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Study on the Development of Hill Stations
Final Report 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS..........................................................................................i
LIST OF TABLES..................................................................................................iv
LIST OF FIGURES AND PLATES.......................................................................vii
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS ................................................................................viii
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.....................................................................................E-1
LIST OF ACTION PLANS...................................................................................A-1
CHAPTER 1 : INTRODUCTION
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
BACKGROUND .......................................................................................... 1-1
STUDY OBJECTIVES................................................................................. 1-1
STUDY APPROACH................................................................................... 1-2
STUDY AREA ............................................................................................. 1-3
CONCEPT OF CARRYING CAPACITY ..................................................... 1-4
FORMAT OF REPORT ............................................................................... 1-5
CHAPTER 2 : CAMERON HIGHLANDS
2.1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................... 2-1
2.2 EXISTING SITUATION ............................................................................... 2-2
2.2.1
2.2.2
2.2.3
2.2.4
Physical Environment .......................................................................................2-2
Biological Environment .....................................................................................2-9
Socio-Economic Environment ........................................................................2-17
Infrastructure & Utilities ..................................................................................2-31
2.3 STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES & THREATS ............ 2-35
2.3.1
2.3.2
2.3.3
2.3.4
Strengths ........................................................................................................2-35
Weaknesses ...................................................................................................2-37
Opportunities ..................................................................................................2-41
Threats............................................................................................................2-42
2.4 CARRYING CAPACITY ............................................................................ 2-45
2.5 ACTION PLANS ....................................................................................... 2-46
2.5.1 Development Focus and Guiding Issues........................................................2-46
2.5.2 Tourism Enhancement ...................................................................................2-46
2.5.3 Agriculture.......................................................................................................2-49
2.5.4 Infrasructure and Environmental Improvements .............................................2-51
2.5.5 Biodiversity Conservation ...............................................................................2-53
2.5.6 Administrative .................................................................................................2-56
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 3 : GENTING HIGHLANDS
3.1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................... 3-1
3.2.1
3.2.2
3.2.3
3.2.4
3.3 STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES & THREATS ............ 3-23
3.3.1
3.3.2
3.3.3
3.3.4
Strengths ........................................................................................................3-23
Weaknesses ...................................................................................................3-26
Opportunities ..................................................................................................3-27
Threats............................................................................................................3-30
3.5 ACTION PLANS........................................................................................ 3-33
3.5.1 Development Focus and Guiding Issues........................................................3-33
3.5.3 Land Use Planning ........................................................................................3-35
3.5.4 Infrastructure and Environmental Improvements ............................................3-35
3.5.5 Biodiversity Conservation................................................................................3-37
3.5.6 Administrative ..................................................................................................3-39
CHAPTER 4 : FRASER’S HILL
4.1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................... 4-1
4.2.1
4.2.2
4.2.3
4.2.4
4.3 STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS....... 4-21
4.3.1
4.3.2
4.3.3
4.3.4
Strengths ........................................................................................................4-21
Weaknesses ...................................................................................................4-23
Opportunities ..................................................................................................4-26
Threats............................................................................................................4-27
4.5 ACTION PLANS ....................................................................................... 4-31
4.5.1 Development Plans and Guiding Issues ........................................................4-31
4.5.3 Land Use Planning ........................................................................................4-34
4.5.4 Infrastructure and Environmental Improvements ............................................4-35
4.5.5 Biodiversity Conservation................................................................................4-36
4.5.6 Administrative .................................................................................................4-37
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report 1
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 5 : LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL FRAMEWORK
5.1 INTRODUCTION ......................................................................................... 5-1
5.2 LEGAL ISSUES .......................................................................................... 5-1
5.2.1
5.2.2
5.2.3
5.2.4
5.2.5
5.2.6
5.2.7
Poor Land Use Planning and Management .....................................................5-1
Illegal Land Clearing.........................................................................................5-5
Soil Erosion and Landslides .............................................................................5-6
Water Pollution .................................................................................................5-8
Inappropriate Developments ..........................................................................5-10
Loss of Biological Diversity.............................................................................5-12
Logging ...........................................................................................................5-14
5.3 INSTITUTIONAL ISSUES ......................................................................... 5-17
5.3.1
5.3.2
5.3.3
Lack of Enforcement.......................................................................................5-17
Lack of Human and Technical Capacity.........................................................5-17
Lack of Co-ordination .....................................................................................5-18
APPENDIX I :
REFERENCES
APPENDIX II :
LIST OF MEETINGS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
APPENDIX III :
GUIDELINES FOR THE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION
OF ROADS ON THE HIGHLAND
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report 1
LIST OF TABLES
Table 2.1
Table 2.2
Table 2.3
Table 2.4
Table 2.5
Table 2.6
Table 2.7
Table 2.8
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Table 2.9 :
Table 2.10 :
Table 2.11 :
Table 2.12 :
Table 2.13 :
Table 2.14 :
Table 2.15 :
Table 2.16 :
Table 2.17 :
Table 2.18 :
Table 2.19 :
Table 2.20 :
Table 2.21 :
Table 2.22 :
Table 2.23 :
Table 2.24 :
Table 2.25 :
Table 2.26 :
Table 2.27 :
Table 2.28 :
Table 2.29 :
Table 2.30 :
Table 3.1 :
Table 3.2 :
Table 3.3 :
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
Terrain class area by Mukim
Area of soil erosion risk class by Mukim
Water catchment areas
Water quality of rivers in Cameron Highlands
Water quality of rivers draining Lojing
Forest Reserves within the Cameron Highlands District
Water catchment forest within the Cameron Highlands District
Species richness of the Cameron Highlands flora in
comparison with the total highland plant species of Peninsular
Malaysia
Endemism and rarity among plant species found in Cameron
Highlands
Flora species in Cameron Highlands according to
specialization
Threatened and CITES–listed flora species in Cameron
Highlands
Conservation status of vertebrate fauna of Cameron
Highlands according to IUCN’s Red List of threatened fauna
(IUCN, 2000)
Vertebrate fauna of Cameron Highlands accorded protection
under the protection of Wild Life Act 1972 (applicable to
Peninsular Malaysia)
Population profiles of Pahang & Cameron Highlands, 1970 2000
Distribution of population in town centers 1991 - 2000
Projected population of Cameron Highlands 2000 - 2020
Distribution of employment by sector, 1980 - 1991
Distribution of monthly household income, 1995
Annual usage of land for main crops in Cameron Highlands
1991- 1999
Cropping areas of vegetable crops and type of crops, 1996 1999
Agricultural Development in Lojing, 2001
Tourist arrivals in Cameron Highlands
Distribution of tourists by country of origin, 1999
Average length of stay for Cameron Highlands
Licensed hotels in Cameron Highlands, 1999
Distribution of hotel guests and hotel guests nights, Cameron
Highlands, 1998 & 1999
Existing water supply in Cameron Highlands
Planning demand
Projected solid waste generation
Area of mukim and length of road
Forest Reserves adjoining Genting Highlands
Species richness of the flora in Genting Highlands
Flora in comparison with the total highland plant species of
Peninsular Malaysia
iv
Final Report 1
LIST OF TABLES
Table 3.4 :
Table 3.8 :
Flora species in Genting Highlands according to
specialization
Threatened and CITES listed flora species in Genting
Highlands
Conservation status of vertebrate fauna in Genting Highlands
according to IUCN’s Red List of threatened species
(IUCN,2000)
Vertebrate fauna of Genting Highlands accorded protection of
Wildlife Act, 1972
Number of employees, Resorts World Berhad , 1996-1999
Table 3.9 :
Projected population of Genting Highlands, 2000 - 2020
Table 3.10 :
Table 3.11 :
Table 3.12 :
Tourists arrivals in Genting Highlands (1990 – 1999)
Distribution of tourists by country of origin, 1999
Average length of stay for Genting Highlands (1992 – 1999)
Table 3.13 :
Table 3.14 :
Table 3.15 :
Table 3.16 :
Table 3.17 :
Licensed hotels in Genting Highlands, 1999
Distribution of hotel guests and hotel guests nights
Projected Water Demand in Genting Highlands
Composition of solid waste
Meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibitions, 1996 2000
Table 4.1 :
Table 4.2 :
Forests Reserves adjoining Fraser’s Hill
Important features of prime flora conservation areas in
Fraser’s Hill
Important features of prime flora conservation areas in
Fraser’s Hill
Species richness of the Fraser’s Hill flora in comparison with
the total highland plant species of Peninsular Malaysia
Table 3.5 :
Table 3.6 :
Table 3.7 :
Table 4.3 :
Table 4.4 :
Table 4.5 :
Table 4.6 :
Endemism and rarity among plant species found in Fraser’s
Hill
Flora species in Fraser’s Hill according to specialization
Table 4.7 :
Threatened and CITES listed flora species in Fraser’s Hill
Table 4.8 :
Conservation status of vertebrate fauna in Fraser’s Hill
according to IUCN’s Red List of threatened species
(IUCN,2000)
Vertebrate fauna of Fraser’s Hill accorded protection of
Wildlife Act, 1972
Population distribution of Fraser’s Hill , 1991 - 2000
Projected population of Fraser’s Hill, 2000 - 2020
Distribution of employment by sector, 1991
Tourist arrivals in Fraser’s Hill, 1990 - 1991
Table 4.9 :
Table 4.10 :
Table 4.11 :
Table 4.12 :
Table 4.13 :
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December 2001
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Final Report 1
LIST OF TABLES
Table 4.14 :
Distribution of tourists to Fraser’ Hill by country of origin, 1999
Table 4.15 :
Table 4.16 :
Table 4.17 :
Table 4.18 :
Average length of stay for Fraser’s Hill, 1992 - 1999
Licensed hotels in Fraser’s Hill, 1999
Distribution of hotel guests and hotel guest nights, Fraser’s
Hill, 1998 and 1999
Projected water demand in Fraser’s Hill
Table 5.1 :
Table 5.2 :
Summary of legal recommendations
Summary of institutional recommendations
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December 2001
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Final Report 1
LIST OF FIGURES AND PLATES
Figure 1.1
Figure 2.1a
Figure 2.1b
Figure 2.2a
Figure 2.2b
Figure 2.3
Figure 2.4
Figure 2.5
Figure 2.6
Figure 2.7
Figure 2.8
Figure 2.9 a
Figure 2.9 b
Figure 2.10
Figure 2.11
Figure 2.12
Figure 2.13
Figure 3.1
Figure 3.2
Figure 3.3a
Figure 3.3b
Figure 3.4
Figure 3.5
Figure 4.1
Figure 4.2
Figure 4.3
Figure 4.4
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Location map of the Hill Stations
Land use at Cameron Highlands
Land use at Cameron Highlands
Topography of Cameron Highlands
Topography of Cameron Highlands
Proposed development for Kg Raja-Kuala Terla
Proposed development for Tringkap – Kea Farm
Proposed development for Brinchang
Proposed development plan of Tanah Rata
Proposed development plan of Habu
Proposed development plan of Ringlet – Lembah Bertam
Water catchment areas in Cameron Highlands
Water catchment areas in Cameron Highlands
24-hour mean temperature at Tanah Rata
Major tourist attractions in Cameron Highlands
Components of tourist expenditure in Malaysia, 1999
Alignment of the Simpang Pulai Kuala Berang Road
Land use at Genting Highlands
Areas zoned for development
Topography of Genting Highlands
Water catchment areas in Genting Highlands
Major tourists attractions in Genting Highlands
Landuse at Fraser’s Hill
Topography of the Fraser’s Hill
Water catchment areas in Fraser’s Hill
Major tourist attractions in Fraser’s Hill
Plate 2-1
Plate 2-2
Plate 2-3
Plate 2-4
:
:
:
:
Hill cutting for farming at Kuala Terla
Siltation in the Sultan Abu Bakar Reservoir at Ringlet
Sg. Berok at Lojing laden with silt
Municipal solid waste dump near Tanah Rata
Plate 3-1
Plate 3-2
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Solid waste composting site at Gohtong Jaya
The abandoned Samaworld development
Plate 4-1
Plate 4-2
Plate 4-3
:
:
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Siltation at the Jeriau Waterfall
Start of one of the nature trails in Fraser’s Hill
The Fraser’s Hill Nature Education Centre
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December 2001
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Final Report 1
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
8MP
AAGR
AFTA
ALS
AN
AOR
BOD
COD
CITES
DANCED
DO
DOA
DOE
DOF
DWNP
FAMA
FHDC
FHNEC
FR
GICC
HDF
HRR
IUCN
JBA
JHEOA
LDF
LMF
MARDI
MDB
MDCH
MDGM
MDHS
MDR
MICE
MLD
MOCAT
MOSTE
MTPB
NERC
NSE
PFE
PKINK
REACH
RORO
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
: 8th Malaysia Plan
: Average Annual Growth Rate
: Asean Free Trade Area
: Average Length of Stay
: Ammoniacal Nitrogen
: Average Occupancy Rate
: Biological Oxygen Demand
: Chemical Oxygen Demand
: Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
: Danish Cooperation for Environment & Development
: Dissolved Oxygen
: Department of Agriculture
: Department of Environment
: Department of Forestry
: Department of Wildlife and National Parks
: Federal Agricultural Marketing Authority
: Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation
: Fraser’s Hill Nature Education Centre
: Forest Reserve
: Genting International Convention Center
: Hill Dipterocarp Forest
: Highland Resort Road
: International Union for Conservation of Nature
: Jabatan Bekalan Air
: Jabatan Hal Ehwal Orang Asli
: Lower Dipterocarp Forest
: Lower Mantane Forest
: Malaysia Agricultural Research and Development
Institute
: Majlis Daerah Bentong
: Majlis Daerah Cameron Highlands
: Majlis Daerah Gua Musang
: Majlis Daerah Hulu Selangor
: Majlis Daerah Raub
: Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions
: Mega Liter per Day
: Ministry of Culture, Art and Tourism
: Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment
: Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board
: Nature Education and Research Center
: North South Expressway
: Permanent Forest Estate
: Perbadanan Kemajuan Ihsan Negeri Kelantan
: Regional Environmental Awareness for Cameron
Highlands
: Roll-On Roll-Off
viii
Final Report 1
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
RWB
SWOT
TOL
TSS
UDF
UMF
WCMC
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
: Resorts World Berhad
: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threat
: Temporary Occupancy License
: Total Suspended Solid
: Upper Dipterocarp Forest
: Upper Montane Forest
: World Conservation Monitoring Center
ix
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Final Report 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
INTRODUCTION
1.
The study on “The Development of the Hill Stations in Peninsula Malaysia
was commissioned by the Economic Planning Unit of the Prime Minister’s
Department (EPU) in May 2001.
2.
The main objective of the study is to formulate guidelines and
recommendations for the sustainable development of six hill stations in
Peninsular Malaysia namely Cameron Highlands (including Lojing), Fraser's
Hill, Genting Highlands, Maxwell Hill, Gunung Jerai and Penang Hill.
3.
The reporting has been divided into two parts - Volume I presents the study
on Cameron Highlands, Fraser's Hill and Genting Highlands while Volume II
will focus on Maxwell Hill, Gunung Jerai and Penang Hill.
4.
All the three hill stations addressed in this report, Cameron Highlands,
Genting Highlands and Fraser’s Hill are located on the Main Range
(Banjaran Titiwangsa)
CAMERON HIGHLANDS & LOJING
Existing Situation
5.
The study area extends to Lojing up to Pos Brooke across the Kelantan
border, and also takes into account the influence of the orang asli
settlements located some distance away, such as Pos Attap to the east of
Tanah Rata or Pos Terisu to the west of Teringkap.
6.
Cameron Highlands occupies an area of 71200 ha and with a population of
about 30,000, is the largest hill station in Malaysia.
7.
Cameron Highlands is mountainous, with much of the terrain being steeper
than 40 degrees. Lojing is also located in the mountainous areas, where the
terrain is characterized by steep slopes and deep ravines, especially at the
higher elevations.
8.
Cameron Highlands is drained by eight rivers; Sg. Bertam, Sg. Telum and
Sg. Lemoi, being the major ones; as well as Sg. Ringlet, Sg Habu, Sg
Burong, Sg Tringkap, and Sg Terla. These rivers drain eastward into Sg
Pahang. The water quality of the rivers Cameron Highlands has been
deteriorating over the years, mainly due to siltation from land clearing for
developments, road construction and agriculture.
9.
The entire Lojing area up to Pos Blau falls within the Sg Berok catchment
that eventually flows into Sg Kelantan. The water is laden with silt due to
road
construction
and
agriculture
activities.
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Final Report 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
10.
The major land uses in the district of Cameron Highlands are forest (71%)
and agriculture (8%). Agriculture activities are largely concentrated in areas
such as Kg. Raja - Kuala Terla, Tringkap - Kea Farm, Habu and Ringlet Lembah Bertam. Farming activities in Lojing started in the 1980’s but has
accelerated recently due to better accessibility.
11.
Forests occupy 50,800 ha of the Cameron Highlands district. About 54% of
the forests (38,000 ha) in the district have been gazetted as Permanent
Forest Reserve (PFE), and the remaining are state land forest. The PFE is
made up of 13 forest reserves.
12.
The summit regions of G. Berembun, G. Brinchang and G. Perdah support
rich flora diversity with high species endemism and are important for flora
conservation in Cameron Highlands.
13.
The main economic activities in Cameron Highlands are temperate
agriculture and tourism. The agriculture produce includes temperate flowers
(378 ha, 1999), vegetables (2,720 ha, 1999), fruits (90 ha, 1999) and tea
(2309 ha, 1999). The main crops cultivated in Lojing include fruits
(mandarin) with about 113 ha and vegetables with 266 ha. Recently, tea
was also planted in Lojing on an area of 28 ha.
14.
Tourism is an important economic sector in Cameron Highlands. The two
principal tourism products here are Nature Tourism and Agro-Tourism.
15.
Tourist arrivals in 2000 numbered 305,000 with domestic tourist accounting
for 79% of the total. In terms of foreign visitors, Singapore is the main origin
market followed by the United Kingdom. Other origin markets are Thailand,
Netherlands, Japan, Germany and Australia.
16.
The main water supply to Cameron Highlands is from the Sg. Burong intake.
Other areas such as Kuala Terla, Kg. Raja, Ringlet and Habu source their
own supply from existing streams and the water undergoes semi-treatment
process before being supplied to consumers. There have been water
shortages occurring during the “dry” season.
17.
For the Lojing area, there is no major water abstraction point along Sg
Berok or its tributaries. The rivers are however used by most of the Orang
Asli communities for drinking, washing and bathing.
18.
The volume of solid waste generated in Cameron Highlands is
approximately 22 tonnes/day and dumped at a site 3 km away from Tanah
Rata, where the waste is accumulated and pushed down a steep slope.
19.
The five urban centers in Cameron Highlands, namely Ringlet, Tanah Rata,
Brinchang, Kuala Terla and Kg. Raja, are linked by a single well-maintained
road. During weekends and school holidays, the number cars and buses
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December 2001
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Final Report 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
coming here tend to cause traffic problems. Insufficient parking spaces
especially in Brinchang, causes drivers to park indiscriminately.
20.
The Simpang Pulai – Cameron Highlands (Blue Valley) section of the
Simpang Pulai - Kuala Berang highway has been competed and will provide
another access to Cameron Highlands. When the entire stretch is ready,
Cameron Highlands will also be accessible to traffic from Kelantan.
21.
There is presently a proposal to construct a road from Kuala Lipis to
Lembah Bertam.
Strengths
22.
Cameron Highlands has a Local Plan, unlike the other two hill stations. The
Local Plan provides direction to future growth and identifies some of the
environmental constraints to development.
23.
Cameron Highlands is the oldest hill station in Malaysia and rich with
heritage from colonial times, making it ideal as a tourist resort.
24.
Cameron Highlands offers good tourism products where the natural
environment and vegetable, fruit, flower and tea cultivation have provided
twin tourism products of nature tourism and agro-tourism with varying
appeal to domestic and foreign tourists. This hill station also possesses a
reasonably extensive accommodation base with a stock of around 2,000
rooms ranging from 4 star hotels, mid-priced and budget hotels, chalets,
apartments and bungalows.
25.
The highland forest in Cameron Highlands harbours a rich diversity of plant
species due to the existence of extensive forest amounting to about 71% of
the total area of the Cameron Highlands district. About 24% of Peninsular
Malaysia’s highland plant species are found in Cameron Highlands.
26.
There are currently at least 14 nature trails within the forests in Cameron
Highlands that could be utilized to highlight interesting biodiversity features.
Additionally, the trails could be used for nature education and interpretation
to instill appreciation and responsibility of the natural resources of Cameron
Highlands among the local community, visitors and tourists.
27.
The accessibility to Cameron Highlands will increase with the construction of
Simpang Pulai – Kuala Berang road and help to boost the socio-economic
sector by providing an alternative transport route and the completion of this
road will increase the market for vegetables in the Kelantan side. Tourism
too, will set to increase with the added convenience of an additional access.
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December 2001
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Weaknesses
28.
The approval of many incongruent developments, resulting in building
heights that are not in harmony with the surrounding environment.
29.
A large proportion of farmers in Cameron Highlands operate on TOLs
issued by the State Authority. Since such licences are usually renewed
annually, there is no security of tenure and therefore no incentive for
farmers to adopt good agricultural practices.
30.
There are weaknesses in the Cameron Highlands Local Plan that need to
be reviewed before it is gazetted, particularly on housing and agriculture. It
appears that the projection for housing is an over-estimate and the densities
too high. The provision for the agriculture land needs to be reviewed.
31.
There is no proper development master plan for Lojing. This has lead to
haphazard development.
32.
The lack of enforcement against illegal land clearing and collection of forest
produce in Cameron Highlands is a major problem as these activities are
the main causes of soil erosion and siltation of rivers. The same problem too
exists in Lojing. The problem is severe in Lojing because the Local Authority
being Majlis Daerah Gua Musang is located some 80 km away.
33.
Environmental degradation from agricultural activities is widespread in
Cameron Highlands. The extensive use of pesticides and fertilizers and land
clearing on steep slopes for agriculture have lead to the deterioration of
water quality.
34.
There is a lack of synergy between agriculture and tourism despite both
being the major economic activities in Cameron Highlands.
35.
There is a lack of quality of tourist attractions coupled with weak tourism
infrastructure.
36.
Although there is generally a reasonable amount of information relating to
the total biodiversity in Cameron Highlands, detailed information for specific
areas and the variation in the distribution of biodiversity between place to
place is relatively limited.
37.
Although there are a good number of nature trails in Cameron Highlands,
they are poorly maintained. The nature guiding service is also
unsatisfactory.
38.
There is a threat of water shortage, as whenever there is a “dry season”,
households and commercial areas would have dry taps.
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December 2001
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Final Report 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
39.
The solid waste management is very poor. Waste is simply pushed off into a
valley leading to water pollution.
40.
The lack of proper parking areas in Brinchang results in indiscriminate
parking during holiday periods and disrupts traffic.
Opportunities
41.
The new development corridors as identified in the Local Plan provide the
opportunity for development in Cameron Highlands. The potential
development areas include the Simpang Pulai - Cameron Highlands - Lojing
corridors.
42.
The Local Plan development proposals have provided the opportunity for
planned infill developments for each of the centres within the MDCH area.
43.
The opportunity to further enhance the tourism potential especially in the
nature-based and agro-tourism sector has been identified in the statutory
plans for Cameron Highlands.
44.
Being a secondary MICE destination is another potential strength. Vigorous
efforts are being undertaken to actively position and promote Malaysia as a
premier MICE destination, which has high-yielding potential.
Threats
45.
The indiscriminate clearing by farmers on the hill slopes for agriculture is a
major concern as vast land clearing can threaten the water quality leading to
a reduction in water supply.
46.
With MDCH’s policy of no opening up of new land for agriculture, farmers
may try to maximise use of current agriculture land and this might result in
unsystematic and indiscriminate agriculture land practices. The policy has
also seen farmers migrating to Lojing, to open up new land.
47.
Labour shortages in the agricultural sector could arise from competitive
employment opportunities from other sectors, notably tourism.
48.
The removal of trade barriers through AFTA could adversely affect the
competitiveness of temperate farming in this hill station, and given the
symbiotic relationship between agriculture and tourism, would eventually
weaken the tourism industry as well.
49.
The proposed Hill Resort Road (HRR) is a serious threat to the biodiversity
and the environment surrounding Cameron Highlands. Habitat destruction
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
50.
and loss of species pose a real threat to the integrity of the natural
environment of Cameron Highlands.
51.
The threat of future landslides is very real in Cameron Highlands if no
stringent measures are drawn up on control of opening up of farmland and
uncontrolled development.
52.
With the new access to Cameron Highlands at Kg. Raja, the Kg. Raja –
Tanah Rata main road would become a major thoroughfare, and will pose
major traffic problems to the already narrow road.
Carrying Capacity
53.
From the three possible constraints that were considered, namely tourism
factor, water supply and transport, the tourist carrying capacity has been
calculated to 8000 visitors per day or 2.9 million visitors per year.
Action Plans
54.
This study recommends 33 action plans to enhance tourism, improve the
environmental quality and to promote sustainable development. The main
recommendations relate to:
(a)
better packaging of tourism products
(b)
improvements in coordination and enforcement
(c)
water demand management and infrastructure improvements
(d)
education and community development
The action plans are presented after the Executive Summary.
GENTING HIGHLANDS
Existing Situation
55.
The area of study for Genting Highlands is confined between Genting
Sempah near the Karak Highway and Bukit Genting Chin Chin to the north.
The terrain of Genting Highlands is composed of steep, high mountains with
V-shaped valleys and sharp hilltops and ridges.
56.
Genting Highlands is the newest hill station to be developed. Since its
opening in May 1971, the place has developed into a highly popular and
successful holiday resort. Boasting the country’s only casino and supported
by an excellent range of recreational facilities and hotels, Genting Highlands
has become a major tourist attraction, drawing some 13.4 million
holidaymakers in the year 2000. During the “super-peak” periods, daily
tourist arrivals reach 100,000.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
57.
Genting Highlands is drained by Sg Kedondong, Sg Mengkuang, Sg
Pencheras and Sg Bunga Buah on the west; Sg Berdah, Sg Bertam Lumut
and Sg Serung Lima on the south and Sg Perting on the north. Sg
Pencheras and Sg Mengkuang are tributaries of Sg Batang Kali which forms
part of the Sg Selangor river basin. The water quality along Sg Benus was
found to be generally good from 1996 to 1999 with most of the parameters
within the Class II of the National Water Quality Standards.
58.
The Genting Group is the dominant player, owning an area of about 3,965
ha, of which 2,952 ha is located in Pahang and the remaining 1,013 ha in
Selangor. The entire area has been approved for development with
residential component being the major land use. Other landowners include
the Selangor and Pahang State Governments and smaller developers with a
total land area of about 1,626 ha. The total area developed by the Genting
Group constitute about 4.5% of the total land bank, with the remaining
95.5% is forested. Development is concentrated at the 3,000 ft level (Awana
resort) and at the 6,000 ft level (Genting Highlands resort).
59.
The development at the hilltop consists of a casino, recreational parks,
apartments and hotels, occupying 27 ha. The development at 3,000 ft level
includes Awana golf and country club, Horse Ranch, Bandar Goh Tong
Jaya, Layang Indah and Sri Noah. Bandar Gohtong Jaya, a residential
township, includes commercial, apartments, medical and educational
facilities whilst Layang Indah and Sri Noah are residential developments.
Other developments include institutions, social facilities, infrastructure and
utility stations.
60.
3,785 ha (95.5%) of the 3,965 ha of land belonging to the Genting Group is
still under forest cover, comprising mostly virgin forest. The ridge and
summit areas of G. Bunga Buah and G. Ulu Kali have been identified as
having outstanding potential for flora conservation.
61.
The major socio-economic activities in Genting Highlands are entertainment
and recreation. Other activities include ginger farming and education
centres.
62.
The 1999 tourist arrivals numbered 1,888,159, with 1,489,740 or 78.9%
being domestic tourist. Tourists from Singapore accounted for the largest
foreign arrivals, making up 16% of the total numbers.
63.
There were eight hotels with a total of 4,011 rooms in 1999, and a new hotel
is currently being constructed; 1,000 rooms are already in operation and by
the end of 2001, 3,300 rooms (out of a projected total of 6,300) are
expected to be in operation. The development of Tower Two (3,000 rooms)
will depend on market demand.
64.
The main source of water supply in Genting Highlands comes from Sg
Berdah and Sg Bertam Lumut. There are five water intakes located along
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December 2001
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Final Report 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Sg Pencheras and Sg Mengkuang which abstract water to the two existing
treatment plants.
65.
The sewage treatment system in Genting Highlands is good and modern
with a treatment capacity for 1333,000 population equivalent. Other
developments in the Genting Highlands, such as Institut Aminuddin Baki
and Genting View Resort have their own sewage treatment facilities. Older
developments have septic tanks.
66.
Resorts World Berhad has six incinerators to manage all their solid waste.
Four incinerators are located at the hill top whereas the other two are
located at mid way near Gohtong Jaya. Resorts World has introduced a new
method for its solid waste management involving recycling, incinerating and
composting.
67.
Access to Genting Highlands is via a 19 km road from Genting Sempah or
via Batang Kali. The alternative is via a cable car system from the mid hill to
the summit, known as the “Skyway”. The “Skyway” has a capacity of 2400
passengers per hour.
Strengths
68.
A major strength of Genting Highlands is that much of the land is owned and
developed by one company, the Genting Group, which up to now has
planned the development well.
69.
Ease of access from Kuala Lumpur, together with a well-maintained access
road to the summit is a major factor in the large visitor volume to Genting
Highlands. The recently implemented “Skyway” cable car provides a further
convenience for visitors who do not wish to drive up to the summit.
70.
The excellent facilities in the resort make Genting Highlands a premier MICE
destination. The cooling temperatures and recreational facilities provide for
family orientated activities and is very popular for day-trippers.
71.
Genting Highland’s has a clearly defined tourism product, entertainment,
and this product has been exceptionally well positioned in both the domestic
and international market with this hill resort being identified as …”The City of
Entertainment.”
72.
Genting Highland’s also has an extensive accommodation base with a very
good mix of accommodation facilities ranging from 5 star deluxe hotels, midpriced and budget hotels and apartments.
73.
The highland forest of Genting Highlands supports a rich biodiversity of at
least 500 species of plants, 20% of which are endemic. The size of the
Genting Highlands flora corresponds to nearly 17% of the total highland
plant species of Peninsular Malaysia.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
74.
Genting Highlands possesses good infrastructure especially in the areas of
solid waste management and sewerage system.
Weaknesses
75.
Without a development master plan, there is an absence of policies and
guidelines to monitor and control development at Genting Highlands which
can lead to detrimental effects to the environment.
76.
In the context of biodiversity, the lack of long-term security from
development for much of the forest in Genting Highlands poses a major
weakness.
77.
The water-stress at Genting Highlands is the primary limiting factor for
development. The water intakes are also susceptible to water quality
degradation due to the fact they are downstream of the development at the
hilltop.
78.
A threat to the water supply of Genting Highlands is the pollution of the
rivers that supply water to the intakes. The water quality may deteriorate
from Resort World’s massive resort complex as well as other developments
within Genting Highlands.
79.
While most of the access from Genting Sempah to the summit provides a
comfortable drive, the final few kilometers are very steep and difficult for
cars to ascend, let alone heavier vehicles. On peak periods, this can turn to
be a crawl up, as many vehicles find it difficult to negotiate the steep slopes.
This in turn leads to more vehicular exhaust emissions and degrading the air
quality.
Opportunities
80.
The vast amount of undeveloped land has the potential to be utilised for eco
tourism activities. With the rich biodiversity found in the area, selected areas
of the highland have the potential to support this type of tourism activity.
Capitalising on the forests provides good prospects for nature-based and
eco-recreation activities. These could be promoted as a tourism product
that will add variety to the selection as well as complement the existing
range of tourism products for Genting Highlands.
81.
Promotional campaigns such as Cuti-Cuti Malaysia offer promising potential
for further expanding the flow of domestic visitors to this already popular hill
resort.
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
82.
The forests in Genting Highlands is largely still intact and prime biodiversity
conservation areas have been identified, there are therefore opportunities
for setting aside specific areas of forest to be kept permanently in their
natural state. This provides some form of guarantee to the long-term status
of important forest areas in Genting Highlands.
Threats
83.
The lack of a development master plan may result in a haphazard
development in Genting Highlands with other developers.
84.
Genting Highlands faces competition from other established hill resorts in
Malaysia and in neighbouring countries.
85.
Development involving unnecessary clearance of large areas of forest could
have significant implication on biodiversity.
86.
Although currently more than 90% of the Genting Group landbank is still
under forest and there are no immediate plans to develop these areas, there
is no long-term security for these forests from being subjected to
development pressures.
Carrying Capacity
87.
calculated to 46,354 visitors per day or 16.919 million visitors per year.
Action Plans
88.
This study recommends 18 actions plans to enhance tourism, improve the
(a)
Land use zoning
(b)
Better coordination and enforcement
(c)
Water demand management and infrastructure improvements
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December 2001
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
FRASER’S HILL
Existing Situation
89.
The Fraser’s Hill study area comprises of the areas above the 1200m level
including The Gap area to the south, the Jeriau Waterfall and the new
Fraser’s Hill Golf club to the east.
90.
Fraser’s Hill is the least developed of the three hill stations although
development here began back in 1919. Fraser’s Hill actually is on seven
hills, covering an area of 2,804 ha. Today, about 1,000 people live and work
here, maintaining a hill resort with a few scattered bungalows, a few hotels
and apartments, golf courses, and some recreational facilities.
91.
Fraser’s Hill is the lowest of the three major hill stations on the Main Range.
The terrain at Fraser’s Hill is steep, resulting in many of the large
developments such as Pine Resort and Silverpark being built on slopes. The
Fraser’s Hill Country Club golf course was constructed in the valley between
the peaks of Bukit Pokok Pine, Bukit Hulu Sempam and Bukit Jeriau.
92.
Fraser’s Hill drains into both Selangor and Pahang. The water quality of the
main river, Sg. Terenum, is generally clean, within Class II of the Proposed
National Water Quality Standard.
93.
Fraser's Hill’s economy is dependent upon tourism. The main supporting
sectors are the hotel, restaurants, and retail sectors.
94.
The nature trails afford visitors the opportunity to see interesting flora and
fauna including birds, where there are in excess of 250 species of birds at
Fraser’s Hill. This hill station is a bird sanctuary of international standing.
The major annual event attraction in this hill station is The Fraser’s Hill
International Bird Race, which has been held annually since 1988.
95.
The tourist arrivals in Fraser’s Hill for 1999 numbered 32,154, which is a
decline from 57,504 arrivals in 1990. Domestic tourists make up 88% of the
total, while Singaporeans head the list of foreign tourist arrivals with 4%.
There are seven hotels with a total of 437 rooms in Fraser’s Hill.
96.
Fraser’s Hill is a very minor destination for foreign visitors and even for
Malaysian visitors it only accounts for about 0.2%, as compared to 9.1%
attracted to Genting Highlands and 2.7% who visit Cameron Highlands.
97.
Fraser’s Hill obtains its water supply from Sg. Hijau, and previously from
Allen’s lake. The existing treatment plant at Jalan Jeriau is being upgraded
and another reservoir has been built in addition to the existing one to
increase the storage capacity. The supply is sufficient at present.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
98.
Sewage treatment systems in Fraser’s Hill consist mainly of septic tanks for
the older developments and mechanized sewage treatment plants for the
newer developments.
99.
The solid waste disposal is similar to that practiced in Cameron Highlands,
where there is no proper landfill site and the waste is thrown over hillside.
100.
Access to the hilltop has been made more convenient with the opening of
the second access from the Gap to the hill top. At the hill top, the roads are
quite narrow and on weekends and public holidays, the number of cars to
this hill station increases and causes traffic problems.
Strengths
101.
The rugged terrain, cool climate and the sporadic distribution of the lowdensity development units have blended to create a balanced harmony
between the built and physical environment.
102.
The existing recreational facilities and activities, particularly, nature trails,
bird watching, golf courses, horse riding and fishing have been instrumental
in attracting visitors to the resort.
103.
Extensive areas of forest are intact in about 90% of the land within the
Fraser’s Hill municipality area. The high visibility of the forest is in fact a
major asset for this hill station as the forests provide refuge for an
abundance of biodiversity accounting for 18% of Peninsular Malaysia’s
highland flora.
104.
There are nine nature trails in Fraser’s Hill, each differing from the others in
terms of its biodiversity features, difficulty of terrain and time taken to
complete the trail. The trails are interesting as they transverse the different
forest types found in Fraser’s Hill.
105.
The Fraser’s Hill Nature Education Centre (FHNEC) has been established
through a collaborative effort of the FHDC and WWF Malaysia. The Centre
runs nature education programmes both for the local population as well as
for organized groups and visitors to Fraser’s Hill.
Weaknesses
106.
The facilities provided cater mainly for the local population but not for the
visitors or tourists. Besides the children’s playground, the museum and mini
zoo are poorly maintained and has closed down. The nature trails have not
been well-maintained and there is also a lack of experienced and
knowledgeable tour/nature guides, which further dampens the quality of the
visitor experience.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
107.
Incongruent development exists in Fraser’s Hill particularly high rise density
apartments, where building height exceeds the tree line and impairs the
natural beauty of the environment. The absence of development plans and
guideline controls has contributed to this problem.
108.
There seem to be a general lack of attention given to the management and
enforcement of biodiversity matters such as illegal collection of wild flora and
fauna.
109.
Private vehicle usage is dominant, which at weekends and public holidays
strains parking capacity. There are also problems arising from the
inadequacy of public bus services from/to Kuala Kubu Bahru and a lack of
bus service within the hill resort itself.
110.
The sewerage system at Fraser’s Hill is old and outdated, utilizing septic
tanks, except for the newer developments such as Silverpark Apartments,
where mechanized systems are used.
111.
The management of solid waste is not been carried out in an
environmentally friendly manner, as solid waste is presently disposed off in
an open dump down a hillside.
Opportunities
112.
Opportunities for development pressure will now be more evident with
recent opening of the new 12 km access link from near the existing Gap
access to the Pines Resort in Fraser’s Hill.
113.
Fraser’s Hill has excellent potential to develop nature tourism due to its rich
biodiversity which is well known both locally and internationally. The nature
trails offer great potential as an attractive nature tourism product.
Threats
114.
Continuous and aggressive promotion of Fraser's Hill might also see the
problem of labour force shortage at a later stage due to its small resident
population.
115.
There have been complaints about collection of wild flora and fauna (which
includes mainly pitcher plants, orchids, herbs with medicinal values,
butterflies and other insects as well as birds) from the forest in Fraser’s Hill.
116.
Unguided development in recent years has resulted in some serious
consequences that threaten the biodiversity of Fraser’s Hill.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
117.
A possible threat to sustainable development in Fraser’s Hill could arise if
the proposed Hill Resort Road (HRR), which would traverse along the
mountainous terrain of the Main Range, was constructed.
118.
Abolishing the alternating ascending and descending traffic control at the
Gap will now add to the convenience of visitors driving up, and there is a
likelihood of increase in vehicular traffic and congestion in the town centre.
Carrying Capacity
119.
calculated to be 530 visitors per day or about 193,400 visitors per year.
Action Plans
120.
This study recommends 29 actions plans to enhance tourism, improve the
(a)
improvements of tourism facilities
(b)
better packaging of tourism products
(c)
improvements in coordination and enforcement
(d)
water demand management and infrastructure improvements
(e)
education and community development
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report 1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
LEGAL & INSTITUTIONAL ISSUES
121.
The present laws are generally adequate for development control in the Hill
Stations, but further fine-tuning and adjustments are required to properly
ensure that future planning and developments are in line with the
sustainability concept.
122.
The recommendations in this study relate to the amendment of existing
laws, gazzettement of affected and protected areas, statutory plans,
guidelines and by-laws. The list of action plans related to legal and
institutional issues are presented in the list of action plans after the
Executive Summary.
123.
There is a need to delegate powers to more agencies to help control the
pollution or soil erosion that is occurring in the hill stations. Similarly, powers
from the relevant authority for example, the local authority or district officer
can be delegated to others to help in the enforcement of the respective
laws.
124.
The delegation of powers to agencies and the EMU will not be sufficient
without the manpower in terms of officers as well as professional technical
support. The lack of qualified professionals will hamper the effective
management of the land use and development in general in the hill stations.
125.
The lack of coordination among the relevant agencies remains a scourge to
effective management and implementation of policies. Relevant agencies
need to be aware of not only their own roles and responsibilities but of
others such that they can be an effective network. Both Federal and State
governments have formed committees to address the issue of lack of coordination.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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LIST OF ACTION PLANS
Final Report 1
ACTION PLANS FOR
CAMERON HIGHLANDS & LOJING
Action Plan
:
CH-AP1
Stakeholder Action :
UPEN Pahang & UPEN Kelantan
Cameron Highlands and Lojing must only focus on the three tourism themes,
namely agro-tourism, nature-tourism and cultural-heritage tourism. Other types of
new tourism development such as theme parks and golf courses should not be
permitted. Pahang and Kelantan State Governments should issue directive in this
regard. This directive should eventually apply to Kinta Highlands as well.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP2
Ministry of Culture, Arts & Tourism
Strengthen the synergy between agriculture and tourism. Agro-tourism,
including agro-environmental tourism, in which visitors stay at farms and take part
in agricultural activities, should be strongly encouraged as a means of promoting
sustainable tourism. Examples of good synergy between agriculture and tourism
are the tea estates. The tea estates have forged commendable links and many
tourists visit the tea gardens and also undertake tours of the processing factories.
For most of the other crops, e.g., vegetables, fruits and flowers, the links need to be
enhanced and innovative home stay programmes developed. The provision of
accommodation to visitors who pay for staying on farms, helps improve farmers’
incomes and for urban residents the contact with nature and with the people who
live there is a vital experience. MOCAT should form “Committee on Strengthening
of Agriculture – Tourism Synergy at Cameron Highlands and
Lojing“comprising relevant government agencies, tourism industry and the
agriculture sector.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP3
As a follow up to Action Plan CH-AP2, MOCAT should initiate an agro-tourism
development programme in Ringlet/Lembah Bertam. The programme shall
include the provision of home stay facilities inline with the guidelines of the National
Rural Tourism Master Plan shall be initiated. This programme should also be
replicated in other locations such as Kampung Raja and Tringkap.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP4
Department of Forestry
The Department of Forestry should, with the support from the private sector,
introduce a Nature Tourism Development programme that would encompass,
inter-alia, the upgrading of existing nature trails, development of new trails, the
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-1
Final Report 1
organization of climbing expeditions, and the promotion of camping and other forms
of “soft” adventure, recreational fishing and caving.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP5
Ministry of Culture, Arts & Tourism, Majlis Daerah
Cameron Highlands, Jabatan Hal Ehwal Orang
Asli, Ministry of Education
MOCAT in association with MDCH, JHEOA, Ministry of Education and the private
sector should develop cultural-heritage tourism. A one-stop Cameron Highlands
Heritage Centre should be developed in Tanah Rata with an Orang Asli Interpretive
Museum, a Tea House/ Tea Museum and Nature Education Centre. An existing
heritage building such as the Convent in Tanah Rata might be suitable for such a
centre.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP6
Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board
MTPB should produce high quality promotional material with emphasis on
products on offer including pamphlets and brochures, dos and don’ts guides, pocket
checklists, information guides etc. The current promotional material is deemed
inadequate to capture the imagination of the potential tourists.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP7
A Tourism Masterplan must be formulated for the Cameron Highlands –
Lojing and Kinta Highlands triangle. The three locations can complement one
another and take away considerable tourist pressure off Cameron Highlands. The
Masterplan must give adequate consideration to protect the fragile highland
environment.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP8
Pejabat Daerah Cameron Highlands, Pejabat
Tanah & Galian Cameron Highlands
Prohibit the opening up of new agricultural areas in Cameron Highlands.
