024 All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanic methods, without the prior written permission of the writer, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in reviews and certain other non-commercial uses. Authors: Azuan binti Alias Marzaidah Mokhtar Nur Aisyahtul Husna Asrani Mukhlisah Dayana Safaruddin Amirul Hazreen Amirrudin Baki Published by: Politeknik Merlimau, Melaka KEMENTERIAN PENDIDIKAN TINGGI 77300 Merlimau Melaka
TABLE OF CONTENT Acknowledgement Preface Introduction & Importance of survival S U R V I V A L 4 Basic Elements of Survival Forest Diversity Understanding the Principles of survival Prohibitions need to be taken seriously before entering the forest Do’s & Don'ts if you get lost in the forest Edible fruit & plant in the forest Topic 1 : How to start a fire in the forest Little Diy Stove Pot for cooking using cans Candle in glass bottle Wax Tissue Make a bonfire Tuna little stove 19 21 22 23 26 28 i ii 1 3 4 5 7 8 11 17
Topic 2 : How to cook in the forest Making drink containers using used cans Cooking using beverage can Make a bowl using lemba leaves Lemba leaves can be used to boil water Plastic bottle cups Make a bowl using bottle plastic Topic 3 : How to make rope in the forest Make rope using leaves Making ropes from plastic bottle Topic 4 : How to make water-based DIY Fish traps using bottle Making a clip can into a hook Topic 5 : Shelter Tie a rope to a tree trunks and place a fabric to make a tent Shelter using canvas 31 32 34 36 37 38 40 41 43 45 47 48
MTaokpinicg3a:hHamowmtoockmuaskiengrobpaetiiknftahberficoroerst sarong fabrics Make a can to repel mosquitoes Float using pants Cutting board using stone Make a temporary pot using aluminum foil Make a stretcher using batik fabric and wood Topic 6 : Reduce injury pain Lemba leaves can be used as a bandages Hand sling using a shirt Bandaging the wound with a shirt Cut clothes to slow the spread of animal venom Topic 4 : How to make water-based DIY References Topic 7 : Other survival ways 51 52 54 56 58 59 61 63 65 67 69
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We begin by expressing our gratitude to Allah SWT for His abundant grace and guidance, which allowed us to create a "DIY Survival Ebook". And with the power of Allah SWT who is Almighty, All-Knowing we were able to complete this e-Book. We also express our deepest appreciation to our supervisor, Puan Azuan Binti Alias for her unwavering support and invaluable contribution throughout the process of producing this e-book. We are grateful to God for granting us the strength to overcome various challenges and obstacles in preparing this e-Book. Throughout the production process, we have acquired valuable knowledge and experience, enabling us to create this e-Book. In addition, we would like to express our gratitude to everyone who supported the production of this e-Book until its successful completion. We also extend our thanks to Politeknik Merlimau Melaka for providing us with the opportunity to venture into this field. The writing of this e-Book has been improved with the results of discussions and suggestions that have been shared. May we all be able to take advantage of the knowledge given.. i
This book is the result of efforts by Semester 5 students who took the final year project subject to promote survival guides in the forest to hikers and travelers. The aim of this book is to provide new knowledge and experience to the reader. In Malaysia there are many hills and mountains that attract hikers to explore. In addition, there are travelers from abroad who also explore the mountains in Malaysia. However, cases of stray people in the forest are increasing in 2019. With this book, it can provide basic knowledge to hikers and travelers. As authors, we are concerned about possible shortcomings in the content presented in this page so we welcome feedback to improve our work. Our hope is that this book will help and inspire readers in mastering life skills and exploring the wilderness. It is our great hope that this book can be a source of help and inspiration to its readers. PREFACE ii
In searching for the exact meaning of the definition of "survival" there are various versions given and if examined as a whole, it carries the same meaning which is to survive. Among the commonly known meanings of "survival" is, "the will to live, to outlive, state of to continuing to live" the will or ability to continue survival. The "survival" life effort also happens when a person leaves the group due to getting lost in the forest, war, natural disaster, emergency and various other factors where they are forced to do things outside the comfort grid as humans to ensure that life can continue or continue exists in any situation and problem experienced at that moment. The quest for life can happen anywhere, whether in the forest, swamp forest, desert, snowy area or in the city. These rugged recreational activities in Malaysia are mostly carried out in forest areas involving mountain and hill climbing activities, hiking in waterfall and river areas as well as forest science programs such as "bushcraft survival" and survival efforts. INTRODUCTION AND IMPORTANT OF SURVIVAL 1
As a fan of the world of recreation, especially involving activities in the forest, learning the basic knowledge of survival or "bushcraft survival" is a necessity because it makes it easier to survive in the most minimal conditions sourced from the equipment brought along as well as resources from nature if any problems occur in the forest among them is if lost. You know how to build a primitive or modern shelter, start a fire, find food sources, find natural directions, signal "SOS" and many other things that brighten your chances of surviving and being found by the rescue team. Learning the science of survival or "bushcraft survival" is actually open to everyone who wants knowledge, no matter what your beliefs are. If we look at the flow of "preppers" and "survivalist" has been clearly stated among the important knowledge that must be there is learning the science of survival. 2
S U R V I V A L Size up the situation (surroundings, physical condition, equipment) Use all your sense. - - - - - - - - Remember where you are. Vanquish fear and panic. Improve . Value living. Act like the native. Live by your wits, but for now, learn basic skill. Author by Sam Lusuh 3
4 BASIC ELEMENTS OF SURVIVAL WATER Search from the nearest source with certain rules. FIRE Use whatever method you know, because having fire increases your morale and other advantages. SHELTER In order to get protection from the cold, animal disturbance and so on. FOOD If you have food, you need to save, and if you don't, be careful in choosing food that is 4 safe to eat.
