By: Zaki Salleh
TAIPING: Four environmental NGOs have conducted a field programme dubbed “Eco Destruction & Nature” to assess the impact of deforestation in a former section of the Bukit Larut Forest Reserve.
The initiative also included an assessment of the recreational potential of Lata Sungai Serai in the Bukit Gantang parliamentary constituency.
The programme was jointly organised by Persatuan Aktivis Sahabat Alam (KUASA), Pertubuhan Sahabat Ekologi Perak (SEP), Persatuan Penggerak Bumi Hijau Malaysia (GEMS), and Kinta Valley Watch.
About 40 participants, comprising environmental activists, nature enthusiasts and members of the public, took part in the field survey.
Organisers said the programme aimed to identify the environmental impact following clear-felling logging activities previously carried out in the area.
Based on gazette documents, the former section of the Bukit Larut Forest Reserve covering approximately 124.7 hectares (308.13 acres) was de-gazetted on March 29, 2018.
Field observations found that the area consists of steep hilly terrain with highly erosion-prone soil structures, categorised as environmentally sensitive to land-use changes.
Participants also expressed concern that extensive deforestation and land conversion could expose soil surfaces to runoff and increase the risk of slope erosion during heavy rainfall.
They warned that such conditions could potentially lead to mud floods and disrupt the stability of the local ecosystem.
Activists further raised concerns over possible human–wildlife conflict, given the area’s proximity to the Central Forest Spine (CFS) ecological corridor.
Meanwhile, the survey at Lata Sungai Serai found strong potential for eco-tourism and nature-based recreational activities.
The area is further enhanced by the presence of an old tunnel, believed to be part of a colonial-era railway route, adding historical value and tourism appeal.
Organisers hope the programme will raise public awareness on the importance of environmental conservation and the long-term impacts of logging activities.
(Source: Facebook – Barul Hisyam & Lembah Kinta Watchers)