Cameron Highlands is already facing serious environmental problems due to
agriculture such as silting of rivers and reservoirs, landslides and unsightly bare
slopes.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP9
UPEN Pahang, Pejabat Daerah Cameron
Highlands, Pejabat Tanah & Galian Cameron
Highlands
Revamp the agricultural land tenure system at Cameron Highlands. Farmers
must be given longer land leases on the condition that farming practices are
improved.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
CH-AP10
Department of Agriculture, Pejabat Tanah &
Galian Cameron Highlands
The integration of small size farms should be strongly encouraged and
incentives provided for those framers who integrate their farms. Incentives could be
in terms of longer lease of land, continuous provision of advanced agriculture
courses and research, consultancy and advisory services. Other incentives might
possibly increase the land tenure lease to five years to those practicing systematic
agriculture practice. There is an on-going programme by the DOA where incentives,
consultancy and advisory services as well as the requisite training are provided for
farmers in this district. Elements of this Action Plan not already covered by this
programme can be integrated into it.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP11
Ministry of Science Technology & Environment,
Department of Agriculture, Majlis Daerah
Cameron Highlands & Gua Musang, Department
of Environment
The existing Cabinet committee on development for highland areas chaired
by the MOSTE Secretary General should implement and enforce more
systematic agriculture practices in both Cameron Highlands and Lojing. This
committee will be responsible for maintaining among others, environmental checks,
usage of lands, pesticides and fertilizers. Alternatively, a sub-committee led by the
DOA can be formed within the Cabinet committee to carry out this plan.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP12
UPEN Kelantan
Create a new district or sub-district of Lojing. The creation of this sub-district
and the eventually establishment of an administrative centre at Lojing would help
the authorities to support and monitor development activities at Lojing.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP13
Economic Planning Unit, UPEN Kelantan & UPEN
Perak
A Comprehensive Master Development Plan for Lojing should be formulated.
The current development plans appear simplistic, do not give due attention to the
difficult terrain conditions and ignore environmental and market conditions.
Although at present, there is already an Indicative Plan for Lojing, a comprehensive
Masterplan is needed to ensure that the agricultural and tourism development plans
by the Kelantan State Government are sustainable and mistakes made at Cameron
Highlands are not repeated. This action plan could be combined with CH-AP7.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
CH-AP14
Federal Agriculture & Marketing Authority
FAMA should develop cold room storage at Kg. Raja and Tringkap for
vegetables and other agricultural produce. The cold storage will serve more as a
tool for produce transit rather than for curbing price instability. Networking with
hypermarkets and supermarkets should be initiated here, an example being the
cold-chain market concept. A storage capacity of 10 MT will be adequate and
should be compartmentalized such that partial usage of the cold storage is
possible.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP15
Department of Agriculture
DOA should establish a farm certification system. Monetary incentives can be
provided to farmers to adopt good farming practices. The farms can be rated into 3
classes from most environmentally friendly (Class 1) to least environmentally
friendly (Class 3). Class 1 farms can then be given a subsidy per annum per acre of
farm by Jabatan Pertanian, Class 2 farms to paid a lesser amount, with none for
Class 3 farms. Examples of best practices include terracing on steep slopes, using
organic fertilizers to proper amounts, proper waste disposal and so on. Farm
produce from here can then also be labelled as Class 1 for environmentally friendly
as an advertisement to consumers who care.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP16
Department of Water Supply
Formulate a Water Resources Management Plan for Cameron Highlands. The
plan, in addition to identifying demands and new sources of water, must address
water demand management, catchment protection and public education.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP17
Majlis Daerah Cameron Highlands
MDCH should not permit any development activities in water catchment
areas. Immediate steps shall be taken to identify illegal farming in water catchment
areas and prosecute the offenders.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP18*
MDCH should make water conservation measures mandatory for all new
facilities in Cameron Highlands. Half flush toilets and auto-shut off taps must be
installed as a condition of building plan approval. All existing hotels shall be given a
grace period of three years to implement these measures. Water demand
management will help alleviate the water stress problem.
* denotes Action Plans common to all three hill stations
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
CH-AP19*
MDCH should ensure that all hotels implement environmental management
systems (EMS) (ISO14001 or equivalent) as a condition of business licence.
MDCH could give monetary incentives in the form of reduction in the annual quit
rent and/or assessments according to hotels’ level of implementation of these
measures. All hotels shall be given a grace period of three years to implement the
EMS.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP20
Upgrade the solid waste management system at Cameron Highlands. Systems
similar to those used at Genting Highlands (sorting, composting and incineration)
could be utilized. An area of approximately 1 ha will be required and could possibly
be sited near the existing dumping site near Tanah Rata. The present road leading
to Tanah Rata has to be re-aligned to allow for the present dump area to be
increased. A detailed study has to be carried out to fine tune the location and
design.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP21
Improve the current waste recycling scheme. Although there is a recycling
program at present, the response is poor. A long-term program to educate the
people on the benefits of recycling can be initiated to increase their awareness. The
Government offices and hotels can start by having recycling bins in the office for
paper, aluminum cans and bottles, along with posters and talks citing the benefits of
recycling. It is then hoped that in a long run, the people will carry the recycling habit
back to their homes. Alam Flora should designate one day of the week to collect
recyclable waste from the residents. On the designated day, all waste to be recycled
will be left outside their premises for a special collection. A special container marked
“Recycling” can be provided to all households for the purpose.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP22
Improve the parking situation by constructing a multi-level car park at Brinchang
to overcome the parking problem. The site should ideally be right in the centre of
town, possibly near the fire station. After that, the road shoulders on the main road
shall be declared “No-Parking” zones and enforcement officers will fine those who
continue to park there. The construction and operations of the car-park can be
privatized.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-5
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
CH-AP23
Department of Forestry, Department of Wildlife &
National Parks
The Forestry Department and/or DWNP to implement a programme to control
the illegal collection of wild flora and fauna. Possible measures may include the
following:
• Enforcing a ban on collecting wild flora and fauna;
• Putting up signs in multi-languages at strategic locations (e.g. entrance to
nature trails) to notify prohibition on wild flora and fauna collection;
• Incorporating information on the prohibition in promotional brochures;
• Introducing a permit system to allow collection for scientific and research
purposes only with conditions such as requiring the listing of all specimens
collected and their quantity, usage of sustainable/ proper collection methods
and submission of scientific/ research publications produced.
• Nurseries propagating materials collected from the wild should also be
subjected to a permit system;
Action Plan
:
CH-AP24
National Parks, Majlis Daerah Cameron Highlands,
Non-Governmental Organisations
The Forestry Department should form a Committee on Cameron Highlands
Nature Programmes to guide the planning of nature projects and education
programmes. The committee’s members could consist of agencies such as DWNP,
MDCH, DOE, academic institutions and conservation-based NGOs.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP25
Equip the two existing Nature Education Centres with facilities to support
research on nature conservation in Cameron Highlands, in addition to its function
for awareness building through environmental education. This effort could be
supported by other members of the committee in CH-AP24. The two existing Nature
Education Centres in Cameron Highlands could also provide nature oriented
training programmes.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP26
National Parks
MOSTE with assistance from Forestry Department and DWNP should conduct
scientific studies on montane flora and fauna with an aim of highlighting the
richness of the biodiversity in this area. This information could be summarized in
tourism brochure to inform potential tourists of the vast natural treasures found in
the area.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-6
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
CH-AP27
Department of Wildlife & National Parks
DWNP should review and clarify the status of Cameron Highlands as a
protected area and implement measures for reinforcing the current protected
area designation (i.e. as wildlife sanctuary and protection forest) afforded to
Cameron Highlands. This requires defining clearly the boundaries of the protected
area and where appropriate, incorporation of additional areas on the basis of their
biodiversity significance and ecological sensitivity.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP28
The Cameron Highlands Local Plan has to be reviewed on the following sectors:
• Land Use proposals within the settlement areas, the density and types of
development proposed
• Design guidelines, as it has to be consistent and building heights should be
restricted to 4 storeys (3 storeys in settlement areas), and the architecture to
reflect on the heritage of Cameron Highlands
• Development proposals for condominiums and apartments; developments such
as service apartments should not be permitted
• Assessment on further development activities
• The new link between Brinchang and Habu should be reconsidered particularly
on the justification for the need of such a link, as the impact on the fragile
environment will be detrimental.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP29*
An Environmental Management Unit should be set up within the MDCH to
plan, monitor and implement environmental measures and to undertake
environmental awareness and education programmes. This is necessary due to the
fragile nature of the environment and the varied and complex environmental issues.
This environmental unit must be trained on environmental protection and be given
sufficient manpower and clout in order carry out their duties effectively.
Promulgation of specific by-laws may be necessary to support the environmental
unit. Setting up of the EMU will entail MDCH recruiting additional staff, as the
current staff-force will not be able to handle the additional tasks. It is proposed at
least one professional staff and one technician are engaged at the initial stages.
The EMU will also work closely with the sub-committee proposed in CH-AP11. The
duties of the EMU include the following:
•
•
•
•
•
monitor and be alert to any adverse environmental impacts from development
projects
management of environmentally sensitive areas
implement environmental protection policies
undertake continuous environmental awareness programmes to educate the
local residents on the importance of environmental conservation
enforcement of all matters outside the ambit of the EQA
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-7
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
CH-AP30
Prohibit all development, including agriculture, on slopes greater than 250 or
in areas where the soil loss is greater than 150 tonnes/ha/year. This is necessary
for the prevention of landslides.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP31
Develop and support implementation of programmes targeted at local
community participation in ensuring sustainable development at Cameron
Highlands. This may be in the form of Integrated Community Development
Programmes (ICDP) which seeks to conserve biodiversity while improving the
quality of life of the people whose livelihood depends on those biological resources.
The ICDP could include a range of related conservation and development efforts
such as community-based natural resource management, community resource
conservation and eco-development projects.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP32*
Cabinet Committee, UPEN Pahang & UPEN
Kelantan
The Cabinet Committee on Highlands and Islands with the assistance of UPEN
Pahang and UPEN Kelantan must continuously monitor all development
activities at both Cameron Highlands and Lojing.
Action Plan
:
CH-AP33
Economic Planning Unit
Commission a study on the “Impact of AFTA on Vegetable Farming in
Cameron Highlands/ Lojing”. This is vital because the large amount of
uncertainty surrounding the AFTA and the dependence of Cameron Highlands on
vegetable farming. Vegetable prices have experienced decline due to imports from
Indonesia and Thailand.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-8
Final Report 1
ACTION PLANS FOR
GENTING HIGHLANDS
Action Plan
:
GH-AP1
UPEN Pahang
The development of Genting Highlands must focus on Entertainment
Tourism, Health Tourism and MICE. Other types of new development such as
residential and agriculture should not be permitted. UPEN Pahang should issue
directives in this regard.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP2
Resorts World Bhd., Malaysian Tourism
Promotion Board
Promote Genting Highlands as a premier MICE destination. With the
forthcoming completion of high quality convention and meeting facilities at Genting
Highlands, it is proposed that Resort World Bhd, in co-operation with MTPB,
vigorously promote this hill resort as a premier MICE destination, in addition to its
function as an entertainment centre.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP3
Resorts World Bhd.
Establish a world-class medical facility at Awana. It is recommended that
Resort World Bhd, possibly in a joint venture with a renowned international medical
centre, develop health tourism, through the establishment of a world-class medical
facility at Awana.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP4
Majlis Daerah Bentong, Majlis Daerah Hulu
Selangor
Implement a Land Care and Environmental Action Programme designed to
upgrade the environment and beautify the Study Area especially the areas
allocated to other developers.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP5
Selangor
Ensure that the design, architecture and management of any approved new
tourist facilities should be in keeping with the Highlands character, history and
culture and the integrity of the built environment must be maintained and enhanced.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-9
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
GH-AP6
Selangor, Department of Town and Country
Planning
An overall Development Master Plan or a Local Plan must be developed for
Genting Highlands. Majlis Daerah Bentong together with Majlis Daerah Hulu
Selangor and Department of Town and Country Planning shall formulate this plan.
The plan, in addition to zoning land use, shall also identify conservation areas and
infrastructure requirements.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP7
Pahang State Government, Majlis Daerah
Bentong, Genting Group
Rehabilitate the abandoned Sama World site. This site has been left bare, is
eroding and is an eye-sore to all visitors to Genting Highlands. Land ownership and
the financing of the rehabilitation could impose difficulties but an concerted and
closely coordinated effort by the Pahang State Government, Majlis Daerah Bentong
and the Genting Group should be able to overcome the problem.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP8*
Majlis Daerah Bentong
MDB must make water conservation measures mandatory for all new facilities
in Genting Highlands. Half flush toilets and auto-shut off taps must be installed as a
condition of building plan approval. All existing hotels shall be given a grace period
of three years to implement these measures. Water demand management will help
minimize water shortages in the future.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP9
Genting Group
Identify new water supply sources for future developments. Water catchments
adjacent the present catchment could be tapped and piped here. Existing water
catchment areas shall be protected and no development shall be permitted in these
areas.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP10*
MDB should ensure that all hotels implement environmental management
EMS.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-10
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
GH-AP11
Resorts World Bhd.
Recycling policies to be implemented where the workers at the Resort as well as
the other non-Resort residents of the area are to be made aware of the benefits of
recycling and waste reduction. Resorts World itself can initiate recycling
programmes whereby all residents in the entire study area will be encouraged to
participate. Special collections can be made weekly for recyclable wastes only, and
this would reduce the burden at the disposal facility.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP12
Resorts World Bhd.
Free shuttle busses services for the resort area should be provided by Resorts
World, where its convenience and frequency will hopefully persuade the
holidaymakers to leave their cars behind. This service should extend to the
adjacent hills where the Amber court apartments are located. The present
integrated pedestrian facility must be perpetuated for all new developments in the
summit to ensure a convenient walk from one place to the other.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP13
Genting Group
Zoning specific forest areas for conservation purposes. The Genting Group
should consider zoning specific forest areas within their landbank which have
significant biodiversity values for conservation purposes. This ideally should be
done within the context of the Genting Master Zoning Development Plan. Selection
of suitable sites must be done critically with particular consideration on the following
factors;
(a) the forest is still intact and represents to a large degree the vegetation and flora
of Genting Highlands;
(b) the area is substantially large to ensure stability of the species composition and
maintenance of the natural characteristics;
(c) compatibility with future development plans in the vicinity of the site.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP14
Genting Group
Designation of forest areas as botanical reserve or nature park. The Genting
Group should designate suitable forest areas within its landbank special
conservation status such as ‘botanic reserve’ or ‘nature park’. A potential candidate
would be the G. Bunga Buah ridge and summit area. This would require
demarcation of the boundary limits of the conservation areas. Specific objectives
must also be determined so that only activities and development that are
compatible
with
these
objectives
are
allowed
in
these
areas.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-11
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
GH-AP15
Department of Wildlife & National Parks,
the area. Research and academic institutions as well as scientific and conservationbased NGOs could take more initiative to publicise scientific findings through
publication of the results of biodiversity related studies undertaken in Genting
Highlands. This will help increase scientific interest and appreciation of the
biodiversity which could potentially provide the stimulus for conservation of
biodiversity significant areas in Genting Highlands.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP16
Department of Forestry, Genting Group
Implementing nature-based activities in their respective establishments.
Resort operators in Genting Highlands to consider implementing nature-based
activities in their respective establishments. This may include setting up Nature
Education or Interpretation Centres, or activities that can be geared towards
educating and increasing public awareness on the natural environment in Genting
Highlands in general, and biodiversity in particular.
Action Plan
:
GH-AP17*
An Environmental Management Unit should be set up within the MDB to plan,
monitor and implement environmental measures and to undertake environmental
awareness and education programmes. This is necessary due to the fragile nature
of the environment and the varied and complex environmental issues. This
environmental unit must be trained on environmental protection and be given
unit. Setting up of the EMU will entail MDB recruiting additional staff as the current
staff-force will not be able to handle the additional tasks. It is proposed at least one
professional staff and one technician are engaged at the initial stages.
The duties of the EMU includes the following :
•
•
•
•
•
projects
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-12
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
GH-AP18*
Cabinet Committee, UPEN Selangor, UPEN
Pahang
Pahang and UPEN Selangor must continuously monitor all development
activities at Genting Highlands.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-13
Final Report 1
ACTION PLANS FOR
FRASER’S HILL
Action Plan
:
FH-AP1
UPEN Pahang
The focus of tourism in Fraser’s Hill shall be limited to Nature Tourism. New
proposals for other types of tourism shall not be permitted. UPEN Pahang should
issue directives in this regard.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP2
Implementation of a Nature Tourism Upgrading Programme. It is proposed that
the Department of Forestry, with the conservation based NGOs implement a Nature
Tourism Upgrading Programme in this hill resort. Components of this programme
could encompass:
(a) Upgrading of existing nature trails, including marking of scenic points,
constructions of bird hides and regular maintenance.
(b) Development of a canopy walkway.
(c) Organisation of guided walks, guided birdwalks, guided night walks and
educational tours, etc.
(d) Rental of field equipment such as binoculars, telescopes and waterproofs.
(e) Secure Private Sector sponsorship of nature tourism programmes.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP3
Majlis Daerah Raub
Develop additional social and leisure facilities for both the local populace and
visitors. Facilities proposed include a small internet/cyber café, a library and
community hall.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP4
Majlis Daerah Raub
Designation of a camping ground. MDR should designate an area for a camping
ground which would be designed to appeal to school students and youth from the
Rakan Muda programme.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP5
Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation, Malaysian
Tourism Promotion Board
FHDC and MTPB should produce high quality promotional material on tourist
products. FHDC with the assistance of MTPB should produce high quality
promotional material on tourist products on offer including pamphlets and
brochures, dos and don’ts guides, pocket checklists, information guides etc.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-14
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
FH-AP6
Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation, Fraser’s
Hill Tourist Association, private sector
Embark on advertisement and promotional campaigns. FHDC with the
cooperation of the Private Sector and the newly formed Fraser’s Hill Tourist
Association should undertake well-funded joint advertising and promotional
campaigns and market Fraser's Hill with a common image and theme. Target
domestic market and priority overseas markets such as India, China, Singapore
and UK.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP7
Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation, Fraser’s
Hill Tourist Association
Utilize the “off-peak periods” for special holiday packages. The Hospitality
Industry, with the assistance of Fraser’s Hill Tourist Association should endeavour
to develop the mid-week, off-peak market especially among the “silver-haired”
generation to even out visitor flows through attractive packages, price differentials,
off peak rates etc. Consideration could also be given to developing health tourism.
One of the FHDC bungalows could, for instance, be developed as a health centre
with traditional medicine, massage, etc.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP8
Majlis Daerah Raub, Public Works Department
Clear and effective traffic and directional signage to and at major tourist
attractions is very important for tourism development. Majlis Daerah Raub, with
assistance from JKR, should upgrade traffic and directional signage including the
development of directional signage on the North-South Expressway and from the
forthcoming Sg. Selangor dam.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP9
Majlis Daerah Raub
Provision of an eco-friendly shuttle bus service. If visitation levels to Fraser’s
Hill increase significantly, an eco-friendly shuttle bus service should be initiated to
provide internal transportation within the hill station.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP10
Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation,
Hospitality Industry
Enhance the accommodation base. As the tourism market changes, the demand
for accommodation modes also often changes. The Hospitality Industry therefore
should be encouraged to respond to customer - focused needs and preferences in
regard to accommodation modes. Budget accommodation is particularly lacking.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-15
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
FH-AP11
Federal Agriculture & Marketing Authority
Development of a Farmer’s Market (Pasar Tani). Raub is a major fruit growing
area, producing a wide range of tropical fruits. If visitation levels to Fraser’s Hill
increase significantly, FAMA, in cooperation with the private sector, should develop
a Farmer’s Market (Pasar Tani) on a weekly basis at this hill station. In addition to
fruits, handicraft/souvenirs/medicinal products and other items likely to appeal to
foreign and domestic visitors should be traded.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP12
Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation
Maximise usage of Information Communications Technology. FHDC and the
travel trade and Fraser’s Hill Tourist Association should maximise usage of
Information Communications Technology (ICT) including:
(a) Tourism portal for Fraser’s Hill with up-to-date destination information.
(b) Centralised booking / ticketing and related services.
(c) Touch screen kiosk at strategic locations.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP13
Majlis Daerah Raub
Implement a Land Care and Environmental Action Programme. The Majlis
Daerah Raub should implement a Land Care and Environmental Action Programme
designed to upgrade the environment and beautify Fraser’s Hill, especially in the
town centre.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP14
Majlis Daerah Raub
The Majlis Daerah Raub should ensure that the design, architecture and
management of any approved new tourist facilities should be in keeping with the
hill station’s character, history and culture and the integrity of the built environment
must be maintained and enhanced.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP15
Majlis Daerah Raub, Department of Town &
Country Planning
An overall development Master Plan or a Local Plan must be developed for
Fraser’s Hill. MDR together with DTCP must formulate this plan. The plan, in
addition to zoning land use, must also identify conservation areas and infrastructure
requirements. The master plan or local plan shall also include specific guidelines on
building design, as well as determine types and densities of buildings that are
permissible.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-16
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
FH-AP16*
Majlis Daerah Raub
MDR must make water conservation measures mandatory for all new facilities
in Fraser’s Hill. Half flush toilets and auto-shut off taps must be installed as a
Action Plan
:
FH-AP17*
Majlis Daerah Raub
MDR must ensure that all hotels implement environmental management
systems (EMS) (ISO14001 or equivalent) as a condition of business licence. MDR
could give monetary incentives in the form of reduction in the annual quit rent
and/or assessments according to hotels’ level of implementation of these
measures. All hotels shall be given a grace period of three years to implement an
EMS.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP18
Majlis Daerah Raub
MDR should upgrade the solid waste management system at Fraser’s Hill.
Systems similar to those used at Genting Highlands (sorting, composting and
incineration) could be utilized. An area of approximately 1 ha will be required and
could possibly be sited near the existing dumping site near the existing dump. A
detailed study has to be carried out to fine tune the location and design.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP19
Majlis Daerah Raub
MDR should initiate the practice of waste separation in Fraser’s Hill. Long-term
campaign can be initiated by MDR to educate the people on the benefits of waste
separation. As the number of businesses and residents in Fraser’s Hill is relatively
small, everyone can be made to participate in this practice.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP20
Majlis Daerah Raub
One way traffic. As a short-term measure, the main ring road around Fraser’s Hill
can be turned into a one-way traffic.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-17
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
FH-AP21
Majlis Daerah Raub
Rehabilitate the catchment area upstream of the Jeriau waterfall. The golf
course upstream has been one of the sources of sedimentation. Remedial action
such as placing vegetation cover or geotextiles and gabions over the exposed spots
has to be implemented. At areas where the replanted vegetation has not been
effective in controlling soil loss, the suitability of the type of vegetation used should
be reconsidered with respect to the soil conditions and type.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP22
Majlis Daerah Raub
Zone biodiversity conservation areas for specific use. The MDR should zone
biodiversity conservation areas for specific use that is consistent with the
conservation objectives and afford permanent protection using appropriate legal
mechanisms. Such zoning should ideally be carried out within the context of the
proposed Local Plan.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP23
National Parks
Implement measures for controlling illegal collection of wild flora and fauna.
Department of Forestry, in collaboration with DWNP, academic and research
institutions, and conservation-based NGOs should implement measures for
controlling illegal collection of wild flora and fauna. Possible measures may include
the following:
(a) Enforcing a ban on collecting wild flora and fauna;
(b) Putting up signs in multi-languages at strategic locations (e.g. entrance to
(c) Incorporating information on the prohibition in promotional brochures;
(d) Introducing a permit system to allow collection for scientific and research
collected and their quantity, usage of sustainable / proper collection
methods and submission of scientific / research publications produced.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP24
Majlis Daerah Raub, Department of Forestry,
Department of Wildlife & National Parks, Fraser’s
Hill Development Corporation,
Form an Advisory and Planning Committee to guide the planning of nature
projects and education programmes. The committee should be lead by MDR
with support from FHDC and other members consisting of agencies with related
expertise in nature education such as Forestry Department, DWNP, DOE, DID,
academic institutions and conservation-based NGOs.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-18
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
FH-AP25
Initiate a fund to support implementation of nature education programmes.
Any financial returns derived from the programmes should be channeled back into
the fund. This effort should be lead by MDR with support from other members of
the Advisory and Planning Committee.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP26
Majlis Daerah Raub, Fraser’s Hill Development
Corporation, World Wide Fund Malaysia
Utilize the FHNEC for providing nature oriented training programmes to
personnel engaged in the operation and management of Fraser’s Hill. The MDR
jointly with FHDC and WWFM could take the lead in this effort with assistance
provided by other members of the Advisory and Planning Committee.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP27*
Majlis Daerah Raub
Set up an Environmental Management Unit within MDR. An Environmental
Management Unit within MDR should be set to oversee the environmental wellbeing of the area. This is necessary due to the fragile nature of the environment
and the varied and complex environmental issues. This environmental unit must be
trained on environmental protection and be given sufficient manpower and clout in
order carry out their duties effectively. Promulgation of specific by-laws may be
necessary to support the environmental unit. The personnel shall work closely with
other organisations there such as the Department of Environment, Department of
Forestry and Department of Wildlife and National Parks. Setting up of the EMU will
entail MDR recruiting additional staff as the current staff-force will not be able to
handle the additional tasks. It is proposed at least one professional staff and one
technician are engaged at the initial stages. The duties of the EMU include the
following:
•
•
•
•
•
projects
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-19
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
FH-AP28
Majlis Daerah Raub
Develop and support implementation of programmes targeted at local
community participation in ensuring sustainable development at Fraser’s Hill.
This may be in the form of Integrated Community Development Programmes
(ICDP) which seeks to conserve biodiversity while improving the quality of life of the
people whose livelihood depends on those biological resources. The ICDP could
include a range of related conservation and development efforts such as
community-based natural resource management, community resource conservation
and eco-development projects.
Action Plan
:
FH-AP29*
Cabinet Commitee, UPEN Pahang
Pahang must continuously monitor all development activities at Fraser’s Hill.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-20
Final Report 1
ACTION PLANS FOR
Action Plan
:
LI-AP1*
State Government
Gazette the remaining sections of the Town and Country Planning (Amendment)
Act 2001 [A1129]
Action Plan
:
LI-AP2
Pahang State Government
Gazette the Cameron Highlands Local Plan (section 15 of the TCPA). The
Pahang state government should gazette the Cameron Highlands Local Plan to
ensure legal backing for the plan.
Action Plan
:
LI-AP3*
Department of Environment
Amend the Environmental Quality (Prescribed Activities) (Environmental Impact
Assessment Order) 1987 to include any development on hill stations as a
prescribed activity (with the exception of building of individual houses). In the
interim, administrative EIAs can be requested for all development activities on hill
stations.
Action Plan
:
LI-AP4*
Encourage macro EIAs to be conducted for separate developments in the same
area to assess the cumulative impacts of the developments concerned. Incremental
costs of macro EIAs to be borne by the developers and carried out by their
consultants.
Action Plan
:
LI-AP5*
Federal/State Government
Amend section 62(1) of the NLC to include a category for the conservation of
natural resources.
Action Plan
:
LI-AP6
Federal/State Government
Amend section 67 of the NLC to increase the period of the TOL licenses for 3 – 5
years to provide farmers with greater security of tenure, thereby providing
incentives for improved agricultural practices
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-21
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
LI-AP7
Alienate such lands for agricultural purposes to be leased to the farmers under
section 221 for example, for a period of 10 years of more. This would give farmers
greater security of tenure.
Action Plan
:
LI-AP8
Gazette Fraser’s Hill and Genting Highlands as hill lands (section 3 of the LCA).
This does not mean no development in the gazetted areas, but rather more
controlled development as conditions are imposed on the clearing of land. This
would allow better control by the Land Administrator of actions of owners in the
development of their land. The onus is on the owner to show that their activities
would not cause siltation and erosion.
Action Plan
:
LI-AP9*
State Government
Increase penalties (section 18 of the LCA) in view of the seriousness of impacts
(involving loss of lives, livelihood and property) of such occurrences; it is submitted
that the current penalties are insufficient to have a deterrent effect. Additionally
more prosecutions should be made on such offences and successful prosecutions
highlighted in the media.
Action Plan
:
LI-AP10*
Put the burden of proof on the alleged polluter with regard to an offence under
section 25 of the EQA
Action Plan
:
LI-AP11*
All Local Authorities
Gazettement of outstanding by-laws as well as the formulation of by-laws by the
Local Authorities to allow for the enforceability of such by-laws. These include for
example by-laws on litter and solid waste disposal.
Action Plan
:
LI-AP12*
Environmental requirements to be attached to the license to operate a tourism
enterprise to encourage appropriate tourism development (section 7 of the TIA)
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-22
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
LI-AP13
Clarify and review the status and determine the boundaries of the gazetted
reserves or sanctuaries in Cameron Highlands and Fraser’s Hill. This is
important as it will ensure that areas that have been gazetted for conservation are
better protected and will not be subjected to further land conversions due to lack of
awareness of the gazetted area.
Action Plan
:
LI-AP14*
Explore the addition of plant species lists under the PWA to prevent illegal
species collection, which may then have further implications in terms of reviewing
the current responsibilities of the Department of Wildlife and National Parks, the
authority responsible for the enforcement of this Act
Action Plan
:
LI-AP15*
Classify and gazette PFEs around the hill stations into functional categories
such as soil protection, water catchment, virgin jungle reserve, amenity, education
and research forests that are compatible to the functions and sensitivity of the
highland ecosystems.
Action Plan
:
LI-AP16
Enforce the current “no logging” guideline of forests above 1,000 metres
Action Plan
:
LI-AP17*
Review the conversion criteria of a higher ‘economic value’ in terms of
highland forests; as the ecological functions of such forests are vital us and
consider formulating a policy statement to protect such forests in perpetuity (section
11 of the NFA)
Action Plan
:
LI-AP18*
Local Authorities
Local authorities should apply for more enforcement officers from the State
Secretariat (S.U.K.) Alternatively, to encourage the secondment of officers from
the headquarters, who have the requisite technical expertise to ensure effective
land use management and at the same time train the officers that are present there.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-23
Final Report 1
Action Plan
:
LI-AP19*
Local Authorities
Training of officers in the requisite skills will enhance their competence in carrying
out their job functions more effectively. The training modules could consist of –
•
laws relating to highlands
•
enforcement procedures
•
environmental legislation
Action Plan
:
LI-AP20*
Local Authorities
Engage local communities in understanding the consequences of their
actions to the very environment that they rely on for economic and social
sustainability. Education and awareness programmes should be conducted.
Community Action Groups should be formed to regulate and monitor their own
activities. An example could be the recently formed society, REACH (Residents for
Environmental Action of Cameron Highlands).
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
A-24
1
INTRODUCTION
Final Report 1
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1
BACKGROUND
The study on “The Development of the Hill Stations in Peninsula Malaysia was
commissioned by the Economic Planning Unit of the Prime Minister’s Department
(EPU) in May 2001. The main objective of the study is to formulate guidelines and
recommendations for the sustainable development of six hill stations in Peninsular
Malaysia namely Cameron Highlands (including Lojing), Fraser's Hill, Genting
Highlands, Maxwell Hill, Gunung Jerai and Penang Hill. The study will also
complement a parallel study presently being done on the sustainable development
of the highlands of Peninsular Malaysia.
Hill stations play an important role in the development of the country, particularly in
the tourism and agriculture sectors. The cool climate, fresh air and breathtaking
landscapes and lush vegetation serve as major attractions for tourists. The
temperate climate provide an ideal setting for a variety of crops, especially
vegetables and flowers. The thrill of driving up hill roads and the sights and sounds
along the route provide an exhilarating experience to holiday-makers, particularly
those from crowded places such as the Klang Valley and Singapore. There are
many who have chosen these hill stations to be their homes.
In addition, the hill stations and their surrounding areas also have an important
place in the overall environment. The hills are the source of many streams and
rivers that supply the majority of the country's population. The hill stations and their
environs are the natural habitats to many species of flora and fauna, and each of
the individual hill station has its own unique and rich diversity of animal and plants
species. The lower temperatures of the hills also mean that the species found here
differs from that found in the lowlands and accounts for the high level of endemism
occurring within the areas. By virtue to their location on hills, hill stations are often
associated with steep slopes. The natural forest in these areas can be easily
destroyed if set upon by uncontrolled development. The steep terrain is also prone
to landslips and mudslides once it has been removed from its vegetative cover. The
occurrence of flash floods at the lower catchment is also a direct result due to the
loss of vegetative cover.
As the hill stations are the focal point for development at the highland areas, the
formulation of proper development proposals and guidelines are vital to ensure the
sustainability of the hill stations. Experience has shown that uncontrolled and illplanned development can lead to disastrous results - the effects of which are often
irreversible. It is also vital to recognize the important roles that the hill stations play,
both in the context of economic development as well as in protecting the integrity of
the highland environment. The commissioning of this study is therefore appropriate
and timely and will hopefully lead to the sustainable development of the hill stations
of Peninsular Malaysia.
1.2
STUDY OBJECTIVES
The objective of the study is to formulate guidelines and recommendations for the
sustainable development of Hill Stations. The specific objectives are:
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December 2001
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Final Report 1
Objective 1
Conduct a comprehensive analysis of the existing situation.
Objective 2
Fill critical information gaps regarding development of Hill Stations.
Objective 3
Provide guidelines and recommendations to reduce existing detrimental
environmental effects and prevent/reduce adverse effects of future development,
and other land use activities.
Objective 4
Provide guidelines and recommendations for tourism development consistent with
the ecological integrity of the Hill Stations.
Objective 5
Provide direction on the development of Hill Stations that will maintain ecological
values and encourage sustainable tourism and development.
Objective 6
Develop a vision as well as goals for the Hill Stations that integrate ecological,
social, economic and development values.
1.3
STUDY APPROACH
The main approach taken in this study is the SWOT wherein the strengths and
weaknesses of the hill stations as well as the opportunities available and potential
threats were charted out. The SWOT analysis enabled the development of
development strategies for each of the hill stations that capitalize on the unique
strengths and to avoid unnecessary competition.
The data required was scattered amongst the various departments in different
states as well as in various documents, and efforts were made to source
information from the relevant departments and to peruse documents that were
pertinent to this study. Due to the limited time frame, only secondary data was
collected. The information gathered was then reviewed, updated and analysed for
gaps.
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December 2001
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Final Report 1
Consultation with stakeholders, both governmental and non-governmental, was
carried out during meetings and on-site discussions. This interaction was beneficial
to both parties in that the study team was able to gain better insights into the local
conditions and site-specific issues, while the stakeholders were briefed on the study
objectives and were also kept abreast on the progress of the study. The list of
stakeholders is detailed in Appendix II.
Visits to the hill stations were organized and these greatly helped the study team
better understand and appreciate the underlying issues specific to each Hill Station.
The interactions with local stakeholders were also essential in filling information
gaps that were not found in published sources.
The information collected was then analysed to identify the strengths and
weaknesses of each hill station. Specific guidelines and recommendations for
development were then formulated to address the issues. The proposals were
prioritized for immediate, medium term or long-term action. The study also
recommended and outlined the parameters for further detailed studies on
unresolved issues.
1.4
STUDY AREA
All the three hill stations addressed in this report, Cameron Highlands, Genting
Highlands and Fraser’s Hill are located on the Main Range (Banjaran
Besar/Titiwangsa) (Figure 1.1). Political boundaries are not significant in a study
such as this as the influence of each Hill Station may extend a great distance from
the actual area itself. For example, to analyze the sources of fresh water supply, the
entire river catchment areas must be also be looked into. Therefore, it must be
made clear that order to portray an accurate picture of each hill station, the area of
influence for each sector of the study will vary according to the priorities and issues
of concern.
For Cameron Highlands, the area of study extends to Lojing up to Pos Brooke
across the Kelantan border where the next development corridor is set to be. The
study area also takes into account the influence of the orang asli settlements
located some distance away, such as Pos Attap to the east of Tanah Rata or Pos
Terisu to the west of Teringkap. Large areas of the tea plantations are located
outside the township areas especially to the southeast of Tanah Rata also have a
role in the overall development strategy for Cameron Highlands.
Genting Highlands has a more concentrated area as the development activity is
confined between Genting Sempah near the Karak Highway and Bukit Genting
Chin Chin to the north.
Like Genting Highlands, Fraser’s Hill also has a more concentrated study area with
the development here is almost entirely restricted to the limited area within the
1200m level. The Gap area to the south, the Jeriau Waterfall and the new Fraser’s
Hill Golf club to the east are located more than 10km from the town centre and also
form part of the study.
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December 2001
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Final Report 1
1.5
CONCEPT OF CARRYING CAPACITY
The concept of carrying capacity is to try and establish in measurable terms the
number of visitors and the degree of development that can take place without
detrimental effects on resources or a decrease in visitor satisfaction. Both positive
and negative effects arise from the impact of tourism. Negative factors become
predominant when the number of visitors reaches a particular threshold after which
benefits progressively decline. Two aspects are important (WTO, 1984):
(a)
The tourism image i.e. the loss of attractive quality.
The capacity or number of visitors that are compatible with the image of the tourist
product and the type of environmental experience that the visitor is seeking.
(b)
The indigenous environment i.e. damage to the physical, cultural and social
environment.
The capacity that can be achieved without physical damage to the environment,
without social or economic damage to the local community and culture, or without
prejudicing the proper balance between development and conservation.
The approach to carrying capacity standards would be based on:
(a)
Preserving areas of unique scientific, historic and cultural value in their
entirety if they may be damaged by tourism, even though this may prevent
their usage for tourism.
Ensuring that there is no irreversible loss or damage to the heritage.
Preventing non-essential tourism activities where they are likely to damage
the environment and could be equally well provided elsewhere.
(b)
(c)
The approach would define indicative ranges adapted to specific cases, as precise
capacities are unlikely to be established for these criteria.
Among factors that can be considered are :
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
the need for conservation
the volume of tourism providing optimum economic benefits
the volume of tourism that can be absorbed without detriment to the
community
the availability of public utilities
the availability of transport facilities
climatic characteristics and freedom from pollution
quality of accommodation and attractions
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December 2001
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Final Report 1
The emphasis is on management as opposed to planning. If the demand for
increased capacity exists, it may be possible to take measures to increase capacity
in existing areas of saturation. Where the absolute capacity level is already
exceeded it may be necessary to reduce visitor volume. Hence, the planning and
management problem is threefold - to decide the critical carrying capacity, to
consider whether this can be increased, and how to divert pressure once saturation
level has been reached and the capacity cannot be increased further.
The overall capacity is the result of the balance between different criteria. In
addition, the values of criteria will vary among tourist types, different resources and
different countries. Hence, the absolute capacity of any individual case must be
related to its own particular circumstances.
In this report, the carrying capacity will be determined from the tourism aspect and
the limitations of water supply and transport. While other aspects of the carrying
capacity issues should rightly be considered, the short duration of this study does
not permit a more in-depth approach. The criteria used in this report is therefore
deemed sufficient to provide at least an indication of the carrying capacity for each
of the hill stations.
1.6
FORMAT OF REPORT
There are six Hill Stations identified for the purpose of this study: Cameron
Highlands (including Lojing), Fraser's Hill, Genting Highlands, Maxwell Hill (Bukit
Larut), Gunung Jerai and Penang Hill. The reporting have been divided into two
parts - Volume I presents the study on Cameron Highlands, Fraser's Hill and
Genting Highlands while Volume II will focus on Maxwell Hill, Gunung Jerai and
Penang Hill.
Following the introductory material in this chapter, the report addresses each Hill
Station in an individual chapter all site-specific issues are examined. For each hill
station, the existing situation, assessment of the SWOT, vision and development
strategies, and action plans are presented. Chapter 5, in turn, addresses the legal
and institutional issues pertaining to all three hill stations.
The report has been arranged in the following structure:
Chapter 1
Chapter 2
Chapter 3
Chapter 4
Chapter 5
:
:
:
:
:
Introduction
Cameron Highlands and Lojing
Genting Highlands
Fraser’s Hill
Legal and Institutional Issues
A set of Appendices containing supporting information is found at the end of the
report.
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December 2001
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2
CAMERON HIGHLAND & LOJING
Final Report I
CHAPTER 2: CAMERON HIGHLANDS & LOJING
2.1
INTRODUCTION
Cameron Highlands occupying an area of 71,200 ha and with a population of about
30,000 is the largest hill station in Malaysia. The main urban centre is Tanah Rata
with supporting service centres at Kg. Raja, Kuala Terla, Tringkap, Kea Farm,
Brinchang, Habu, Ringlet and Lembah Bertam. It falls under the jurisdiction of Majlis
Daerah Cameron Highlands. (Figure 2.1)
The main economic activities here are temperate agriculture and tourism. Cameron
Highlands contributes significantly to the total vegetable production in Malaysia, up
to 60% of the local demand (WWF Malaysia, 1998). Tourism is the other major
money-earner, with more than 300,000 visitor arrivals in 2000. The development in
Cameron Highlands has traditionally been centered on Ringlet, Tanah Rata and
Brinchang, but with the present demand for expansion, growth has shifted up north
to Kg. Raja where more level ground is available.
With a large land area, population base and diverse economic activities, Cameron
Highlands experiences many environmental problems. Many of these, particularly
landslides and water shortages, have received considerable attention in the local
media. Local residents have complained of rising temperatures, traffic congestion
and changes in landscape. On the other hand, Cameron Highlands has plenty to
offer in terms of natural resources and physical setting and this has attracted
property development and tourism facilities.
Lojing is located across the border in Kelantan and is under the jurisdiction of Majlis
Daerah Gua Musang. Farming activities in Lojing started in the 1980’s but has
accelerated recently. Now, with the completion of the Simpang Pulai–Lojing–Gua
Musang trunk road, as well as the completed road connecting Kg. Raja to Lojing,
the vast Lojing area is now being earmarked for major development projects – in
particular temperate agriculture and tourism.
Similarly, Lojing is seen by the Kelantan state as an important area to spur
economic activities in the state. The mild climate that is similar to Cameron
Highlands and the soon to be completed Simpang Pulai to Kuala Berang road are
seen as great opportunities for Kelantan to emulate the successes of Cameron
Highlands. On the other hand, there have also been some serious environmental
problems at Lojing and there are fears that many of the environmental problems
experienced at Cameron Highlands will soon emerge at Lojing.
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December 2001
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2.2
EXISTING SITUATION
2.2.1
Physical Environment
2.2.1.1
Land Use
(a)
Existing land use at Cameron Highlands
The existing development in Cameron Highlands follows a linear pattern beginning
from Ringlet in the south to Kg. Raja in the north. Other main development
corridors include the Ringlet - Lembah Bertam and Kuala Terla - Lembah Terisu
corridors. Development pressure is mainly at Tanah Rata / Brinchang corridor,
followed by Ringlet, Lembah Bertam, Habu and Kg. Raja.
The administrative boundary of Majlis Daerah Cameron Highlands covers Mukim
Ulu Telom, Tanah Rata and Ringlet with an area of 3,132 ha.
The major land uses in the district of Cameron Highlands are forest (71%) and
agriculture (8%). The forest reserves are largely found along the areas such
Tringkap - Kea Farm, Brinchang, Tanah Rata and Ringlet - Lembah Bertam.
Agriculture activities are largely concentrated in the following areas, Kg. Raja Kuala Terla, Tringkap - Kea Farm, Habu and Ringlet - Lembah Bertam.
The housing stock in Cameron Highlands comprise of bungalows (43%), terrace
types (20%), semi-detached (18%), apartments / condominiums (12%) and shop
houses (5%). The planned housing schemes are located at Tanah Rata - Brinchang
corridor. The main commercial centre in Cameron Highlands is the Tanah RataBrinchang corridor. This corridor also provides the basic shopping, social amenities
and services. The high value of the land has forced developers to pursue highdensity type of development such as apartments and condominiums.
New village types of developments are largely found in Kuala Terla and Tringkap.
These developments are generally poorly planned and have poor aesthetics. There
are several Orang Asli settlements in the Cameron Highlands. Within the MDCH
area, the Orang Asli settlement is located at Sg. Ruil.
(b)
Committed Development at Cameron Highlands
At the end of 2000, about 100 ha have been approved for development by the
Majlis Daerah Cameron Highlands. The developments are in Tanah Rata,
Brinchang and Ringlet - Lembah Bertam. The proposed developments are mainly
residential and mixed use developments.
Figures 2.2 - 2.7 shows the land use zoning and the acreage up to year 2010 for
the respective centres namely Kg. Raja - Kuala Terla, Tringkap - Kea Farm, Tanah
Rata, Brinchang, Habu and Ringlet - Lembah Bertam.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
(c)
Land Use at Lojing
The development of Lojing is concentrated in the areas around Pos Brooke. Pos
Brooke which covers an area of 848 ha is a service centre with a large Orang Asli
settlement and supporting social / community services such as schools, clinics,
police, surau and quarters for Government staff.