FOREST DIVERSITY Sea Swamp Forest This forest is found between the river banks and the shores of salty water, experiencing high and low tides, as well as mudflats. Riparian forest This forest is mostly found in narrow peripheral areas such as the banks of creeks and river mouths. Coastal forest Located in a low-lying, well-drained, sandy coastal area, experiencing high tides, and exposed to winds from the sea. Freshwater swamp forest Is an area of land overgrown by plants that is permanently or seasonally submerged by the tides. Peat swamp forest It is found in areas further back from sea swamp forests and coastal forests. This forest area does not have water flow from the river but gets its supply from rainwater. Bamboo forest This forest occurs as a result of abandoned land as a result of activities, deforestation, burning for shifting cultivation practiced or illegal encroachment of government land. Limestone hill forest It could refer to a specific forested area located near limestone hills. 5
Preserved forest Forests that have been explored but restored through the reforestation process. Bushy forest Bushy forest typically refers to a dense woodland characterized by thick vegetation, including shrubs, bushes, and small trees. Lowland dipterocarp forest This forest starts in the lowlands and in the foothills up to a height of 305 meters and is an important commercial species forest. Hill dipterocarp forest This forest is above the level of 305-762 meters above sea level and is in the forest deepening ranges. This forest is the largest forest in peninsular Malaysia. Upper dipterocarp forest This forest is above the level of 762-1200 meters above sea level and is in the high hills of the forest. Mountain oak forest This forest is at an altitude of 1200-1500 meters above sea level and has a moderate temperature. Mountain ericaceous forest This forest exceeds the height of 1500 meters above sea level, is cold, foggy, and consists of only one layer. 6
UNDERSTANDING THE PRINCIPLES OF SURVIVAL Hopefully you understand the basics of what is necessary when faced with a situation that leads to a survival. To complement it, three main things must be present at the time of emergency, which are: Prioritize Safety The priority of life safety. If you do something, do it carefully, avoid doing things that can endanger yourself for example, avoid eating plants, fruits that are not necessarily safe, avoid collision with wild animals and be careful when using machete or knife, avoid injury caused by it. Self-control (emotions) Control your emotions so that the situation does not become too negative. Always think positively to feel calm with what you are doing. Don't panic in every situation because it can make things worse. Effort Do not despair if there is a failure during survival, for example lighting a fire, looking for food and so on. Nature is made to suspect humans who like challenges, it is not cruel but try to be a friend, adapt and overcome the challenges. 7
PROHIBITIONS THAT NEED TO BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY BEFORE ENTERING THE FOREST Speech & behavior When in the forest, talk less for fear of saying or doing something wrong without realizing it. We should be aware that every step of our movement is being watched, we just don't see it. Dead grass & open area When we go through an area where the grass is green but there is a group of areas where the grass is dead, avoid going through that area. Usually, the area is a place for native people to throw poison. This forest can be diverse, regardless of whether it is visible or invisible. When passing through an open area that seems to be cleaned, do not pass through that area or pollute that place. Later there will also be chopsticks. Usually, it is a place for the natives to farm. The best way is to try to find another way or pass by the side of the place. Wearing perfume Some animals are allergic to fragrances, some are also attracted to fragrances. The sense of smell that animals have is very great. Not like humans, only capable of detecting a scent a few meters away. Most animals can detect odors kilometers away. 8
Deer feet The main predator of the deer is the tiger. Usually when there is a deer, a tiger follows behind it. When you see deer legs or glimpses of them, don't be too happy to see a deer the size of a deer cart. Most likely the striped is waiting behind. Camping Do not set up a tent near a river. It is better to be a little further away from the area and the camping area is relatively high because when it rains, the low area will be flooded when the head of water comes. If there is a large rock near the water flow, mark the rock as a water level indicator. Avoid camping under bamboo trees. Bamboo groves and dead leaves are usually inhabited by poisonous creatures such as snakes. If there is no place, first clean the area and make sure the surrounding area is sprinkled with sulfur for safety purposes. Bamboo trees are also very synonymous with pure creatures that make the tree a place to live. Avoid setting up a tent under a tree with rotten branches because it is possible that your tent will be crushed by broken branches, especially during the rainy season. First check the tree that you want to use as a shade area before using it as a bed. 9