Agricultural activities are carried out by YAKIN and PKINK on the western part of
Sigar. Large tracts of land have been alienated to state development agencies
which in turn lease small parcels to private entrepreneurs. The state government
has formulated an interim development plan for the area that includes the
development of about 465 ha for an urban center and tourism facilities.
2.2.1.2 Topography
The district of the Cameron Highlands is mountainous, ranging from about 100m at
the river valleys on the eastern boundary to 2031 m on the western boundary. The
highest point is G. Brinchang (2031 m), which is the highest point in Peninsular
Malaysia accessible by road. Other major peaks in Cameron Highlands are G.
Beremban (1840 m), G. Jasar (1704 m), G. Siku (1916 m) and G. Cantik (1802 m).
About 75% of the district is above 1000 m. The sub-districts of Tanah Rata and
Ringlet are completely above 1000 m while 72% of Hulu Telom is above 1000 m.
The slopes surrounding the town center of Tanah Rata are less than 5 degrees, but
increase to 15 to 25 degrees elsewhere. Much of the terrain of Cameron Highlands
is steeper than 40 degrees. About 28 % of the land is steeper than 25 degrees and
60 % of the land is steeper than 20 degrees (Table 2.1).
Table 2.1: Terrain Class Area by Mukim
Area
Terrain
Class
0 – 50
5 – 100
10 – 150
15 – 200
20 – 250
25 – 300
> 30
No data
Total
Hulu Telom
Ha
%
61464
90.2
2900
4.7
1926
3.1
4022
6.5
14435
23.5
20560
33.5
10595
17.2
5704
9.3
1322
2.2
61464
100.0
Tanah Rata
Ha
%
1996
2.9
343
17.2
0
0.0
995
49.8
225
11.3
250
12.5
139
7.0
44
2.2
0
0.0
1996
100.0
Ringlet
Ha
%
4687
6.9
490
10.5
325
6.9
643
13.7
1102
23.5
978
20.9
665
14.2
484
10.3
0
0.0
4687
100.0
Total
Ha
%
68147
100.0
3733
5.5
2251
3.3
5660
8.3
15762
23.1
21789
32.0
11399
16.7
6232
9.2
1322
1.9
68147
100.0
Source: Department of Agriculture (2000)
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December 2001
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Final Report I
The rugged terrain and steep slope in this hill station makes it very susceptible to
soil erosion. The intensity of erosion in Cameron Highlands was recorded as 1.29
(Roslan & Tew, 1995), the highest compared to other hill stations. Kg Raja was
identified as the area with the highest soil erosion risk than the rest of Cameron
Highlands because it receives the highest rainfall and has highly erodible soils. In
general 81% of land in Cameron Highlands has a high erosion risk, with an erosion
risk greater than 150 ton/ha/yr.
The clearing of forest for development in Cameron Highlands has led to an increase
in soil erosion. Forest cover in the upper catchment of Cameron Highlands (which
comprises the Plau, Telom and Bertam catchments) has dwindled from 95% to
62%, a loss of 10 599 ha between 1947 and 1997. On the other hand, farmland
grew tenfold from the same period; from 1.7% (291 ha) of the total area to 17.8% (3
048 ha) (Tan, 2001)(Plate 2-1). The Sultan Abu Bakar Dam at Sg. Bertam has
suffered a reduction in operational efficiency due to the accumulation of silt, as a
direct result of soil erosion (Plate 2-2).
Table 2.2: Area of Soil Erosion Risk Class by Mukim
Area (ha)
Erosion Risk
Classes
< 10 ton/ha/yr
10-50 ton/ha/yr
50-100 ton/ha/yr
100-150 ton/ha/yr
>150 ton/ha/yr
No data
Total
Hulu Telom
61464.3 90.2%
2899.8
1926.4
4022.0
0.0
51293.9
1322.2
61464.3
4.7%
3.1%
6.5%
0.0%
83.5%
2.2%
Mukim
Tanah Rata
Ringlet
1995.7
2.9% 4687.2
6.9%
343.1
0.0
994.9
0.0
657.7
0.0
1995.7
17.2%
0.0%
49.9%
0.0%
33%
0.0%
489.8
324.8
643.2
0.0
3229.4
0.0
4687.2
10.4%
6.9%
13.7%
0.0
80.3%
0.0%
Total
68147.2
100%
3732.7
2251.2
5660.1
0.0
55181.0
1322.2
68147.2
5.5%
3.3%
8.3%
0.0%
81.0%
1.9%
Source: Pelan Pembangunan Pertanian Kawasan Tanah Tinggi Daerah Cameron Highlands, 2000
Landslides in Cameron Highlands have resulted in the loss of many lives and huge
monetary losses. As recent as January 2001, there were two major landslides. In
the first, six people were buried alive in Kg Raja, while in the other, the only access
road linking to Kg Raja and Blue Valley collapsed, effectively cutting off about
15,000 people and the bulk of the area’s product. The guidelines for the planning
and construction of roads on the highlands are detailed in Appendix III.
Lojing is located in the mountainous areas in the southwest corner of Kelantan. The
terrain is characterized by steep slopes and deep ravines, especially at the higher
elevations. The major mountain peaks of the Main Range around Lojing are G.
Yong Belar (2181 m), G. Challi (1923 m), G. Tangga (2015 m), G. Bubu (1974 m),
G. Yong Yap (2168 m) and G. Berhid (1931 m). More than 70 % of the Sg. Berok
catchment is above 300 m.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
2.2.1.3
River System and Water Quality
Cameron Highlands is drained by three main rivers, namely the Bertam, Telum and
Lemoi Rivers (Figure 2.8). Five other rivers make up the drainage for Cameron
Highlands, namely Sg. Ringlet, Sg Habu, Sg Burong, Sg Tringkap, and Sg Terla.
These rivers drain eastward into Sg Pahang (Table 2.3).
Water
Catchment
Areas
Terla
Bertam
Hulu telom
Hilir telom
Lemoi
Mensun
Wi
Table 2.3: Water Catchment Areas
Mukim
Hulu Telom
Tanah Rata
Ringlet
Ha
%
Ha
%
ha
%
3562.9
12934.1
22298.3
30.5
11090.5
6857.7
4690.3
61464.3
5.8
21.0
36.3
0.0
18.0
11.2
7.6
100
0.0
1995.7
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
1995.7
0.0
100
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100
0.0
4687.2
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
4687.2
0.0
100
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100
Total
ha
3562.9
19617.0
22298.3
30.5
11090.5
6857.7
4630.3
68087.2
%
5.2
28.8
32.7
0.0
16.3
10.1
6.9
100
Cameron Highlands (as with most parts of the Main Range) forms the headwater of
Sg Perak and Sg Pahang. Thus, any negative effects in this area (in terms of land
development and management) would produce a chain of events leading
downstream to two different states, i.e. Perak and Pahang.
Overall, the water quality of the rivers in Cameron Highlands, especially the TSS
content, has been deteriorated over the years. This is mainly due to land clearing
for housing development, road construction and agriculture, which cause the rivers
to be heavily silted.
Although the water quality analysis of these rivers from 1996 to 1998 (see Table
2.4) generally indicate that the quality of the river to be within Class I and Class II of
the Proposed Interim National Water Quality Standard, the concentration of total
suspended solid (TSS) has been gradually increasing over the years. For example,
at Sg Bertam the concentration of TSS recorded in 1996 was 28 mg/l, which
increased to 69 mg/l in 1997 and 141 mg/l in 1998. At Sg Habu, the TSS values
were 10 mg/l in 1996, 22mg/l in 1997 but shot up to 416.5 mg/l in 1998.
Suspended solid is the main source of pollution in most of the rivers. Sg Ringlet and
Sg Telom were heavily silted with TSS levels reaching as high as 4056 mg/l and
1469 mg/l respectively. However at Sg. Burong, where the water intake is located,
the TSS concentration was 49 mg/l, still within the Class II limit.
The entire Lojing area up to Pos Blau falls within the Sg Berok catchment. Sg Berok
is a tributary of the Sg. Nenggiri which flows into Sg Galas and eventually into Sg
Kelantan and finally into the South China Sea. Sg Berok has a catchment area of
1237 km2 at its confluence with Sg Betis. The catchment area of Sg Nenggiri is
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
about 4000 km2. The catchment is bounded on the western side by the Main
Range, which extends north-south through the center of Peninsular Malaysia. Sg
Berok flows from Gunung Korbu in the west in an easterly direction before turning
sharply northwards near Pos Blau to merge with Sg Betis at Kg Kuala Betis. The
main tributaries of Sg Berok are Sg Ber (218km2), Sg Belatop (69 km2), Sg Mering
(108 km2), Sg Chenderoh (106 km2), Sg Kenyai (49 km2) and Sg Kelahok (78km2).
The drainage pattern is mostly dendritic.
The water quality analysis by DOE shows that the water quality indices of all the
four rivers draining Lojing falls within a range from 82 to 92 indicating a “clean”
status. The main source of pollution in the rivers here is mainly total suspended
solid (TSS). The construction of the Simpang Pulai-Lojing-Gua Musang-Kuala
Berang has given rise to siltation in these rivers (Plate 2-3). The concentration of
the TSS was found to be highest at Sg Berok (Table 2.5).
The use of pesticides in farming may be a cause for concern with regards to water
quality. With agriculture being one of the main activities, large quantities are used
and may eventually find its way into the streams through the groundwater.
However, there is no hard data supporting such fears.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
Table 2.4 : Water Quality of Rivers In Cameron Highlands
Rivers
Sg Ringlet
Sg Bertam
Sg Habu
Sg Burong
Sg Tringkap
Sg Terla
Sg Telom
1996
8.8
9.4
9.6
9.3
8.4
9.1
6.1
DO (mg/l)
1997 1998
7.1
6.8
8.7
6.6
8.4
7.0
9.1
6.4
8.3
6.4
9.3
8.5
9.4
7.0
1999
6.9
6.1
7.4
6.5
6.8
7.5
6.9
1996
1.5
0.6
0.5
0.6
6.6
0.7
2.5
BOD (mg/l)
1997
1998
3.6
2.1
0.1
3.6
0.4
2.5
1.1
1.5
22.4
9.5
1.6
1.5
2.9
2.0
1999
2.0
3.5
2.5
1.5
3.0
2.0
2.5
1996
16.2
16.5
12.5
14.2
19.8
11.2
25.2
COD (mg/l)
1997
1998
7.0
6.5
1.0
19.5
1.0
47.5
2.0
9.0
37.0
32.0
5.0
9.1
5.0
15.0
1999
21.0
32.0
23.5
16.5
28.5
17.1
39.5
SS (mg/l)
1997
1998
21.0
54.5
69.0
141.0
22.0
285.0
5.0
6.0
71.0
72.0
29.0
111.5
32.0
157.5
1996
75.0
28.0
10.0
5.0
65.5
17.0
25.5
1999
4056.0
760.0
416.5
49.0
615.0
133.5
1469.5
Source: Department of Environment (1996,1997,1998,1999)
Table 2.5: River Water Quality of Rivers Draining Lojing
Station
Sg. Berok
(upstream)
Sg Betis
Sg Ber
Sg Berok
(downstream
)
Sg Belatop
IKAN
1997
1998
1999
SS (mg/l)
1997 1998 1999
1997
AN (mg/l)
1998 1999
BOD (mg/l)
1997
1998 1999
1997
DO (mg/l)
1998 1999
1997
COD (mg/l)
1998 1999
83.8
84
84
548
682
244
0.26
0.4
0.04
0.8
0.9
1.65
7.0
7.5
7.04
7.29
18.15
24.53
91.3
82.5
88
82
457
85
<0.45
0.61
0.03
<0.9
<2.5
1.66
7.28
8.1
8.63
11.85
11.85
21.9
91.9
90.5
87
73
83
76
<0.97
0.10
0.02
0.65
<2.5
1.45
7.43
8.3
8.67
12.1
10.35
25.4
90.2
91.5
87
60
59
197
<0.98
0.06
0.03
0.83
<2.5
1.45
7.5
8.35
8.74
20.03
8.7
19.6
88.1
87.5
82
150
231
217
<0.39
0.39
0.06
<0.57
<2.5
1.63
7.47
8.55
8.23
8.53
5.75
36.5
Class III
150
0.9
Source : Laporan Tahunan Jabatan Alam Sekitar Negeri Kelantan (98 & 99)
Note : Kategori Indeks Kualiti Air Negara (IKAN)81-100 : Clean
60-80 : Moderately polluted
0-59 : Polluted
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
6
3-5
50
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Final Report I
2.2.1.4
Temperature
The difference in elevation of the highlands results in lower temperatures, higher
relative humidity and lower solar radiation. Cameron Highlands has a
meteorological station with a long-term record of the full range of weather and
climate data.
As temperature decreases with increasing altitude, the temperature of any location
in the highlands can be estimated by reducing the value measured at a nearby
lowland station by a rate which is dependent on the height of the location.
Reduction rates of 0.549°C, 0.613°C and 0.711°C per 100m can be used to give
reasonable temperature estimates of the minimum, mean and maximum
temperatures respectively of a site in the highlands. The average temperature
measured at Tanah Rata is about 18°C (Figure 2.10). The mean maximum
temperature is around 22oC while the mean minimum temperature is about 15°C.
These temperatures do not fluctuate much from month to month.
Figure 2.10: 24-hour Mean Temperature At Tanah Rata
2 4 H o u r M e a n T e m p e r a tu r e
1 9 .0
1 8 .5
Celcius
1 8 .0
1 7 .5
1 7 .0
1 6 .5
1 6 .0
J
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
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Final Report I
2.2.2
Biological Environment
2.2.2.1
Natural Ecosystem and Habitats
Forests form the predominant natural ecosystem within and around Cameron
Highlands. The distribution of the different forest types in the Cameron Highlands
district is as follows:
(a)
Lowland Dipterocarp Forest (LDF) and Hill Dipterocarp Forest (HDF) occur
at elevation ranging from 100 to 300 m and 300 to 750 m respectively such
as the forests in the lower slopes and low lying areas within river valleys
including some contained in forest reserves in Ulu Telom;
(b)
Upper Dipterocarp Forest (UDF) occurs at elevation ranging from 750 to
1,200 m such as the forest areas at Ringlet;
(c)
Lower Montane Forest (LMF) occurs at elevation ranging from 1,200 to
1,500 m such as the forest areas surrounding Brinchang and Tanah Rata;
(d)
Upper Montane Forest (UMF) occurs at elevation above 1,500 m such as on
mountain peaks and exposed ridges on G. Jasar, G. Perdah and G.
Brinchang.
Forests occupy 50,778 ha or 71% of the Cameron Highlands district. This
comprises 38,772 ha of forest in the Permanent Forest Estate (PFE) and the
remaining in stateland forest (Forestry Department Pahang, 2001). The PFE is
made up of 13 forest reserves (Table 2.6). There are five forest reserves that lie
adjacent but outside the boundary of the Cameron Highlands district namely Ulu
Jelai FR (in Pahang), Bt. Kinta FR and Bt. Tapah FR (in Perak) and Sg. Berok FR
(Kelantan).
Table 2.6: Forest Reserves within the Cameron Highlands District
Name of Forest
Reserve (FR)
Batu Ganggan FR
Area
(ha)*
914.50
Forest type
LDF, HDF
Subdistrict
Ulu Telom
Bertam FR
Bt. Bujang FR
Bt. Jerut FR
1,105.60
8,578.90
7,940.70
LDF
LDF, HDF
HDF
Ulu Telom
Ulu Telom
Ulu Telom
G. Siku FR
1,060.00
Ulu Telom
Mentigi FR
990.68
Ringlet FR
590.00
Sg. Kial FR
893.00
HDF,
Montane
HDF,
Montane
HDF,
Montane
LDF
1,926.70
11,417.60
739.00
LDF
LDF
Montane
Ulu Telom
Ulu Telom
Tanah Rata
291.00
Montane
Ulu Telom
Sg. Terla FR
Sg. Wi FR
Ulu Bertam FR
Ulu Ichat FR
Ringlet
Ringlet
Ulu Telom
Significant features
Important for water catchment and soil
protection
Rich in dipterocarps
Important for water catchment
Important for water catchment and soil
protection
Support endemic and rare flora;
important water catchment
Important for rare and endangered plant
protection and for water catchment
Important river reserve for soil protection
and catchment
Important for water catchment
Rich dipterocarp stand
Rich in dipterocarps
Ulu Lemoi FR
2,324.00
LDF
Ulu Telom
*as of 31/12/2000 Source: EPU (1993); Forestry Department Peninsular Malaysia (2001); Forestry Department
Pahang (2001); Mohamad et al (2001)
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-9
Final Report I
2.2.2.2 Legal Status of the Natural Habitats
About 54% of the forests in the Cameron Highlands district have been gazetted as
PFE. Some parts of this PFE (for example areas above 1,000 m) are designated as
protection forest where logging is prohibited. Six of the forest reserves include
compartments classified as ‘water catchment forest’ which fall under the protection
forest category (Table 2.7). Surrounding forest areas adjoining the boundary of the
Cameron Highlands district have largely been gazetted as forest reserves.
Table 2.7: Water Catchment Forest* within the Cameron Highlands District
Name of Forest Reserve (FR)
Batu Ganggan FR
G. Siku FR
Mentigi FR
Ringlet FR
Sg. Terla FR
Ulu Bertam FR
TOTAL
*as of 31/12/2000
Area (ha)
29.00
253.00
99.30
234.30
189.30
254.30
1,059.20
Source: Forestry Department Pahang (2001)
Historical records suggest that a majority of the land within Cameron Highlands
(64,953 ha) is legally a wildlife sanctuary gazetted in 1962 under the Pahang State
Government Notification no.492 (Stevens, 1968; Perumal & Chan, 1995; Davison,
1996). It is reported that 3,642 ha of the wildlife sanctuary overlaps with forest
reserves following the completion in the gazettement of additional forest reserves in
Cameron Highlands in 1983 (Perumal & Chan, 1995; Davison, 1996).
2.2.2.3 Prime Conservation Areas
Current botanical accounts indicate that the summit regions of G. Berembun, G.
Brinchang and G. Perdah are floristically outstanding. This is attributed to the fact
that summit areas tend to support rich flora diversity with high species endemism
(Kiew, 1990) as a consequence of the combined effects of past geological history,
phytogeographical relationships, and edaphic as well as climatic factors operating
in a particular mountain (Soepadmo, 1986). These three localities are therefore
proposed as prime flora conservation areas for Cameron Highlands. However,
there is need for further justification of their specific requirements for example, in
terms of legal protection and management options. It can be expected that other
summit regions in Cameron Highlands are also floristically diverse and therefore
would possess similar potential.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-10
Final Report I
2.2.2.4 Flora Profile
A preliminary checklist of highland plant species by Perumal & Lo (2000) is used in
this analysis as it represents the most comprehensive and recent consolidation of
floristic information documented to-date. Much of the information compiled in this
checklist has its origin from major floristic work of the past. The checklist focuses
on plant species occurring above 750 m. It includes highland specialist (or strictly
highland species) and species inhabiting both highlands and lowlands. There are
four categories of plants: (a) Ferns and Fern Allies, (b) Gymnosperm, (c)
Monocotyledon and (d) Dicotyledon. Group (a) constitutes non-seed plants while
(b), (c) and (d) are groups of seed plants. (b) consists of non-flowering plants
whereas both (c) and (d) are flowering plants.
It is likely that certain species generally known to occur in Peninsular Malaysia’s hill
and montane forests, which may actually be found in Cameron Highlands, are
excluded. This is because the methodology employed in this analysis does not
include means for verifying (such as examination of herbarium specimens and field
surveys) the presence of such species in the study area. A possible consequence
of this is an underestimate of the total number of species found here. It should be
noted that this checklist is still non-exhaustive since much of the floristic work
involving highland plant species up till now have focused largely on seed plants
whereas non-seed plants have somewhat been neglected. There is also possibility
of inaccuracy of information due to taxonomic nomenclature problems.
Species Richness
There are 727 plant species in Cameron Highlands. Dicotyledon make up 53.4% of
the total plant species followed by Monocotyledon and Fern and Fern Allies at
34.7% and 11.8% respectively. 23.8% of Peninsular Malaysia’s total highland plant
species for the four plant groups considered are known to occur in Cameron
Highlands (Table 2.8). The figure implies that of the three hill stations being studied,
Cameron Highlands has the highest proportion of Peninsular Malaysia’s highland
plant species. This may partly be attributed to the fact that Cameron Highlands is
the largest both in its size as a hill station and in the extent of forest coverage
compared to Genting Highlands and Fraser’s Hill.
Table 2.8: Species Richness of the Cameron Highlands Flora in Comparison
with the Total Highland Plant Species of Peninsular Malaysia
Plant group
Cameron Highlands
Ferns and Fern Allies
Gymnosperm
Monocotyledon
Dicotyledon
86 (11.8%) / (2.8%)
1 (0.1%) / (5.9%)
252 (34.7%) / (30.9%)
388 (53.4%) / (20.7%)
727 (100%) / (23.8%)
Total in Peninsular
Malaysia
346
17
816
1,871
3,050
Source: Perumal & Lo (2000)
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-11
Final Report I
Special Features of Species: Endemism, Rarity and Highlands Specialist
The number of endemic species add up to 145 or 19.9% of the total highland plant
species recorded in Cameron Highlands (Table 2.9). This includes 12 species of
Fern and Fern Allies, 49 species of Monocotyledon and 84 species of Dicotyledon.
The highest number of endemic species (32 species) is in the family Orchidaceae
(orchids) from the group Monocotyledon. This suggests that Cameron Highlands
supports a good percentage of orchid species that are restricted only to Peninsular
Malaysia.
In total, 52 species (or 7.2% of the total highland plant species in Cameron
Highlands) are rare of which 44 are Dicotyledon (Table 2.9). There are three and
five rare species each from the groups Ferns and Fern Allies, and Monocotyledon.
Species that are both ‘endemic and rare’ are those found only in Peninsular
Malaysia but not in abundance and at very limited number of sites. There are 16
endemic as well as rare plants (or 2.2% of the total highland plant species in
Cameron Highlands) (Table 2.9). Of this, the Dicotyledon group contributes the
highest number with 14 species or 87.5% of the total endemic and rare species in
Cameron Highlands.
Table 2.9: Endemism and Rarity among Plant Species Found in
Cameron Highlands
Plant group
of endemic species ber of rare species
Gymnosperm
Monocotyledon
Dicotyledon
Total
12 (8.3%)
0 (0%)
49 (33.8%)
84 (57.9%)
145 (100%)
3 (5.8%)
0 (0%)
5 (9.6%)
44 (84.6%)
52 (100%)
r of endemic and rare
species
1 (6.25%)
0 (0%)
1 (6.25%)
14 (87.5%)
16 (100%)
Species that are ‘strictly highland’ or highland specialist’ denotes that they occur
exclusively in the highlands. 61.2% of the Cameron Highlands flora comprise strictly
highland species with Dicotyledons having the most highland specialist among the
four plant groups (Table 2.10).
Table 2.10: Flora Species in Cameron Highlands According to Specialization
Plant group
Gymnosperm
Monocotyledon
Dicotyledon
TOTAL
A
73 (84.9%)
0 (0%)
178 (70.6%)
194 (50%)
445 (61.2%)
Number of species
B
Total
13
86
1
1
74
252
194
388
282 (38.8%)
727 (100%)
Note:
A: highland specialist
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
B: species occurring in both highlands and lowlands
2-12
Final Report I
The Tree Fern (Cyathea excavata) is the only species from the group Fern and
Fern Allies included in the 1997 IUCN (World Conservation Union) Red List of
Threatened Plants. It is considered vulnerable as its population is decreasing due to
over-exploitation, extensive habitat destruction, or threats from other environmental
disturbance or severe adverse factors. The same species is also listed in CITES.
This means that its trade is closely controlled and it requires export permit for
international trade.
Six Monocotyledon species are in the IUCN list of which two are endangered (i.e. in
immediate danger of extinction as their population are reduced to a critical number
or their habitat drastically reduced) and four vulnerable. All six are palm species.
24 Dicotyledon species are in the IUCN and 1998 WCMC (World Conservation
Monitoring Centre) World List of Threatened Trees. Among the tree species of
Dicotyledon included in the WCMC list, a majority (11 species) is classified as
LRcd. These species are at risk of facing greater threats if the required
conservation measures are not currently available. Six species are classified as
VUD, which means they are vulnerable due to their very small and acutely
restricted population.
Table 2.11: Threatened and CITES-listed Flora Species in Cameron Highlands
Plant group
Number of species
WCMC List
IUCN List
Ferns and Fern
Allies
Gymnosperm
Monocotyledon
Dicotyledon
E
-
V
1
R
-
VUB
-
VUD
-
LRcd
-
LRnt
-
DD
-
2
1
4
-
1
2
6
11
1
2
CITES
Appendices
I
II
III
1
-
-
-
Note:
E: Endangered
V: Vulnerable
R: Rare
DD: Data Deficient
VUB: Vulnerable (criterion B)
VUD: Vulnerable (criterion D)
LRcd: Lower Risk: conservation dependent LRnt: Lower Risk: near threatened
2.2.2.5
Fauna profile
The fauna profile of Cameron Highlands was established via a literature review of
published information. Primary sources of information were the Malayan Nature
Journal (published by the Malaysian Nature Society), the Journal of Wildlife and
Parks (published by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks, Peninsular
Malaysia) and various vertebrate field and non-field guide books. For the bird
checklist, “A field guide to the birds of West Malaysia and Singapore” by
Jeyarajasingam and Pearson (1999) was used as the primary source of information
as this is the most recent compilation of bird information to date. In addition to this,
several publications in the Malayan Nature Journal and the Journal of Wildlife and
Parks, namely that of Berwick (1947), Allen (1957, 1961) and Siti et al. (1985), were
used for additional information as was an unpublished report from the Malaysian
Nature Society by Bennett and Taylor (2000).
The mammal checklist was compiled from “The wild mammals of Malaya and
offshore islands including Singapore” by Medway (1969). This has been the
standard reference for the mammalian fauna of Peninsular Malaysia. This was
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-13
Final Report I
supplemented by information from Lim (1973) on his paper on bats from Gunung
Brinchang, Cameron Highlands. Information on turtles was extracted from Sharma
and Sharma (2000).
The reptile checklist was gleaned from “Snakes of Malaya” by Tweedie (1983) was
used along with the publication by Lim (1967) on snakes collected from Gunung
Brinchang from 1957-1966. The amphibian checklist was compiled using “The
amphibian fauna of Peninsular Malaysia” by Berry (1975). Sly (1976) provided new
locality records for amphibians, reptiles and mammals and this was used to
supplement information gaps. Likewise, more recent publications by Cox et al.
(1998) and Chan-ard et al. (1999) on the reptiles and amphibians of Thailand and
Peninsular Malaysia was referred to for new data on distribution and natural history
information.
Species Richness
A total of 56 mammal, 199 bird, 43 reptile and 16 amphibian species have been
recorded at Cameron Highlands. This amounts to 26%, 31%, 20% and 18%
respectively, of the total Peninsular Malaysian fauna for each taxon. However, in
comparison to the total highland species currently recorded in Peninsular Malaysia,
this hill station has 67% of known highland mammals, 74% of birds, 83% of reptiles
and 53% of amphibians.
Species Endemism
Cameron Highlands supports several faunal species that are endemic to Peninsular
Malaysia. These are Maxomys inas (Malayan mountain spiny rat) (Medway, 1969),
Polyplectron inopinatum (Mountain peacock pheasant), Myiophoneus robinsoni
(Malayan whistling thrush) and Arborophila campbelli (Malaysian hill-patridge)
(Jeyarajasingam, 1999), Amphiesima sanguinea (Smedley’s keelback), A. inas
(Malayan mountain keelback), Collorhabdium williamsoni (Williamson’s reed
snake), Lycodon butleri (Butler’s wolf snake), Macrocalamus lateralis (Malayan
mountain reed snake) and Macrocalamus tweediei (Tweedie’s reed
snake)(Tweedie, 1983; Chan-ard et al., 1999).
Endangered species (2000 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species)
A taxon is listed under the category “Endangered” in the IUCN Red Data List when
it is not “Critically Endangered” but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild
in the near future. Cameron Highlands has one endangered species according to
the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species (IUCN, 2000) and this is the serow
(Capricornis sumatrensis).
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-14
Final Report I
Rare or strictly montane species
A rare species is defined as a species that occur at low numbers and it is either
highly localized or highly specialized to a habitat or both (Myers, 1979). A strictly
montane species is a species that is found only in montane habitats but does not
necessarily occur in low numbers. Cameron Highlands harbours one rare
vertebrate species (Lygosoma miodactylum) and two strictly montane species
(Aetholops alecto and Talpa micrura).
Conservation status of species: 2000 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
The IUCN Red Lists of Threatened Species are widely recognized as the most
comprehensive, apolitical global approach for evaluating the conservation status of
plant and animal species. The goals of the IUCN Red List Programme are to
provide a global index of the state of degeneration of biodiversity and to identify and
document those species most in need of conservation attention if global extinction
rates are reduced (IUCN, 2000). The threatened species list is divided into eight
categories. They are Extinct (EX), Extinct in the Wild (EW), Critically Endangered
(CR), Endangered (EN), Vulnerable (VU), Lower Risk (LR), Data Deficient (DD) and
Not Evaluated (NE). The Lower Risk category is divided into three subcategories,
which are Conservation Dependent (cd), Near Threatened (nt) and Least Concern
(lc) (IUCN, 2000).
Definition of ‘Endangered’: A taxon is Endangered when it is not Critically Endangered
but is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future, as defined by any
of the criteria listed by IUCN.
Definition of ‘Vulnerable’: A taxon is Vulnerable when it is not Critically Endangered or
Endangered but is facing a high risk of extinction in the wild in the medium-term future,
as defined by any of the criteria listed by IUCN.
Definition of ‘Lower Risk – near threatened’: A taxon is Lower Risk when it has been
evaluated, does not satisfy the criteria for any of the categories of Critically Endangered,
Endangered or Vulnerable. “Near threatened” is the second subcategory from this
category indicating, a taxa which do not qualify for Conservation Dependent (first
subcategory for Lower Risk), but which are close to qualifying for Vulnerable.
Cameron Highlands supports one ‘Endangered’ mammal species i.e. the Serow
(Capricornis sumatrensis) based on IUCN’s global assessment of faunal species,
one ‘Vulnerable’ mammal species i.e. the Malayan porcupine (Hystrix brachyura)
and one ‘Lower Risk – near threatened’ species i.e. the Pygmy grey fruit bat
(Aetholops alecto) according to IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Fauna (IUCN,
2000).
Amongst the birds occurring at Cameron Highlands, two species are catagorised as
Vulnerable and 12 species are listed under the “Lower Risk – near threatened”
category (see Table 2.12 for summary).
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-15
Final Report I
Table 2.12: Conservation status of vertebrate fauna of Cameron Highlands
according to IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Fauna (IUCN, 2000)
Category
Endangered
Vulnerable
Lower Risk – near threatened
Mammals
1
1
1
Birds
0
2
12
Total
1
3
13
Conservation status of species: Protection of Wild Life Act, 1972
Among the diverse vertebrate fauna occurring at Cameron Highlands, numerous
species are listed as Protected or Totally Protected according to the Protection of
Wild Life Act, 1972 (PWA, 1972). A summary of this is presented in Table 2.13.
According to the PWA, 1972, a ‘Totally Protected” species covers both avian and
non-avian fauna.
According to the PWA, 1972: "Totally protected wild animal" or "totally protected
wild bird" means a wild animal or wild bird described in Schedule One or Schedule
Three respectively which shall not be shot, killed or taken or be held in possession
by any person except as provided in Part V of this Act (Protection of Wild Life Act,
1972).
Likewise, the following paragraph describes the coverage for ‘protected species’
"Protected wild animal" or "protected wild bird" means a wild animal or wild bird
described in Schedule Two and Schedule Five or Schedule Four respectively which
may be shot, killed or taken or be held in possession by a licensed hunter, a
licensed dealer or other persons as provided in this Act and the conditions
prescribed in the license (Protection of Wild Life Act, 1972).
Table 2.13: Vertebrate fauna of Cameron Highlands accorded protection
under the Protection of Wild Life Act, 1972 (applicable to Peninsular Malaysia)
Status
Totally Protected
Protected
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
Mammals
12
5
Birds
193
6
Reptiles
0
1
Total
205
12
2-16
Final Report I
The “Totally Protected” mammals of Cameron Highlands are:
1. Capricornis sumatrensis (Serow)
2. Cynocephalus variegatus (Colugo / flying lemur)
3. Prionailurus bengalensis (Leopard cat)
4. Panthera pardus (Leopard)
5. Martes flavigula (Yellow-throated marten)
6. Petaurista elegans (Spotted giant flying squirrel)
7. Hylobates syndactylus (Siamang)
8. Ratufa affinis (Giant squirrel)
9. Helarctos malayanus (Malayan sunbear)
10. Paguma larvata (Masked palm civet)
11. Mustela nudipes (Malay weasel)
12. Arctogalidia trivirgata (Small-toothed palm civet)
2.2.3
Socio-Economic Environment
2.2.3.1 Population
The Cameron Highlands’ population has increased from 15,635 in 1970 to 21,502
in 1980, 25,555 in 1991 and 28,050 in 2000 (Table 2.14). It is apparent that the
Cameron Highlands population, though increasing, is growing at slower rate. The
average growth rate during 1991-2000 period was only at 1.14 percent compared to
3.42 percent during 1970-1980 and 1.58 percent during 1980-1991. Similarly, its
contribution to the whole population in the State has also decreased from 3.05
percent in 1970 to 2.28 in 2000.
Table 2.14: Population Profiles of Pahang and Cameron Highlands, 1970 2000
No of People
AAGR (%)
Area
1970
Pahang
Cameron
Highlands
% population of
the State
1980
1991
2000
19701980
19801991
19912000
503,301
768,801 1,045,003 1,231,176
4.53
2.83
1.84
15,635
21,502
25,555
28,050
3.42
1.58
1.14
3.05
2.79
2.44
2.28
-
-
-
Source:
i.
Preliminary Count Report, Department of Statistics, Malaysia, (2000)
ii.
Pengkalan Data Banci, Department of Statistics, Malaysia, (1991)
iii.
State/District Data Bank, Department of Statistics, (1996)
Note: AAGR = Average Annual Growth Rate
There are 26 Orang Asli settlements in Cameron Highlands, with 825 households
and a total population of 4,868. There are two major ethnic groups, Semai and
Temiar. Most of the settlements are in remote areas and only six villages are
classified in sub-urban areas. Sungai Ruil is the only settlement within an urban
area.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-17
Final Report I
Population Distribution by Location
Tanah Rata has the highest population, increasing from 7,110 in 1991 to 8,097
people in 2000. Ringlet has also seen an increase in the number of population in
the 1991-2000 periods, with 2,555 in 1991 and 2,605 in 2000.
There were also increases in the population in Kg Raja/Kuala Terla, Brinchang, and
Ringlet/Lembah Bertam evolving from the opening up of some new housing
developments in these areas. With the opening up of new roads, especially from
Gua Musang to Cameron Highlands and Simpang Pulai to Cameron Highlands,
Kampung Raja is destined to be a new gateway to Cameron Highlands, and
subsequently, a new growth area. The majority of the Cameron Highlands
population are in the 15-64 years age group (about 60 %), whilst the 0 - 14 years
age group was 37.1 percent and the 65 years and above age group stood at 2.8
percent. The large discrepancy between the male and female population is likely to
be due to in migration of labour.
Table 2.15: Distribution of Population in Town Centres, 1991 - 2000
Area
Ringlet
Tanah Rata
Source:
Male
1,346
3,811
1991
Female
1,029
3,299
Total
Male
2,555
7,110
1,341
4,139
2000
Female
Total
1,264
3,958
2,605
8,097
i. Pengkalan Data Banci Department of Statistics, Malaysia, 1991
ii.Preliminary Count Report for Urban and Rural Areas, Department of Statistics, Malaysia(2000)
Projected Population
Table 2.16 shows the projected population of Cameron Highlands from 2000 2020. As experienced in earlier years, the population of Cameron Highlands will still
increase but at a slower rate. While it is projected to grow at 1.1 percent during the
2000 - 2010 period, the AAGR will further drop to 1.0 percent in 2010 - 2020 period.
It is then projected that by year 2020, the population in Cameron Highlands will
reach 34,567, compared to 29,627 in 2005, 31,293 in 2010 and 32,889 in 2015.
Table 2.16: Projected Population of Cameron Highlands, 2000 - 2020
Area
Cameron Highlands
2000
28,050
No. of People
2005
2010
2015
29,627
31,293
32,889
2020
34,567
AAGR (%)
2000-2020
1.05
Source: i. Preliminary Count Report, Department of Statistics, 2000
ii. Consultant's Estimate
Note:
It is assumed that the growth rate will continue to drop in 2000 - 2020 based on previous years growth
pattern. It is assumed that the AAGR for 2000-2010 period will be at 1.1 percent and the
AAGR for 2010 - 2020 period will further drop to 1.0 percent
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-18
Final Report I
Employment
Table 2.17 shows employment by economic sector in the 1980 - 1991 period. In
1980, there were 9,937 employed in Cameron Highlands and the number has
increased to 11,371 with AAGR of 1.23 percent during the same period.
Tourism, agriculture, wholesale and retail as well as services were the main
employment providers in Cameron Highlands, totaling some 86 percent during the
1980 - 1991 period. The three employment sectors, which saw rapid growth, were
construction, wholesale/retail/restaurants, finance/insurance and services, with
AAGR of 9.9 percent, 3.9 percent, 7.7 percent and 5.3 percent respectively. By
comparison, the agriculture sector only grew at 0.3 percent during the same period.
Table 2.17: Distribution of Employment by Sector, 1980 - 1991
No.
%
No.
%
AAGR
1980-1991
(%)
7,305
73.51
7,523
66.16
0.27
Tourism
522
5.25
610
5.36
1.43
Manufacturing
202
2.03
269
2.37
2.64
Construction
102
1.03
287
2.52
9.86
Transportation,
Communication/Utilities
277
2.79
374
3.29
2.77
Wholesale/Retail
307
3.09
467
4.11
3.89
Finance/Insurance
49
0.49
111
0.98
7.72
Government Services
499
5.02
540
4.75
0.72
Other Services
674
6.78
1,190
10.47
5.30
9,937
100
11,371
100
1.23
1980
1991
Economic Sector
Agriculture
Total
Source: Department of Statistics, Malaysia
Income Distribution
Table 2.18 shows the monthly household income of Cameron Highlands in 1995. It
is apparent that about 46 percent of households earned, on average, monthly
income less than RM1,000, while only 22 percent of the households receive an
average of over RM 1,500 monthly. The average monthly income generated is RM
1,245 per household.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-19
Final Report I
Table 2.18: Distribution of Monthly Household Income, 1995
Range of Monthly Household Income
Overall
(%)
Less Than RM 400
6
RM 401 - RM 600
18
RM 601 - RM 1,000
22
RM 1,001 – RM 1,500
32
RM 1,501 – RM 2,000
14
RM 2,000 and Above
8
Total
Average Monthly Household Income
100
RM1,245
Source: Cameron Highlands Structure Plan, 1995
Lojing
Across the Kelantan border in Mukim Ulu Nenggiri within the Gua Musang District,
there are three major Orang Asli settlements, namely Pos Brooke, Pos Blau and
Pos Hendroop. The total number of villages in these three major settlements is 39
while the total number of population was 1,767 (JHEOA, 1997). Ulu Nenggiri itself
has a population of 7,750 in 1980 and 11,891 in 1991, with a composition of 6,354
male and 5,537 female. The number of households was 2,349 and the number of
living quarters was 2,851 in 1991 compared to only 1,621 in 1980. Lojing is a new
and fast developing area in Gua Musang District. There has been a proposal to
develop Pos Brooke as an urban centre.
2.2.3.2
Local Economy
(a)
Agriculture
Cameron Highlands is the most important temperate agriculture area in the country.
The agriculture produce varies from temperate flowers such as roses, carnations
and chrysanthemums to vegetables such as cabbage, cauliflower, capsicum,
asparagus, spring onion, lettuce, poh choy, celery, French beans, sweet pea, carrot
and short-term crops such as strawberry. Other crops include chilly and fruits such
as orange and tangerine. The land usage for agriculture in Cameron Highlands
increased from 4,816 ha in 1991, to 5,633 ha in 1999.
The land usage for vegetables has been consistent over the 1991 - 1999 period,
with 2,343 ha in 1991 and 2,792 ha in 1999. The flower produce has also seen
consistent usage of land. The land usage for fruits dropped drastically in 1997 with
only 8 ha compared to 82 ha in 1995. The decrease in land usage was due to the
spread of ‘Greening Disease’, which eliminated most of the orange trees. The
situation has since been under control and fruit production resumed in 1999.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-20
Final Report I
Table 2.19: Land Area of Main Crops in Cameron Highlands, 1991 – 1999
Crops
Fruits
Tea
Vegetables
Short Term Crops/Herbs
Food Produce
Flowers
Total
1991
1993
Area (ha)
1995
1997
1999
50
2,036
2,343
6
0
381
89
2,159
2,599
26
23
252
82
2,404
2,873
64
0
319
8
2,426
2,492
64
0
378
90
2,309
2,720
64
0
378
4,816
5,125
5,742
5,368
5,633
Source: Annual Report, Pahang Agriculture Department, (1991, 1993, 1995, 1997 and 1998)
Note:
The total land usage is based on the land used for agriculture activities in a year. A few of the
crops, especially vegetables, are cultivated two or three times a year. The annual land usage is the
total of usage from the frequency of the land used for agriculture activities. There are so many
changes in land usage area due to replacement crop practice that takes into account the land
suitability.
Vegetables
Cameron Highlands has been a vegetable produce centre for decades, growing
temperate vegetables to supply markets in Malaysia as well as about 20 percent in
Singapore. Table 2.20 shows the production of vegetables in Cameron Highlands
from 1996 to 1998. The area for vegetable farms fluctuated during that period with
2,873 ha in 1996, 2,492 ha in 1997 and 2,720 ha in 1999.
In terms of vegetables produced, some vegetables experienced a drop in
production during that period, such as spring onions, leaf mustard and garland
chrysanthemum.
Some vegetables are unique in the sense that they are cultivated commercially in
Cameron Highlands only. The vegetable crops include asparagus, broccoli, spring
onion, Chinese parsley, snow pea, butter bean, sweet pea, box thorn, cauliflower,
Chinese cabbage, sweet leek, carrot, Chinese radish, spinach, celery, Chinese
celery, lettuce, head lettuce, sawi itik, sawi kerinting, Indian lettuce, water cress,
tomato and garland chrysanthemum.
There have been cases of price drops of late, especially for certain produce such as
cabbage, tomato, capsicum and salad. The Indian Farmer's Association of
Cameron Highlands blamed the imports of these vegetables from Thailand,
Vietnam, China and Australia for the drop in prices.
Vegetables exported to Singapore have however not experienced the price
fluctuation although they need to follow stringent requirements. The monitoring of
farm gate prices for vegetables by FAMA has shown that over the last three years,
the mean annual prices were stable. However, there were times that the prices of
the vegetables dropped below cost of production. It is estimated that revenue from
the total annual vegetable production in Cameron Highlands was RM135 million in
1998.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-21
Final Report I
Table 2.20: Cropping Area of Vegetable Crops and Type of Crops, 1996-1999
Types of Vegetables
1996
Area
(ha)
%
1997
Area
(ha)
%
1999
Area
(ha)
%
Round Cabbage
Chinese Cabbage
Spring Onion
Sweet Pepper
Leaf Mustard
Tomato
Garland Chrysanthemum
Others
Total
367
315
190
167
220
337
179
1,098
2,873
380
350
107
150
200
350
150
805
2,492
395
367
92
156
22
398
120
1,170
2,720
12.8
11
6.6
5.8
7.7
11.7
6.2
38.2
100
15.2
14.0
4.3
6.0
8.0
14.0
6.0
32.3
100.0
14.5
13.5
3.4
5.7
0.8
14.6
4.4
43.0
100.0
Source: Cameron Highlands Agriculture Department, (2000)
Flowers
Cameron Highlands is the main cut flower growing area in Malaysia with about
217ha of land or about 28% of the whole growing area for the country. The popular
type of flowers cultivated in Cameron Highlands includes roses, chrysanthemums,
carnation, dahlias, geraniums, fuchsia, gladioli, and certain varieties of orchids. The
two biggest rose nurseries are in villages near Kea Farm and Tringkap. Cactus
Valley is the latest tourist attraction in Cameron Highlands, where it offers a wide
variety of cactus.
Fruits
The main fruit cultivated is oranges. Other fruits planted in Cameron Highlands
include strawberry, which was planted in an area of 20 ha. In 1998, pomello was
grown as an experiment by the Agriculture Department in Kg. Raja. However,
preliminary investigation indicated that the crop grew at a slower pace, possibly due
to unsuitable climate. Persimmon was also tested in 1997 in Sungai Palas, with an
area of 4 ha. A preliminary investigation shows it could adapt to the Cameron
Highlands setting. By year 1998, the area has increased to 6 ha.
Tea
Tea has been the oldest crop planted in Cameron Highlands. The dominant tea
plantation estates in Cameron Highlands are the Boh Tea plantation, the Blue
Valley Tea plantation and the Bharat Tea plantation, where these plantations
provide employment for some 1,300 workers. The plantation in total produces about
5,000 tonnes of tea for mostly the domestic market. Recently, tea has also been
planted in Lojing on an area of 28 ha.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-22
Final Report I
Farm Size & Income
The Cameron Highlands Structure Plan estimated that more than 89 % of the
vegetable farmers operated on land less than 1 ha in size. Generally, land operated
under 1 ha does not provide economies of scale. The Structure Plan also revealed
that 65 percent of florists cultivated on land under 1 ha.
The Structure Plan also showed that on average, farmers in Cameron Highlands
earned about RM10,719 per capita annually. Only about 4.7% reported additional
earning from activities outside agriculture. This value was estimated to be around
RM6,700 per capita annually.
New Land For Agriculture
The Structure Plan projected that there would be demand for additional 708 ha of
land by year 2020. However, recent policy adopted by the Cameron Highlands
District Council and supported by the Cameron Highlands Local Plan prohibits any
opening up of new land for agriculture activities. This has led to farmers migrating to
Lojing to open up new land for agriculture.
Agriculture Development in Lojing
Lojing, which consists mostly of logged-over land, had been slated for temperate
fruit and vegetable production in addition to tourism development. Most of the
agricultural activities in the area are undertaken by state-owned corporations which
lease small parcels of land to individual farmers.
There are plans for the state to venture into the agricultural sector in a more
intensive way by collaborating with the Agriculture Ministry. The State Government
has envisioned that the area be turned into a permanent food production district
known as 'Green Valley'.
Table 2.21 shows the distribution of agriculture development in Lojing, where there
are 468 ha of agriculture being used in Lojing in 2001. As an indication of the rapid
increase of the agricultural activities, vegetable farming increased from 35 ha
utilized in 1995 to 250 ha utilized in 2001. It is estimated that about 250 farmers are
currently operating in Lojing, with the majority of them coming from Cameron
Highlands. Given by the rapid increase in agricultural activities, environmental
problems are rising sharply, similar to what is being experienced in Cameron
Highlands.
The notable crops cultivated in Lojing include fruits (mandarin) with about 113 ha
and vegetables with 266 ha. Tea is planted in an area of 28 ha by Yakin Tea and
some of the land is operated by Orang Asli cultivating short term crops and fruits.
Darulnaim Agro Management Industries (DAMAI) Sdn Bhd, a subsidiary of
Perbadanan Kemajuan Iktisad Negeri Kelantan Ladang, operates an agriculture
concept called 'Ladang Rakyat'. Limau madu from Australia was planted in 46 hain
phase 1 and another 52 ha in phase 2. This Ladang Rakyat will be sold at the price
of RM28,000 to RM35,000 per0.8 ha. DAMAI also plants durians and dokong as
well as vegetables in an area of 20 ha.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-23
Final Report I
The Agriculture Department also plays a role in agriculture development in Lojing
through a scheme called Taman Kekal Pengeluaran Makanan (TKPM) Lojing. It has
identified some 65 ha for vegetable farming in Lojing and currently operating some
10 ha of land, with each farmer in the scheme managing about 0.44 ha. The major
crops cultivated are tomato, chillies and cabbage.
In year 2000, some 94.8 tonnes of vegetable were produced through this scheme
with an estimated value of RM105,510. This has given an average monthly income
of RM 721 to each farmer.
Table 2.21: Agricultural Development in Lojing, 2001
Crops
Area (ha)
Vegetables
Vegetables and Fruits
Tea
Flowers
Fruits (Mandarin)
Short Term Crops
Fruits
266
11
28
5
113
15
30
Total
468
Source: Kelantan Agriculture Department, (2001)
(b)
Commerce
In 1998, there were 173 retail establishments or about 37 percent of the total
commercial establishment in Cameron Highlands. Brinchang, Ringlet/Lembah
Bertam and Tanah Rata were the main retail areas. Food and beverage plus hotel
establishments make up about 27% of the total number of commercial
establishments in Cameron Highlands, concentrating on Brinchang and Tanah
Rata.
Tanah Rata
Tanah Rata functions as the administrative centre of Cameron Highlands besides
also serving as one of the main tourism destinations. About 60 percent of office
establishments and 41 percent of financial establishments in Cameron Highlands
are located in Tanah Rata. Tanah Rata has about 29 percent of commercial floor
space in Cameron Highlands, due to its rapid development in the 1991-1998 period.
Kg Raja/Kuala Terla
Commercial activities are concentrated on localised services and characterised by
piecemeal development for the local populace. The retail sector represented about
50 percent of the commercial activities here with a total floor space of 8,522 m2.
Kampung Raja has the potential to develop further due to its status as the
agriculture produce collection centre and a future tourism gateway to Cameron
Highlands from Gua Musang and Simpang Pulai.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-24
Final Report I
Tringkap/Kea Farm
The Tringkap commercial area is densely concentrated due to its limited land area.
Many of the commercial establishments are operated in wooden buildings. Its
location, which is quite close to Kampung Raja, has decreased its potential to
develop further in the future. Its commercial activities are concentrated on
agricultural produce, retail sector for local populace consumption and food and
restaurants. In 1998, the commercial activities occupied about 5,453 m2 of floor
space.
Brinchang
The commercial activity in Brinchang mirrors its function as a tourism centre and as
the main commercial area in Cameron Highlands. The commercial activity
concentration in Brinchang is on tourism sector support services. About 69 percent
of hotel and lodging establishment are located here and about one third of food and
restaurants and social services could be found here. About 30 percent of
commercial floor space in Cameron Highlands is located in Brinchang with 35
percent is used for hotel and lodging establishments, while another 46 percent is
used for commercial services and retail establishments.
Habu
Habu is limited in terms of commercial activities due to the low market demand from
its small population. The main commercial activities are retail and food and
restaurants.
Ringlet / Lembah Bertam
Ringlet is currently the main gateway to Cameron Highlands. It functions as the
third most significant commercial area in Cameron Highlands behind Brinchang and
Tanah Rata while Lembah Bertam acts as the main agricultural produce collection
centre. About 21% of the whole commercial floor space in Cameron Highlands is
found in this area.
Lojing
The Kelantan State Government has plans to develop Pos Brooke as an
Administrative and a Commercial Centre for Lojing.
(c)
Industry
The Cameron Highlands Structure Plan has identified about 36 premises that
operated under industrial activities in 1994. The whole premises were workshoprelated establishments except for seven of them, which were in the clothing,
cushion and handicraft industries.
The industrial activities in Cameron Highlands are more towards small and light
industries. In general, in 1998, there were about 44 industrial establishments where
52 percent of them were categorized as general workshop establishments. It was
also found that about 60 percent of the industries were support establishments for
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-25
Final Report I
agriculture activities. The main industrial activities were concentrated on heavy
machines and agriculture motor vehicles maintenance.
2.2.3.3 Tourism
The tourism sector, together with agriculture, is the major economic generator in the
Cameron Highlands, and is an important growth catalyst since it spurs the
development of accommodation, food and beverages, communications,
transportation, leisure and other consumer services. Formerly a favourite gateway
for British Colonial civil servants, Cameron Highlands has often been referred to as
“Little England”.
Essentially there are two principal tourism products:
Nature tourism
•
•
•
Mountain such as G. Brinchang, G. Beremban and G. Jasar;
Waterfalls and jungle treks especially Parit and Robinson waterfalls;
Butterfly Farm at Brinchang
Agro -Tourism
•
•
•
Tea plantations, including the Boh Blue Valley and Bharat tea estates.
Fruit Orchards, Vegetables Gardens, Flower Gardens and Cactus Farm.
Stalls selling fruit, vegetables and flowers.
Additionally there are heritage buildings such as the Sam Poh Buddhist Temple,
Orang Asli settlement at Kampung Sungai Ubi, a Golf-Course, the Sultan Abu
Bakar reservoir at Ringlet and a major annual event, the Cameron Highlands
Flower Fest. For “hard“ adventurers there is also the ‘Cameron Descent’, a white
water rafting event held annually: covering a distance of 54 km it begins in
Cameron and ends in Lipis. From a tourism perspective, Ringlet/Lembah Bertam
functions as the main agriculture centre of the district, Brinchang is known for its
fruit farms, nurseries and tea plantations whilst Tanah Rata is the town centre of the
highlands, the major accommodation base and centre for tourism support services.
Figure 2.10 depicts the major tourist attractions in Cameron Highlands.
Tourist Arrivals
Tourist arrivals to the Cameron Highlands have increased from 193,955 in 1990 to
278,779 in 1999 and to 305,995 in 2000, an annual average growth rate of 4.66.
(Table 2.22)
A major market characteristic is the dominance of domestic tourists. In 2000 they
accounted for 62.1% of total arrivals. In terms of foreign visitors, United Kingdom is
the main origin market followed by the Singapore; other origin markets of some
significance are Germany, Netherlands, Japan, Canada and Australia (Table 2.23).
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-26
Final Report I
Table 2.22 : Tourist Arrivals in Cameron Highlands (1990-2000)
Destination
Cameron
Highlands
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
193,955 261,895 258,805 269,727 290,982 266,041 275,106 284,934 253,701 278,779 305,995
Source : Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation
Based on data from MTPB, around 66% of tourists could be regarded as leisure
tourists, about 10% are business tourists (business and conference) and others
regard themselves as in transit. There is no disaggregated data at a site specific
level but there should not be very significant differences from the national situation.
Table 2.23: Distribution of Tourists by Country of Origin, 2000
Country
Tourist Arrival
%
International
United Kingdom
Singapore
Germany
Netherlands
Australia
Canada
Sweden
Japan
Denmark
U.S. America
Others
24,015
14,477
8,569
6,932
5,260
3,922
3,841
3,771
3,535
3,003
38,636
7.85
4.73
2.80
2.27
1.72
1.28
1.26
1.23
1.16
0.98
12.62
Total
115,961
37.90
Domestic
Malaysia
190,034
62.10
GRAND TOTAL
305,995
100.00
Source: Fraser's Hill Development Corporation
Tourist Expenditure
The components of tourist expenditure nationally in 1999 comprised
accommodation 31.6%, shopping 22.1%, food and beverages 19.1%, local
transportation 9.5% while more minor components were domestic airfares,
organized sightseeing and entertainment. The pattern of expenditure in Cameron
Highlands should not deviate very substantially from that at the national level.
MTPB data indicates that average per diem expenditure of tourists amounted to
RM 313.30 in 1999 while average per capita expenditure in the same year was
RM 1,599.60. Taking the MTPB estimate of average per diem expenditure of RM
313.30 and the ALS of 1.75 days and total arrivals of 278,779 indicates that total
gross receipts amounted to about RM 152.8 million in 1999.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-27
AAGR
(%)
4.66
Final Report I
Figure 2.11: Components of Tourist Expenditure, Malaysia, 1999
2.9%
Miscellaneous
3.3%
Entertainment
5.5%
Component
Organised Sightseeing
6%
Domestic Airfares
9.5%
Local Transportation
19.1%
Food & Beverage
22.1%
Shopping
31.6%
Accommodation
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
Percentage Share
Source: MTPB
Average Length of Stay
The average length of stay (ALS) is an important tourism indicator and in Malaysia
the ALS has risen from 4.8 (days) (1995) to 5.5 (days) in 2000. In the Study Area
(see Table 2.24) the ALS is well below the national figure, having declined from 4.0
days (1992) to only 1.75 days (2000). Whilst it is higher than the ALS in Fraser’s
Hill, it is below that of Genting Highlands.
Table 2.24 : Average Length of Stay for Cameron Highlands (1992-1999)
Destination
Cameron
Highlands
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
4.00
4.20
4.36
4.10
3.90
2.51
2.00
1.75
1.75
Tourism Facilities and Infrastructure
(a)
Hotels
As at 2000 the total stock of hotels licensed by MTPB was 32 with 1,901 rooms
(Table 2.25). The accommodation base in this hill resort is quite diverse, ranging
form relatively large hotels (over 150 rooms) such as the Equatorial Hill Resort,
Brinchang, the Heritage Hotel and Strawberry Park Resort, Tanah Rata to medium-
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-28
Final Report I
size hotels such as the Rosa Pasadena Hotel, Brinchang to small budget hotels
such as the Down Town Hotel, Tanah Rata and the Kowloon Hotel, Brinchang.
Table 2.25 : Licensed Hotels in the Cameron Highlands, 2000
Name of Hotel
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
¾
Garden Inn, Jalan Masjid Tanah Rata
The Heritage Hotel, Jalan Gereja, Tanah Rata
Highlands Hotel, 29-33 Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Brinchang Hotel, 36 Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Kowloon Hotel, 34-35 Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Rosa Pasadena Hotel, P O Box 8, Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Parkland Hotel, Lot 45, Jalan Besar, Brinchang
The Lakehouse, Batu 30, Ringlet
Strawberry Park Resort, P O Box 81, Tanah Rata
Rainbow Hotel, Lot 25, 39100 Brinchang
Pine and Roses Hotel, P O Box 4, Brinchang
The Cool Point Hotel, 891 Persiaran Dayang Endah, Tanah Rata
Garden Inn, Jalan Masjid, Tanah Rata
Equatorial Hill Resort, P O Box 78, Brinchang
Merlin Inn Resort, P O Box 4, Tanah Rata
Country Lodge Resort, Lot 47, Section 3, Brinchang
Hotel Green Garden, Lot 13, Seksyen 2, Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Hill Garden Lodge, Lot 15-16, Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Papillion Guest House, 57 Jalan Camelia 3, Tanah Rata
Kavy Hotel, No 44, Jalan Besar, Tanah Rata
The Bala’s Holiday Chalet, Lot 55, Tanah Rata
Cameson Hotel, No 29-30, Jalan Besar, Tanah Rata
Chua Gin Hotel, Lot 11, Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Down Town Hotel, 41 Jalan Besar, Tanah Rata
Golden Star Hotel, Lot 26, Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Highlands Lakeview Enterprises, Taman Lakeview, Batu 31½, Ringlet
Lido Hotel, 9 Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Plastro Hotel, Lot 19, Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Seah Meng Hotel, No 39 Jalan Besar, Tanah Rata
Silverstar Hotel, 10 Jalan Besar, Brinchang
Terminal Inn, P O Box 4, Brinchang
The Orient Hotel & Restaurant, 38 Jalan Besar, Tanah Rata
Total
No. of
Rooms
47
165
67
30
24
116
30
18
135
36
15
47
47
750
66
41
20
25
20
25
25
12
18
12
10
18
No. of
Stars
1*
4*
3*
3*
4*
2*
1*
14
12
10
17
17
12
1,901
Source : MTPB, Malaysia Accommodation Directory 1998/1999
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-29
Final Report I
(b)
Hotel Guests and Guest Nights
The total number of hotel guests and guest nights in 1998 and 1999 are shown in
Table 2.26. In 1998 total guests amounted to 362,359 and this increased to
441,761 in 1999 while guest nights totalled 529,769 in 1998 and rose to 660,705.
Of the hotel guests in 1999, over 324,700 were domestic visitors. Total hotel guests
in this hill station represented about 2.3% of hotel guests in the country. Other
useful inferences that can be drawn from an analysis of hotel guests are that in
regard to domestic visitors this hill station was the tenth ranking in Peninsular,
surpassed only by Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Malacca, Genting Highlands, Johor
Bahru, Langkawi, Ipoh, Kuantan and Kota Bahru while as regards foreign guests it
is a less significant destination. In the year 2000, total hotel guests amounted to
362,699 whilst guest nights totalled 574,697.
Table 2.26: Distribution of Hotel Guests and Hotel Guest Nights, Cameron
Highlands, 1998 and 1999
Total Domestic
Year
Guests
Guest
Nights
1998
265,699
384,679
1999
324,778
2000
259,838
Total Foreigners
Grand Total
% Share of
National
Total Guest
Guest
Nights
Guests
Guest
Nights
96,660
145,090
362,359
529,769
2.08
482,034
116,983
178,671
441,761
660,705
2.31
425,091
102,861
149,606
362,699
574,697
1.58
Guests
Source : MTPB
(c)
Average Occupancy Rate (AOR)
The national average occupancy rate (AOR) of hotels has steadily declined from
65.9% (1995) to 50.6% (1999) but there was a 3.6% increase to 53.8% in the year
2000. In the case of the Cameron Highlands the decline in the AOR has been
steeper from 44.8% in 1993 to only 33.8% in 2000.
In part the declining occupancy rate reflects the fact that while arrivals have not
increased significantly more hotel rooms have been added to the stock and to
further exacerbate the situation, there has been an increase in the number of
holiday homes and apartments in the Cameron Highlands. A further interpretation
of a declining AOR is a market signal that arguably different modes of
accommodation may be needed in line with changing visitor preferences and
needs. An increasing number of tourists may for example be seeking budget
accommodation.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
2-30
Final Report I
2.2.4
2.2.4.1
Infrastructure & Utilities
Water Supply
The main water supply to Cameron Highlands is from the Sg. Burong intake which
has a capacity of 2.6 MLD. When the need arises, water from this intake point is
also supplied to Brinchang. Other areas such as Kuala Terla, Kampung Raja,
Ringlet and Habu source their own supply from existing streams and the water
undergoes semi-treatment process before being supplied to consumers.
Table 2.27: Existing Water Supply in Cameron Highlands
Existing Water Supply
Sg. Burong
Kg Raja
Kuala Terla (existing scheme)
Kea Farm
Tringkap
Brinchang
Habu (existing scheme)
Lubok Tamang
Ringlet
Lembah Bertam
Capacity (MLD)
2.60
0.23
0.23
0.23
0.23
1. 5
0.02
0.006
0.57
0.23
Two new schemes were proposed to overcome the water shortage problems in
Cameron Highlands. These include the Habu and Kuala Terla schemes. The Sg
Habu Stage 1 scheme is currently being implemented to yield a further 9 MLD.
Provision will be made for a second stage to be added in 2015 to increase the yield
to 16 MLD and for a third stage to be added in 2035 to increase the yield to 23
MLD.
A scheme to yield 43 MLD, for construction in four stages in Kuala Terla has been
proposed. The upper Sg. Terla scheme Stage I will yield a possible 19 MLD, while
Stage II in 2005 would increase the yield to about 26 MLD. Stages 3 and 4 yield 32
MLD in 2020 and 43 MLD 2030 respectively. Table 2.28 lists the planning demand
of water supply in Cameron Highlands from 2000 to 2020. The water loss is
expected to peak in 2010, before reducing ten years later.
For the Lojing area, there is no major water abstraction point along Sg Berok or its
tributaries. The rivers are however used by most of the Orang Asli communities for
drinking, washing and bathing. The quality had deteriorated in recent years has
blamed on the on-going development and the logging activities as well as the largescale agricultural development. Many Orang Asli villages, with the help of the
Jabatan Hal Ehwal Orang Asli (JHEOA), have built some form of pipe network
made up of bamboo to bring water from the upstream areas to their villages.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
Table 2.28 : Planning Demand
Domestic
Year
Projected
population
Service
factor
Industrial
Commercial
Institutional
Total
Losses
Demand
Population
served
l/c/d
Mld
l/c/d
Mld
l/c/d
Mld
l/c/d
Mld
l/c/d
Mld
l/c/d
Mld
l/c/d
Mld
2000
28,050
0.9
25,242
280
7.1
55
1.4
50
1.3
48
1.2
433
10.9
133
3.3
566
14.2
2005
29,627
1
29,627
285
8.4
80
2.4
55
1.6
54
1.6
474
14.0
135
4.0
609
18.0
2010
31,293
1
31,293
295
9.2
110
3.4
60
1.9
60
1.9
525
16.4
138
4.3
663
20.7
2015
32,889
1
32,889
300
9.9
160
6.3
64
2.1
64
2.1
588
19.3
129
4.2
717
23.6
2020
34,567
1
34,567
310
10.7
185
6.4
75
2.6
75
2.6
645
22.3
117
4.0
762
26.3
Source : Pahang Water Resources Study (1999)
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December2001
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Final Report I
2.2.4.2 Sewerage System
Sewage treatment in Cameron Highlands varies according to the type of
development and location. Most of the older buildings are simply equipped with
septic tanks while the newer and larger developments such as hotels and
apartments are equipped with mechanized sewage treatment systems. Septic tanks
are unable to treat the sewage to produce effluent of Standard A, which is a
necessity considering that Cameron Highlands is a catchment for water supply.
The sewerage system in Lojing is non-existent at present, with mostly pour flush
toilets in use.
2.2.4.3
Solid Waste Management
Alam Flora Sdn Bhd is responsible for the collection and disposal of domestic solid
waste in Cameron Highlands. The volume of solid waste generated in Cameron
Highlands is approximately 22 tonnes/day based on per capita generation rate of
0.8 per day. The collection area is divided into two zones. The first zone covers the
area between Tanah Rata to Bertam and the second zone is from Brinchang to Kg
Raja. Alam Flora uses four compactors and one RORO (Roll On Roll Off) vehicle
with a capacity of 4 tonnes/trip and 1 tonne/trip respectively for their daily collection.
Cameron Highlands also generates a large amount of agricultural wastes. These
are however are not handled by Alam Flora but left to decay near the farms.
There is only one dumpsite at present, located approximately 3 km from Tanah
Rata. The land belongs to Majlis Daerah Cameron Highlands and is about 10 years
old. The waste is accumulated and pushed down a steep slope. This is an
extremely undesirable practice, forced by the lack of a suitable location (Plate 2-4)
The use of an incinerator is being considered by MDCH and a proper site is being
sought out at present.
There is a recycling program here whereby recycling counters are opened at least
once every month at Brinchang and Tanah Rata to collect recyclable materials from
the residents. However, the recycling percentage here is very low, less than 1%.
Table 2.29 shows the projected solid waste generation until the year 2020. The total
waste generation in Cameron Highlands is likely to reach 31 tonnes per day by
2020.
Table 2.29: Projected Solid Waste Generation
Year
Projected
population
Generation
Rate
Total Waste
tonne/day
kg/cap/day
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
28050
29627
31293
32889
34567
0.8
0.8
0.9
0.9
0.9
22
24
28
30
31
2-33
Final Report I
2.2.4.4 Road System
Although Cameron Highlands is located in Pahang, it is presently only accessible
via Tapah in Perak where FR 59 leads to the hilltop. The Tapah – Cameron
Highlands road is estimated to have an average bend of 9.5 bend/km. The 60 km
route from Tapah to the hilltop is interesting, passing aboriginal dwellings, scenic
mountain views and a changing mountain forest.
The five urban centers in Cameron Highlands, namely Ringlet, Tanah Rata,
Brinchang, Kuala Terla and Kampung Raja, are linked by a single well-maintained
road. During weekends and school holidays, the number cars and buses coming
here tend to causes traffic problems. Insufficient parking spaces especially in
Brinchang causes drivers to park indiscriminately. Table 2.30 shows the area of
mukim and the length of road in each mukim.
Table 2.30 : Area Of Mukim And Length Of Road
Mukim
Hulu Telom
km
%
Length of
road
53.6
54.6
Tanah Rata
km
%
26.4
26.9
Ringlet
km
%
18.1
18.5
Jumlah
km
%
98.1
100
The Simpang Pulai – Kuala Berang highway, some 333 km long and climbing to an
altitude of nearly 1500 meters, will become the country’s third road connecting the
east and west coast of Peninsular Malaysia. This road will traverse through four
states namely Perak, Pahang, Kelantan and Terengganu, and will provide another
route to Cameron Highlands. The road begins at Simpang Pulai, passes through
Lojing and Gua Musang and finally ends at Kuala Berang. This road also connects
to Cameron Highlands and Blue Valley estate. The alignment of this road is shown
in Figure 2.12.
There is also a proposal outlined in the Local Plan to construct a new link from
Brinchang to Habu as an alternative route that bypasses the busy areas of Tanah
Rata and Brinchang.
There is presently a proposal to provide an access from Pahang itself, a road from
Kuala Lipis to Lembah Bertam.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
2.3
STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES & THREATS
This section explores the relative strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and also
threats to the study area based on the salient features such as the physical setting,
economic conditions, infrastructure, community and proposed developments.
2.3.1
Strengths
(a)
Availability of Local Development Plans
Unlike the other two hill stations, Cameron Highlands has a Local Plan. The Local
Plan has formulated land use zoning plans for the all areas under the jurisdiction of
the MDCH. The Local Plan has also taken into account the sensitivity of the
environment and formulated the zoning plans to the needs and requirements of the
Local Authority. Sustainable development approaches has been adopted in the
formulation of the plan. The land use zoning plan provides the approving authorities
the land use status, the permitted development, the density and design guidelines
to adopt. The zoning plan provides for a planned and effective development control
and thereby reducing any incompatible developments that are incongruent to the
environment. These measures and control are favourable, as it protects the image
of the resort and allows for a more specific environmental friendly development.
(b)
Good Access
The newly identified development corridors, namely Simpang Pulai - Cameron
Highlands – Lojing and Cameron Highlands - Kuala Lipis offer potential for new
development growth area. Within the MDCH, the identified new development areas
are Lembah Bertam and Kg. Raja. The accessibility of Simpang Pulai - Lojing link
will strengthen Kg Raja as the new gateway to Cameron Highlands and thereby the
potential to transform as service centre with R & R facilities. The new corridor
provides new areas for the agriculture sector on the outskirts of the built-up areas.
The new corridor will also provide Lojing the catalyst for development, as access
has been one of the major drawbacks to its development potential.
(c)
Supporting Service Facilities
There are sufficient commercial and service facilities for the local population located
at Ringlet, Tanah Rata, Brinchang and Kg Raja. There are facilities for primary and
secondary schools, hospital, post office, police, fire and religious facilities serving
the needs of the population. In addition the lodgings and hotels (including for budget
travelers) have provided opportunities for tourists to stay longer at the resort.
(d)
Good Tourism Products
The strength of this hill station with regard to tourism is well known and well
documented. Cameron Highlands has traditionally offered a cool temperate-style
climate which has been an important “pull” factor for both Malaysian and to lesser
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December 2001
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Final Report I
extent foreign visitors. This place has a long history as a holiday resort dating back
to the colonial times. That has left behind a heritage of Tudor style buildings giving
it a colonial setting. Typical “English” meals are served in the few “Smokehouses”
operating in Cameron Highlands.
The natural environment and vegetable, fruit, flower and tea cultivation has
provided twin tourism products of nature tourism and agro-tourism with varying
appeal to domestic and foreign tourists. A potential secondary tourism product, less
well developed and less well showcased, is culture-heritage with, e.g., the culturallifestyle interest of the Orang Asli community and specific sites such as the Sam
Poh Buddhist Temple.
(b)
Good Accommodation Base
Cameron Highlands possesses a reasonably extensive accommodation base with a
stock of around 2,000 rooms ranging from 4 star hotels, mid-priced and budget
hotels, chalets, apartments and bungalows. Moreover, since most of the hotels are
based in townships, visitors can avail themselves of the supporting facilities, banks,
infrastructures and public services that already exist.
(f)
Rich Biodiversity
Cameron Highlands harbour a rich diversity of plant species due to the existence of
extensive forest covering about 71% of the total area of the district. This is also
indicated by results of floristic work undertaken in this hill station to date. It is shown
in this study that about 24% of Peninsular Malaysia’s highland plant species can be
found in Cameron Highlands. The larger the area of forest that is still intact, the
greater is its expected potential to provide refuge for a wider array of both fauna
and flora. However, it should be noted that the extent of biodiversity is not
determined solely by the size factor; other aspects such as quality of forest (for
example, the degree of forest degradation) are also important contributing factors.
(g)
Existence of Nature Trails
There are currently at least 14 existing nature trails within the forests in Cameron
Highlands (including several which are in forest reserves) with most of them
concentrated around Tanah Rata. The trails provide access to the forest facilitating
scientists to conduct floristic research and inventory that could lead to a better
understanding and appreciation of the vegetation in this region. From the nature
tourism perspective, the nature trails themselves serve as an attractive product,
which could be utilized to highlight interesting biodiversity features of the forest in
Cameron Highlands. Additionally, the trails could potentially be used for nature
education and interpretation to instill appreciation and responsibility of the natural
resources of Cameron Highlands among the local community, visitors and tourists.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
(h)
Dispersed Development
The development in and tourist attractions in Cameron Highlands are dispersed and
this is reduces the congestion found in other popular hill stations, such as Genting
Highlands.
2.3.2
Weaknesses
(a)
Incongruent developments
Prior to the Local Plan being the tool for development control and guidelines, many
incongruent developments have been approved going against the basic principles
of the vision now formulated in the statutory plans. Absence on building height
restrictions has evolved in grossly structures that are incompatible with the
environment. The heights of some of the buildings have even blocked off the views
and vistas of the landscape, including the rich architectural and aesthetical value of
the bungalows.
(b)
TOL Land
A large proportion of farmers in Cameron Highlands operate on TOLs issued by the
State Authority. Such licences are usually renewed annually and therefore there is
no security of tenure. Insecurity of agricultural land tenure may have resulted in
poor agricultural practices in Cameron Highlands, which have caused soil erosion
and in turn lead to the siltation of rivers. The cultivation on steep slopes, the need to
clear the adjacent areas for maximum sunlight for their crops; and the use of plastic
sheets have contributed to the environmental degradation of the hill stations. It has
been noted that as most of these vegetable farmers do not own their land, there are
few incentives to invest in good agricultural practices.
(c)
Weaknesses in the Local Plan
There are weaknesses in the Cameron Highlands Local Plan that need to be
reviewed before it is gazetted, particularly on housing and agriculture. The
proposed new housing zones and their recommended density lack the justification
based on population needs and demands. Furthermore, by zoning the housing by
density reduces the flexibility for the plan to change to the economic tide. With
regards to building heights, the Local Plans even allows for 10 storey buildings
which will be in conflict with existing skylines. There needs to be consistency in the
built environment to protect the skyline from grossly built structures. As for
agriculture sector, the short term tenure farms have been identified as the main
contributors to the degradation of the environment. There need to be better estate
management of the agriculture sector by getting smallholders to form co-operatives
for effective management. To ensure effective land use planning in the centres, the
Local Plan Zoning needs to be reviewed together with some of its policy relating to
building guidelines.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
(d)
Inadequate Enforcement Capacity - MDCH
The MDCH does not have the capacity to monitor and enforce regulations and
guidelines. Indiscriminate clearing of these lots has resulted in severe
environmental problems. The TOL applications are renewed on a yearly basis and
mostly in areas outside the gazetted Forest Reserves. The main problem is that the
applicants carry out the clearing and earthworks randomly without any surveyed or
engineering plans. This results in farmers encroaching to areas more than the
allocated areas they applied for. Owing to this type of indiscriminate clearings, The
State Government has imposed a freeze on all developments until further
notification. Unfortunately, the restriction also applies to projects that have been
approved by MDCH and the Technical Committees for development. Only recently,
a large area was illegally cleared in G. Brinchang, exposing large sections of the hill
to soil erosion.
(e)
Enforcement Difficulty in Lojing
The Lojing area is presently under the jurisdiction of Pejabat Daerah Gua Musang,
whose office is located more than 80 km away in Gua Musang town. Until the
Lojing-Gua Musang stretch of road is been completed, the only link to this area is
via a muddy logging trail. The lack of influence from the local authority meant that
many of the land clearing activities in Lojing have been done without the proper
permits and application. Most of the farms in Lojing are also considered illegal, as in
they do not possess the proper development permits. It is understandable that
enforcement has been difficult due to the great distance and terrain.
(f)
Land Use Management
At present the MDCH is the local authority for all the built-up areas in Cameron
Highlands. On land matters outside MDCH administrative control, the District Office
and Land Office are the main approving authorities. Applications for TOL land for
farming are applied to the District Land Office. However the absence of qualified
professionals in the District Office and the MDCH, especially Town Planners,
Engineers, Geo-Technical specialist, Architects and the lack of enforcement officers
has further aggravated the situation. This often result in mismanagement of the land
resources and could further dwindle if the present system is not rectified.
(g)
Unsustainability of Agriculture
The agriculture sector has been identified as one of the main contributing sectors to
environmental degradation through the use of pesticides, fertilisers and
unsystematic agriculture practices. Since there is every likelihood that Cameron
Highlands will continue to be the main temperate agriculture producer in future, this
environmental degradation will be prolonged unless certain concrete actions are
taken.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
The price instability of certain vegetable and flowers lately will pose serious
problems to farmers. The price instability will result in unstable income generation,
and consequently will affect the production of future temperate vegetable and flower
produce for the local as well as foreign market.
The Cameron Highlands Structure Plan pointed out that most of the farms in
Cameron Highlands are relatively small in size. The small size farms are not
economically viable for optimal and maximised income and production generation.
(h)
Lack of Quality Tourist Attractions and Weak Tourism Infrastructure
Despite possessing the heritage and setting as popular resort, the Study Area had
a very short Average Length of Stay (ALS) of visitors of only 1.75 days in 1999 and
this is well below the national ALS and below that of Genting Highlands. The
inference that may be deduced is that there are insufficient attractions to sustain
visitor interest.
Other weaknesses relate to the quality of the tourism infrastructure and support
services. The accommodation base does not appear to be meeting the needs and
preferences of visitors and, as earlier noted, the average occupancy rate of hotels
in this hill station is less than 30%. There is also a lack of interpretative and
informative signage pertaining to the tourist attractions, the trails and nature
environment of Cameron Highlands. As noted in the Structure Plan there is also a
paucity of tourism information, which is mainly limited to a brochure and a map and
a lack of promotion.
(i)
Lack Of Synergy Between Agriculture and Tourism
Agro-tourism, including agro-environmental tourism, in which visitors stay at farms
and take part in agricultural activities, is of growing importance and is a significant
element of sustainable tourism development. However, in this hill station the
synergy between agriculture and tourism requires strengthening. The tea estates
have forged commendable links and many tourists visit the tea gardens and also
undertake tours of the processing units. For most of the other crops, e.g.,
vegetables, fruits and flowers, the links need to be enhanced and innovative home
stay programmes developed. The provision of accommodation to visitors who pay
for staying on farms, helps improve farmers’ incomes and for urban residents the
contact with nature and with the people who live there is a vital experience.
(j)
Insufficient Site-specific Biodiversity Information
Although there is a reasonable amount of information relating to the total
biodiversity in Cameron Highlands, detailed information for specific areas and the
variation in the distribution of biodiversity between place to place is relatively
limited. The consequence of this is the inability to use biodiversity as a justification
for assessing the merits of project siting. An equally important weakness is the lack
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
of accurate, complete and recent information, which provide indication of the areas
and habitats that are sensitive from the biodiversity context to guide development
decisions.
(k)
Weak Management and Enforcement Concerning Biodiversity Matters
This problem may have resulted from several factors. These include uncertainty in
the exact extent of the Cameron Highlands Wildlife Sanctuary and its overlapping
status with forest reserve as well as the non-existence of clear guidelines for the
authorities concerned.
(l)
Poor Maintenance of Nature Trails and Shortage of Competent Nature
Guides
The majority of the nature trails are poorly maintained. Some have become
inappropriate and unsafe for use due to presence of rubbish and tall undergrowth
as well as absence of trail signs. Among the possible reasons for the poor
condition of the trails are limited manpower and funds and misuse of trails by
irresponsible users who dispose rubbish along the trails. While guides are available
through the local tour agencies and resorts, the nature guiding service provided is
often unsatisfactory. This relates particularly to the biodiversity aspects associated
to the nature trails and surrounding forest because of the shortage of competently
knowledgeable nature guides.
(m)
Threat of Water Shortage
There is a threat of water shortage as whenever there is a “dry season”,
households and commercial areas would have dry taps. In part, this is due to the
high ground where is water catchment area is smaller, and partly also due to illegal
tapping of water, mainly by farmers. The threat or rumours of water shortages
would be sufficient to discourage any potential tourist.
(n)
Poor Solid Waste Management
There is no proper method of dealing with solid waste in Cameron Highlands. The
rubbish is dumped in a valley with a stream running past it. This doesn’t only
contaminate the streams but also the source of drinking water because most of the
water intake points are located downstream.
(o)
Lack of Parking Facilities
The lack of proper parking areas is a major issue as far is traffic is concerned. The
problem comes to head during the holiday season especially in Brinchang where
the hotels are concentrated. Cars are parked indiscriminately along the main road
and severely disrupt traffic. Limited land to be designated for parking areas also
compounds the problem.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
2.3.3
Opportunities
(a)
New Development Corridor
The new development corridors as identified in the Local Plan provide the
opportunity for development in Cameron Highlands. The potential development
areas include the Simpang Pulai - Cameron Highlands - Lojing corridors. This link
provides economic opportunities for Kg. Raja as the gateway to Cameron
Highlands from the north and to Lojing in Kelantan. The potential for an R & R
centre, shopping, restaurants and entertainment facilities at Kg. Raja would
transform it into a vibrant centre. The other potential corridor is the Ringlet Lembah Bertam corridor for the agriculture sector particularly at Lembah Bertam
Baru.
(b)
Land Use Zoning
The Local Plan development proposals have provided the opportunity for planned
infill developments for each of the centres within the MDCH area. The potential
developments are for housing, institutions, commercial and recreational uses. The
Plan proposes for more low and medium cost apartments in the centres but there is
no justification for these demands particularly with the region facing a very high
level of out-migration especially with the young age group.
(c)
Tourism
The opportunity to enhance further the tourism potential especially in the naturebased and agro tourism sector has been identified in the statutory plans for
Cameron Highlands. The potential to set up “ long stay clubs” to get visitors to
spend between 2 - 4 weeks at the hill station is one key strategy to adopt. At
present, there is the Cameron Highlands Japanese Club, set in Japan which
organises participants to spend at least 2 weeks here. The club also provides free
language classes to the local children as part of the cultural exchange benefits.
Provisions for accommodation facilities for budget travellers are required for the
future. It is estimated that an average of 100 budget tourists visit the resort per day
and this is expected to rise further with the improvements to the accessibility.
In the medium-long term, rising discretionary incomes and changes in taste
favouring domestic travel among a socially advancing and more environmentally
conscious Malaysian community offers potential for expanding the flow of domestic
visitors to Cameron Highlands/ Lojing, particularly if sustainable tourism
development is promoted. Nationally, aggressive promotional activities are being
carried-out under the theme Cuti-Cuti Malaysia with the prime aim of encouraging
domestic travel and lowering currency outflows. Easier access to tourist
destinations including the completion of the Cameron Highlands-Simpang Pulai and
the Cameron Highlands-Gua Musang roads would help facilitate the expected
increase in domestic tourism.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
(d)
MICE
Another potential strength is as a secondary MICE destination. As noted in the 8th
Malaysia Plan, vigorous efforts are being undertaken to actively position and
promote Malaysia as a premier MICE destination, which has high-yielding potential.
The numbers of both international and national events have steadily increased, as
too has the number of foreign and local participants and revenue.
The new road developments will offer potential for a triumvirate of hill resorts,
Cameron Highlands, Kinta Highlands and Lojing to be packaged as part of a tour
circuit, especially if complementary tourism products and promotional themes are
developed. There will be good linkages to the North South Expressway (NSE) and
hence linkages to major origin market such as Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh and Penang and
to Singapore. Road improvements in Kelantan and linkage from Gua Musang to
Cameron Highlands would also open-up the possibility of capitalising on the
substantial flows of visitors entering Kelantan through border points with Thailand,
viz. Pengkalan Kubor, Rantau Panjang and Bukit Bunga.
2.3.4
Threats
(a)
Effects of Uncontrolled Agriculture on Water Quality
The indiscriminate clearing by farmers on the hill slopes is a major concern to the
Authorities. The absence of surveyed plans and engineering works on land
clearance has had detrimental effects on the environment. In some cases, the
farmers have encroached into Forest reserves and the tea plantations. Vast land
clearing can threaten the water quality leading to a reduction in water supply.
The current water quality data shows that Sg Ringlet and Sg Telom are heavily
silted up. The main concern is these rivers form the headwater catchment for water
supply. Most of the water intake points are located downstream for example Sg
Jelai in Pahang and Sg Batang Padang in Perak that originate from Sg BertamTelom and Sg Jor in Cameron Highlands.
The use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers by the farming community has been
one of the major contributors to the unfavorable water quality of the river systems.
The proximity of some of the farms to the water catchment areas has been of
concern to the Local Authority.
(b)
No New Land For Agriculture in Cameron Highlands
The Cameron Highlands Council has adopted the no new opening up of land as
part of agriculture policy. While the policy will definitely prevent further
environmental problems, there might be tendencies for farmers to maximise use of
current agriculture land. This might result in unsystematic and indiscriminate
agriculture land practices. The policy has also seen farmers migrating to Lojing, to
open up new land.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
(c)
Labour for Agriculture
The dependence on the agriculture sector would also result in continuous problems
in labour force. The competitive employment opportunities from other sectors,
which offer more lucrative income opportunities, might have lured the younger
generation to migrate to other sectors or places outside Cameron Highlands. There
have been cases where foreigners are employed as workers due to problems in the
local labour force.
(d)
New Areas for Housing
The increase in population will also result in more demand for new housing areas.
This scenario will definitely require the opening up of new land for housing
schemes.
(e)
Competition from Other Hill Resorts
Tourist destinations, in the ultimate analysis, are in competition with each other and
in a competitive market the switching of “brands” or “products” is a very real
possibility. Despite the Study Area’s potential and opportunities it does face strong
competition from other established hill stations.
(f)
Trade Liberalisation
Liberalisation through the World Trade Organisation and AFTA could adversely
affect the competitiveness of temperate farming in this hill station and, given the
symbiotic relationship between agriculture and tourism, would weaken the agrotourism element of Cameron’s tourist products.
(g)
Hill Resort Road
Another possible threat to sustainable development in the Study Area could arise if
the proposed Hill Resort Road (HRR), which would traverse along the mountainous
terrain of the Main Range, were constructed. This could lead to the indiscriminate
exploitation of latent resources and, as noted in the National Conservation Strategy,
roads and other infrastructure on the Main Range are highly inadvisable.
(h)
Habitat Destruction and Loss of Species
Habitat destruction and loss of species pose a real threat to the integrity of the
natural environment of Cameron Highlands. Increased accessibility to the forest in
Cameron Highlands provided by the existence of nature trails has facilitated the
over collection of wild plants with ornamental value especially orchids, pitcher
plants and rhododendrons. In Cameron Highlands, it has been shown that overcollection of wild orchids which fetch reasonably high price in the wild orchid trade
has resulted in the depletion of some of these orchid species from sites previously
known to support abundant population (Shahril, 1998). Shahril (1998) also revealed
that most orchid nurseries in Cameron Highlands derive their source of wild orchids
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December 2001
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Final Report I
from the surrounding highland forest using the nature trails. It was also noted in this
study that the use of the services of the Orang Asli to collect orchids from the wild
by the nurseries or buying orchids directly from the Orang Asli are common
practice. There is often wastage because many of the wild orchids collected for sale
in the nurseries have no appeal because they do not have the attractive features
required by buyers (Shahril, 1998).
The same situation as explained above can be expected in the case of other
ornamental wild plants. Additionally, wastage can result from damaged wild plants
due to poor handling during collection and because of this the plants are often
discarded. Wild plants also become prey to ignorant tripper who takes them home
to the lowlands where they languish and die (Kiew, 1990). If left unchecked, these
problems will lead to loss of flora diversity in Cameron Highlands as well as reduce
the attractiveness of this hill station in the long term.