Food When cooking, make sure the quantity is suitable for your stomach. There should be no leftover food or excess food that is not eaten. Fire pit Many people use bonfires for cooking, heating water and for lighting. Ideally, prepare enough firewood for the whole night and don't let the campfire go out until dawn. If there are 5 members of the group, make sure there are five burning sticks. It can be used as a weapon if a tiger, bear or elephant comes close. Noise Usually, some friends complain because of the sound of crickets and other things that they hear when they sleep in the tent. That is normal. What's not normal is when the surroundings are so quiet that the snoring of your friend's sleep hurts the ears. According to the natives, when things suddenly become quiet, it means that there is a large animal watching us. If there are explosives such as firecrackers, burn the firecrackers. At least it can prevent wild animals from approaching us. But don't set firecrackers like a holiday celebration, you will be scolded by your friends. 10
Trace your steps back There are situations in which tracing your steps back is not recommended. For example, if you choose the wrong direction, you will get even more lost. However, if you are not too far from the main trail, have navigation tools, or can determine a safe direction, it may be the best option to trace your steps back. If you succeed, it may be a piece of cake to get back on the right trail. Assess the situation When you have reached a point where you know you are lost and will probably spend the night under the stars, it's time to assess the situation well. Gather all the supplies you have. This means turning every bag inside out. Follow the 3-rule to prioritize what you need to do and to keep your mind busy with productive tasks. Also listen to your gut. If you have a nagging feeling that something's not right, be attentive and proceed cautiously. 1 4 DO’S AND DONT’S IF YOU GET LOST IN THE FOREST 11
Heighten your perception When you're in the woods, you're just another animal in the woods - and animals only stay alive when they're constantly vigilant. As you move, always be aware of what's behind and in front of you. Use your peripheral vision (the owl eyes) to scan the sides as you walk. Pay attention to animal tracks and feces. Avoid areas where animals are likely to be, such as where they eat or drink. Pay attention to the story nature tells: bird songs, animal behavior, weather patterns, etc. Leave a trail You should use this tactic from the beginning of the journey to avoid getting lost altogether or further. With the technique, you use everything at your disposal to mark the path taken. Trees can be marked with a knife, branches can be bent or broken, arrows can be drawn or signal bands hung. It is helpful to place these marks as visibly and directionally as possible. Make noise while moving Making noise while walking through the forest is a precautionary measure when dealing with predators (mainly in bear country). One thing you would rather not do is surprise an animal that can be dangerous to you. In germany, you should also do this because wild boars and wolves can show up as well. But this tactic isn't just for predators. While you might feel lost, there could be people just over the next hill or around the next bend. Singing or making noise can draw attention to yourself. 12
Stay with a vehicle This advice applies to many cases, but it strictly depends on the circumstances. However, if you have gotten lost and a vehicle is available (car, boat, airplane, etc.), in general, it is best to stay with the vehicle. There are two reasons for this. The first is that the vehicle provides resources like shelter. The second reason is that a vehicle is much easier for a rescue team (e.g., from an airplane) to spot than a person. But now, imagine a situation where a person knows the direction to rescue. They have supplies, skills, and abilities to move safely. What to do? Then the person should decide whether to try to rescue themselves or not. Therefore, always make sure to pack an auto-survival kit, so you have the necessary items for survival. Keep your hands to yourself When walking through the forest, keep your hands to yourself. From poisonous plants, biting insects, thorns, snakes, and anything else that hides in plain sight, it's best to keep your hands to yourself. Remember, your hands are your most important tools. You need them for countless purposes, so they deserve special protection. What not to do when lost in the woods 13