(i)
Landslides and Soil Erosion due to Land Clearing
A number of areas in Cameron Highlands have been identified as prone to
landslides and mudslides. Landslide disasters cannot be described as coincidental
‘chance’ events. Nor are they solely the result of heavy monsoon rainfall. The threat
of future landslides is very real in Cameron Highlands and if nothing is done to
control both legal and illegal land clearing for farming, the is a likelihood of more
landslides in the future.
(j)
Flooding Due to Uncontrolled Development
Uncontrolled development in Cameron Highlands have brought with it problems of
soil erosion, sedimentation, reduction of river’s drainage capacity, shortening of lag
time and eventual increase in flooding. Flooding which occurred in Kg Sg Ringlet in
April 2001 affected 3,300 residents living in this village. This was the worst ever
recorded flood where the water level rose nearly a metre from the river level. The
main cause was found to be earth levelling and clearing to upgrade the 2.15 km of
the Jalan Ulu Merah.
(k)
Traffic
With the new access to Cameron Highlands at Lojing, the Kg. Raja –Tanah Rata
main road would become a major thoroughfare, and will pose major traffic problems
to the already narrow road.
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2.4
CARRYING CAPACITY
The total carrying capacity for Cameron Highlands is very difficult to determine, if
not impossible. Cameron Highlands supports a large resident population spread
over seven different townships, and it is not an exclusive hill resort for tourism
unlike the other hill stations. Conventional methods used for the determination of
carrying capacity will not suffice. The completion of the Simpang Pulai – Kuala
Berang highway compounds the complexity, as a large number of people will be
passing through Cameron Highlands either to/from Kelantan, Perak and the Kelang
Valley.
In this study, the tourism carrying capacity of Cameron Highlands was estimated
based on available tourist facilities, water supply and transportation (allowing for
implementation of infrastructure improvements proposal that are detailed the Action
Plans).
(a)
Accommodation Base
Based on the accommodation base of about 2000 rooms, there is capacity for
about 4000 visitors per day. Allowing for an equal number of day visitors, the total
visitor capacity is approximately 8000.
(b)
Water Supply
Based on the planned water supply improvement works by JBA, there should be
adequate water until 2020, including taking into account the average growth rate of
tourists. Water supply will therefore not be a constraint to tourist numbers.
(c)
Transportation
Transport is unlikely to be a constraint particularly with the completion of the
Simpang Pulai –Kuala Berang link. Problems pertaining to transportation and the
lack of parking would be minimized with the implementation of the relevant Action
Plans.
However, in being a township, the physical and economic carrying capacity must
also be taken into account along with the tourism carrying capacity. With a local
population as large as this, capacity here would be associated with the ability of the
local population and authorities to cope with the problems arising from increased
tourism developments. It must also be remembered that carrying capacity can be
reduced by human or natural damage, and can be increased through selected
management procedures. The estimated tourist carrying capacity of 8000 must
remain as an interim figure until more accurate estimates are made taking into
account other constraints as discussed above.
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2.5
ACTION PLANS
2.5.1
Development Focus and Guiding Issues
On the basis of the strengths and opportunities identified earlier, this study
proposes that the main development focus for Cameron Highlands and Lojing
should be Temperate Agriculture and Agro-Tourism. Auxiliary focus should be
on Nature-Based Tourism and Cultural-Heritage Tourism
As the above suggests, agriculture incorporated with tourism activities shall serve
as the main focus of future development as well as to reorient existing activities. All
development should therefore be planned along these lines. Several vital issues will
be looked into in order to formulate a set of recommendations that is best suited for
the purpose of achieving the sustainability of this hill station.
The implementation of AFTA in 2003 would certainly play a large role in the future
of farming activities here as pointed out in Section 2.3.4. In anticipation of that,
steps must be taken immediately to ensure that the agriculture produce from
Cameron Highlands remains sustainable and highly competitive in the face of
competition.
The completion of the Simpang Pulai-Kuala Berang road will bring fresh
opportunities and new ideas to this area, especially Lojing. It would serve well to
draw up proposals to capture the benefits from the new access, but at the same
time specifying measures to ensure the sustainability of the area. The development
of Lojing is a vital component to the future plans of the area, and it is essential that
the development proposals be targeted towards the ideals of the strategy.
The threat of water scarcity remains a weighty issue with the development focus on
agriculture and tourism. The foreseeable increased in expenditure of this resource
into irrigation and consumption must be matched with by the availability of the
resource and the capacities of the water intake plants. The management of water
resources is therefore critical to supporting the proposed development concepts for
Cameron Highlands.
2.5.2
Tourism Enhancement
Tourism is one of the two major economic engines for Cameron Highlands (and
eventually Lojing) and the following sub-themes for tourism development are
proposed.
Agro-Tourism
A unique attribute of Cameron Highlands is the presence of tea plantations,
temperate vegetable farms, flower and fruit gardens. The former, in particular, is the
most popular place on the tour itinerary for foreign visitors. According to tour agents
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the vast majority of visitors is very interested in tea and find visits to the tea estates
enthralling.
To further enrich this product an agro-tourism development programme in line with
the guidelines of the National Rural Tourism Master Plan should be implemented.
This, inter alia, should aim to link nature to agriculture and to the agrarian lifestyle
and could, e.g., include development of homestay facilities. Other thematic
measures that could strengthen the identity of this hill resort are “Cameron
Highlands in Bloom” competitions and declarations as “Daerah Taman Malaysia”
(Garden District of Malaysia).
Nature Tourism
The natural environment has long been a core attraction of this hill station’s tourism
product and it is imperative that this sensitive asset be carefully conserved and
upgraded in a manner that does not conflict with the environment. Fortunately,
there is scope for optimising nature tourism including opportunities in Lojing and
this would assist in deflecting pressure from the existing areas.
With major peaks such as G. Brinchang, G. Jasar and G. Beremban, the flora and
fauna of the montane forest, existing trails at the Parit and Robinson falls and
potential for new trails such as Kg. Sungai Ubi – an Orang Asli village near the
Bharat Tea Estate – and in Lojing, nature based tourism has the potential for
upgrading.
A nature tourism development programme including upgrading of existing trails,
development of new trails, packaging of climbing expeditions, camping, caving and
recreational fishing should be implemented.
Cultural-Heritage Tourism
Both Cameron Highlands and Lojing have interesting, fascinating, cultural-heritage,
with e.g., an “old-world” character, exemplified by the bungalows, the presence of
an Orang Asli community -mainly Semai and Temiar - the Sam Poh Buddhist
Temple and lengthy history of tea cultivation and temperate agricultural crops. At
present, however, this rich cultural-heritage, although potentially a core attraction, is
not very well showcased. There is a clear need for a new integrated attraction, such
as a one-stop cultural centre perhaps based in a heritage building such as the
Convent at Tanah Rata, to enrich this product and showcase it.
Specific Action Plan programmes proposed are:
Action Plan : CH-AP1
Cameron Highlands and Lojing must only focus on the three tourism themes,
namely agro-tourism, nature-tourism and cultural-heritage tourism. Other types of
new tourism development such as theme parks and golf courses should not be
permitted. Pahang and Kelantan State Governments should issue directive in this
regard. This directive should eventually apply to Kinta Highlands as well.
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Strengthen the synergy between agriculture and tourism. Agro-tourism,
including agro-environmental tourism, in which visitors stay at farms and take part
in agricultural activities, should be strongly encouraged as a means of promoting
sustainable tourism. Examples of good synergy between agriculture and tourism
are the tea estates. The tea estates have forged commendable links and many
tourists visit the tea gardens and also undertake tours of the processing factories.
For most of the other crops, e.g., vegetables, fruits and flowers, the links need to be
enhanced and innovative home stay programmes developed. The provision of
accommodation to visitors who pay for staying on farms, helps improve farmers’
incomes and for urban residents the contact with nature and with the people who
live there is a vital experience. MOCAT should form “Committee on Strengthening
of Agriculture – Tourism Synergy at Cameron Highlands and Lojing“
comprising relevant government agencies, tourism industry and the agriculture
sector.
As a follow up to Action Plan CH-AP2, MOCAT should initiate an agro-tourism
development programme in Ringlet/Lembah Bertam. The programme shall
include the provision of home stay facilities inline with the guidelines of the National
Rural Tourism Master Plan shall be initiated. This programme should also be
replicated in other locations such as Kampung Raja and Tringkap.
The Department of Forestry should, with the support from the private sector,
introduce a Nature Tourism Development programme that would encompass,
inter-alia, the upgrading of existing nature trails, development of new trails, the
organization of climbing expeditions, and the promotion of camping and other forms
of “soft” adventure, recreational fishing and caving.
MOCAT in association with MDCH, JHEOA, Ministry of Education and the private
sector should develop cultural-heritage tourism. A one-stop Cameron Highlands
Heritage Centre should be developed in Tanah Rata with an Orang Asli Interpretive
Museum, a Tea House/ Tea Museum and Nature Education Centre. An existing
heritage building such as the Convent in Tanah Rata might be suitable for such a
centre.
MTPB should produce high quality promotional material with emphasis on
checklists, information guides etc. The current promotional material is deemed
inadequate to capture the imagination of the potential tourists.
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A Tourism Masterplan must be formulated for the Cameron Highlands –
Lojing (and possibly Kinta Highlands) triangle. The three locations can
complement one another and take away considerable tourist pressure off Cameron
Highlands. The Masterplan must be adequate consideration to protect the fragile
highland environment.
2.5.3
Agriculture
Agriculture, like tourism, is the lifeline of Cameron Highlands and Lojing.
Appropriate socio-economic programmes must be formulated to safeguard, to
flourish and to ensure sustainability of these activities.
The main strategies are:
Systematic and Sustainable Agriculture Practice
While the agriculture sector will continue to be among the main economic
generators for Cameron Highlands, a more systematic and sustainable approach
must be introduced and implemented in Cameron Highlands to curb the existing
problems especially in regard to environmental degradation, and pricing of
vegetable produce. The insecurity of land tenure is seen as a major problem in
promoting good agricultural practices.
Development of Existing and New Growth Centres
Careful and balanced development of existing and new growth centres in both
Cameron Highlands and Lojing must be in parallel with sustained human and socio
economic environment. The strength of Cameron Highlands in the tourism and
agriculture sectors must be viewed as being complimentary rather than conflicting
or competing
The development in both areas must be complementary rather than duplicating.
The opening up of land must be in tandem with minimisation of environmental
impacts. The migration of Cameron Highlands farmers to open new agriculture land
in Lojing must be perceived as relieving the Cameron Highlands burden, thus
minimising the current environmental effects. Likewise, the development of Lojing
as a growth centre must be seen as strengthening the Cameron Highlands.
Prohibit the opening up of new agricultural areas in Cameron Highlands.
Cameron Highlands is already facing serious environmental problems due to
agriculture such as silting of rivers and reservoirs, landslides and unsightly bare
slopes.
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The Pahang State Government must revamp the agricultural land tenure system
at Cameron Highlands. Farmers must be given longer land leases on the
condition that farming practices are improved.
The integration of small size farms should be strongly encouraged and
incentives provided for those framers who integrate their farms. Incentives could be
in terms of longer lease of land, continuous provision of advanced agriculture
courses and research, consultancy and advisory services. Other incentives might
possibly increase the land tenure lease to five years to those practicing systematic
agriculture practice. There is an on-going programme by the DOA where incentives,
consultancy and advisory services as well as the requisite training are provided for
farmers in this district. Elements of this Action Plan not already covered by this
programme can be integrated into it.
The existing Cabinet committee on development for highland areas chaired by
the MOSTE Secretary General should implement and enforce more systematic
agriculture practices in both Cameron Highlands and Lojing. This committee will be
responsible for maintaining among others, environmental checks, usage of lands,
pesticides and fertilizers. Alternatively, a sub-committee led by the DOA can be
formed within the Cabinet committee to carry out this plan.
Kelantan State Government should create a new district or sub-district of
Lojing. The creation of this sub-district and the eventually establishment of an
administrative centre at Lojing would help the authorities to support and monitor
development activities at Lojing.
A Comprehensive Master Development Plan for Lojing should be formulated.
The current development plans appear simplistic, do not give due attention to the
difficult terrain conditions and ignore environmental and market conditions.
Although at present, there is already an Indicative Plan for Lojing, a comprehensive
Masterplan is needed to ensure that the agricultural and tourism development plans
by the Kelantan State Government are sustainable and mistakes made at Cameron
Highlands are not repeated. This action plan could be combined with CH-AP7.
FAMA should develop cold room storage at Kg. Raja and Tringkap for
vegetables and other agricultural produce. The cold storage will serve more as a
tool for produce transit rather than for curbing price instability. Networking with
hypermarkets and supermarkets should be initiated here, an example being the
cold-chain market concept. A storage capacity of 10 MT will be adequate and
should be compartmentalized such that partial usage of the cold storage is
possible.
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DOA should establish a farm certification system. Monetary incentives can be
provided to farmers to adopt good farming practices. The farms can be rated into 3
classes from most environmentally friendly (Class 1) to least environmentally
friendly (Class 3). Class 1 farms can then be given a subsidy per annum per acre of
farm by Jabatan Pertanian, Class 2 farms to paid a lesser amount, with none for
Class 3 farms. Examples of best practices include terracing on steep slopes, using
organic fertilizers to proper amounts, proper waste disposal and so on. Farm
produce from here can then also be labelled as Class 1 for environmentally friendly
as an advertisement to consumers who care.
2.5.4
Infrastructure & Environmental Improvements
The availability of proper and adequate infrastructure is the keystone to a successful
development. The critical issues where action is to be taken would be:
Water Supply
As water supply is vital to the present and continuing development, action will be
taken to ensure that the water supply is sufficient to meet the demands of irrigation
and human consumption. Efforts should be made to protect existing sources and
reduce demand.
A new method for solid waste disposal to replace the present unhygienic practice
shall be in the form of composting. Recycling at source is a useful way of reducing
the volume of waste arriving at the disposal site. Although there is a recycling
program at present, but the response is very low. The long-term program to educate
the people on the benefits of recycling can be initiated to increase their awareness.
Sewerage
The Local Plan has proposed centralised sewerage systems for each development
block, such as Ringlet-Lembah Bertam, Habu, Tanah Rata, Brinchang, TringkapKea Farm, and Kg. Raja-Kuala Terla. Due to the hilly nature of the terrain in these
areas, intermediate pumping stations may be required for the proposed sewerage
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networks. This is a significant additional capital and operational costs along with the
need for land which comes as a premium here. Utility reserves for the siting of
sewer pipes must also be allocated.
All new developments must utilise sewage treatment systems capable of producing
an effluent discharge of Standard A, in accordance to the Environmental Quality
(Sewage and Industrial Effluents) Regulations 1979.
Road & Transportation
Parking is a problem at Tanah Rata and Brinchang, particularly during weekends
and holidays.
Erosion Control
Existing agriculture can go on but soil erosion and conservation techniques must be
incorporated into practice. The only way to curb environmental disasters in Cameron
Highlands is to develop it in a sustainable manner without imposing extreme
stresses on the fragile environment.
JBA should formulate a Water Resources Management Plan for Cameron
Highlands. The plan, in addition to identifying demands and new sources of water,
must address water demand management, catchment protection and public
education.
MDCH should not permit any development activities in water catchment
areas. Immediate steps shall be taken to identify illegal farming in water catchment
areas and prosecute the offenders.
MDCH should make water conservation measures mandatory for all new
facilities in Cameron Highlands. Half flush toilets and auto-shut off taps must be
installed as a condition of building plan approval. All existing hotels shall be given a
grace period of three years to implement these measures. Water demand
management will help alleviate the water stress problem.
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MDCH should ensure that all hotels implement environmental management
EMS.
MDCH should upgrade the solid waste management system at Cameron
Highlands. Systems similar to those used at Genting Highlands (sorting, composting
and incineration) could be utilized. An area of approximately 1 ha will be required
and could possibly be sited near the existing dumping site near Tanah Rata. The
present road leading to Tanah Rata may need to be re-aligned to allow for the
present dump area to be increased. A detailed study has to be carried out to fine
tune the location and design.
Improve the current waste recycling scheme. Although there is a recycling
program at present, the response is poor. A long-term program to educate the
people on the benefits of recycling can be initiated to increase their awareness. The
Government offices and hotels can start by having recycling bins in the office for
paper, aluminum cans and bottles, along with posters and talks citing the benefits of
recycling. It is then hoped that in a long run, the people will carry the recycling habit
back to their homes. Alam Flora should designate one day of the week to collect
recyclable waste from the residents. On the designated day, all waste to be recycled
will be left outside their premises for a special collection. A special container marked
“Recycling” can be provided to all households for the purpose.
MDCH should improve the parking situation by constructing a multi-level car
park at Brinchang to overcome the parking problem. The site should ideally be right
in the centre of town, possibly near the fire station. After that, the road shoulders on
the main road shall be declared “No-Parking” zones and enforcement officers will
fine those who continue to park there. The construction and operations of the carpark can be privatized.
2.5.5
Biodiversity Conservation
The biodiversity in Cameron Highlands is an important national asset because of its
significant contribution to Malaysia’s natural heritage as well as the enormous
ecological values and services associated with it. It is therefore critical that
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biodiversity be regarded as an integral and vital component for ensuring sustainable
development in Cameron Highlands.
The main issues pertaining to biodiversity and the related strategies for addressing
those issues are:
Compatible Development
As development in Cameron Highlands continues to progress rapidly, the issue of
compatibility between the overall land use planning and development activities of
the different sectors with biodiversity conservation becomes increasingly important.
The overall as well as individual sectoral development must be in balance with
biodiversity conservation. This would require adequate understanding of the
interactions and impacts of sectors such as agriculture, tourism and infrastructure
on conservation.
Proper and Effective Biodiversity Management
As identified in the SWOT analysis, one of the major weaknesses within the
biodiversity context in Cameron Highlands is the lack of monitoring and
enforcement of biodiversity related matters. Without proper management, the longterm security of the biodiversity in Cameron Highlands would be compromised.
To address this issue, the legal instruments governing the above three aspects
including provisions of authority to the various agencies must be clarified.
Additionally, such efforts need to be supported by a strategy which maximizes the
conservation of biodiversity. Possible strategy options may include reinforcing the
current protected area designation (i.e. wildlife sanctuary and protection forest) with
incorporation of additional areas where appropriate and more effective
implementation of control measures especially to curb illegal collection of wild fauna
and flora.
Optimisation of Nature Education Potentials
Although not immediately evident, the benefits of nature education could bring
about promising results in the long term. These could contribute towards
safeguarding not just nature and the environment but the integrity of Cameron
Highlands as a whole. Indirectly this translates to supporting the sustainable
development of this hill station. A feasible strategy to enable optimization of nature
education potentials could include expanding the current nature education
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programmes and the role of the existing Nature Education Centres in Cameron
Highlands.
The Forestry Department and/or DWNP to implement a programme to control the
illegal collection of wild flora and fauna. Possible measures may include the
following:
•
Enforcing a ban on collecting wild flora and fauna;
•
Putting up signs in multi-languages at strategic locations (e.g. entrance to
•
Incorporating information on the prohibition in promotional brochures;
•
Introducing a permit system to allow collection for scientific and research
collected and their quantity, usage of sustainable/ proper collection methods
and submission of scientific/ research publications produced.
•
Nurseries propagating materials collected from the wild should also be
subjected to a permit system;
The Forestry Department should form a Committee on Cameron Highlands
Nature Programmes to guide the planning of nature projects and education
programmes. The committee’s members could consist of agencies such as DWNP,
MDCH, DOE, academic institutions and conservation-based NGOs.
Equip the two existing Nature Education Centres with facilities to support
research on nature conservation in Cameron Highlands, in addition to its function
for awareness building through environmental education. This effort could be
supported by other members of the committee in CH-AP24. The two existing Nature
Education Centres in Cameron Highlands could also provide nature oriented
training programmes.
the area.
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DWNP should review and clarify the status of Cameron Highlands as a protected
area and implement measures for reinforcing the current protected area
designation (i.e. as wildlife sanctuary and protection forest) afforded to Cameron
Highlands. This requires defining clearly the boundaries of the protected area and
where appropriate, incorporation of additional areas on the basis of their
biodiversity significance and ecological sensitivity.
2.5.6
Administrative
Several administrative measures are required to strengthen the implementation of
the action plans listed above.
The Cameron Highlands Local Plan has to be reviewed on the following sectors:
• Land Use proposals within the settlement areas, the density and types of
development proposed
• Design guidelines, as it has to be consistent and building heights should be
restricted to 4 storeys (3 storeys in settlement areas), and the architecture to
reflect on the heritage of Cameron Highlands
• Development proposals for condominiums and apartments; developments such
as service apartments should not be permitted
• Assessment on further development activities
• The new link between Brinchang and Habu should be reconsidered particularly
on the justification for the need of such a link, as the impact on the fragile
environment will be detrimental.
An Environmental Management Unit should be set up within the MDCH to
plan, monitor and implement environmental measures and to undertake
environmental awareness and education programmes. This is necessary due to the
fragile nature of the environment and the varied and complex environmental issues.
This environmental unit must be trained on environmental protection and be given
unit. Setting up of the EMU will entail MDCH recruiting additional staff, as the
current staff-force will not be able to handle the additional tasks. It is proposed at
least one professional staff and one technician are engaged at the initial stages.
The EMU will also work closely with the sub-committee proposed in CH-AP11. The
duties of the EMU includes the following :
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• monitor and be alert to any adverse environmental impacts from development
projects
• management of environmentally sensitive areas
• implement environmental protection policies
• undertake continuous environmental awareness programmes to educate the
• enforcement of all matters outside the ambit of the EQA
MDCH should prohibit all development, including agriculture, on slopes
greater than 250 or in areas where the soil loss is greater than 150 tonnes/ha/year.
This is necessary for the prevention of landslides.
MDCH should develop and support implementation of programmes targeted at
local community participation in ensuring sustainable development at Cameron
Highlands. This may be in the form of Integrated Community Development
Programmes (ICDP) which seek to conserve biodiversity while improving the quality
of life of the people whose livelihood depends on those biological resources. The
ICDP could include a range of related conservation and development efforts such
as community-based natural resource management, community resource
conservation and eco-development projects.
Pahang and UPEN Kelantan should continuously monitor all development
activities at both Cameron Highlands and Lojing.
EPU should commission a study on the “Impact of AFTA on Vegetable Farming
in Cameron Highlands / Lojing”. This is vital because the large amount of
uncertainty surrounding the AFTA and the dependence of Cameron Highlands on
vegetable farming. Vegetable prices have experienced decline due to imports from
Indonesia and Thailand.
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Plate 2-1
Hill cutting for farming at Kuala Terla
Plate 2-2
Siltation in the Sultan Abu Bakar Reservoir at Ringlet
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Plate 2-3
Sg. Berok at Lojing laden with silt
Plate 2-4
Municipal solid waste dump near Tanah Rata
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December 2001
3
GENTING HIGHLANDS
Final Report I
CHAPTER 3: GENTING HIGHLANDS
3.1
INTRODUCTION
Genting Highlands is the newest hill station to be developed, and since its opening
in May 1971, it has developed in to a highly popular and successful holiday resort.
Boasting the country’s only casino and supported by an excellent range of
recreational facilities and hotels, Genting Highlands has become a major tourist
attraction, drawing some 13.4 million holidaymakers in the year 2000. During the
“super-peak” periods, daily tourist arrivals reach 100,000.
The hills around the area are sources of several rivers supplying water to Kuala
Lumpur, Selangor and Pahang, such as tributaries of Sg. Kelang and Sg. Selangor.
Extensive development that affects quality of water from these sources will
contaminate the water supply at the intake points downstream.
Besides the resort complex, there are also other smaller development contained
within the study area such as the Goh Tong Jaya Township and Institut Aminuddin
Baki. Figure 3.1 shows the land use of Genting Highlands.
3.2
EXISTING SITUATION
3.2.1
3.2.1.1
Land Use
Genting Highlands is probably the most successful hill resort in the country. The
Genting Group is the dominant player, owning an area of about 3,965 ha, of which
2,952 ha is located in Pahang and the remaining 1,013 ha in Selangor. The whole
area has been approved for development with residential component being the
major land use. Other landowners include State Government and smaller
developers with a total land area of about 1,626 ha. Access to the highland is from
Genting Sempah to the hill top which is about 19 km. The Batang Kali - Genting
Highland route is an alternative access to the resort.
The total area developed by the Genting Group constitute about 4.5% of the total
land bank, with the remaining 95.5% is still forested. Development is concentrated
at the 3,000 ft level (Awana resort) and at the 6,000 ft level (Genting Highlands
resort).
The Genting resort located at the 6,000ft level is the main hub of activity with
developments concentrated on a plateau (27 ha). The facilities include a casino,
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recreational parks, apartments and hotels. A new hotel with 6,300 rooms is under
construction.
The development at 3,000 ft level includes Awana Golf and Country Club, Horse
Ranch, Bandar Gohtong Jaya, Layang Indah and Sri Noah. Bandar Gohtong Jaya
(81 ha), a residential township, includes commercial, apartments, medical and
educational facilities whilst Layang Indah and Sri Noah are residential
developments. Other activities include Institutions, social facilities, and
infrastructure and utility stations. Figure 3.2 shows areas zoned for development.
3.2.1.2
Topography
The geomorphology of Genting Highlands is composed of steep, high mountains
with V-shaped valleys and sharp hill tops and ridges. The terrain can be divided into
two broad geomorphological units, namely denudation hills located mainly on the
Pahang side and combined structural-denudation hills on the Selangor side. The
denudation hills are formed from granitic rocks and consist of scarp slopes, Vshaped valleys, sharp hill crests and divides. The drainage can generally be
described as a combination of angular and dendritic patterns. The structuraldenudation hills are mainly developed on faulted, volcanic and metamorphic rocks
and are characterized by steep scarp sloped and foliation/strike ridges especially in
the vicinity of the Sg. Gombak area.
Resorts World Berhad’s hotel and theme park complex at the “Hilltop” is 1706 m,
and is commonly referred to as the elevation of 6000 ft. Although the hotel complex
is located on a summit, it is not the highest point. The highest peak in Genting
Highlands is G. Hulu Kali (1772 m), which is about 1 km from the hotel complex and
houses a microwave telecommunications station. Bukit Genting Chin Chin is
located further northwest of G. Ulu Kali and houses a radar station. The road
leading up to Genting Highlands follows the ridge demarcating the border between
Pahang and Selangor. The road leading to the summit of Genting Highlands is very
steep, as it has to rise from 550 m to 1700 m in a short distance of 19 km, giving an
average slope of 6 %. G. Bunga Buah (1430 m) is another major peak in the
Genting Highlands vicinity. This peak and the ridge leading up to it have been used
as a site for ecological studies. Figure 3.3 shows topography of the study area.
In June 1995, there was a landslide which killed 21 people and injured 23 others.
Results of investigation showed that the landslide was due to debris flow following
two hours of heavy rain. This major landslide, together with the other landslides
reported along the road, is the result of compound effect, of indiscriminate and
excessive clearing of the natural vegetation throughout the area. The lack of
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vegetation increases surface runoff and this increases erosion and causes
landslides in extreme cases and sedimentation in the rivers.
3.2.1.3
River System and Water Quality
Genting Highlands is drained by Sg Kedondong, Sg Mengkuang, Sg Pencheras
and Sg Bunga Buah on the west; Sg Berdah, Sg Bertam Lumut and Sg Serung
Lima on the south and Sg Perting on the north (Figure 3.4). Sg Pencheras and Sg
Mengkuang are tributaries of Sg Batang Kali which forms part of the Sg Selangor
river basin.
The Sg Selangor basin is approximately 70 km and 30km wide, stretching from the
slopes of Fraser’s Hill in the north eastern region of Selangor to the coast. The
general flow of Sg Selangor is south westerly, traversing a total distance of about
110km before discharging into the Straits of Malacca at Kuala Selangor.
Sg Berdah and Sg Bertam Lumut join Sg Tanglir and later Sg Benus before
merging with Sg Pahang. Sg Perting originates from the main range north of
Genting Highlands and has a catchment area of 45.6km2. There is an intake point
at Sg Perting which supplies water to Bentong. Sg Perting joins Sg Chamang and
drains into Sg Bentong before merging with Sg Pahang.
The water quality along Sg Benus was found to be generally good from 1996 to
1999 with most of the parameters within the Class II of the National Water Quality
Standards. The main pollutant was found to be the total suspended solid (TSS).
The concentration of TSS increased drastically in 1997 to 217 mg/l from 59 mg/l in
1996. The main source of TSS is from the land clearing activities. In Sg Perting, the
scenario is the same, TSS being the main cause of river pollution. According to the
Bentong’s Water Supply Department’s Engineer, the siltation is caused by land
clearing activities in Genting Highlands. The siltation also caused Perting dam to
collapse.
There are four monitoring stations along Sg Selangor, two stations located
upstream and two along the downstream reaches. The most upstream station
(nearest to the proposed Sg Selangor dam site) recorded a Class II water quality
from 1992 to 1997. The water quality improved to Class I in 1998 but reverted back
to Class II in 1999. The other station located upstream showed significant
fluctuations; a Class II category was recorded for the period between 1992 and
1996, deteriorating to Class III in 1997, improved to Class I quality in 1998 and
reverted to Class II in 1999. As for the downstream stations, the trends generally
indicate poorer water quality with high concentration of COD and TSS. This is
attributed to cumulative input of pollutants from upper and downstream reaches.
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The main sources of pollution downstream are caused by surface runoff from
agricultural land and industrial effluents.
3.2.2
3.2.2.1 Natural Ecosystem and Habitats
The predominant natural ecosystem within and around Genting Highlands is
forests. Taking the area of Genting Highlands stretching between Genting Sempah
at 620 m altitude and the summit of G. Ulu Kali (1,722 m), the following range of
forest types can be identified:
(a) HDF between 300 to 750 m elevation such as the forest areas around Genting
Sempah;
(b) UDF between 750 to 1,200 m elevation such as the forest areas around the
Awana area and Goh Tong Jaya township;
(c) LMF between 1,200 to 1,500 m elevation such as the forest areas surrounding
the G. Bunga Buah ridge;
(d) UMF above 1,500 m elevation such as on the summit area of G. Ulu Kali
(Stone, 1981) and Bt. Genting Chin Chin.
3,785 ha (95.5%) of the 3,965 ha of land belonging to Genting Group is still under
forest cover, comprising mostly virgin forest (Resorts World Bhd., Col (Rtd). Dato’
Cheng Wah, pers. comm., April 2001). The Genting Master Zoning Development
Plan, formulated as early as 1976 delineated about 3,237 ha of land in the Genting
Group concession for residential development and some areas for commercial,
educational institutions and tourist resort facilities leaving only about 5% of the total
area under forest (Ahmad, 1985).
There are three forest reserves that lie adjacent and around the boundary of
Genting Highlands namely Bt. Tinggi FR (in Pahang), and Batang Kali and Ulu
Gombak FRs (in Selangor). (Table 3.1)
Table 3.1: Forest Reserves adjoining Genting Highlands
Name of Forest
Reserve (FR)
Bt. Tinggi FR
Batang Kali FR
Ulu Gombak FR
Source:
Area (ha)
16,414
8,482
19,984
Forest type
LDF, HDF,
Montane
LDF, HDF
LDF, HDF
Rich in fauna and flora; important
water catchment
Important water catchment
Important for soil protection
EPU (1991); Forestry Department Peninsular Malaysia
Note:
LDF lowland dipterocarp forest
HDF hill dipterocarp forest
NA
information not available
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3.2.2.2 Present Status of the Natural Habitats
A majority of the forest areas in Genting Highlands fall within the Genting Group
concession on a freehold lease. Some forest areas occur in smaller parcels of land
owned by third parties comprising largely private corporations who bought over the
land from Genting Group, possibly on lease hold basis. Surrounding forest areas
adjoining the boundary of Genting Highlands on both the Selangor and Pahang
sides have largely been gazetted as forest reserves.
3.2.2.3
Prime Conservation Areas
The ridge and summit areas of G. Bunga Buah and G. Ulu Kali have been identified
as having outstanding potential for flora conservation (Stone, 1981 & 1982; Jones,
1985; Kumari, 1989; Ishak & Kumari, 1989). The G. Bunga Buah ridge lies under
the Genting Group concession. It is entirely in Selangor and is between 1,000 and
1,400 m in altitude. Accessibility to G. Bunga Buah is by the old Genting road
extending from Genting Sempah to G. Ulu Kali built in the late 1960s. With
development becoming concentrated around the land below the G. Ulu Kali peak, a
new, more direct access road was constructed. The G. Bunga Buah stretch was left
intact and isolated when the new access road was completed in 1978. The natural
vegetation in this area is UDF, giving way to LMF in the higher parts of the ridge
(Kumari, 1989). The ridge and summit area harbours a very interesting flora which
forms remarkable and rich vegetation. Trees found in the UDF include those
belonging to the genus Eugenia (kelat), Shorea (meranti) and Canarium
(kedondong) (Kumari, 1989). Trees of the oak (Fagaceae) and laurel (Lauraceae)
families are common. Rhododendrons, terrestrial and epiphytic orchids, ginger,
palms and ferns are also present. Stone (1982) estimated at least 500 plant species
in G. Bunga Buah.
The G. Ulu Kali forest lies on the mountain ridge forming the Selangor-Pahang
boundary growing on very steep slopes and ravines with gradients of more than 45
degrees (Ishak & Kumari, 1989). G. Ulu Kali is the southernmost highest mountain
in the Main Range with its peak at 1,772 m which forms the apex of Genting
Highlands (Stone, 1981). Up until 1967 when the roadwork linking Genting Sempah
with the peak of G. Ulu Kali commenced, the entire area of the G. Ulu Kali ridge and
summit was still virgin forest. Over the years, there have been drastic changes to
the original landscape of the G. Ulu Kali area and its immediate vicinity. The lower
slopes of G. Ulu Kali especially, have undergone the most rapid development and
hence, the loss of forested areas (Chua & Saw, 2001). On the other hand, road
access to the G. Ulu Kali forest has allowed excursions to be carried out by
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botanists, some involving intensive botanical studies resulting in a better
understanding of the vegetation of this region (Jones, 1985).
The flora of the summit region of G. Ulu Kali represents a particular example of the
UMF and Elfin Forest (Stone, 1981) which is very sparsely distributed in Peninsular
Malaysia and are valuable for scientific and aesthetic reasons (Jones, 1985). By
1985, it was estimated that the flora of the area includes over 460 species with 90
families of flowering and non-flowering seed plants, and over 100 species in 23
families of fern and fern allies (Jones, 1985). This estimate revealed 28 species of
flowering plants are exclusive (i.e. endemic) to the forest of G. Ulu Kali, of which
three are extremely rare (Jones, 1985). Some of these 28 endemic species
represent economically important families such as orchid, ginger, mangosteen,
ginseng and cinnamon families (Jones, 1985).
Chua & Saw (2001) reported interesting results of a reassessment of the summit
flora of G. Ulu Kali conducted in 1997 to determine floristic diversity changes in
comparison with that enumerated 25 years ago. The results showed ubiquitous
component of the tropical UMF namely the ferns and bryophytes are now less
conspicuous. In fact, the lack in abundance and diversity of terrestrial and epiphytic
bryophytes and pteridophytes on the summit area is so apparent now that this is
noticeable simply through visual comparisons between Ulu Kali and other
undisturbed montane forest areas around Genting Highlands. The researchers
believe changes in species composition are clear indication of immense
environmental changes in G. Ulu Kali. However, they are unable to conclusively
determine the actual loss, recruitment or persistence of species. Chua & Saw
(2001) also acknowledged that while physical changes arising from forest
fragmentation may have some negative influences on the populations of certain
plant species, others still have the ability to continue to grow and reproduce.
3.2.2.4 Flora Profile
Species Richness
The checklist by Perumal & Lo (2000) revealed a total of 505 highland plant species
in Genting Highlands with more than half of this (314 species or 62.2%) comprising
Dicotyledons (Table 3.2). By comparison, 16.6% of the total highland plant species
of Peninsular Malaysia can be found in Genting Highlands. This is a significant
contribution in the Peninsular Malaysia context considering that this proportion is
entirely from a single hill station.
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Table 3.2: Species Richness of the Genting Highlands Flora in Comparison
with the Total Highland Plant Species of Peninsular Malaysia
Plant group
Genting Highlands
Gymnosperms
Monocotyledons
Dicotyledons
TOTAL
58 (11.5%) / (16.8%)
2 (0.4%) / (11.8%)
131 (25.9%) / (16.1%)
314 (62.2%) / (16.8%)
505 (100%) / (16.6%)
Total in Peninsular
Malaysia
346
17
816
1,871
3,050
Endemism, Rarity and Highlands Specialist
The number of endemic species totaled 107 species, which represents 21.2% of
the total highland plant species recorded in Genting Highlands (Table 3.3). Four
species are from the group Fern and Fern Allies, 28 species of Monocotyledon and
75 species of Dicotyledon. Orchids contribute the highest number of endemic
species, which is a similar trend shown in Cameron Highlands.
32 species or 6.3% of the total highland plant species recorded in Genting
Highlands are rare. 90.6% of the rare species belong to the group Dicotyledon.
The group Fern and Fern Allies, and Monocotyledon each recorded 1 and 2 rare
species respectively. There are 11 species that are endemic as well as rare in
Genting Highlands, and all of them belong to the group Dicotyledons.
Table 3.3: Endemism and Rarity among Plant Species Found in
Genting Highlands
Plant group
Ferns & Fern
Allies
Gymnosperm
Monocotyledon
Dicotyledon
Total
Number of
endemic species
Number of rare
species
Number of endemic
and rare species
4 (3.7%)
1 (3.1%)
0 (0%)
0 (0%)
28 (26.2%)
75 (70.1%)
107 (100%)
0 (0%)
2 (6.3%)
29 (90.6%)
32 (100%)
0 (0%)
0 (0%)
11 (100%)
11 (100%)
55.6% of the Genting Highlands flora consists of species that exclusively inhabit
only the highlands (Table 3.4). The highest number of highland specialist species is
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from the group Dicotyledon. Ferns and Fern Allies, and Monocotyledon each have
48 and 89 species of highland specialists each. There is only one species of
Gymnosperm that is known to be a strictly highland species.
Table 3.4: Flora Species in Genting Highlands According to Specialization
Plant group
Number of species
A
B
Total
48 (81.4%)
10
58
1(50%)
1
2
89 (67.9%)
42
131
143 (45.5%)
171
314
281 (55.6%)
224
505 (100%)
Gymnosperms
Monocotyledons
Dicotyledons
TOTAL
Note:
Conservation Status
Only one species of ferns (Ctenopteris malayana) is included in the 1997 IUCN Red
List. This species is categorized as endangered suggesting that it is immediate
danger of extinction. Three species of palms of the group Monocotyledon are in the
IUCN Red List, all of which are vulnerable. These species are classified as such
because they are subjected to threats in the form of over-exploitation, extensive
habitat destruction and other severe adverse factors. A total of 13 Dicotyledon
species are included in the IUCN and WCMC lists under different degrees of
threats.
Table 3.5: Threatened and CITES-listed Flora Species in Genting Highlands
Plant group
Number of species
IUCN List
Ferns and
Fern Allies
Gymnosperm
Monocotyledon
Dicotyledon
E
1
V
-
R
-
I
-
ENB
-
VUD
-
LRcd
-
LRnt
-
3
-
4
1
1
1
2
3
1
Note:
E: Endangered
V: Vulnerable
ENB: Endangered (criterion B)
LRcd: Lower Risk: conservation dependent
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December 2001
WCMC List
CITES
Appendices
I
II
III
-
-
-
R: Rare
I: Indeterminate
LRnt: Lower Risk: near threatened
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Final Report I
3.2.2 Fauna
The fauna profile of Genting Highlands was established via a thorough literature
review of published information. Primary sources of information were the Malayan
Nature Journal (published by the Malaysian Nature Society), the Journal of Wildlife
and Parks (published by the Department of Wildlife and National Parks, Peninsular
Malaysia) and various vertebrate field and non-field guide books. Similar to
Cameron Highlands, the bird checklist relied on the publication “A field guide to the
birds of West Malaysia and Singapore” by Jeyarajasingam and Pearson (1999) as
the primary source of information. In addition to this, the checklist of birds sighted
between 1978-1981 by Stuebing (1982b) was used. The mammal checklist was
compiled from “The wild mammals of Malaya and offshore islands including
Singapore” by Medway (1969). This has been the standard reference for the
mammalian fauna of Peninsular Malaysia. This was supplemented by information
from Stuebing (1982a) in his paper on the possibility of Gunung Bunga Buah as a
wildlife sanctuary/recreational area. The reptile checklist was gleaned from “Snakes
of Malaya” by Tweedie (1983) was supplemented by information from Stuebing
(1982a). Information on turtles was extracted from Sharma and Sharma (2000). The
amphibian checklist was compiled using “The amphibian fauna of Peninsular
Malaysia” by Berry (1975). Although this publication is somewhat outdated, there is
no recent authoritative publication on the subject. The work of Sly (1976), that
provided new locality records for amphibians, reptiles and mammals (still an
outdated publication) was used to supplement information gaps. More recent
publications by Cox et al. (1998) and Chan-ard et al. (1999) on the reptiles and
amphibians of Thailand and Peninsular Malaysia was referred to for new data on
distribution and natural history information. Both these publications serve more as
field guides but nevertheless provide information on natural history that is relevant
to this study.
Species Richness
To date, the forested habitats of Genting Highlands have been noted to support
some 42 mammal, 134 bird, 18 reptile and 18 amphibian species. In relation to the
total number of faunal species, Genting Highlands has 19.5%, 20.7%, 8.4% and
20.5% of total known Peninsular Malaysian mammal, bird, reptile and amphibian
species respectively. In comparison to the total highland faunal species found in
Peninsular Malaysia, Genting Highlands has 50.6% of known highland mammal
species, 50% of bird, 34.6% of reptile and 60% of the amphibian species.
Level of species endemism
No mammals or amphibians endemic to Peninsular Malaysia occur at Genting
Highlands. However, three bird species and one snake species endemic to
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Peninsular Malaysia can be found on this hill station. Coincidently, these three bird
species are the only endemic bird species found in Peninsular Malaysia and they
are all restricted to the highland habitats (Jeyarajasingam, 1999). They are
Polyplectron inopinatum (Mountain peacock pheasant), Myiophoneus robinsoni
(Malayan whistling thrush) and Arborophila campbelli (Malaysian hill-patridge).
Similarly, the Peninsular Malaysia endemic snake Macrocalamus lateralis (Malayan
mountain reed snake) that is found on Genting Highlands, is also limited to the
mountains (Tweedie, 1983).
Endangered species (2000 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species)
In Genting Highlands, two mammal species Capricornis sumatrensis (Serow) and
Panthera tigris corbetti (Indochinese tiger) are listed as “Endangered” in IUCN’s
Red List of Threatened Species (IUCN, 2000).
The forests of Genting Highlands house one rare species i.e. the Single finger Larut
skink (Lygosoma miodactylum) and one strictly montane species i.e. the Pygmy
grey fruit bat (Aetholops alecto) amongst the diverse vertebrate species that occur
on this hill station.
Amongst the various mammals occurring at Genting Highlands, two species are
categorised as Endangered (see previous section), one as Vulnerable (Malayan
porcupine, Hystrix brachyura) and two as Lower Risk – near threatened i.e.
Hylobates lar (White-handed gibbon) and Aetholops alecto (Pygmy grey fruit
bat)(Table 3.6).
Amongst the Genting Highlands avian fauna, two species are categorised as
“Vulnerable” (Polyplectron inopinatum, Mountain Peacock Pheasant and
Myiophoneus robinsoni, Malayan Whistling Thrush) and 11 species as “Lower Risk
– near threatened” (Table 3.6).
Table 3.6: Conservation status of vertebrate fauna of Genting Highlands
according to IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Species (IUCN, 2000)
Category
Endangered
Vulnerable
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Mammals
2
1
2
Birds
0
2
11
Total
2
3
13
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Final Report I
Of the total vertebrate fauna of Genting Highlands, 13 mammal and 131 bird
species are listed as Totally Protected under the Protection of Wild Life Act, 1972
(Table 3.7). Likewise, five mammal, three bird and one reptile species that occur at
Genting Highlands are listed as ‘Protected’ according to the PWA, 1972.
Table 3.7: Vertebrate fauna of Genting Highlands accorded protection under
the Protection of Wild Life Act, 1972
Status
Totally Protected
Protected
Mammals
13
5
Birds
131
3
Reptiles
0
1
Total
144
9
The “Totally Protected” mammal species according to the PWA, 1972, are:
2. Tapirus indicus (Malayan tapir)
6. Panthera tigris corbetti (Indochinese tiger)
11. Hylobates lar (White-handed gibbon)
The “Protected” mammal species according to the PWA, 1972, are:
1. Presbytis melalophos (Banded leaf monkey)
2. Hystrix brachyura (Malayan porcupine)
3. Sus scrofa (Wild boar)
4. Tragulus javanicus (Lesser mouse deer)
5. Paradoxurus hermaphroditus (Common palm civet)
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The “Protected” bird species of Genting Highlands as listed in the PWA, 1972, are:
1. Macropygia ruficeps (Little cuckoo dove)
2. Treron sphenura (Wedge-tailed pigeon)
3. Treron curvirostra (Lesser thick-billed pigeon)
The only reptile species occurring at Genting Highlands that is “Protected” under
the PWA, 1972 is Python reticulatus (Reticulated python).
3.2.3
3.2.3.1 Population
Existing Population
The Genting Highlands’ population has increased from 3,950 in 1991 to 5,109 in
2000 with AAGR of 2.9 percent (Table 3.7a). The number of male was 2,427 and
the number of female was 1,520 in 1991. The number of household was 1,243 in
1991.
Table 3.7a: Population Profiles of Genting Highlands, 1991 - 2000
Area
Genting Highlands
Year
1991
3,950
2000
5,109
AAGR
1991-2000
2.90
Source: i.
Special Request, Department of Statistics, Malaysia, (2000)
iii.
Consultant's Estimate
Note: AAGR = Average Annual Growth Rate
Genting Highlands cannot be disassociated with other coming up hill resorts such
as Janda Baik and Bukit Tinggi. The population in Bukit Tinggi in 2000 decreased to
1,264 compared to 1,370 in 1991 with AAGR of -0.89 percent. The declining growth
in population in 1991 - 2000 period could be due to the changing pattern in the
family structure from extended family to nucleus family. Another possible factor
could be the migration of younger generation to other areas such as Kuala Lumpur
and Bentong to seek better employment opportunities. The population in Janda
Baik is estimated to be around 1,000.
Employment
Resort World Berhad recruited about 8,183 workers in 1996 and the number
increased to 8,481 workers in 1999. It is estimated that in the year 2000 there were
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about 10,500 workers which included 12 orang asli as their contract workers. These
orang asli come from the Gombak and Batang Kali areas. Table 3.8 shows the
employees distribution in 1996 - 2000 period. It is apparent that, judging by the
number of workers and the resident population, a large number of workers are
commuting to their workplace. Information on the number of workers outside the
Resort Worlds Berhad is not available.
Table 3.8: Number of Employees, Resorts World Berhad, 1996 – 1999
Year
Total
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
8,183
8,210
9,044
8,481
10,500i
Source: Resort Worlds Berhad, 2001
Note: i. estimate given by Resort Worlds Berhad
The newly built First World hotel with 6,300 rooms will definitely increase the
number of workers. The 3,200 seating capacity of the convention hall which will be
completed in 2001 and be the largest pillarless hall in the country will also employ
more workers. The newly constructed theme park and shopping boulevard, which
will be the largest theme park in Malaysia, will also be recruiting new workers.
Projected Population
The projected population of Genting Highlands is shown in Table 3.9. Assuming
that the population growth follows the national and state pattern, it is projected that,
the Genting Highlands population will increase to 7,619 in 2020 with AAGR of 2.66
percent in 2000 - 2020 period, compared to 5,865 in 2005, 6,701 in 2010 and 7,619
in 2015.
Table 3.9: Projected Population of Genting Highlands, 2000 – 2020
Area
Genting
Highlands
2000
2005
Year
2010
5,109
5,865
6,701
2015
2020
AAGR
2000-2020
7,619
8,641
2.66
Source: i.
Special Request, Department of Statistics, 2000
(a)
Note: It is assumed that the growth rate will continue to drop in 2000 - 2020 based on previous
years growth pattern. It is assumed that the AAGR for 2000-2010 period will be at 2.75
percent and the AAGR for 2010 - 2020 period will further drop to 2.57 percent
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Settlements
The main settlement is Gohtong Jaya. Beside Gohtong Jaya, there are also
condominiums and apartments with 320 units in Awana Condominium, 192 units on
the Pahang side and 236 units on the Selangor side for the Ria Apartment and 82
units in Kayangan Apartment.
3.2.3.2 Local Economy
The major socio-economic activities in Genting Highlands are well defined with the
establishment of entertainment and recreational related facilities, casino, hotels and
accommodation modes that support and complement the tourism industry. The
commercial sector is mushrooming due to the spillover of tourism industry. Other
activities include ginger farming and education centres.
Genting Highlands, in the mountains of G. Ulu Kali, is Malaysia’s most modern and
intensively developed hill resort. Essentially the tourism attractions are
concentrated at Awana (3,000 feet level) and the Hilltop area (6,000 feet level) and
this hill station is well positioned as the “…City of Entertainment…”.
At Awana there is the Horse Ranch with stables for 70 horses, which offers
equestrian sports, carnival rides for children and lessons for beginners, the 18-hole
international class Awana Golf and Country Club, a Plant Nursery and Genting
Skyway Station.
Accessibility to the hilltop is provided by the Genting Skyway – the world’s fastest
mono cable car system. The cable car capacity is 2,400 passengers per hour. In
2000 more than 6 million passengers used the cable car.
Attractions include the Casino de Genting, the largest casino in the region which
offers an extensive range of international gaming. The Theme Park built at a cost of
over RM 100 million, includes both outdoor and indoor sections. The Theme Park
provides numerous rides on roller coasters, antique cars, monorail, go-karts, boats,
mini trains, and there are games, video games, kiddy rides, a 2-screen cineplex,
30-lane Genting Bowl centre and a new 45,000 sq ft shopping centre. The Genting
Theme Park is the largest in Malaysia. The Genting Theatre Restaurant provides
international cabaret featuring world renowned artists and there are numerous
restaurants, cafés, food courts and fast food outlets for visitors.
Genting is also a MICE destination and the Genting International Convention
Centre (GICC) has a total area space of 106,000 sq ft; it comprises the Grand
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Ballroom with seating for 3,200, convention halls, ten meeting rooms, a pre-function
area and state-of-the-art business centre. Together with other convention facilities
at Genting Hotel, Resort Hotel and Awana Genting Highlands, the GICC is among
the largest MICE centres in Malaysia.
The major tourist attractions in this hill station are illustrated in Figure 3.5.
(a)
Tourist Arrivals in Genting Highlands
Tourists
Tourist arrivals have shown an impressive rate of increase from 761,884 in 1992 to
1,918,678 in 2000; an annual average growth rate of 9.68%.(Table 3.10). A high
proportion of tourists to this hill resort are domestic tourists. In 1999, they totalled
1,489,740 or 78.9%. However, Genting Highlands, in that year managed to attract
over 398,400 foreign tourists (21.1% of the total) with major origin markets being
Singapore (15.9%), Thailand (1.7%), Hong Kong, Indonesia, Taiwan and Brunei. In
2000 domestic tourists totalled 1,051,374 (54.8%) whilst foreign tourists amounted
to 867,304 (45.2%).
Table 3.10 : Tourist Arrivals in Genting Highlands (1990-2000)
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
761,884 768,287 934,314 1,134,327 1,288,562 1,402,131 1,592,555 1,676,534 1,846,350 1,888,159 1,918,678
Excursionists
According to Resorts World Bhd, there were a total of 13.4 million visitors to
Genting Highlands which, after subtraction of the tourist arrivals, indicates that
some 11.48 million excursionists visited this hill station in this year. On the average,
this hill station attracts some 37,000 visitors – tourists and excursionists – per day.
Whilst the majority of day visitors could be expected to be local visitors, this Resort
operates bus services from KLIA and may thus attract some day visitors from
among foreign visitors.
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AAGR
(%)
10.61
Final Report I
Table 3.11 : Distribution Of Tourists By Country Of Origin, 2000
Country
Tourist Arrival
%
International
Singapore
Taiwan
Hong Kong
Thailand
Indonesia
Japan
Brunei
Korea
U.S. America
United Kingdom
Australia
Others
Total
Domestic
Malaysia
457,558
83,466
60,201
36,892
32,465
5,046
1,811
1,731
1,239
964
815
185,116
867,304
23.85
4.35
3.14
1.92
1.69
0.26
0.09
0.09
0.06
0.05
0.04
9.65
45.20
1,051,374
54.80
GRAND TOTAL
1,918,678
100.00
(b)
Purpose of Visit
Nationally, around 66% of tourists could be regarded as comprising leisure tourists
(holiday and visiting friends and relatives), around 10% are business tourists
(business and conferences) whilst transit and others are further categories.
There is no disaggregated data on purpose of visit to this hill resort but the two
dominant categories are expected to be leisure and business. The MTPB Departing
Visitors Survey in 1998 revealed, for instance, that leisure and business accounted
for the main purposes of 73% for visitors from Brunei, 81% for China, 82% for Hong
Kong, 91% for Japan, 90% for Australia and 92% for UK. Singapore was the main
exception, since only 51% claimed leisure and business, were the main purpose of
their visit; visiting friends and relatives represented 40%.
(c)
Average Length of Stay
Average length of stay (ALS) is an indicator of the ability of a destination to maintain
visitor interest. In Malaysia the ALS of tourists has shown a commendable increase
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
3-16
Final Report I
from 4.8 days (1995), 5.4 days (1996), 5.3 days (1997), 5.5 days (1998) and 5.5
days (1999). Tourists often visit multiple destinations during their stay in Malaysia
and there are generally significant variations between long haul tourists and shorthaul tourists, which the former normally having a longer ALS. In 1998 the ALS of
visitors from India, Netherlands, Sweden, and UK were 12.0, 10.4, 9.8 and 9.3 days
respectively whilst the ALS of Singaporean’s was only 2.7 days.
Table 3.12 shows the ALS for Genting Highlands declined from 3.2 days in 1992 to
2 days in 2000. This is still markedly higher than for other hill resorts such as
Fraser’s Hill and Cameron Highlands and some other major tourist destinations.
Table 3.12 : Average Length of Stay for Genting Highlands (1992-1999)
Destination
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
Genting Highlands
3.20
3.30
3.38
3.10
2.90
3.50
3.35
2.00
1.99
(d)
Hotels and Infrastructure
Data on the stock of the registered hotels in Genting Highlands in 2000 is presented
in Table 3.13. There are eight hotels with a total of 4,011 rooms. These ranged in
size from the Highland Hotel (849 rooms) to the Seri Malaysia Genting Highlands, a
budget hotel with 124 rooms. In terms of rating there is the 5-star Genting Hotel,
three 4-star hotels, viz., the Highland Hotel, Resort World and the Awana Golf and
Country Resort and two 3 star establishments, viz., the Genting View Resort and
Theme Park Hotel.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
Table 3.13 : Licensed Hotels in the Genting Highlands, 2000
Name of Hotel
No. of Rooms
No. of Stars
¾ Genting Hotel, Genting Highlands
Resort, Genting Highlands
¾ Awana Golf & Country Resort, 8 th Mile
Genting Highlands, Genting Highlands
¾ Highland Hotel, Resort World Bhd,
Genting Highlands
¾ Resort Hotel, Resort World Bhd, Genting
Highlands
¾ Genting View Resort, KM 10, Genting
Highlands Resort, Genting Highlands
¾ Theme Park Hotel, Resort World Bhd,
Genting Highlands
¾ Seri Malaysia Genting Highlands, 11
Block 2, Jalan Jati, Goh Tong Jaya,
Genting Highlands
¾ Villa Genting Resort (Amber Court)
694
5*
497
4*
849
4*
836
4*
386
3*
445
3*
Total
124
180
4,011
The Awana Golf and Country Resort has been identified as an example of excellent
resort condominium style development and use, where privately-owned units are
placed in a rental pool and the design blends attractively with the landscape.
(Malaysia Tourism Policy Study, MOCAT, 1992).
Currently, First World Hotel – which will be the largest hotel in the world as
measured by number of rooms – is being constructed. 1,000 rooms are
already in operation and by the end of 2001, 3,300 rooms (out of a projected
total of 6,300) are expected to be in operation. The development of Tower Two
(3,000 rooms) will depend on market demand. The new hotel complex
comprises two tower blocks, a covered theme park
(3.2 ha) and a
convention hall, which will be the largest of its type in Malaysia, with a
seating capacity of 3,200. The total built-up area is 5,030,000 ft2. The First
World Hotel has some 32 check-in counters, a coffee house with seating for
1,400, a rainforest and garden theme lobby and a car park with 3,300 bays.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
3-18
Final Report I
Accessibility to Genting Highlands is excellent. It is only 51 km northeast of Kuala
Lumpur. There are the Genting Express bus services – 24 services to and from at
½ hour intervals – from/to Puduraya – Genting Skyway Lower Station. The fare for
the combined Express bus and Skyway ticket is RM 5.30 (adult) and RM 4.20
(child) and for the express bus only it is RM 2.30. Cable car tickets can also be
purchased separately at the Genting Skyway Lower Station.
There are an average 6,300 cars per day to this hill station and an average of 133
buses per day. With the opening of the Genting Skyway Station all buses have to
stop at the Lower Skyway Station between the hours of 9 am. - 11pm. Passengers
proceed to the hilltop by the Cable Car.
(e)
The total number of hotel guests in Genting Highlands during 1998 was over 1.591
million and this rose to 1.64 million the following year and 1.7 million in 2000. In
1999 domestic guests totalled 787,378 whilst foreign guests amounted to
852,921.Guest nights these totalled over 2.4 million in 1998 but declined marginally
to 2.34 million in 1999. Guest nights totalled over 2.4 million in 1998 declined
marginally to 2.34 million in 1999 but rose to 2.549 million in the year 2000.
It is evident that this hill station is an important accommodation base, reflecting its
ability to attract both domestic and foreign tourists, and accounts for around a 8%
share of the total national hotel guests. (Table 3.14). It also appears to have
successfully developed accommodation modes that appeal to the mid-market resort
oriented tourists which, as noted by Malaysia Tourism Policy Study (MOCAT,
1992), comprise a significant proportion of the market demand.
Table 3.14 : Distribution of Hotel Guests and Hotel Guest Nights, Genting
Highlands, 1998, 1999 and 2000
Total Domestic
Total Foreigners
Grand Total
Guests
Guest
Nights
Guests
Guest
Nights
Guests
Guest
Nights
% Share of
National
Total
Guests
1998
842,861
1,284,087
749,063
1,131,001
1,591,924
2,415,088
9.15
1999
787,378
1,115,692
852,921
1,230,897
1,640,299
2,346,589
8.58
2000
804,793
1,200,523
897,400
1,348,478
1,702,193
2,549,001
7.41
Year
Source: MTPB
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
3-19
Final Report I
It should be added that the Genting Group utilises Information Communication
Technology (ICT) well in order to encourage visitation. It maintains a leisure and
hospitality portal, www.genting.com, which has over 26,000 on line members and is
one of the most visited travel portals in Malaysia.
(f)
For Malaysia as a whole, average occupancy rates (AOR) of hotels steadily
nationally increased to an estimated 54.3% for the period January to September
2000.declined from 65.9% (1995) to 49.9% (1998), and 50.6% (1999) but
occupancy
Genting Highlands has a consistently high AOR. The AOR in Genting Highlands in
1997 was 81%, rose to 83.5% in 1998, totalled 83.6% in 1999, and was estimated
at 84.3% for 2000. In that year, the pan-Malaysian AOR was 54.3%, Langkawi
(58%), Kuantan (53.1%), Taman Negara (63.1%), Port Dickson (44.1%), Tioman
Island (46.8%), Kuala Lumpur (60.1%), Penang (60.3%), Johor Bahru (57.1%), Ipoh
(54.0%) and Petaling Jaya (85.9%). In the case of Petaling Jaya this destination
showed an unusually high 29.7% increase from its 1999 level AOR of 56.2%. In
1998 Genting’ s AOR of 83.5% was the highest in the country.
It may thus be deduced that Genting Highlands has by national standards an
exceptionally high AOR and this reflects the vigorous promotional efforts
undertaken and the ability of the main developer to develop affordable
accommodation modalities in line with customer preferences and needs. Rooms in
the first phase of the First World Hotel are marketed at a special budget rate of
RM 50 per night – considerably lower than budget hotels such as Hotel Seri
Malaysia – and were achieving a AOR in excess of 70% even shortly after opening.
3.2.4
3.2.4.1 Water Supply
The main source of water supply in Genting Highlands comes from Sg Berdah and
Sg Bertam Lumut. There are two water treatment plants here with a total capacity of
17.0 MLD. There are five water intake stations located along Sg Pencheras and Sg
Mengkuang which abstract water to these treatment plants. The maximum yield of
water for Genting Highlands was calculated to be 37.9 MLD and any additional
projected demand must be obtained from lowland areas. Due to water constraint,
Resorts World Berhad has implemented strategies to reduce water consumption.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
This includes removing the bathtubs and installing dual flush system in the First
World Hotel.
3.2.4.2 Sewerage System
There is a very good sewage treatment system at Genting Highlands. A new RM 50
million sewage treatment plant to cater for all the facilities on the hilltop has recently
been commissioned and will replace the four existing individual sewage treatment
plants at the hilltop. The design total population equivalent of Resorts World Bhd’s
sewage treatment plants is 133,000.
Other developments in the Genting Highlands, such as Institut Aminuddin Baki and
Genting View Resort, have their own sewage treatment facilities. Older
developments such as bungalows have septic tanks.
The parts of Genting Highlands within the catchment of Sg. Bentung and Sg.
Bertam Lumut in Pahang which are water supply sources that serve Genting
Highlands itself and also part of Bentung district. Thus sewage effluents discharged
from sewage treatment plants in Genting Highlands are required to meet Standard
A of the Environmental Quality (Sewage and Industrial Effluents) Regulations 1979.
3.2.4.3 Solid Waste Management
Resorts World Berhad has six incinerators to manage all solid waste. Four
incinerators are located at the hill top whereas the other two are located at mid way
near Gohtong Jaya (Plate 3-1). Approximately RM 19 million was spent in setting
up these incinerators and the operating cost is about RM 3 million per year. The
total waste generation at Genting Highlands is about 80 tonnes/day. The
composition of the solid waste is shown in Table 3.16.
Table 3.16 : Composition of the solid waste
Types
Organic waste
Aluminium
Paper
Plastic/cloth
Total
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
Composition
50%
6%
14%
30%
100%
Disposal method
Composting
Recycling
Incinerated
3-21
Final Report I
Resorts World has introduced a new method for its solid waste management
involving recycling, incinerating and composting. This is still in the research stage
and is being funded by the Ministry of Science, Technology and Environment. This
method will separate and pulverize the solid waste into 50% organic and 50%
inorganic. The organic materials undergo composting where 10 tonnes of material
is reduced to 2 tonnes of fertilizers. The fertilizer is used in the golf course and the
organic farming.
3.2.4.4 Road & Transportation System
Access to Genting Highlands is via a 19 km road from Genting Sempah or via
Batang Kali. The road has been recently upgraded to a two lane dual carriageway
from Genting Sempah to Gohtong Jaya located about midway up the summit. The
rest of the way will be upgraded to a similar capacity by the end of 2001.
The ease of vehicular access to the hill has resulted in most tourists driving up to
the summit and causing traffic congestion there. This situation is worsened during
the holiday season with cars from as far as Singapore joining in the rush. The final
few kilometers up near the summit is very steep, often causing traffic jams during
peak times.
Another means of access to the summit is the cable car, known as the “Skyway”.
The Skyway has a capacity of 2400 passengers per hour and visitors can park their
car in a multi-storey carpark at the Lower Skyway station located at the 3000 ft
level. All buses to Genting Highlands (between 9 am to 11 pm) now terminate here,
and the passengers continue their journey on the Skyway.
Resorts World Berhad spends approximately RM 6 million for road maintenance per
year. Maintenance includes daily inspection by the road maintenance personnel, 24
hours security patrol and upgrading of these roads. The Genting access road is
also equipped with sufficient streetlights.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
3.3
STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES & THREATS
3.3.1
Strengths
(a)
Single Major Developer
A major strength of Genting Highlands is that much of the land is owned and
developed by one company, the Genting Group. This company has, in a way, taken
ownership of the Hill Station which bears its name has so far created a well-planned
development.
(b)
Proximity to Kuala Lumpur and Good Access
The hill resort, only 51km north-east of Kuala Lumpur, with outstanding road
connections, enjoys the best accessibility of any of the country’s hill resorts. The
road from Kuala Lumpur to Genting Sempah which is part of the Kuala Lumpur Karak highway is good and well-maintained, making an ease for travellers from the
nation’s capital.
The access to Genting from Genting Sempah to the hilltop is via a well-maintained
and two-lane dual carriageway road. The road and transport system has been
designed to cater to the large number of vehicles ascending to Genting Highlands
(average 6,300 car/day, 133 buses/day). The bus service from other major towns to
this place is also plentiful and frequent.
“The Skyway”, which is the cable car service from midhill to the summit, serves as
an added convenience for access to Genting Highlands resort.
(c)
Land Use Management
The total developable area at Genting is around 10% of the total area. This is due
to the rugged hill terrain and lack of water source which has limited the
opportunities for development. These two factors have led to concentrated
development at the two levels (3,000ft and 6,000ft), thereby safeguarding the
environment from further threats. The remaining undeveloped land gives the image
and character to the resort and provides the opportunity for eco tourism activities.
The Genting Group in its part has played an exemplary role in the development of
the resort by utilising environmental friendly methods in their engineering works and
in the treatment of solid wastes. This effective management and maintenance of the
land use has safeguarded the environment form mass destruction.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
(d)
Existing Facilities
The existing facilities at Genting provide for family orientated activities and are very
popular for day trippers. The Theme Parks is a major attraction together with the
entertainment and leisure activities provided. In addition the golf and country club,
horse ranch, and the numerous service apartments have attracted both local and
foreign visitors. In year 2000, it is estimated that 13.4 million people visited the
resort, with an average of 37,000 persons per day.
(e)
Population
The population of Genting Highlands increases at a slow pace. This scenario
enables continuous maintenance of conducive environment for local residents. It
will also greatly help in the management and development of new housing areas.
(f)
Good Tourism Products
The temperate-style climate at this hill station has proven to be a major attraction to
visitors. Undeniably too Genting Highland’s has a clearly defined tourism product,
entertainment, and this product has been exceptionally well positioned in both the
domestic and international market with this hill resort being identified as …”The City
of Entertainment.”
The Genting Group has vigorously promoted this hill resort both locally and
internationally and the results of this promotion are very evident in the very
substantial growth of visitor and tourist arrivals.
Conscious attempts have been made to provide family entertainment and sporting
and recreational opportunities and a wide range of facilities and amenities have
been provided. These include a renowned and high quality 18-hole golf course, an
indoor stadium, bowling alley, horse breeding station, a nursery and a well
developed casino and a theme park with appeal to both youths and families.
The innovative mono cable car system is another distinctive characteristic of this hill
station and offers visitor superb panoramic vistas of the highland eco-system.
(g)
Good Accommodation Base
Genting Highland’s also has an extensive accommodation base with a very good
mix of accommodation facilities ranging from 5 star deluxe hotels, mid-priced and
budget hotels and apartments. There is also a very wide range of fast-food outlets,
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
restaurants, cafes including internet cafes, and good shopping facilities with a broad
market appeal and many well suited for families.
(h)
Excellent MICE Facilities
Meetings, Incentive, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) is being vigorously
promoted by MOCAT and efforts being undertaken to promote Malaysia as a
premier MICE destination.
Table 3.17 provides clear evidence that these efforts are bearing fruit with the
number of events in Malaysia having increased by 5.63% annually over the period
1996-2000. Over the same period the annual average growth rate in participants
was a highly impressive 11.29% whilst the AAGR for revenue was 14.08%. Genting
Highlands has impressive MICE facilities which are being further upgraded and
clearly this hill station has strengths as a MICE destination.
Table 3.17 : Meetings, Incentive, Conventions and Exhibitions, 1996-2000
Number of Events
International
National
Total
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
AAGR
19962000 (%)
296
426
316
447
380
420
387
437
423
476
9.34
2.81
722
763
800
824
899
5.63
115,768
179,122
294,890
138,826
161,210
300,036
139,195
166,030
305,225
246,295
181,713
428,008
22.77
1.59
11.29
346.9
545.9
382.0
573.2
458.1
532.0
512.7
547.8
915.0
597.2
27.44
2.27
892.8
955.2
990.1
1,060.5
1,512.2
14.08
Number of Participants
Foreign
108,410
Local
170,593
Total
279,003
Revenue (RM Million)
Foreign
Local
Total
Source : MTPB
(i)
Accessibility of Forest
The proximity of the forest in Genting Highlands to Klang Valley, making it easily
accessible to urban visitors residing in the Klang Valley. Being strategically located
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
and owing to the fact that there is now very few natural areas close enough to the
Klang Valley, renders the forest of Genting Highlands highly significant for
conservation not only for its biodiversity but for its ecological, aesthetic and
recreational values as well.
The initiative by Awana Resort to connect the forest surrounding this Resort with
the highland ecosystem is an attractive feature for Genting Highlands which offer
another facet for the nature oriented. It includes among others a Nature Education
and Research Centre (NERC) with photo exhibition and specimens of plants,
insects, reptiles and animals found at the Awana area, mini library and audio-visual
room for viewing nature CDs or videos. The NERC, intended to provide a first hand
encounter of the forest in the Awana area is complemented by activities in the form
of guided educational trips into the forest. Nature based recreational activities for
the outdoor and adventurous type are also organised by Awana Resort.
(j)
Good Infrastructure
Genting Highlands possesses good infrastructure especially in the areas of solid
waste management and sewerage system. A solid waste is disposed of by
incineration at six incinerators, two at the mid-hill and four at the hilltop. A pilot
project to develop a solid waste separation, recycling and composting scheme is
currently being carried out at Gohtong Jaya in Genting Highlands.
Sewage treatment plants operated by Resorts World Bhd at Genting Highlands are
well maintained and capable of meeting Standard A effluent discharge standards. A
new sewage treatment plant with a capacity of 60,000 population equivalent has
just been commissioned at the hilltop.
3.3.2
Weaknesses
(a)
Lack of a Development Master Plan
The absence of policies and guidelines to monitor and control development at
Genting Highlands can lead to detrimental effects to the environment as seen by
the rampant site clearing by the Samaworld Resort Group (Plate 3-2). Presently,
many residential proposals are abandoned due to infrastructure capacity constraint,
particularly on water supply sources. The Development Master Plan together with
guidelines would be a useful tool to monitor development and at the same time
ensure
the
type
of
permitted
developments
and
zonings.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
(b)
Lack of Long Term Development for Biodiversity Conservation
In the context of biodiversity, the lack of long term security from development for
much of the forest in Genting Highlands poses a major weakness. This is because
the Genting Master Zoning Development Plan projects only 5% of forest will remain
once the Plan becomes fully implemented. The situation could be further
compounded by the absence of any clear commitment from the private landowners
to designate areas to be permanently retained under forest.
(c)
Limited Water Supply
The limited water supply at Genting Highlands is the primary limiting factor of
development. Resorts World Bhd has indicated that the current water supply is
sufficient to existing development including the First World Hotel. However, RWB
does not plan to further develop the land within their land bank due to the
prohibitive costs of procuring additional water supplies. Another weakness of the
water supply at Genting Highlands is the susceptibility of the water intakes to water
quality degradation due to the fact that the water intakes are downstream of the
development at the hilltop.
(d)
Steep Access
While most of the access from Genting Sempah to the summit provides a
comfortable drive, the final few kilometers is very steep and makes it tough even for
cars to ascend, let alone heavier vehicles. On peak visitor periods, this can turn to
be a crawl up, as many vehicles find it difficult to negotiate the steep slopes. This in
turn leads to more vehicular exhaust emissions and degrading the air quality.
3.3.3
Opportunities
(a)
Tourism
Rising discretionary incomes as well as changing tastes in favour of domestic travel
being generated by promotional campaigns such as Cuti-Cuti Malaysia offers
promising potential for further expanding the flow of domestic visitors to this already
popular hill resort. With the strong emphasis accorded family entertainment,
moderately priced accommodation, and proximity to the densely populated Klang
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
Valley, Genting is well positioned to further develop as one of Malaysia’s major
domestic tourist destinations.
Nature based and eco-recreation activities have good potential to be promoted as a
tourism product. This could add variety to the selection of tourism products as well
as complement the existing range of tourism products for Genting Highlands.
Although the major tourism product for Genting Highlands is already clearly defined
and well positioned, there are good prospects for nature based and eco-recreation
activities as it caters for a specialised target audience. There are also opportunities
for other resorts in Genting Highlands to start similar nature based and ecorecreation initiatives as that introduced by Awana Resort.
Genting also complements Janda Baik/Bukit Tinggi, which were identified in the
Bentong Structure Plan as having potential to be developed as tourism/recreation
centres for both domestic and foreign tourists. Cultural-lifestyle interest in Orang
Asli settlements and handicrafts were other tourist products identified.
The Bukit Tinggi Resort is developed by the Berjaya Group and covers some
16,000 acres. Developments include Colmar Tropicale, a French-themed village
resort, a Japanese village with a teahouse and tatami suites and the Bukit Tinggi
Golf and Country Club. Other further developments planned are a theme park, a
picnic site, an Outdoor Spa and a restaurant in the Japanese theme village. In
2000, tourist arrivals to Bukit Tinggi totalled 25,330. Some hobby farming activities
have been developed at Janda Baik.
(b)
Potential for Nature-based and Eco-recreation Activities
Capitalising on the forests in Genting Highlands that feature the highland
ecosystem provides good prospects for nature-based and eco-recreation activities.
These could be promoted as a tourism product that will add variety to the selection
as well as complement the existing range of tourism products for Genting
Highlands. Although the main tourism product for Genting Highlands is already
clearly defined and well positioned, there are potentials for nature-based and ecorecreation activities as it caters for a specialised target audience.
As an example, other resorts in Genting Highlands could consider starting similar
nature based and eco-recreation initiatives as that introduced by Awana Resort.
The Awana Resort initiative involves a Nature Education and Research Centre
(NERC) that provides a first-hand encounter of the forest in the Awana area and is
complemented by activities in the form of guided education trips into the forest. In
addition, Awana Resort also runs activities for the outdoor and adventurous types
such as jungle trekking and eco-sports.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
(c)
Zoning of Specific Forest Areas for Biodiversity Conservation
Because the forests in Genting Highlands is largely still intact and prime biodiversity
conservation areas have been identified, there are opportunities for setting aside
specific areas of forest to be kept permanently in their natural state. Ideally, this
should be done within the context of the existing Genting Master Zoning
Development Plan. This provides some form of guarantee to the long-term status of
important forest areas in Genting Highlands.
(d)
Research and Development on Montane Biodiversity
Specific areas of forest in Genting Highlands have been identified as having
outstanding potential for biodiversity conservation particularly from the flora
perspective. These include the G. Bunga Buah and G. Ulu Kali ridge and summit
areas. There are potentially other areas in Genting Highlands also with high
biodiversity values for example, Gunung Lari Tembakau and areas north of Bt.
Genting Chin Chin but which have yet to be extensively explored because of
difficulty or non-availability of access.
There is already recognition mostly from the scientific community of the biodiversity
importance of areas such as those mentioned above. Great opportunities exist for
promoting more scientific activities in the forests of Genting Highlands as part of the
R&D on montane biodiversity. Apart from development in science, this will also
contribute towards better understanding of the importance and potentials of
montane biodiversity both economically and socially.
(e)
Conservation, Aesthetic and Recreational Potentials of the Forests
The proximity of the forests in Genting Highlands to Klang Valley makes it easily
accessible particularly to urban visitors residing in the Klang Valley. Being
strategically located and owing to the fact that there is now very few natural areas
close enough to the Klang Valley, renders the forests of Genting Highlands highly
significant for conservation not only for its biodiversity and ecology but for its
aesthetic and recreational values as well.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
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Final Report I
3.3.4
Threats
(a)
Haphazard Development
Land alienated to other developers and their development proposals may have a
negative impact on the existing environment. Unlike Resort World who has taken
the responsibility and initiative to adopt environmentally friendly methods and
approaches at the planning and construction stage of development, there is no
guarantee that the other parties would also adopt similar methods. The uncontrolled
development by other developers may result in environmental degradation to the
human and natural environment. There have also been projects that are abandoned
such as the Samaworld (Plate 3-2).
(b)
Tourism
In the ultimate analysis tourist destinations are in competition with each other. In a
highly competitive market the switching “brands” or “products” is a possibility.
Genting Highlands faces competition from other established hill resorts in Malaysia
and in neighbouring countries.
(c)
Loss of Biodiversity
Development involving unnecessary clearance of large areas of forest especially by
third party developers could have significant implication on biodiversity. An
example is the SamaWorld project in the lower slopes of G. Ulu Kali that has
resulted in the degradation of important habitats and loss of species in this locality.
Although the project has since been abandoned, much damage has been caused
particularly as it involves an area that is known to be outstanding in terms of
biodiversity conservation. Because of this, the long term viability of the G. Ulu Kali
area for biodiversity conservation has been compromised.
(d)
Insecure Long Term Status of Forests
Although currently more than 90% of the Genting Group landbank is still under
forest and there is no immediate plan to develop these areas, there is no long term
security for these forests from being subjected to development pressures. Much of
the forests that have been earmarked for development are likely to be cleared in
future as stipulated in the Genting Master Zoning Development Plan. The Plan
projects that only 5% of forest will remain once the Plan becomes fully
implemented.
Apart from environmental and ecological consequences, this
situation could also adversely affect the biodiversity resources in Genting Highlands
as the forests provide refuge to a wide array of flora and fauna.
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(e)
Loss of Forest Cover
Forest clearance resulting from development activities especially by third party
developers such the Samaworld involving substantially large forest areas in the
lower slopes of G. Ulu Kali is a major threat to the biodiversity in this locality. This
has resulted in the degradation of important habitats and loss of species.
A further possible threat to sustainable development in the Study Area could arise if
the proposed Hill Resort road (HRR), which would traverse along the mountainous
terrain of the Main Range, were built. This could lead to the exploitation of latent
natural resources.
(f)
Roads & Transportation
Traffic congestion going up hill as well in Genting Highlands itself is becoming
common during the weekends and the holiday season. The increasing number of
vehicles, especially those caught in congestion, is a potential source of increased
air and noise pollution.
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3.4
CARRYING CAPACITY
For Genting Highlands, the focus was on the tourism carrying capacity, which took
into consideration the proposed tourist facilities, and infrastructure improvements
that are detailed the Action Plans in Section 3.5.
The following is the derivation of the carrying capacity together with the
assumptions:
(a)
Tourism
Assumptions:
•
•
•
4001 rooms x 2.5 persons per room (overnight) x daily turnover rate 1 per day
4001 rooms x 1.0 person per room (day visitors) x daily turnover rate 2 per day.
Proposed additional 6300 rooms x 2.5 person per room (overnight) x daily
turnover rate 1 per day
• Proposed additional 6300 rooms x 1.0 person per room (day visitors) x daily
turnover rate 2 per day
Carrying capacity = 46,354 visitors per day
(b)
•
•
•
Water Supply
The water supply is based on the estimation of low-flows for a 20-year return
period at 11.1ML per day from the combined catchments of Sg. Batu Tegoh, Sg.
Ranting and Sg. Air Terjun
It is assumed that 50% of the water from these three catchments is abstracted
for consumption.
The demand to be 250L per day for residents and 100L per day for visitors; ratio
of residents to visitor conservatively assumed at 1:7.
Carrying capacity = 51500 visitors per day
Transportation was not considered as a limiting factor due to availability of
the cable car and ample parking space in the summit. The access road is
also capable of handling very large volumes of vehicles while the congestion
near the summit is more due to the steepness rather than the lack of
capacity. The tourism carrying capacity is determined to be at 46,354 visitors
per day or 16.919 million visitors per year. This would allow for growth in visitors
especially for MICE and possibly health tourism, as well as entertainment.
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3.5
ACTION PLANS
3.5.1
Development Focus and Guiding Issues
On the basis of the strengths and opportunities identified earlier, this study
proposes that the main development focus for Genting Highlands should be
Entertainment Tourism. Auxiliary focus should be on MICE, Health Care Tourism
and Nature-Based Tourism
In targeting Genting Highlands to becoming a world-class entertainment resort,
strategic recommendations must be made following several guiding issues peculiar
to this place.
The lack of an overall development master plan is eventually going to a problem for
Genting Highlands. For now, there is a very dominant developer in the Genting
Group in which their development is well-planned. However, in the future when
other developers begin actively build on this hill, the lack of a master plan would
result in a haphazard sort of development.
The likelihood of water shortage has always been one of the limiting factors to
development here, especially if the objective is to create bigger and better resort to
bring in more visitors. Water management is critical here as also the need to
consider new sources of water.
With the plans to attract record number of tourists, the traffic situation has to be
considered. While the access to the summit is a generously wide road, there is a
still a limit to that. There is also the issue of roads in the resort itself along with the
parking capacity, which is all limited. An effective means of transporting visitors up
and moving them around has to be explored.
3.5.2
Tourism Enhancement
The Action Plan outlines the principal issues being addressed, the proposed
development strategies, and the recommended development programmes.
Themes for Tourism Development
The main developer at Genting Highlands, Resort World Bhd, has already
successfully developed a tourism theme for the Study Area as a “City of
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Entertainment” and has vigorously promoted this destination in that context.
Additional sub-themes that could be developed are:
MICE Destination
The expansion of MICE facilities at Genting Highlands bodes well for the further
active positioning and promoting the Study Area as an important MICE destination.
Health-Care Tourism
The Federal Government has identified health tourism as a means of attracting
more inbound tourists and enhancing tourism growth and the National Committee
on Health Tourism is to intensify its efforts to accelerate the growth of health
tourism, including medical and dental treatment. Genting Highlands, with its cool,
temperate climate, has the potential to develop as a health care tourism destination
and it is understood that the Mayo Clinic had earlier expressed interest in
developing a health clinic at Awana.
Action Plan : GH-AP1
The development of Genting Highlands must focus on Entertainment
Tourism, Health Tourism and MICE. Other types of new development such as
residential and agriculture should not be permitted. UPEN Pahang should issue
directives in this regard.
Promoting Genting Highlands as a premier MICE destination. With the
forthcoming completion of high quality convention and meeting facilities at Genting
Highlands, it is proposed that Resort World Bhd, in co-operation with MTPB,
vigorously promote this hill resort as a premier MICE destination, in addition to its
function as an entertainment centre.
Establishment of a world-class medical facility at Awana. It is recommended
that Resort World Bhd, possibly in a joint venture with a renowned international
medical centre, develop health tourism, through the establishment of a world-class
medical facility at Awana.
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Implement a Land Care and Environmental Action Programme designed to
upgrade the environment and beautify the Study Area especially the areas
allocated to other developers. This programme can be carried out by MDB / MDHS
MDB/MDHS must ensure that the design, architecture and management of any
approved new tourist facilities should be in keeping with the Highlands character,
history and culture and the integrity of the built environment must be maintained
and enhanced.
3.5.3
Land Use Planning
An overall Development Master Plan or a Local Plan must be developed for
Genting Highlands. Majlis Daerah Bentong together with Majlis Daerah Hulu
Selangor and Department of Town and Country Planning shall formulate this plan.
The plan, in addition to zoning land use, shall also identify conservation areas and
infrastructure requirements.
Rehabilitate the abandoned Sama World site. This site has been left bare, is
eroding and is an eye-sore to all visitors to Genting Highlands. Land ownership and
the financing of the rehabilitation could impose difficulties but an concerted and
closely coordinated effort by the Pahang State Government, Majlis Daerah Bentong
and the Genting Group should be able to overcome the problem.
3.5.4
Infrastructure & Environmental Improvements
Water Supply
It has clearly been identified that the development pace is dictated by the
availability of reliable water supply. The strategy to maintain the water demand can
be achieved by the reduction of water consumption through water-efficient devices
and management practice.
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The present pilot plan for the disposal of solid waste is promising and is set to be an
effective method for the future. The areas of improvement would be in the
minimization of waste.
Road System & Transportation
Genting Highlands already boast a fine and efficient cable car system coupled with
a multi-storey carpark at the cable car station. While this enables a large volume of
visitors to be transported up to the summit, further incentives can be proposed to
encourage more people to utilise this service and not drive their cars up. After all,
construction of additional car parks at the summit is not exactly in the spirit of
sustainable development.
MDB must make water conservation measures mandatory for all new facilities
in Genting Highlands. Half flush toilets and auto-shut off taps must be installed as a
Genting Group should identify new water supply sources for future
developments. Water catchments adjacent the present catchment could be tapped
and piped here. Existing water catchment areas shall be protected and no
development shall be permitted in these areas.
MDB should ensure that all hotels implement environmental management
EMS.
Recycling policies to be implemented where the workers at the Resort as well as
the other non-Resort residents of the area are to be made aware of the benefits of
recycling and waste reduction. Resorts World itself can initiate recyclin
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programmes whereby all residents in the entire study area will be encouraged to
participate. Special collections can be made weekly for recyclable wastes only, and
this would reduce the burden at the disposal facility.
Free shuttle busses services for the resort area should be provided by Resorts
World, where its convenience and frequency will hopefully persuade the
holidaymakers to leave their cars behind. This service should extend to the
adjacent hills where the Amber court apartments are located. The present
integrated pedestrian facility must be perpetuated for all new developments in the
summit to ensure a convenient walk from one place to the other.
3.5.5
The main issues pertaining to biodiversity are:
Long Term Security of Forest Areas
The issue concerning the long term security of forest areas in Genting Highlands is
especially critical for areas that have outstanding potential for biodiversity
conservation. With the absence of any form of formalised commitment and
measures on the part of the private owners of the landbank in Genting Highlands
means that these forests and therefore, the biodiversity they support are at risk of
becoming wiped out.
Importance of Scientific Information
Biodiversity information can be used as justification for assessing development
plans and to guide development decisions. However, the advantage of using
scientific information and recommendations to support management and
development processes has yet to be recognized. Site-specific and detailed
biodiversity information for example could be useful in determining the types of
development that is less detrimental to biodiversity or in providing valid reasons for
retaining biodiversity significant areas in their natural state.
Expansion of Nature-based and Eco-recreation Initiatives
As discussed in the SWOT analysis, opportunities do exist in Genting Highlands for
expanding nature-based and eco-recreation initiatives. Such initiatives could be
seen as diversifying and complementing the existing range of entertainment
oriented tourism products as they are meant for specialized target audience. More
importantly from the biodiversity perspective, these initiatives offer opportunities for
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increased publicity and better appreciation of the highland ecosystem and indirectly,
the biodiversity associated with it.
Zoning specific forest areas for conservation purposes. The Genting Group
should consider zoning specific forest areas within their landbank which have
significant biodiversity values for conservation purposes. This ideally should be
done within the context of the Genting Master Zoning Development Plan. Selection
of suitable sites must be done critically with particular consideration on the following
factors;
(a) the forest is still intact and represents to a large degree the vegetation and flora
of Genting Highlands;
(b) the area is substantially large to ensure stability of the species composition and
maintenance of the natural characteristics;
(c) compatibility with future development plans in the vicinity of the site.
Designation of forest areas as botanical reserve or nature park. The Genting
Group should designate suitable forest areas within its landbank special
conservation status such as ‘botanic reserve’ or ‘nature park’. A potential candidate
would be the G. Bunga Buah ridge and summit area. This would require
demarcation of the boundary limits of the conservation areas. Specific objectives
must also be determined so that only activities and development that are
compatible with these objectives are allowed in these areas.
the area. Research and academic institutions as well as scientific and conservationbased NGOs could take more initiative to publicise scientific findings through
publication of the results of biodiversity related studies undertaken in Genting
Highlands. This will help increase scientific interest and appreciation of the
biodiversity which could potentially provide the stimulus for conservation of
biodiversity significant areas in Genting Highlands.