Don't run Running when you first get lost only serves to give in to your panicked feelings. Don't do it because running in panic will likely result in you breaking all your bones. Exception: unless there is an immediate threat to safety and life. Running fast dramatically increases the likelihood of injury, from which you may or may not be able to recover. Almost everything in a survival situation should be done slowly and consciously to achieve the safest result. Don't eat or drink what animals consume Consuming what animals eat is one of those survival myths that is false. Animals are used to drinking and eating from the environment in which they live. Just because they can do, not mean it is safe for humans. Always take the steps to make water drinkable, and make sure to clearly identify food sources that are safe for human consumption. Stay away from the edges When you come to a lookout on a hill or cliff, stay away from the edges. If a person becomes dizzy or disoriented, they may lose their balance. Furthermore, there may not be much soil or rock under these areas. It can easily give way under the weight of a person. The same goes for walking along river banks that have been undercut by the current. 14
Don't climb over a tree trunk It's not a good idea to climb over a tree trunk without knowing what's on the other side. Tree stumps can hide lying animals, such as snakes, or holes that can easily twist an ankle. When encountering a tree stump (or any other object), it is a safe practice to take a moment to look before stepping on it. Avoid water, stay dry While water is essential for drinking, you should keep yourself away from it. Especially when you are in a cold environment or an environment with large temperature swings. Then it is never a good idea to get wet. It may seem obvious, but it is also easily forgotten, especially on a small scale. Walking or wading through a shallow stream seems ok, right? Unfortunately, not! While only a part of the clothing gets wet, this can still have large negative effects once low temperatures occur. Never throw anything away Even if something appears completely useless, i recommend keeping it for as long as possible. In a survival situation, what you carry is all you possess. And you never know when or how something may be used. Furthermore, gather resources along the way. 15
Avoid strong odor The smell of cooked food attracts predators. If you want to cook quickly and safely, dispose of the remains by burying them. Furthermore, do not keep food in your tent/tarp or erected shelter, but store them safely in another place, far away from your sleeping area. There was a case in south Africa where teenagers in a wilderness camp did not follow the ranger's advice to have no food in their tents. A teenager who had kept food in his tent was bitten in the face by a hyena, which followed the smell of food. Wash your hands and brush your teeth more or less to ensure that the smell of meat doesn't stick to you before going to sleep. If you deem it necessary, let a fire burn all night. Strong smell attracts animals - even large predators that can be dangerous to you. 16
EDIBLE FRUIT AND PLANT IN THE FOREST Kabung fruit Kasai fruit Bertam fruit Forest salak fruit Rotan fruit Nipah fruit Ara sungai fruit Cemponek fruit Tarap fruit Berembang fruit Dabai fruit Bambangan fruit 17
HOW TO START A FIRE IN THE FOREST Little Diy stove Pot for cooking using cans Candles in glass bottles Wax tissue Make a bonfire Tuna little stove 18
Hiker or outdoor enthusiast can make their own stoves using only tins. It is very easy and can cook food on the can. Follow the steps below L I T T L E D I Y S T O V E Firstly, punch a hole in the bottom of the can and the top of the can to place the charcoal. Secondly, open the part that has been cut. then pierce the top of the can for the fire to come out from the top. 19
After punching all the holes, add leaves and dry twigs to burn. After adding dry leaves and twigs, you can continue to burn to get embers. Once the fire is burning you can continue to use it as a little diy stove for cooking. 20
Hiker or outdoor enthusiast always make campfires or cook over open fires. However, if you build a fire in the open, it may extinguish due to adverse weather conditions or damp wood. Therefore, the steps to keep the fire going without it going out are as follows: P O T F O R C O O K I N G U S I N G C A N S Firstly, cut the drink can in half. then put coals in the drink can to make it like a stove. After that, put another drink can on top of the can to be used as a pot for cooking. 21
Candles are essential for providing lighting when living in the forest. However, candles can easily be extinguished by wind. Fortunately, there is a solution to this issue by following the steps outlined below: C A N D L E S I N G L A S S B O T T L E S Firstly, pierce the top of the cap for oxygen to enter the glass bottle. Second step, put the candle on the lid of the glass bottle. Finally, light a candle and close the bottle upside down to get light at night. 22
Tissues can also be used as an important source of rapid fire ignition but it will spread quickly. However the tissue has been innovated into waxy tissue. Follow the steps below: W A X T I S S U E Secondly, melt the wax until it melts. Firstly, cut the candle and put it in a tin to heat. 23