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Implementing nature-based activities in their respective establishments.
Resort operators in Genting Highlands to consider implementing nature-based
activities in their respective establishments. This may include setting up Nature
Education or Interpretation Centres, or activities that can be geared towards
educating and increasing public awareness on the natural environment in Genting
Highlands in general, and biodiversity in particular.
3.5.6 Administrative
An Environmental Management Unit should be set up within the MDB to plan,
monitor and implement environmental measures and to undertake environmental
awareness and education programmes. This is necessary due to the fragile nature
of the environment and the varied and complex environmental issues. This
environmental unit must be trained on environmental protection and be given
unit. Setting up of the EMU will entail MDB recruiting additional staff as the current
staff-force will not be able to handle the additional tasks. It is proposed at least one
professional staff and one technician are engaged at the initial stages.
The duties of the EMU include the following:
•
•
•
•
•
projects
Pahang and UPEN Selangor must continuously monitor all development
activities at Genting Highlands.
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Final Report I
Plate 3-1
Solid waste composting site at Gohtong Jaya
Plate 3-2
The abandoned Samaworld development
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December 2001
4
FRASER’S HILL
Final Report 1
CHAPTER 4: FRASER’S HILL
4.1
INTRODUCTION
Fraser’s Hill, covering an area of 2,804 ha, is the least developed of the three hill
stations although development here began back in 1919. Today, about 1,000
people live and work here, maintaining a hill resort with a few scattered bungalows,
several hotels and apartments, golf courses, and some recreational facilities.
Tourist numbers have declined in recent years, with the 1999 figures indicating that
just over 32,000 visitors for that year. The natural environment appears to be the
main attraction for visitors. Although development here has been of a relatively
small scale, they have resulted in some environmental destruction. The Jeriau
waterfall is still suffering the effects of siltation from the construction of the new golf
course upstream (Plate 4-1), soil erosion due to the construction of the Silverpark
apartments and the new road leading to Fraser’s Hill has been subject to
landslides.
The diverse flora and fauna found here suggests that this area be developed into
an eco-based tourism, and creating a niche for nature lovers who can enjoy the
cool mountain air.
4.2
EXISTING SITUATION
4.2.1
4.2.1.1
Land Use
Fraser’s Hill, located on the Main Range, was developed as a hill station to primarily
cater for the British Administrators to enjoy the cool climate. The hill was managed
by the Fraser’s Hill Development Corporation (FHDC) in the past but is now
managed by Majlis Daerah Raub. The function of FHDC is now to promote tourism,
management of their land bank and assets. Majlis Daerah Raub has set up a
branch office at Fraser’s Hill but their functions are limited to infrastructure
management and landscaping. All development applications are now referred to the
main office at Raub.
At present there are no Development Master Plan or Local Plans for Fraser’s Hill to
guide and control development. In 1991, the State Government approved a very
ambitious plan to develop about 2,400 ha, with residential, recreational, education,
deer farms and infrastructure upgrading. However, this plan is being reviewed to
reduce the environmental degradation and any further impacts to the area. Figure
4.1 shows the existing land use for Fraser’s Hill.
(a)
Land Use Characteristics
The major existing land use consists of residential, commercial (hotels/ shops),
social / community facilities and recreational facilities.
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Residential
The residential development consists of mainly bungalows which are scattered
around the hill area. The bungalows have a rich architectural design and many
have been bought by the private companies and Government agencies with some
private ownership. Other types of dwellings include high-density type apartments.
Commercial
The commercial activities are limited at Fraser’s Hill with shopping facilities
provided at Puncak Inn. Other facilities include restaurants, resort, lodges and
hotels.
Social / Community facilities
The social facilities include police station, post office and dispensary. The
community facilities consist of a clinic, a mosque, temples, mini museum and a
children’s playground.
Recreational
The recreational facilities include a sports complex, two golf courses (9-hole Town
Course and 18-hole Jeriau Course), horse riding, fishing, flower nursery,
recreational parks (Taman Sg. Hijau and Taman Kayangan) and nature trails (Plate
4-2).
4.2.1.2
Topography
Fraser’s Hill is the lowest of the three major hill stations on the Main Range. The
main peaks surrounding Fraser’s Hill are Bukit Pokok Pine (1456 m), Bukit Hulu
Sempam (1320 m), Bukit Jeriau (1256 m) and Gunung Hulu Semangkok (1364 m).
There is no peak identified as “Fraser’s Hill”, but the highest peak immediately
within Fraser’s Hill is Bukit Peninjau (1328 m), which houses a telecommunications
station. The town centre and golf course at Fraser’s Hill is located in the upper Sg.
Teras valley that drains northeast. The terrain at Fraser’s Hill is steep, resulting in
many of the large developments such as Pine Resort and Silverpark being built on
slopes. The controversial Fraser’s Hill Country Club golf course was constructed in
the valley between the peaks of Bukit Pokok Pine, Bukit Hulu Sempam and Bukit
Jeriau. The Jeriau Waterfall, which is a popular recreation area, is located along Sg.
Jeriau that flows westwards from Bukit Jeriau. Figure 4.2 shows the topography of
the area.
Fraser’s Hill, like other hill stations, has high risk of soil erosion. The construction of
the new golf resort caused Sg Hijau and the Jeriau waterfall to be badly silted.
Besides the golf course, the new access road to Fraser’s Hill also caused
environmental problems. Parts of the road have cracked and collapsed and
landslides have occurred. Slope failures have exposed rock boulders and some are
hanging precariously on slopes and some on the road. The opening of this road
has been postponed on a few ocassions, from June 1996 to late 1997 before finally
becoming operational in August 2001.
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4.2.1.3 River System and Water Quality
Fraser’s Hill is the source to many rivers flowing into Selangor and Pahang, notably
Sg. Selangor, Sg. Hijau, Sg. Teranum and Sg. Teras. Sg. Hijau is important to
Fraser’s Hill as it is the source of the hill’s water supply. The hill is part of the Sg.
Selangor river basin which is a vital source of water supply to Selangor.
There are many water quality monitoring stations in the rivers here due to their
importance to water supply. Sg. Terenum and upstream reaches of Sg. Selangor
has shown to be generally clean with most of the parameter with Class II of the
Proposed National Water Quality Standard. In Sg. Teras however, there has been
an increase in the levels of suspended solids from 1998 to 1999. Another station in
Sg. Selangor further downstream from the first displayed fluctuating results, from
Class I to Class III. Figure 4.3 shows the rivers draining Fraser’s Hill.
4.2.2
4.2.2.1
Natural Ecosystem and Habitats Represented
As in the case of Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands, forests constitute the
predominant natural ecosystem within and around Fraser’s Hill. Several types of
forest can be identified within the Fraser’s Hill municipality area which has an
elevation range of between 790 m to 1,448 m (Perumal, 1998). The forests
comprise primarily UDF and LMF with small patches of UMF on mountaintops and
ridges (Perumal, 1998). The best example of UMF in Fraser’s Hill is on Pine Tree
Hills (Kiew, 1992). HDF occur at lower elevation (i.e. below 750 m) such as in the
lower slopes in the northeastern end of the Fraser’s Hill municipality area and is
contained within the adjacent forest reserves bordering Fraser’s Hill. The three
forest reserves adjoining Fraser’s Hill are Ulu Tranum and Batu Talam FRs (in
Pahang), and Semangkok FR (in Selangor) (Table 4.1).
Of the 2,804 ha of land in the Fraser’s Hill municipality area, 90% is still covered by
forest while the remaining 10% has been taken-up by infrastructure development
and other development activities (Perumal, 1998).
Table 4.1: Forest Reserves adjoining Fraser’s Hill
Name of Forest
Reserve (FR)
Semangkok FR
Batu Talam FR
Ulu Tranum FR
Area (ha)
1,523.78
62, 390.37
6,119.65
Forest type
HDF
LDF, HDF
HDF, Montane
Rich floral composition
Important for wildlife and water
catchment
Important for soil protection
Source: EPU (1993); Forestry Department Peninsular Malaysia(2001)
HDF: Hill Dipterocarp Forest
Note: LDF: Lowland Dipterocarp Forest
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Final Report 1
4.2.2.2
Legal Status of the Natural Habitats
Records show that parts of Fraser’s Hill have been afforded protection in the form
of a ‘Reserve for the Preservation of Animals and Birds’ on the Selangor side
(2,979 ha) in 1922 (Davison, 1996). Subsequently in 1957, an adjoining area in
Pahang (c. 6,000 ha) designated as ‘Residential Reserve and Game Sanctuary’
was added on (Davison, 1996; MOSTE, 1997). The Reserve in Pahang was
established using Pahang State Government Gazette Notification (G.N. no.379 of
31 October 1957) under the National Land Code.
The forests adjoining Fraser’s Hill are either forest reserves (gazetted under the
National Forestry Act 1984) and/or part of the ‘Reserve for the Preservation of
Animals and Birds’ or the ‘Residential Reserve and Game Sanctuary’.
Kiew (1998), however, claimed that none of the forests within the municipality area
has actually been designated any form of legal protection. The Fraser’s Hill
‘Reserve for the Preservation of Animals and Birds’ in Selangor overlaps wholly
with forest reserve. The Reserve in Pahang also possibly overlaps with forest
reserves.
4.2.3.4
Prime Conservation Areas
A study by Kiew (1992) in Fraser’s Hill identified four areas of outstanding scientific
importance and value for plant conservation on the basis that these areas harbour
the greatest number of Fraser’s Hill endemics as well as endangered and/or rare
species. Of particular importance is the presence of species which are monotypic,
that is there is only one species belonging to the genus. What this implies is that if
the species become extinct, then the genus is also extinct. The Fraser’s Hill flora
includes three of Peninsular Malaysia’s five monotypic endemic genera of herbs
(Kiew, 1992 & 1998). None of these genera is common in the Peninsula, all have
restricted distributions and none grows in any of the Peninsula’s existing protected
area (Kiew, 1998).
The three monotypic genera found in Fraser’s Hill occur in at least two of the four
proposed areas for plant conservation. Additionally, each of the four proposed
areas comprises its own set of species, and therefore, they complement one
another in protecting different forest types. The four areas are: (a) the Bishop’s
path; (b) path to Pine Tree Hill; (c) the Jeriau Valley; and (d) the forest below the
Methodist’s bungalow (Table 4.2). These four areas recommended for protection
are those that presently form part of the tourist attraction of Fraser’s Hill (namely,
(a) and (c)) and preserving their flora also preserves their aesthetic and amenity
values in the long run, or areas that are unlikely to be developed (namely, (b) and
(d)). Kiew (1992) recommended two additional areas of importance for plant
conservation as well as possessing historical and amenity values which feature the
ambience and nature image of Fraser’s Hill. These are the Kenari-Nuri-Merpati trail
and the roadside forest fringes (Table 4.3).
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Table 4.2: Important Features of Prime Flora Conservation Areas in Fraser’s Hill
Name of Area
Bishop’s path
•
•
Significant Features in the Flora Context
Harbours some extremely rare and endangered plant species
Comprises extremely excellent LMF with high diversity and majestic sized trees
•
Path to Pine
Tree Hill
•
Shelters rare and endangered plant species
•
Jeriau Valley
•
One of the three known localities worldwide where the ancient and very rare tree
species, Trig Oak occurs
The only locality in Fraser’s Hill for several rheophytes (i.e. plants adapted to torrential
currents)
Rich in gingers and palms
•
Supports forest that is different both in species composition and appearance due to
the influence caused by the presence of quartzite in the soil
Harbours a good diversity of gingers and orchids, and several rare species
Supports species of herbaceous plants which are endemic to Fraser’s Hill
•
•
•
Forest below the
Methodist’s
bungalow
•
•
•
•
Recommendations
Designate special status to this forest trail and enforce
measures to ensure its long term protection using
appropriate legislative options
Designate special status to this forest trail and enforce
Implement stringent controls to prevent damage to the
stream systems
Enforce protection measures on the forest from Sg.
Jeriau up to the ridges on both sides of the valley to
safeguard the Trig Oak tree and the scenic river and
waterfall area
Designate special status to this forest and enforce
Source: Kiew (1992)
Table 4.3: Important Features of Prime Flora Conservation Areas in Fraser’s Hill
Name of Area
Kenari-NuriMerpati trail
•
•
Roadside forest
fringes
•
Significant Features in the Flora Context
Although disturbed in places, the forest still harbours rare species and species
endemic to Fraser’s Hill
Supports several species attractive species including those with good ornamental
potential
Supports roadside trees most of which provide food plants for birds and animals, and
therefore allowing birds and other fauna such as dusky leaf monkeys to be observed
by the roadside at close range
•
•
•
•
Recommendations
Appropriate and correct labeling of trees in the trail
Prevent degradation by neglect or overuse of trail
Inclusion of clause in building permits requiring
permission to be obtained before any felling of roadside
trees is done
Implementation of guidelines to ensure fringing trees
along roads are not cut down
Source: Kiew (1992)
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Final Report I
4.2.2.4
Flora Profile
Similar to the first two hill stations, the preliminary checklist of highland plant
species compiled by Perumal & Lo (2000) is also used for Fraser’s Hill as the basis
for the analysis of its flora profile.
Species Richness
The checklist by Perumal & Lo (2001) gave a total of 552 highland plant species
(Table 4.4), which by comparison is slightly more than half of the estimate by Kiew
(1998). The flora size of Fraser’s Hill reported by Kiew (1998) is 952 species
(comprising Gymnosperm, Monocotyledon and Dicotyledon). This variation is likely
to be caused by the difference in methodology. In contrast to Perumal & Lo (2001),
Kiew (1998) used a methodology that included field surveys and study of herbarium
specimens to supplement the literature review.
Of the 552 species, 312 are Dicotyledons, representing 56.5% of the total plant
species in Fraser’s Hill. 180 species are Monocotyledons while 59 are species of
Ferns and Fern Allies. Only one species of Gymnosperm has been recorded.
Fraser’s Hill accounts for 18.1% of the total highland plant species found in
Peninsular Malaysia from the four plant groups considered in this analysis (Table
4.4). This figure gives an indication of the substantial contribution and importance of
Fraser’s Hill, despite it being a relatively small area, towards highland plant species
diversity in Malaysia.
Table 4.4: Species Richness of the Fraser’s Hill Flora in Comparison with the
Total Highland Plant Species of Peninsular Malaysia
Plant group
Gymnosperms
Monocotyledons
Dicotyledons
Fraser’s Hill
59 (10.7%) / (17.1%)
1 (0.2%) / (5.9%)
180 (32.6%) / (22.1%)
312 (56.6%) / (16.7%)
552 (100%) / (18.1%)
Total in Peninsular
Malaysia
346
17
816
1,871
3,050
Special features of Species: Endemism, Rarity and Highland Specialist
The number of endemic species in Fraser’s Hill is 107 of which nearly 70% (or 74
species) are Dicotyledons (Table 4.5). Monocotyledons accounts for 30 of the
endemic species and the remaining three are from the group Ferns and Fern Allies.
Interestingly, 15 of the endemic Monocotyledon species are orchids, a similar trend
reflected in both Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands.
Of the 552 species recorded in Fraser’s Hill, 33 species are rare (Table 4.5). 87.9%
(or 29 species) are Dicotyledon species while the remaining 12.1% (or four species)
belong to the Monocotyledon group. The total number of plant species in Fraser’s
Hill that have both status of endemic and rare is 13 species (Table 4.5). All are
species of the Dicotyledon group.
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Table 4.5: Endemism and Rarity among Plant Species Found in Fraser’s Hill
Plant group
of endemic species er of rare species
Gymnosperm
Monocotyledon
Dicotyledon
3 (2.8%)
0 (0%)
30 (28%)
74 (69.2%)
Total
107 (100%)
0 (0%)
0 (0%)
4 (12.1%)
29 (87.9%)
33 (100%)
er of endemic and rare
species
0 (0%)
0 (0%)
0 (0%)
13 (100%)
13 (100%)
Slightly over half (52.7%) of the Fraser’s Hill flora comprises strictly highland
species with Monocotyledons having the highest number among the four plant
groups (Table 4.6). The only species of Gymnosperm found in Fraser’s Hill is not a
highland specialist.
Table 4.6: Flora Species in Fraser’s Hill According to Specialization
Plant group
Gymnosperm
Monocotyledon
Dicotyledon
A
48 (81.4%)
0 (0%)
129 (71.7%)
114 (36.5%)
291 (52.7%)
Number of species
B
11
1
51
198
261 (48%)
Total
59
1
180
312
552 (100%)
Note:
Conservation Status of Species
The rationale for assessing the conservation status of the flora species and the
approach for this assessment are as discussed in Section 2.2.2.4. The same
approach is adopted here whereby the plant species record for Fraser’s Hill
(totaling 552 species) is cross-checked with the 1997 IUCN Red List of Threatened
Plants, the 1998 WCMC World List of Threatened Trees and the CITES
Appendices. As in the case for the two other hill stations, it is hoped that the results
of this exercise provide some indication of the conservation status of the plant
species for Fraser’s Hill.
None of the plant species from both categories of Ferns and Fern Allies, and
Gymnosperm is included in the IUCN Red List, WCMC List and CITES Appendices
(Table 4.7). Three species of Monocotyledon are in the IUCN Red List, all of which
are vulnerable and constitute members of the palm family (Palmae). None of the
Monocotyledon species is listed in any of the three CITES Appendices. A total of 20
Dicotyledon species are included in the IUCN and WCMC lists under different
degrees of threats including one pitcher plant species (Nepenthes gracillima) that is
also listed in Appendix II of CITES. Being listed in the CITES Appendix II indicates
that the international trade of Nepenthes gracillima requires export permit and is
closely controlled.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-7
Final Report I
Table 4.7: Threatened and CITES-listed Flora Species in Fraser’s Hill
Plant group
IUCN List
E
V
R
I
ENB
Ferns and Fern
Allies
Gymnosperm
Monocotyledon
3
Dicotyledon
1
1
1
1
Note:
E: Endangered
V: Vulnerable
ENB: Endangered (criterion B)
LRcd: Lower Risk: conservation dependent
Number of species
WCMC List
VUD
-
LRcd
-
LRnt
-
10
4
2
CITES
Appendices
I
II
III
-
1
-
R: Rare
I: Indeterminate
LRnt: Lower Risk: near threatened
Except for certain parts of the forest areas in Fraser’s Hill (for example, Jeriau
Valley and its surrounding areas where the De Club Golf Resort is built, site for the
Silverparks apartments and areas affected by the construction of the second
access road), the rest of the forest are generally quite secure from development at
the moment. This is because the FHDC, which formerly acted as the local authority
for Fraser’s Hill has in the past been promoting a relatively passive development.
This however was likely to be more of an internal administrative decision, which
was dependent on the views of the FHDC. With the role of local authority now
taken over by the Majlis Daerah Raub, it is uncertain whether a similar arrangement
will be applied in terms of the future direction of the development in Fraser’s Hill.
Therefore, the security of the forest areas in Fraser’s Hill is not known in the long
term.
4.2.2.5 Fauna profile
Similar to the approach used for Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands,
available references was use to compile the vertebrate faunal checklists. The bird
checklist was compiled by referring to the “Checklist of birds in Fraser’s Hill”
published by WWF Malaysia and the book “A field guide to the birds of West
Malaysia and Singapore” by Jeyarajasingam and Pearson (1999). Additionally,
publications in the Malayan Nature Journal by Allen (1952, 1953) were also used as
a historical reference. A relatively recent publication in the Journal of Wildlife and
Parks by Siti Hawa et al. (1985) was also referred to. Compilation of the mammal
checklist relied heavily on “The wild mammals of Malaya and offshore islands
including Singapore” by Medway (1969). In addition the earlier work of Harrisson
(1962) was also used. It is noteworthy that there have been no recent publications
on the mammals of Fraser’s Hill although this area supports some interesting fauna
such as tapir, siamang, colugo and leaf monkeys. Tweedie’s “Snakes of Malaya”
(Tweedie, 1983) provided the baseline data for the compilation of the reptile
checklist. The amphibian checklist was compiled using Berry’s “The amphibian
fauna of Peninsular Malaysia” by (Berry, 1975). Information on reptiles and
amphibians contained in Berry (1975) and Tweedie (1983) was supplemented by
data where possible from Cox et al. (1998) and Chan-ard (1999).
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-8
Final Report I
Species richness
The lower montane forests of Fraser’s Hill support some 52 mammal, 275 bird, 27
reptile and 26 amphibian species. If compared to the total faunal species in
Peninsular Malaysia according to each taxon, Fraser’s Hill has 24.19% of mammal,
42.44% of bird, 12.62% of reptile and 29.55% of amphibian species respectively.
However, in comparison to the total highland faunal species found in Peninsular
Malaysia, this hill station has 62.65% of mammal, 88.42% of bird, 51.92% reptile
and 86.67% of amphibian species respectively.
Species endemism
No Peninsular Malaysian endemic mammal occurs at Fraser’s Hill. However, three
Peninsular Malaysian endemic birds and two endemic reptiles have been recorded
to occur here. The three endemic birds are Polyplectron inopinatum (Mountain
peacock pheasant), Myiophoneus robinsoni (Malayan whistling thrush) and
Arborophila campbelli (Malaysian hill-patridge) (Jeyarajasingam, 1999). The two
endemic reptiles are snakes and they are Amphiesima inas (Malayan mountain
keelback) and Macrocalamus lateralis (Malayan mountain reed snake) (Tweedie,
1983).
Endangered Species (2000 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species)
Fraser’s Hill has two Endangered species according to the IUCN Red Data List and
these are the serow and the tiger. Unlike Cameron and Genting Highlands, Fraser’s
Hill has more bird species that are considered Vulnerable according to the IUCN
Red List of Threatened Species criteria.
Amongst the various Peninsular Malaysian mammals that inhabit montane areas,
only one i.e. the Pygmy grey fruit bat (Aetholops alecto) occurs at Fraser’s Hill.
The lower montane forests of Fraser’s Hill supports two globally Endangered
mammal species i.e. the serow (Capricornis sumatrensis) and the tiger (Panthera
tigris corbetti), three Vulnerable mammal species and three Lower Risk – near
threatened mammal species (Table 4.8) according to the IUCN Red List of
Threatened Species (IUCN, 2000). The mammal species occurring at Fraser’s Hill
and listed as Vulnerable (IUCN, 2000) are Catopuma temminckii (Golden cat),
Hystrix brachyura (Malayan porcupine) and Tapirus indicus (Malayan tapir). The
Lower Risk – near threatened mammal species occurring at this hill station are one
primate, Hylobates lar (White-handed gibbon) and two bats, Aetholops alecto
(Pygmy grey fruit bat) and Miniopterus schreibersii (Schreibersii’s bat).
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-9
Final Report I
Table 4.8: Conservation status of vertebrate fauna of Fraser’s Hill according
to IUCN’s Red List of Threatened Fauna (IUCN, 2000)
Category
Endangered
Vulnerable
Mammals
2
3
3
Birds
0
5
25
Total
2
8
28
Five species of birds occurring at Fraser’s Hill have been catagorised as Vulnerable
in the IUCN’s global assessment of threatened species (IUCN, 2000) and 25
species of birds for this hill station have been placed under the Lower Risk – near
threatened category.
The birds of Fraser’s Hill that are listed as Vulnerable species are:
Polyplectron inopinatum (Mountain Peacock Pheasant)
Myiophoneus robinsoni (Malayan Whistling Thrush)
Treron capellei (Large green pigeon)
Heliopais personata (Masked finfoot)
Melanoperdix nigra (Black wood patridge)
The birds of Fraser’s Hill that are listed under the Lower Risk – near threatened
species category are:
Buceros rhinoceros (Rhinoceros hornbill)
Rhinoplax vigil (Helmeted hornbill)
Buceros bicornis (Great hornbill)
Calyptomena virdis (Green broadbill)
Rhinomyias umbratilis (Grey-chested jungleflycatcher)
Rhizothera longirostris (Long-billed partridge)
Rollulus rouloul (Crested wood partridge)
Caloperdix oculea (Ferruginous wood patridge)
Pycnonotus cyaniventris (Grey-bellied bulbul)
Pycnonotus melanoleucos (Black-white bulbul)
Pycnonotus squamatus (Scaly-breasted bulbul)
Pycnonotus eutilotus (Puff-backed bulbul)
Hypsipetes malaccensis (Streaked bulbul)
Enicurus ruficapillus (Chesnut-napped forktail)
Harpactes diardii (Diard’s trogon)
Halcyon concreta (Rufous-collared kingfisher)
Chloropsis cyanopogon (Lesser green leafbird)
Megalaima mystacophanos (Red-throated barbet)
Ptilinopus jambu (Jambu fruit dove)
Phaenicophaeus diardi (Black-bellied malkoha)
Platylophus galericulatus (Crested jay)
Prionochilus thoracicus (Scarlet-breasted flowerpecker)
Philentoma velatum (Maroon-breasted monarch)
Pitta caerulea (Giant pitta)
Psittinus cyanurus (Blue-rumped parrot)
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-10
Final Report I
The lower montane forests of Fraser’s Hill supports 14 mammal species and 264
bird species that are listed as Totally Protected according to the PWA, 1972 (Table
4.9). This hill station additionally has six mammal species and eleven bird species
listed as Protected. In addition, there is also one Protected reptile.
Table 4.9: Vertebrate fauna of Fraser’s Hill accorded protection under the
Protection of Wild Life Act, 1972
Status
Totally Protected
Protected
Mammals
14
6
Birds
264
11
Reptiles
0
1
Total
278
18
The “Totally Protected” mammals of Fraser’s Hill are:
4. Panthera tigris corbetti (Indochinese tiger)
5. Catopuma temminckii (Golden cat)
9. Arctogalidia trivirgata (Small-toothed palm civet)
10. Mustela nudipes (Malay weasel)
The “Protected” mammals of Fraser’s Hill are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Presbytis melalophos (Banded leaf monkey)
Presbytis obscura (Dusky leaf monkey)
Hystrix brachyura (Malayan porcupine)
Sus scrofa (Wild pig)
Tragulus javanicus (Lesser mouse deer)
Paradoxurus hermaphroditus (Common palm civet)
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-11
Final Report I
The “Protected” birds of Fraser’s Hill are:
1. Macropygia ruficeps (Little cuckoo dove)
2. Ptilinopus jambu (Jambu fruit dove)
3. Calcophas indica (Emerald dove)
4. Treron sphenura (Wedge-tailed pigeon)
5. Treron curvirostra (Lesser thick-billed pigeon)
6. Treron capellei (Large green pigeon)
7. Treron olax (Little green pigeon)
8. Gallus gallus (Red jungle fowl)
9. Amaurornis phoenicurus (White-breasted waterhen)
10. Zosterops palpebosa (Jungle white-eye)
11. Copsychus malabaricus (White-rumped shama)
The only Fraser’s Hill reptile that is listed as “Protected” in the PWA, 1972 is the
Python reticulatus (Reticulated python).
4.2.3
4.2.3.1
Population
Fraser's Hill lies on two state peripheries, Selangor and Pahang. On the Selangor
side, there seems to be a decreasing growth pattern of population, from 153 in
1991 to 93 in 2000 (Table 4.10). On the contrary, the population in the Pahang side
has increased from 888 in 1991 to 1,163 in 2000. In total, Fraser's Hill's population
has increased to 1,256 in 2000 from 1,041 in 1991 with AAGR of 2.11 percent.
Comparatively, the population growth was above the Pahang average growth rate
of 1.84 percent during the same period.
Table 4.10: Population Distribution of Fraser's Hill, 1991 - 2000
Area
Selangor Side
Pahang Side
Fraser's Hill
AAGR (1991 – 2000) (%)
1991
2000
153
888
93
1163
1,041
1,256
2.11
Source: Preliminary Count Report for Urban and Rural Areas, Department of Statistics, (2000)
Table 4.11 shows the projected population of Fraser's Hill in the 2000 - 2020 period.
As experienced in earlier years, the population of Fraser's Hill will still increase but
at a slower rate. While it is projected to grow at 2.05 percent during the 2000 - 2010
period, the AAGR will further drop to 2.0 percent in 2010 - 2020 period. It is then
projected that by year 2020, the population in Fraser's Hill will reach 1,876,
compared to 1,390 in 2005, 1,539 in 2010 and 1,699 in 2015.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-12
Final Report I
Table 4.11: Projected Population of Fraser's Hill, 2000 - 2020
Year
Area
Fraser's Hill
Source:
i.
(b)
Note:
i.
1991
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
1,041
1,256
1,390
1,539
1,699
1,876
AAGR (%)
19912000-2020
2000
2.11
2.02
Preliminary Count Report, Department of Statistics, 2000
It is assumed that the growth rate will continue to drop in 2000 - 2020 based
on previous years growth pattern.
It is assumed that the AAGR for 2000-2010 period will be at 2.05 percent and the
AAGR for 2010 - 2020 period will further drop to 2.0 percent
ii.
The average household size in Fraser's Hill has increased from 3.67 in 1991 to 3.78
in 2000. Similarly, the number of households has also increased from 284 in 1991
to 332 in 2000.
In comparison between the two state sides, there seems to be contrasting patterns
in both the average household size and the number of households in the period
1991 - 2000. While the Selangor side experienced a decrease in the number of
households, the Pahang side faced an increase in the average household size.
4.2.3.2
Employment
Table 4.12 shows employment by economic sector, in the 1980 - 1991 period. In
1980, there were 496 employed in economic sectors in Fraser's Hill.
Consistent with the Fraser's Hill's image as one of the important hill resorts in
Malaysia, the wholesale and retail, hotel and restaurant sector was the main
contributor of employment in 1991. It totalled about 51 percent of employment
during that year. In 1991, the labour force stood at 491. The unemployment rate
was 3.2 percent.
Table 4.12: Distribution of Employment by Sector, 1991
Industry
Agriculture
Mining and Quarry
Manufacturing
Utilities
Construction
Wholesale and Retail Trade, Restaurants and
Hotel
Transport
Finance
Community and Social Services
Others
Total
No.
%
17
4
1
12
29
3.4
0.8
0.2
2.4
5.8
253
10
6
158
6
496
51.0
2.0
1.2
31.9
1.2
100.0
Source: Pengkalan Data Banci, Department of Statistics, (1991)
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-13
Final Report I
4.2.3.3
Local Economy
Fraser's Hill local economy is dependent upon the tourism sector especially nature
tourism. As such, the supporting sectors important to boost the tourism industry are
the hotel, restaurants, and retail sectors. Many of the residents are government
servants and workers in tourism and related supporting sectors.
Commerce
The commercial sector services the local residents as well as tourists. As indicated
earlier, the commercial sector plays an important role in generating income as well
as supporting the tourism sector for Fraser's Hill. There are at least eight registered
hotels in 1991 in Fraser's Hill.
In addition, there are less than 50 commercial establishments, which provide
services in mostly in retail and wholesale. Among the notable ones include 10
restaurants, a handicraft establishment and some retail premises. There was a
petrol kiosk servicing Fraser's Hill residents as well as tourists but it was closed
recently.
Agriculture
There is very little agriculture in Fraser's Hill. There is a flower nursery run by the
Five-H Flora Farm Sdn Bhd. It provides services in horticultural consultancy and
business. The company also markets its products to Taman Pertanian Bukit
Cahaya Seri Alam for its Four Season Temperate Garden, Kuala Lumpur City Hall
and other municipal councils beside to tourists in Fraser's Hill.
4.2.3.4 Tourism
Fraser’s Hill has a rustic charm and quiet tranquillity with its principal tourism
product being nature tourism. Among the specific attractions are nature nature trails
affording visitors the opportunity to see interesting flora and fauna including birds:
there are in excess of 250 species of birds at Fraser’s Hill and this hill station is a
bird sanctuary of international standing.
The nature trails vary in their distance and degree of difficulty. The Hemmant trail,
for instance, is only 1km in length and begins at the back of the Nature Education
Centre and ends at Victory Bungalow and takes about an hour to complete. The
Pine Tree trail in contrast, is one of the more physically challenging trail, is 6km
long and takes around four hours at a moderate pace to reach its peak, Pine Tree
Hill. It should be added that the favourable climate at this hill station also, adds to its
strength for trails and bird watching whereas the lowland birding areas are hot and
humid.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-14
Final Report I
Other attractions include a flower nursery, small sports complex with tennis and
squash courts, pony riding at The Paddock, Jeriau Waterfall, Allan’s Water (fishing
lake), a children’s playground and two golf courses. The town course, designed by
Frank Hemmant in 1925, is a nine-hole course with undulating fairways and rolling
greens while the 18-hole Jeriau course was designed by Roger Davis and features
a colonial-style clubhouse with tennis courts, a restaurant and other amenities.
The major annual event attraction in this hill station is The Fraser’s Hill International
Bird Race, which has been held annually since 1988 in June. Three member teams
compete in sighting, identifying and recording as many species of birds as possible.
The 2001 event attracted 159 participants in 53 teams including Malaysians and
visitors from Singapore, Thailand, Denmark, United Kingdom, U.S., New Zealand
and Belgium.
The major tourist attractions in Fraser’s Hill are illustrated in Figure 4.4.
(a)
Tourist Arrivals in Fraser’s Hill
Tourist arrivals to Fraser’s Hill over the period 1990-2000 are shown in Table 4.13.
Arrivals declined from 57,504 in 1990 to 32,154 in 1999. However, in 2000 tourist
arrivals rose to total 47,963. Over the period 1990-2000 there was a negative
annual average growth rate of 1.80%.
A very high proportion of tourists to Fraser’s Hill are domestic tourists: these
accounted for nearly 87.8% in 2000 and foreign tourists, amounting to 5,839 or
12.2%, were mainly from Singapore, Japan, Australia, US, UK, and Germany.
Of the domestic visitors, the majority (around 75%) are from the Klang Valley, some
10% from Pahang and the remaining 15% from other states in Malaysia.
Table 4.13: Tourist Arrivals in Fraser’s Hill (1990-1999)
Destination
1990
1991
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
Fraser’s Hill 57,504 77,594 86,351 54,915 58,987 59,062 60,807 61,441 38,538 32,154 47,963
AAGR
(%)
-6.25
(b)
Purpose of Visit
Nationally, around 66% of tourists could be classified as leisure tourists (holiday
and visiting friends and relatives), around 10% are business tourists (business and
conference), whilst more than 11% regarded themselves as in transit.
An earlier study conducted by WWF found that some 85% of visitors to Fraser’s Hill
were leisure tourists (holiday, visiting friends and relatives, golf, bird watching), 6%
were on organized activities, and 3% were business tourists whilst 6% were
classified as others (WWF, 1995).
It was also noted that some 66% of visitors were repeat visitors, whilst the
remaining 34% were first –time visitors.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-15
Final Report I
Table 4.14: Distribution of Tourists to Fraser's Hill by Country of Origin, 2000
Country
International
Singapore
Japan
Australia
U.S. America
United Kingdom
Germany
Netherlands
France
Taiwan
Denmark
Others
Total
Tourist Arrival
%
1,279
715
297
210
177
167
113
103
99
80
2,599
5,839
2.67
1.49
0.62
0.44
0.37
0.35
0.24
0.21
0.21
0.17
5.42
12.17
Domestic
Malaysia
42,124
87.83
GRAND TOTAL
47,963
100.00
Source: Fraser's Hill Development Corporation
(c)
Average Length of Stay (ALS)
Average length of stay (ALS) is an indicator of the ability of a destination to maintain
visitor interest. In Malaysia the ALS of tourists has shown a commendable increase
from 4.8 days (1995), 5.4 days (1996), 5.3 days (1997), 5.5 days (1998) and 5.5
days (1999). Tourists often visit multiple destinations during their stay in Malaysia
and there are generally significant variations between long-haul tourists and shorthaul tourists, which the former normally having a longer ALS. In 1998 the ALS of
visitors from India, Netherlands, Sweden and UK were 12.0, 10.4, 9.8 and 9.3 days
respectively whilst the ALS of Singaporean’s was only 2.7 days.
Table 4.15 shows the ALS for Fraser’s Hill declined from 3.2 days in 1992 to only
1.70 days in 2000. This is markedly lower than for other hill resorts such as Genting
Highlands and Cameron Highlands and other major tourist destinations. Survey
respondents in an earlier study attributed declines in visitors and ALS to a
combination of factors such as loss of attractive quality, poor accommodation
standards, including high tariffs in the bungalows not commensurate with room
standards and a lack of recreation facilities (WWF, 1995).
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-16
Final Report I
Table 4.15: Average Length of Stay for Fraser’s Hill (1992-2000)
Destination
1992
1993
1994
1995
1996
1997
1998
1999
2000
Fraser’s Hill
3.20
3.40
3.52
3.30
3.10
3.00
1.65
1.17
1.70
(d)
There are seven hotels with a total of 437 rooms in Fraser’s Hill (Table 4.16).
Table 4.16 : Licensed Hotels in the Fraser’s Hill, 2000
Name of Hotel
¾ Quest Resort Hotel, Jalan Lady Guilemard,
Fraser’s Hill
¾ Fraser’s Pine Hotel, Jalan Kuari, Fraser’s Hill
¾ Silverpark Holiday Resort, Jalan Lady Maxwell,
Fraser’s Hill
¾ Fraser’s Hill Holiday Bungalow, Fraser’s Hill
Development Corporation, Fraser’s Hill
¾ Jelai Highland Resort, Fraser’s Hill
¾ Puncak
Inn,
Fraser’s
Hill
Development
Corporation, Fraser’s Hill
¾ The Smokehouse Hotel Restaurant, Jalan Jeriau,
Fraser’s Hill
¾ Ye Olde Smoke House, 1381 Jalan Jeriau,
Fraser’s Hil
Total
No.of Rooms No.of Stars
90
3*
132
112
50
40
27
13
13
477
The total number of hotel guests in Fraser’s Hill in 1998 was 20,362 and this
increased to 23,956 in 1999. As regards guests in 1999 some 21,615 were
domestic visitors whilst the remaining 2,341 comprised foreign visitors.
Total guest nights in this hill resort rose from 27,801 in 1998 to 29,332 in 1999. In
1999, 26,184 out of the 29323 guest-nights were spent by domestic visitors (Table
4.17).
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-17
Final Report I
Table 4.17: Distribution of Hotel Guests and Hotel Guest Nights, Fraser’s Hill,
1998 and 1999
Total Domestic
Year
Total Foreigners
Grand Total
% Share of
National
Total Guest
Guests
Guest
Nights
Guests
Guest
Nights
Guests
Guest
Nights
1998
16,273
22,579
4,089
5,222
20,362
27,801
0.12
1999
21,615
26,184
2,341
3,148
23,956
29,332
0.13
Source : MTPB
As a proportion of the national total, Fraser’s Hill only represented approximately
0.13% in 1999. It is clear that at present Fraser's Hill is a very minor destination for
foreign visitors and even for Malaysian visitors it only accounts for about 0.2%, as
compared to 9.1% attracted to Genting Highlands and 2.7% who visit Cameron
Highlands.
(f)
The national average occupancy rate (AOR) of hotels in Malaysia has steadily
declined from 65.9% (1995) to 50.6% (1999) but there was a 3.6% increase to
53.8% in the year 2000. In the case of Fraser’s Hill, the decline in the AOR has
been steeper from 24.1% in 1999 to 27.6% in 2000.
Evidence obtained from the Quest Resort indicates an AOR of about 26% but with
major inter-temporal variations. During public holidays and extended week-ends
occupancy rates can approach high levels of over 70% but during mid-week AOR
are exceptionally low.
In part the low and declining occupancy rate can be attributed to the fact that while
arrivals have declined more hotel rooms have been added to the stock and to
further exacerbate the situation, there has been an increase in the number of
holiday homes and apartments. Another interpretation of a declining AOR is a
market signal that different modes of accommodation may be needed in line with
changing visitor preferences and needs. An increasing number of visitors may, e.g.
be seeking budget accommodation.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
4-18
Final Report I
4.2.4
4.2.4.1 Water Supply
Fraser’s Hill is supplied from an intake on the Sg. Hijau with the balance of the river
flow passing over a downstream waterfall which is a local tourist attraction.
Upgrading plans are currently underway.
The existing treatment plant at Jalan Jeriau is being upgraded and another
reservoir has been built in addition to the existing one to increase the capacity to
0.91 ML. The reservoirs are located at Jalan High Pines near the flower nursery.
The balance of the projected future water requirement must be obtained from a new
source, the Sg. Teranum. The recommended location is where the Fraser’s Hill Raub road crosses the river. An output of 4.5 MLD has been assumed. Teras also
derives its supply from an intake on the Sg. Teranum. The present water supply is
sufficient to meet the needs of Fraser’s Hill (Table 4.18).
Table 4.18 : Projected Water Demand In Fraser’s Hill
Year
Projected
population
Service
factor
Population
served
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
1 256
1 390
1 539
1 699
1 876
0.9
1.0
1.0
1.0
1.0
1 130
1 390
1 539
1 699
1 876
Domestic
l/c/d
Mld
280
0.32
285
0.40
295
0.45
300
0.51
310
0.58
Commercial
l/c/d
Mld
50
0.06
55
0.08
60
0.09
64
0.11
75
0.14
Total
Mld
0.37
0.47
0.54
0.66
0.72
4.2.4.2 Sewerage
Sewage treatment systems in Fraser’s Hill consist mainly of septic tanks and
mechanized sewage treatment plants. The older developments, including the Quest
Hotel, utilize septic tanks that discharge to the drainage system. Newer
developments, such as the Silverpark Apartments, utilize centralized sewage
treatment plants. Sewage effluents drain mostly into upper catchments in the state
of Pahang and Selangor.
4.2.4.3 Solid Waste Management
The total waste generation in Fraser’s Hill is approximately 1 tonne per day
(1kg/person/day) and is managed by Majlis Daerah Raub. Collection is done thrice
weekly using a one tonne compactor. All wastes are disposed off at the 1-acre
open dump which is located along Jalan Jeriau, about 2 km from the town center.
Waste is dumped on the steep valley and pushed down the slope. The dump is an
eyesore and emits foul odour.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
4.2.4.4 Road System
Fraser’s Hill is approximately 100 km from Kuala Lumpur. There are two roads to
this hilltop resort. The first is through the Kuala Lumpur Karak highway, turning off
at Bentong going towards Raub before arriving at the Gap. The other route is
through the Federal Route 1 road going towards Ipoh, branching off at Kuala Kubu
Bharu.
The access to the summit of Fraser’s Hill is via a place known as the Gap. The road
from the Gap to the summit is a narrow and windy 8 km stretch. Due to this, the
road previously only allowed for one-way traffic to the top from 6 am to 7.40 p.m.
alternating between descending and ascending traffic. This has however changed,
with the new road to Fraser’s Hill which links Pine Resort to the Gap being
completed and recently being opened for public use. This access is approximately 2
km longer than the old road and is used for ascending traffic due to its steep
structure while the old road for descending traffic. At the hill top, the roads are quite
narrow and on weekends and public holidays, the number of cars to this hill station
increases and causes traffic problems.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
4.3
STRENGTHS, WEAKNESSES, OPPORTUNITIES AND THREATS
4.3.1
Strengths
(a)
Physical Characteristics
The rugged terrain, cool climate and the sporadic distribution of the low-density
development units have blended to create a balanced harmony between the built
and physical environment. The resort is surrounded by forest reserves namely,
Batu Talam Forest Reserve at the north and west, and Ulu Tranum Forest Reserve
at the south and east of the hill station.
Fraser’s Hill is located at a mean altitude of 1,219 metres above sea level and
temperatures average around 22oC daily and the coolness prevailing in this hill
station is a major “pull” factor for visitors. Historically, this hill resort has attracted
visitors because of a scenic, rustic and tranquil natural environment and many
people come to relax, walk around the town centre, as well as to jungle-trek and
bird-watch. Fraser’s Hill is a very important bird sanctuary with some 270 species of
local and migratory birds. Tour companies such as Kingfisher, Meranti and Asian
Overland organise tours for special interest tourists, viz, bird enthusiasts.
Many visitors to this hill station, in a survey conducted by WWF, cited the climate as
the characteristic they liked best there, followed closely by the natural environment.
Other popular characteristics were the scenery and the tranquillity of the place.
(WWF, 1995)
(b)
Recreational Facilities
The existing recreational facilities and activities, particularly, nature trails, bird
watching, golf courses, horse riding and fishing have been instrumental in attracting
visitors to the resort. In addition, the availability of sporting facilities for tennis,
swimming, squash has provided opportunities for visitors who are not into eco
tourism activities. The Jeriau Waterfall located about 5 km from the town is a
popular spot for picnic and swimming.