Throw away the roll that is in the middle of the tissue and leave the tissue alone. Mix the wax in the tin so that the wax melts evenly. Pour the melted wax onto the tissue. 24
After the wax has hardened, you can start burning the tissue Wait until the poured wax hardens again Tissue will burn for up to 30 to 45 minutes 25
Some hiker or outdoor enthusiast make bonfires for lighting and cooking. Here is how to make a bonfire: M A K E A B O N F I R E Firstly, collect twigs and dry leaves Secondly, put a tissue or dry paper in the middle of a thicket of twigs and dry leaves 26
Next, burn the paper or tissue. Wait until the fire is burning Add dry leaves and dry twigs on the wood so that the fire becomes more intense 27
Open a can of tuna to heat Filled food cans can also be used as a cooking place. Adventurers can heat up two meals in a cook. Follow the steps below as follows: T U N A L I T T L E S T O V E Put a tissue on top of the tuna can 28
Burn the tissue on top of the tuna can After the tissue is burned, we can also use the fire to heat other food on top of the tuna can Once the fire is out, discard the tissue and the tuna can be eaten while hot. 29
HOW TO COOK IN THE FOREST Making drink containers using used cans Cooking using beverage cans Make a bowl using lemba leaves Lemba leaves can be used to boil water Plastic bottle cups Make a bowl using bottle plastic 30
Finally, fold the part that was cut earlier to avoid cuts on the lips when drinking. Hiker or outdoor enthusiast can also make cups using only discarded beverage cans. In this way Hiker or outdoor enthusiast can use cups that have been designed by using drink cans by travelers to be used as drinking cups. Follow the steps below: M A K I N G D R I N K C O N T A I N E R S U S I N G U S E D C A N S Firstly, cut off the top of the used drinking can Secondly, cut the edge of the drink can 5 or 6 times with the same cut 31
0 5 No need to bring cooking items such as pots or pans. This is because travelers can make their own by using empty drink cans. Therefore, follow the steps below: C O O K I N G U S I N G B E V E R A G E C A N S Firstly, light the coals to cook Secondly, put the drink can that has been cut on top of the coals. 32
Next, surround the embers around the can When the can is hot, you can continue cooking in the can 33
Using forest plants can be used as a bowl, for example the leaves of the valley tree. The leaves can hold food to prevent it from falling. Follow the method of folding leaves to make a bowl M A K E A B O W L U S I N G L E M B A L E A V E S Firstly, look for lemba leaves and long leaves to tie lemba leaves. Secondly, tie the split end of the lemba leaf to make it like a bowl. 34
Next, tie another part of the edge of the lemba leaf like the second step. After tying both the left and right sides, spread the lemba leaf like a bowl. After completing all the steps, the lemba leaf can be used to make a bowl. 35
Hiker or outdoor enthusiast can take advantage of forest plants. For example, valley trees. This is because the Hiker or outdoor enthusiast can boil the water of the valley leaves if the hiker or outdoor enthusiast does not bring items to boil water. See the method below to boil water using lemba leaves: L E M B A L E A V E S C A N B E U S E D T O B O I L W A T E R First step, tie both the left and right sides of the lemba leaf and make it like a bowl or a boat shape. Second step, put water in the lemba leaf and place the lemba leaf filled with water on the coals of fire until the water boils. 36
In previous methods such as leaves and wood, cups can also be produced using plastic bottles. The steps are as follows: P L A S T I C B O T T L E C U P S 37
Firstly, cut the middle part of the plastic bottle. Secondly, take the bottom part of the plastic bottle to make a bowl. Lastly, burn the part that has been cut so that the cut part is flat and not sharp. Hiker or outdoor enthusiast don't have to worry if they don't have containers for food; they can make them using plastic bottles. Follow the steps as in the following image: M A K E A B O W L U S I N G B O T T L E P L A S T I C 38
HOW TO MAKE ROPE IN THE FOREST Make a rope using leaves Make a rope from a plastic bottle 39
A rope is a basic necessity for use while in the forest. If the hiker or outdoor enthusiast forgets to bring a rope, the hiker or outdoor enthusiast can use the leaves to make a rope. The selection of leaves must be strong and difficult to break. Follow the step by step guide to make the rope: M A K E R O P E U S I N G L E A V E S Firstly, look for grass or leaves that are long and thick. Secondly, tie both ends of the leaf until it becomes like a rope. Once the leaves have been tied up into a rope. The leaves can be used as a rope for emergencies but the strength is not the same as a real rope. 40
Plastic bottles have many uses, one of which is that they can be made into ropes when cut into small and long pieces. But it is only for temporary use because its strength is not the same as a real rope. Follow the steps below: M A K I N G R O P E S F R O M P L A S T I C B O T T L E S 41
HOW TO MAKE WATER-BASED DIY Fish traps using bottle Make a clip cam into a hook 42