Initially Fraser’s Hill was developed as a hill station by the British Malaya
Administration in 1919 with development mainly confined to holiday chalets and
bungalows and a 9-hole golf course. In recent years, sports and recreational
facilities have been developed including another golf course, the Jeriau course
located about 3 km from the town centre. There are facilities for horse-riding at The
Paddock, a recreation lake for fishing and boating, a children’s playground, flower
nursery and nature trails.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
(c)
Socio Economy
The Fraser's Hill population is increasing at a slow rate. This scenario and the
current small population will maintain the existing conducive environment for local
residents. It will also alleviate the pressure of development for new housing areas
and land.
There is a reasonably diverse accommodation base ranging from the 3-star Quest
Resort hotel, budget hotels such as the Puncak Inn, apartments, bungalows, and
heritage hotels such as Ye Olde Smokehouse Hotel.
Another important part of the tourism infrastructure is the Fraser’s Hill Nature
Education Centre (FHNEC) (Plate 4-3) which serves as a information and resource
centre and helps raise public awareness of highland forests.
(d)
Rich Biodiversity and Well-retained Natural Landscape
Extensive areas of forest are intact in about 90% of the land within the Fraser’s Hill
municipality area. The high visibility of the forest is in fact a major asset for this hill
station. The forests provide refuge for an abundance of biodiversity accounting for
18% of Peninsular Malaysia’s highland flora. The forests also provide the cool
temperature and tranquil setting of lush greenery, and these have been recognized
as the major ‘pull’ factor for visitors to Fraser’s Hill. As a result of the comparatively
low development density until now, the natural landscape of Fraser’s Hill is mostly
still well retained. This is a distinct feature that differentiates Fraser’s Hill from
Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands.
(e)
Existence of Nature Trails
There are nine nature trails in Fraser’s Hill, each differing from the others in terms
of its biodiversity features, difficulty of terrain and time taken to complete the trail.
The trails are interesting as they transverse the different forest types found in
Fraser’s Hill. Ornamentally attractive, endemic and rare plant species are known to
occur along some of these trails such as the Bishop’s trail and the Kenari-NuriMerpati trail. Certain trails are popular among bird watchers and there are also
some trails that are ideal for wildlife observation where animals such as squirrels,
dusky leaf monkeys, siamangs and snakes could be encountered.
(f)
Existence of Nature Education and Awareness Programme
The Fraser’s Hill Nature Education Centre (FHNEC) has been established through
a collaborative effort of the FHDC and WWF Malaysia. The Centre runs nature
education programmes both for the local population as well as for organized groups
and visitors to Fraser’s Hill. Apart from raising awareness of the importance of
highland forest, the FHNEC could also be regarded as an important component of
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December 2001
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Final Report I
the tourism infrastructure in Fraser’s Hill. A variety and combination of formal and
non-formal approaches are employed by the FHNEC to make nature education an
interesting and meaningful process. The non-formal activity incorporates the usage
of nature trails for nature interpretation in the form of guided walks. The activity
includes identification of species and their ecological roles in the forest ecosystem,
observing plant-animal relationships, biodiversity appreciation and effects of human
interference on natural ecosystems.
(g)
Water Supply
The construction of a new water treatment plant will increase the capacity and
reliability of water supply at Fraser’s Hill. A new storage reservoir (0.91 ML) will
double the storage capacity. The water supply intake is along Sg. Hijau, where a
new intake structure and weir has been constructed. The pristine condition of the
mountain streams in the Sg. Hijau catchment currently delivers good quality water
to the water treatment plant.
4.3.2
Weaknesses
(a)
Incongruent Development
Incongruent development, particularly the high-rise apartments, mar the landscape
of Fraser’s Hill. The Silverpark Holiday Apartments located on one of the highest
parts of the hill has created a visual impact that diminishes the image of the resort.
The building height exceeds the tree line and impairs the natural beauty of the
environment. The absence of development plans and guideline controls has
contributed to this type of negative image for Fraser’s Hill.
The nature tourism potential of this hill station has also been compromised by some
recent developments including construction of buildings on one of the highest hills
and this has led to environmental damage including soil erosion and landslides
(WWF, 1995). Tree felling and land clearing for the new road to Fraser’s Hill also
caused environmental damage and the construction of the 18 hole golf course at
Jeriau removed forest including some very rare plants from steep slopes and
caused erosion which damaged public amenities such as the Jeriau waterfall
(WWF, 1996).
(b)
Lack of Social Facilities & Attractions
From the socio-economic perspective, the provision of more social and leisure
facilities will be an added option to boost the tourism industry. However, the current
scenario does not seem to depict that situation. The advancement of ICT has not
been fully exploited for the benefits of the local populace.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
Fraser’s Hill has a very short ALS (1.17 days in 1999) compared to a national
average of 5.5 days and the possible implication is that there is a lack of attractions
and amenities to entice visitors to stay longer.
Visitors complain of a lack of activities for their participation including educationally
stimulating experiences. Unfortunately several possible attractions including the
Mini Zoo and the Museum Corner (Sudut Muzium) are at present closed.
Discussions with the FHDC, hoteliers and tour guides indicated that inappropriate
artefacts were presented in the Sudut Muzium. There is a belief that there are
sufficient available local materials and artefacts that could depict the fascinating
history of this hill station.
Whilst the accommodation base is reasonably diverse, standards, in the perception
of visitors, are relatively poor.
(c)
Absence of Specific Land Use Development Plan
Fraser’s Hill currently lacks a specific land use development plan to guide the
present and future direction of development in Fraser’s Hill. The absence of such a
plan could result in inappropriate development and a compromise of the fragile
environment of Fraser’s Hill. This could then lead to loss of forest areas, biodiversity
and natural features in Fraser’s Hill both in terms of quality and quantity.
(d)
Poorly Maintained Nature Trails
A majority of the nature trails in Fraser’s Hill are relatively under-utilized and
inadequately maintained. The Kindersely trail for example is overgrown by
undergrowth and is unfit for use. There is also a general lack of publicity for the
nature trails. Some level of maintenance is carried out for some trails such as the
Hemmant, Abu Suradi and Bishops’s trails, which are frequently used by the
FHNEC for nature interpretation activities. Trail guides are available for at least two
of the trails namely Hemmant and Pine Tree trails. A few of the trails have signage
and information boards. For some of them, efforts have been made to label the
trees along the trails. The problem with lack of maintenance is primarily associated
with the non-availability of fund and manpower shortage on the part of FHDC and
the local authority.
(e)
Shortage of Competent Nature Guides
There is a lack of nature guides locally who are familiar with the biodiversity aspects
associated to the nature trails. Presently, there are four local guides whose
services are used by tourist groups who either approach them directly or through
the bungalows/resorts operators for bird watching and guided walks into the trails.
Each of the local nature guides differs in their level of knowledge on the biodiversity
aspects. To a certain extent, information on the biodiversity aspects associated to
the nature trails is also disseminated by the FHNEC through its activities particularly
through organised guided trail walks.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
(f)
Relative Difficult Access & Road & Parking Capacity
Accessibility to this hill station, compared to Genting Highlands, is at present
comparatively difficult and private vehicle usage is dominant (81% of total) which at
peak times such as weekends and public holidays strains parking capacity. There
are also problems arising from the inadequacy of public bus services from/to Kuala
Kubu Bahru (twice daily services only) and a lack of an internal shuttle bus service
within the hill resort itself.
The existing road capacity is suitable for low volume of traffic. During weekends the
town becomes congested due to the large numbers of vehicles and people driving
aimlessly around the resort. The absence of an internal public transportation
system has further worsened the situation. This situation will be further aggravated
now that the new 12km link to Fraser’s Hill has become operational, allowing more
traffic to the resort. The land capacity for road expansion is limited and alternative
transportation measures need to be considered.
During peak periods is the lack of parking space and inadequate road capacity. The
town centre is invariably congested during weekends and public holidays when the
tourist crowd swells. Cars parked along the narrow road shoulders inevitably
inconvenience traffic movement in the town centre. The lack of adequate pedestrian
facilities such as walkways, in addition to the remoteness of some of the
bungalows, deters tourists from walking to the main town centre.
(g)
The management of solid waste is not been carried out in an environmentally
friendly manner. Presently, solid waste is disposed off in an open dump down a
hillside. The wastes that is indiscriminately dumped and shoved down the hillside
will leach pollutants into the surface and ground water and potentially contaminate
water supply sources downstream. The poor accessibility from the lowlands and
lack of suitable landfill sites in Fraser’s Hill compounds the solid waste
management predicament.
(h)
Sewerage
The sewerage system at Fraser’s Hill is old and outdated, except for the newer
developments such as Silverpark Apartments. Septic tanks are the widely used
sewage treatment method at the bungalows. The remote and isolated locations of
the various developments at Fraser’s Hill, coupled with the steep terrain, makes
centralized treatment plants more expensive to implement due to the need for
pumping. It is doubtful that the old septic tank systems are effective enough to meet
Standard B effluent discharge standards on a consistent basis. The bungalows and
holiday homes on the Selangor side of Fraser’s Hill are within and upstream of the
Sg. Selangor dam catchment, which is used for water supply. Thus any poor
sewage effluent discharge can potentially pollute the reservoir.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
4.3.3
Opportunities
(a)
New Access Link
The new 12 km access link which starts about half a kilometre from the existing
GAP and ends at the Pines Resort would improve the convenience of travel to
Fraser’s Hill. With this new link, the traffic management proposes the old route for
ascending traffic and the new route for descending traffic. Opportunities for
development pressure will now be more evident with this link.
(b)
Tourism
Aggressive and continuous promotion and marketing of Fraser's Hill will see the
increase in the number of tourists in this hill station. Thus, there would be need for
tourism manpower especially in niche markets such as tourist guide for trails and
bird watching.
In the medium-long term rising discretionary incomes and changes in taste
favouring domestic travel among a socially advancing and more environmentally
conscious Malaysian community provides potential for enlarging the flow of
domestic visitors to Fraser’s Hill, especially if sustainable tourism development is
pursued. Nationally, aggressive promotional activities are being undertaken under
the theme Cuti-Cuti Malaysia with the main aim of encouraging domestic travel
and reducing currency outflows. Easier access to Fraser’s Hill will be provided by
the new road; this will be used for descending traffic whilst the old road will be
utilised for ascending traffic.
A market segment which special emphasis should be accorded is the youth market.
Nature and bird watching tours could be organised and the accommodation and
resort operations are prepared to offer economical packages based on 4 students
to a room, meals, etc to make this an affordable proposition. Such tours could be
organised during the off-peak period. The trails can be made educationally
interesting and informative to the youth and help increase their understanding of the
various aspects of the forest eco-system.
Another market segment that has potential for expansion is the ‘silver-haired’
market. The cool climate, tranquillity and the natural environment coupled perhaps
with the development of health tourism could be packaged to attract this market
segment especially during off-peak periods.
(c)
Protection of Biodiversity Important Areas
In relation to the protection of biodiversity, there are opportunities for setting aside
critical areas in Fraser’s Hill that are known to possess high biodiversity
conservation values. These should include the areas identified and proposed by
Kiew (1992). These areas could be zoned for specific use that is appropriate to
conservation objectives within the context of the proposed Fraser’s Hill master plan
and afforded permanent protection with legal backing.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
(d)
Use of Nature Trails as a Tourism Product
The nature trails offer great potential as an attractive nature tourism product. To
realize this, there need to be collaboration between the local authority, FHDC,
private sector (such as hotel operators and bungalow owners) and the FHNEC.
Apparently there is currently an on-going initiative involving the above-mentioned
agencies to formalize a committee to look into better coordination in the planning
and implementation of tourism related matters in Fraser’s Hill. Discussion with
several stakeholders involved in this initiative revealed that the issue of maximizing
the potential use of the nature trails as a tourism product including matters
pertaining to trails upgrading, maintenance and publicity are part of the agenda of
this committee.
As mentioned earlier, three of the nature trails in Fraser’s Hill are already being
used for nature interpretation by the FHNEC. There are good prospects for
expanding the potential of using the remaining nature trails for the same purpose.
This idea could also be included in the agenda of the tourism committee.
(e)
Provision of Environmental and Nature Conservation Oriented Training
Programmes
There is potential to expand the role of FHNEC to include provision of
environmental and nature conservation oriented training programmes to personnel
engaged in the operation and management of Fraser’s Hill. Such programmes
would be useful in enhancing awareness and ensuring environmental and nature
conservation considerations become an integral component in the running of
Fraser’s Hill. This could support the effort of achieving sustainable development of
this hill station in the long term. Subsequently, the trained personnel could also act
as multipliers by encouraging a sense of responsibility and environmental
awareness to their counterparts and partners.
4.3.4
Threats
(a)
Development Pressure
The new link will increase development pressure at Fraser’s Hill. The easy access
now will lead to more traffic volume to the resort, congesting the existing road
capacity and demand for new car parking facilities. In addition, the pressure for new
areas could lead to exploiting Forest Reserves for land. The areas around Jeriau
and new corridor route are the potential locations for development pressure. In
addition, the absence of Local Plans and development guidelines, can lead to
incompatible development proposals which may threaten the natural environment.
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December 2001
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Final Report I
New development such as ones upstream of Sg. Hijau threatens the water supply
by siltation of the streams and choking of the water supply intake and treatment
plant. Although there is no present indication of development in the catchment,
there needs to be a clear policy from the local authorities prohibiting such
development. The construction of a golf course upstream of the Jeriau waterfall was
an example of siltation ruining the once pristine waterfall. Although the golf course
has been completed for some time, the impact to the environment is still there. Not
all the exposed slopes have been covered and at certain places vegetation cover
has not been very effective in controlling soil loss. The stream leading to the Jeriau
waterfall remains silted and muddy during heavy rains.
(b)
Resort’s Image
With the development pressure, the image of the Fraser’s Hill is at risk from highdensity type developments, particularly from apartment and condominium type
development. In addition, State Governments earlier proposal for low and medium
cost apartments further downgrade the image of Fraser’s Hill. The development of
these types of apartments is not only incongruent with existing low-density
developments but also gives the resort a negative visual impact.
(c)
Socio-Economy
Continuous and aggressive promotion of Fraser's Hill might also see the problem of
labour force shortage at a later stage due to its small resident population. Thus,
there might be a need to encourage settlement at this hill station.
Tourist destinations in the final analysis are in competition with each other and in a
highly competitive tourist market brand switching is always a possibility. In bidding
for the tourist dollar Fraser’s Hill is in competition with other destinations including
such well-developed and well promoted hill stations as Genting Highlands and
Cameron Highlands.
A further possible threat to sustainable development in the Study Area could arise if
the proposed Hill Resort Road (HRR) which would traverse along the mountainous
terrain of the Main Range, were constructed. This could lead to indiscriminate
exploitation of latent resources and as noted in the National Conservation Strategy,
roads and other infrastructure on the Main Range are highly inadvisable.
(d)
Habitat Destruction and Species Loss
Unguided development in recent years has resulted in some serious consequences
that threaten the biodiversity of Fraser’s Hill. The construction of the golf course
near Jeriau Valley, for example, has raised some concern to botanists (Kiew, 1992)
of the effect of the development that may have caused loss of rare and endangered
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December 2001
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Final Report I
plant species in the immediate vicinity. Habitat fragmentation and removal of some
montane forest have resulted from the construction of the second access road.
(e)
Illegal Collection of Wild Flora and Fauna
There have been complaints about collection of wild flora and fauna (which include
mainly pitcher plants, orchids, herbs with medicinal values, butterflies and other
insects as well as birds) from the forest in Fraser’s Hill. Collectors make use of the
existing nature trails to get easy access to the forest. If left unchecked, this may
lead to over-collection and eventually depletion of wild flora and fauna.
Unfortunately, there is no on-going monitoring of this activity so the degree of
seriousness of the problem is uncertain. In addition, no mechanism has been put in
place to control the illegal collection.
(f)
Problem of Management and Enforcement of Biodiversity Matters
There seems to be a general lack of attention given to the management and
enforcement of biodiversity matters such as the issue of illegal collection of wild
flora and fauna from the forest in Fraser’s Hill as discussed in (e) above. Two
factors are known to be the main causes attributing to this situation. The first is the
uncertainty in the exact extent of the Fraser’s Hill Wildlife Reserve/Sanctuary and
overlapping status with forest reserve and town board area. The second factor
relates to the non-existence of clear guidelines regarding which authority should
take precedence in matters involving biodiversity management and enforcement.
(g)
Increased Traffic
Abolishing the alternating ascending and descending traffic control at the Gap will
now add to the convenience visitors driving up, and there is a likelihood of increase
in vehicular traffic in the town centre. Besides the problems with limited parking, the
increased traffic will invariably affect local environmental quality. The presence of
vehicles with running engines will increase temperatures in the immediate vicinity.
Air quality will deteriorate due to the exhaust emissions and dust generated by
moving vehicles. Noise pollution will also increase and spoil the tranquil ambience
that is the trademark of Fraser’s Hill.
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December 2001
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4.4
CARRYING CAPACITY
The carrying capacity for Fraser’s Hill is expected to be far lower than the number
obtained for both Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands with the obvious fact
that it covers a smaller area compared to Cameron Highlands as well as the
development strategy outlined in Section 3.5 does not focus on mass tourism such
as Genting Highlands. The following is the derivation of the carrying capacity
together with the assumptions:
(a)
Tourism
Assumptions:
•
•
•
477 rooms x 2.5 persons per room (overnight) x daily turnover rate 1 per day
477 rooms x 1.0 person per room (day visitors) x daily turnover rate 2 per day
Nature trails assumed to total 11 km with WTO density standard of 40 visitors
per day per km
As the development focus of Fraser’s Hill is nature tourism, only the capacity of the
nature trails have been considered. However, it is conceivable that there will be a
small percentage of visitors who will prefer other activities such as golf, enjoying the
area without entering the nature trails. Therefore, the capacity is increased by 20%
to account for these visitors, bringing the tourism carrying capacity to 530 visitors
per day.
(b)
•
•
•
Water Supply
The water supply is based on the estimation of low-flows for a 20-year return
period at 4.1ML per day from the Sg. Hijau catchments
It is assumed that only 10% of the water from the catchment is abstracted for
consumption.
The demand to be 250L per day for residents and 100L per day for visitors; ratio
of residents to visitor conservatively assumed at 9:1 (based on the population
and latest visitor figures).
Transportation was not considered as a limiting factor due to the new access road
to Fraser’s Hill as well as the Action Plans to alleviate the traffic problems.
Although there is ample accommodation facilities the maximum carrying capacity as
a nature tourism resort should be 530 visitors per day or 193,400 visitors per
annum. There is considerable scope for expanding from the current visitor arrivals
base, without compromising the environmental integrity of this resort. However, it is
important to develop larger visitor flows during current off-peak periods such as
mid-week.
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December 2001
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4.5
ACTION PLANS
4.5.1
Development Plans and Guiding Issues
Fraser’s Hill already possesses the strength of having a natural setting and much of
the infrastructure and facilities required to become a popular tourist resort. Despite
so, there has been a surprising lack of interest shown by holidaymakers to this
place. The strategy would be to create a hill resort to attract a niche market. The
focus of the development should be on enhancing the hill resort for nature tourism.
To achieve this, several issues has to be addressed, primarily in the promotion of
the resort, the upgrading and upkeeping of facilities and the provision of suitable
accommodation. The importance of sustainability will be integrated into to all
recommendations.
There is a need for a major campaign advertising Fraser’s Hill as a viable tourist
destination both locally and around the Asean region. So far, the marketing of
Fraser’s Hill as a nature tourism spot or even as a tourist destination itself has been
weak and limited.
The lack of maintenance of the existing facilities is a major issue that needs urgent
attention, where repackaging and overhaul are necessary to bring out the tourism
appeal that it was originally intended.
The adequacy of hotel rooms in Fraser’s Hill is undermined by the lack of range,
where the hotel rates are skewed towards the higher end. New developments have
to address this imbalance in the hope of attracting visitors with a leaner budget.
4.5.2
Tourism Enhancement
The principal theme for sustainable tourism development in Fraser’s Hill is Nature
Tourism.The primary focus in this hill station should be on efforts geared to
promoting Fraser’s Hill’s natural assets for nature tourism. In this context it is
strongly recommended that FHDC concentrates on upgrading existing facilities
rather than permit the opening-up of new areas for development.
The natural environment is the prime attraction in this hill station and it is critical that
this vulnerable and fragile asset be conserved and existing facilities and amenities
be upgraded in a manner which does not conflict with the environment or exceed
the carrying capacity.
The physical (encompassing the accommodation base, access roads, water supply,
sewage facilities, electricity) and social (crowding, visitor satisfaction, resident
population base) capacities in this hill station have not been reached and indeed
could be increased with careful planning including increasing visitor flows during offpeak periods. However, the ecological carrying capacity has been exceeded and is
manifest in the context of environmental degradation (landslides, water pollution,
habitat destruction). The degradation of the environment has to be rectified before
the area’s physical and social capacities could be increased (WWF, March 1995).
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In order to develop Fraser’s Hill in line with the 8MP policy thrust of achieving
sustainable tourism growth it is recommended that the following tourism
development strategies be adopted.
•
•
•
•
Expand the provision of destination-specific tourism information through
a) enhanced private/public sector co-operation
b) greater usage of ICT including
i. Development of a tourism portal for Fraser’s Hill with up-to-date
destination information.
ii. Centralised on line booking/ticketing and related services
iii. Touch screen kiosk at strategic locations.
Intensified and focussed tourism marketing and promotion on selective markets
and market segments including youth and the “silver-haired” generation.
Development of a on-going tourism environmental upgrading and beautification
programme.
Adopt a tourism-related infrastructure upgrading programme.
Monitoring and evaluation are both important planning processes and it is strongly
recommended that the proposed Development Action Plan be monitored and
evaluated on a regular basis by UPEN Pahang. It is also appropriate to emphasize
that in a dynamic, fast-changing sector such as tourism, where the goal is to
promote sustainable tourism development, plans should not be interpreted in a
rigid, blueprint manner. They should be perceived as a rolling programme in which
there is in-built provisions for timely and relevant modifications and adjustments in
the light of changing circumstances.
At a later stage, there would be need to bring in more people in Fraser's Hill, due to
a shortage of labour, especially for the tourism sector including the hotel industry
which is labour intensive and other tourism supporting sectors. However, the
migrating population must be controlled in such a way, that it does not bring in
environmental degradation to the human and nature perspective.
Specific Action Plan Programmes proposed are:
Action Plan : FH-AP1
The focus of tourism in Fraser’s Hill shall be limited to Nature Tourism. New
proposals for other types of tourism shall not be permitted. UPEN Pahang should
issue directives in this regard.
Implementation of a Nature Tourism Upgrading Programme. It is proposed that
the Department of Forestry, with the conservation based NGOs implement a Nature
Tourism Upgrading Programme in this hill resort. Components of this programme
could encompass:
(a) Upgrading of existing nature trails, including marking of scenic points,
constructions of bird hides and regular maintenance.
(b) Development of a canopy walkway.
(c) Organisation of guided walks, guided birdwalks, guided night walks and
educational tours, etc.
(d) Rental of field equipment such as binoculars, telescopes and waterproofs.
(e) Secure Private Sector sponsorship of nature tourism programmes.
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Majlis Daerah Raub should develop additional social and leisure facilities for
both the local populace and visitors. Facilities proposed include a small
internet/cyber café, a library and community hall.
Designation of a camping ground. MDR should designate an area for a camping
ground which would be designed to appeal to school students and youth from the
Rakan Muda programme.
Produce high quality promotional material on tourist products. FHDC with the
assistance of MTPB should produce high quality promotional material on tourist
checklists, information guides on Fraser’s Hill as well as surrounding areas in the
Raub District.
Embark on advertisement and promotional campaigns. FHDC with the
cooperation of the Private Sector and the newly formed Fraser’s Hill Tourist
Association should undertake well-funded joint advertising and promotional
campaigns and market Fraser's Hill with a common image and theme. Target
domestic market and priority overseas markets such as India, China, Singapore
and UK.
The campaigns should also promote attractions found in the Raub
District.
Utilise the “off-peak periods” for special holiday packages. The Hospitality
Industry, with the assistance of Fraser’s Hilll Tourist Association should endeavour
to develop the mid-week, off-peak market especially among the “silver-haired”
generation to even out visitor flows through attractive packages, price differentials,
off peak rates etc. Consideration could also be given to developing health tourism.
One of the FHDC bungalows could, for instance, be developed as a health centre
with traditional medicine, massage, etc.
Clear and effective traffic and directional signage to and at major tourist
attractions is very important for tourism development. Majlis Daerah Raub, with
assistance from JKR, should upgrade traffic and directional signage including the
development of directional signage on the North-South Expressway and from the
forthcoming Sg. Selangor dam.
Provision of an eco-friendly shuttle bus service. If visitation levels to Fraser’s
Hill increase significantly, an eco-friendly shuttle bus service should be initiated to
provide
internal
transportation
within
the
hill
station.
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Enhance the accommodation base. As the tourism market changes, the demand
for accommodation modes also often changes. The Hospitality Industry therefore
should be encouraged to respond to customer - focused needs and preferences in
regard to accommodation modes. Budget accommodation is particularly lacking.
Development of a Farmer’s Market (Pasar Tani). Raub is a major fruit growing
area producing a wide range of tropical fruits. If visitation levels to Fraser’s Hill
increase significantly, FAMA, in cooperation with the private sector, should develop
a Farmer’s Market (Pasar Tani) on a weekly basis at this hill station. In addition to
fruits, handicraft/souvenirs/medicinal products and other items likely to appeal to
foreign and domestic visitors should be traded.
Maximise usage of Information Communications Technology. FHDC and the
travel trade and Fraser’s Hill Tourist Association should maximise usage of
Information Communications Technology (ICT) including :
(a) Tourism portal for Fraser’s Hill with up-to-date destination information.
(b) Centralised booking / ticketing and related services.
(c) Touch screen kiosk at strategic locations.
Implement a Land Care and Environmental Action Programme. The Majlis
Daerah Raub should implement a Land Care and Environmental Action Programme
designed to upgrade the environment and beautify Fraser’s Hill, especially in the
town centre.
The Majlis Daerah Raub should ensure that the design, architecture and
management of any approved new tourist facilities should be in keeping with the
hill station’s character, history and culture and the integrity of the built environment
must be maintained and enhanced.
4.5.3
Land Use Planning
The formulation of an overall master plan for Fraser’s Hill, taking into account the
fragile environment and the rugged terrain, is vital for the sustainability of this hill
station.
An overall development Master Plan or a Local Plan must be developed
for Fraser’s Hill. Majlis Daerah Raub together with DTCP must formulate
this plan. The plan, in addition to zoning land use, must also identify
conservation areas and infrastructure requirements. The master plan or local
plan should also include specific guidelines on building design, as well as
determine types and densities of buildings that are permissible.
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4.5.4
Infrastructure and Environmental Improvements
A proper and good infrastructure is necessary to support Fraser’s Hill in becoming a
successful tourist destination. The weaknesses in the present infrastructure have
been identified and shall be dealt with by a series of action plans.
Specific Action Plan Programmes proposed are:
MDR must make water conservation measures mandatory for all new facilities
in Fraser’s Hill. Half flush toilets and auto-shut off taps must be installed as a
MDR must ensure that all hotels implement environmental management
systems (EMS) (ISO14001 or equivalent) as a condition of business licence. MDR
could give monetary incentives in the form of reduction in the annual quit rent
and/or assessments according to hotels’ level of implementation of these
measures. All hotels should be given a grace period of three years to implement an
EMS.
MDR should upgrade the solid waste management system at Fraser’s Hill.
Systems similar to those used at Genting Highlands (sorting, composting and
incineration) could be utilized. An area of approximately 1 ha will be required and
could possibly be sited near the existing dumping site near the existing dump. A
detailed study has to be carried out to fine tune the location and design.
MDR has to initiate the practice of waste separation in Fraser’s Hill. Long-term
campaign can be initiated by MDR to educate the people on the benefits of waste
separation. As the number of businesses and residents in Fraser’s Hill is relatively
small, everyone can be made to participate in this practice.
One way traffic. As a short-term measure, the main ring road around Fraser’s Hill
can be turned into a one-way traffic.
Rehabilitate the catchment area upstream of the Jeriau waterfall. The golf
course upstream has been one of the sources of sedimentation. Remedial action
such as placing vegetation cover or geotextiles and gabions over the exposed spots
has to be implemented. At areas where the replanted vegetation has not been
effective in controlling soil loss, the suitability of the type of vegetation used should
be reconsidered with respect to the soil conditions and type.
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4.5.5
Fraser’s Hill occupies relatively a central position in the Main Range of Peninsular
Malaysia. Fraser’s Hill is unique among the hill stations in Peninsular Malaysia
because its natural landscape, which is predominantly lower montane forest, is
mostly still well retained. From the biodiversity perspective, this translates to the
importance of Fraser’s Hill in contributing to the country’s natural heritage as about
18% of the highland flora of Peninsular Malaysia is found here. Additionally, the
biodiversity particularly its flora is of great conservation and scientific interest
because many rare and endemic species are found in Fraser’s Hill
Whilst proper management and conservation of biodiversity ensures that the
associated ecological values and services are maintained, it is also important
because the natural environment which includes biodiversity is the prime attraction
of Fraser’s Hill. As has been stressed above, nature tourism is the principal theme
for sustainable tourism development in Fraser’s Hill. Because biodiversity is an
integral and vital component of the natural environment of Fraser’s Hill, therefore
biodiversity conservation and tourism development will need to be in parallel with
each other. In fact, the same principle should also apply in terms of biodiversity
conservation within the overall development of Fraser’s Hill in order for this hill
station to achieve development that is sustainable in the wider context.
The following strategies are therefore recommended for addressing the above
issues:
•
Adequate integration of nature conservation principles into the planning,
management and development framework of Fraser’s Hill to ensure a balance
between the needs of both development and conservation;
•
Clarification of legal instruments and provisions of authority. This relates to the
issue of improving the monitoring, management and enforcement of biodiversity
related matters;
•
Designation of biodiversity conservation areas and implementation of measures
to control illegal collection of wild flora and fauna. These need to be seen as
part of the strategy for maximizing the protection of biodiversity in Fraser’s Hill;
•
Utilize scientific information for determining the nature/ biodiversity conservation
objectives for Fraser’s Hill. These objectives should be used to support tourism
development and activities to prevent unsustainable forms of tourism that are in
conflict with nature / biodiversity conservation.
Zone biodiversity conservation areas for specific use. The MDR should zone
biodiversity conservation areas for specific use that is consistent with the
conservation objectives and afford permanent protection using appropriate legal
mechanisms. Such zoning should ideally be carried out within the context of the
proposed Local Plan.
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Final Report I
Implement measures for controlling illegal collection of wild flora and fauna.
Forestry Department, in collaboration with DWNP, FHDC, academic and research
institutions, and conservation-based NGOs should implement measures for
controlling illegal collection of wild flora and fauna. Possible measures may include
the following:
(a) Enforcing a ban on collecting wild flora and fauna;
(b) Putting up signs in multi-languages at strategic locations (e.g. entrance to
(c) Incorporating information on the prohibition in promotional brochures;
(d) Introducing a permit system to allow collection for scientific and research
collected and their quantity, usage of sustainable / proper collection methods
and submission of scientific / research publications produced.
Form an Advisory and Planning Committee to guide the planning of nature
projects and education programmes. The committee should be lead by MDR
with support from FHDC and other members consisting of agencies with related
expertise in nature education such as Forestry Department, DWNP, DOE, DID,
academic institutions and conservation-based NGOs.
Initiate a fund to support implementation of nature education programmes.
Any financial returns derived from the programmes should be channeled back into
the fund. This effort should be lead by MDR with support from other members of
the Advisory and Planning Committee.
Utilize the FHNEC for providing nature oriented training programmes to
personnel engaged in the operation and management of Fraser’s Hill. The MDR
jointly with FHDC and WWFM could take the lead in this effort with assistance
provided by other members of the Advisory and Planning Committee.
4.5.6
Administrative
Set up an Environmental Management Unit within MDR. An Environmental
Management Unit within MDR should be set to oversee the environmental wellbeing of the area. This is necessary due to the fragile nature of the environment
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Final Report I
and the varied and complex environmental issues. This environmental unit must be
trained on environmental protection and be given sufficient manpower and clout in
order carry out their duties effectively. Promulgation of specific by-laws may be
necessary to support the environmental unit. The personnel shall work closely with
other organisations there such as the Department of Environment, Department of
Forestry and Department of Wildlife and National Parks. Setting up of the EMU will
entail MDR recruiting additional staff as the current staff-force will not be able to
handle the additional tasks. It is proposed at least one professional staff and one
technician are engaged at the initial stages. The duties of the EMU include the
following:
•
•
•
•
•
projects
MDR should develop and support implementation of programmes targeted at
local community participation in ensuring sustainable development at Fraser’s
Hill. This may be in the form of Integrated Community Development Programmes
(ICDP) which seek to conserve biodiversity while improving the quality of life of the
people whose livelihood depends on those biological resources. The ICDP could
include a range of related conservation and development efforts such as
community-based natural resource management, community resource conservation
and eco-development projects.
Pahang must continuously monitor all development activities at Fraser’s Hill.
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Final Report I
Plate 4-1
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
Siltation at the Jeriau Waterfall
Final Report I
Plate 4-2
Start of one of the nature trails in Fraser’s Hill
Plate 4-3
The Fraser’s Hill Nature Education Centre
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December 2001
5
Final Report I
CHAPTER 5: LEGAL & INSTITUTIONAL ISSUES
5.1
INTRODUCTION
This chapter examines the legal and institutional aspects of the issues, in particular
the weaknesses and threats that have been identified in the ‘strengths,
weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT) analysis of Cameron Highlands,
Fraser’s Hill and Genting Highlands. This chapter also looks at the legal and
institutional mechanisms needed to implement some of the action plans identified.
The core of these issues relate to poor planning and management of land use,
which result in land and environmental degradation. Some of these issues are interlinked and present themselves as either causes or effects of problems on the hill
stations. It is noted that some of these issues require solutions beyond legal and
institutional frameworks, such as capacity building and awareness programmes.
The relevance of each issue to the hill stations will be briefly recapped followed by a
review of the relevant laws and subsequently, the institutional arrangements. Some
recommendations will be provided to address the inadequacies of the current legal
as well as institutional framework.
5.2
LEGAL ISSUES
5.2.1
Poor Land Use Planning and Management
Poor land use planning and management have been alluded to in the case of
Cameron Highlands and Fraser’s Hill in the preceding chapters. In the case of
Genting Highlands and Fraser’s Hill, it is prudent that a development master plan
be put in place to ensure proper planning of any future development in the area
concerned.
5.2.1.1 Town and Country Planning Act 1976
The Town and Country Planning Act (TCPA) 1976, is an act for the proper control
and regulation of town and country planning in local authority areas. Sections 8 and
12 provide for the preparation of draft structure and local plans respectively. Such
plans provide for planning of land use and development activities, including
infrastructure and utilities in the areas concerned. The relevant authorities should
then gazette the draft structure and local plans to enable legal planning controls to
be enforced.
One of the criticisms of these plans is that they are not holistic, the emphasis being
placed on zoning areas for development rather than protection, and many of the
older plans do not incorporate environmental considerations. However, the TCPA
amendments in 1995 required the submission of a development proposal report,
which the local authority must take into account before granting planning
permission (section 21A). The development proposal report will contain a
description of the land such as the physical environment, topography, landscape,
geology, contours, drainage, water bodies and catchments and natural features.
Additionally land use analysis and the effects of the development proposal on
adjoining land are also required. Such a provision is useful in assisting the local
authorities plan and manage land uses in the highlands.
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Recently, there are major amendments made to the Town and Country Planning
(Amendment) Act 2001 [A1129]. However, only preliminary sections (sections 2 to
5) of the amending act have come into operation as of 1 October 2001.
A major amendment to the TCPA is the establishment of the National Physical
Planning Council (NPPC) chaired by the Prime Minister (section 2A). The
discussion in this part will only highlight provisions that relate to the development on
hill slopes and highland areas.
Section 16(B)(1) provides relevant State authorities to propose and submit special
area plans for ‘special and detailed treatment by development, redevelopment,
improvement, conservation or management practice’. Such a provision is useful to
allow state authorities the discretion to impose additional measures to better plan
and control development of sensitive areas, for example highland areas. It is
recommended that when this comes into operation in the State of Pahang, that the
relevant State authority will consider the designation of Fraser’s Hill and Genting
Highlands as special areas, requiring special area plans.
Section 22(2A)(c) provides that any application for ‘development affecting hill tops
or hill slopes in area designated as environmentally sensitive in a development
plan’ be referred to the NPPC for advice. Although this is a positive move to
consider applications for development on highland areas more holistically, the
operation of this section is dependent on whether the area concerned has been
designated as an environmentally sensitive area. Therefore, it is advocated that in
the development of structure and local plans, the designation of environmentally
sensitive areas should be given adequate consideration.
Cameron Highlands has a structure plan for the period 1995 – 2020 (MDCH and
PPTCH, 1996) and recently developed a local plan (MDCH, 2000). The district of
Raub, in which Fraser’s Hill is located, has a structure plan for the period 1993 –
2010 (JPBD, 1996). In the Raub Structure Plan, Fraser’s Hill has been identified as
a centre for sustainable tourism development. Among the broad recommendations
identified in the plan, the development of a local plan for Fraser’s Hill has been
recommended to guide and control the development of the hill station.
Amendments have also been made to sections 7 to 10 of the TCPA to provide for
the draft structure plan to be prepared for the whole state by the State Director of
Town and Country Planning. Amendments to section 12 have also been made to
allow the local planning authority to prepare a local plan for the whole of its area.
Therefore, when the amendments come into operation, there should be more
comprehensive planning for any given area under the local planning authority.
Popular reference to Genting Highlands is often synonymous with Genting Berhad’s
land bank, which is currently managed by it’s subsidiary, Resorts World Berhad.
However, Genting Highlands in this study includes the surrounding land areas of
Resorts World Berhad’s property. Resorts World Berhad has currently only utilized
4.5 % of its total land bank (443 acres) (pers. comm., Col. (R ) Dato’ Cheng Wah,
27 April 2001). However, the total land bank under the Resorts World Berhad has
been zoned as early as 1976 mostly for residential development as well as for
commercial, educational institutions and tourist resort facilities, leaving
approximately 5% of the total area under forest (See 3.2.2.1). It is proposed that the
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land use zoning under Resorts World Berhad be reviewed. Additionally a local plan
for Genting Highlands is to be developed.
Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP1
ACTIONS
BY
Gazette the remaining sections of the Town State
and Country Planning (Amendment) Act Government
2001 [A1129]
LI-AP2
Gazette the Cameron Highlands Local Plan Pahang State
(section 15 of the TCPA)
Government
5.2.1.2 Environmental Quality Act 1974
Section 34A of the Environmental Quality Act (EQA) 1974 provides for an
environmental impact assessment (EIA) to be carried out on a prescribed activity.
Such a provision can be used as a planning tool to assess the impacts of
prescribed activities before approval is given for the said activity. Under the
Environmental Quality (Prescribed Activities) (Environmental Impact Assessment)
Order 1987, 19 prescribed activities are elaborated.
The following activities under the Order are directly relevant to hill stations:
- conversion of hill forest land to other land use covering an area of 50
hectares or more (Item 6(a));
- logging or conversion of forest land to other land use within the catchment
area of reservoirs used for municipal water supply, irrigation of hydro-power
generation or in areas adjacent to state and national parks and national
marine parks (Item 6(b));
- logging covering an area of 500 hectares or more (Item 6(c ))
- housing development covering an area of 50 hectares or more (Item 7); and
- hill station resort or hotel development covering an area of 50 hectares of
more (Item 17(b)).
There are many non-prescribed activities in the highlands that can have deleterious
impacts on the environment. Given the scarcity of land at most hill stations, it is
unlikely that developments will be anywhere near the prescribed 50 hectares. The
steep slopes in the highland areas mean that even small development sites could
have serious environmental impacts. Farming activities, that have caused so many
problems at Cameron Highlands, are also not subject to EIA.
Therefore, due to the fragility of the highland ecosystem in which all the three hill
stations are located, it is recommended that an EIA be carried out for all
development activity regardless of size. An exception to this is perhaps the building
of individual houses. Additionally, macro EIAs should be encouraged for separate
developments in the same area, as cumulatively their impacts may be greater than
each individual’s development. The incremental cost of macro EIAs should be
borne by the developers and carried out by their respective consultants.
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Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP3
ACTIONS
BY
Amend the Schedule of the Environmental Department of
Quality
(Prescribed
Activities) Environment
(Environmental Impact Assessment Order)
1987 to include any development on hill
stations as a prescribed activity. In the
interim, administrative EIAs can be
requested for all development activities on
hill stations.
LI-AP4
Encourage macro EIAs to be conducted for Department of
separate developments in the same area to Environment
assess the cumulative impacts of the
developments concerned. Incremental costs
of macro EIAs to be borne by the developers
and carried out by their consultants.
5.2.1.3 National Land Code 1965
The National Land Code (NLC) 1965 consolidates the laws relating to land and land
tenure, the registration of title to land and of dealings therewith and the collection of
revenue therefrom within the States of Peninsular Malaysia. The NLC vests
property in all land, mineral and rock material within the State in the State authority
(section 40). The NLC classifies land use into three broad categories, that is,
agriculture, building and industry. The imposition of the category of use is designed
to ensure that the land will be used fully and properly, and only according to their
classification, unless converted according to the procedures as laid out in the NLC
(section 52). Such classification is to enable the State Authority to achieve planned
development (Sihombing, 1998). However, the usefulness of the systems is limited
to the planning for economic development and not necessarily sustainable
development, as there are no provisions in the NLC to classify land for the
conservation of natural resources or environment, including ecological functions of
the highlands.
Section 62(1) of the NLC provides the State with the power to reserve any State
land for any public purpose. The State of Pahang does not have a state legislation
for example, for the establishment of state parks for the conservation of biodiversity
or natural resources. As such, section 62 can be used to reserve land for such
purposes. For example, areas of high conservation values outside permanent forest
reserves in the respective hill stations can be reserved under this section. This
includes areas of State forests that are yet alienated and used for nature tourism
activities such as nature trails.
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Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP5
5.2.2
ACTIONS
BY
Amend section 62(1) of the NLC to include a Federal/State
category for the conservation of natural Government
resources
Illegal Land Clearing
In Cameron Highlands, illegal clearing of land for expansion of agricultural activities
have been reported in the newspapers as early as 1991 (New Straits Times,
2.12.91) and continues to be a problem even today (The Star, 19.1.00). In Genting
Highlands, there has been also illegal cultivation of ginger and chilli near Genting
Sempah and Janda Baik roads (New Straits Times, 3.4.99). In the case of Genting,
as illegal cultivation is on private land owned by Resorts World Berhad, it will be up
to the private landowner to deal with the trespassers.
5.2.2.1 Town and Country Planning Act 1976
Section 4 of the TCPA requires that a State Planning Committee be established to
advise the State Government and promote in the State, within the framework of the
national policy, the conservation, use and development of all lands in the State. The
2001 amendments have added to the functions of the State Planning Committee to
include, ‘to regulate, control, plan and co-ordinate all development activities in the
State’ (Section 4(a)).
Amongst the functions of the local planning authority as stated in Section 6(1)(a)
are to regulate, control and plan the development and use of all lands and buildings
within its area. With reference to 5.2.1.1, section 18(1) of the TCPA notes that no
person shall use or permit to be used any land or building otherwise than in
conformity with the local plan. Section 19 prohibits any development without
planning permission and section 20 prohibits development contrary to planning
permission.
With the 2001 amendments, the maximum penalty of RM 100,000 has been
increased to RM 500,000 for offences relating to unauthorized development
(Section 26). The amendments included the option for a maximum imprisonment of
two years or both. If the person continues to carry out any development even after
the first conviction of the offence, a further fine of RM 1,000 which now has been
increased to RM 5,000 may be imposed for each subsequent day that the offence is
carried out.
The local authority therefore could use their powers under this act to prevent or stop
illegal land clearing in their area of jurisdiction. However, the problem seems to be
due to the lack of access to the areas where the illegal clearing is taking place and
also a lack of physical manpower to ensure that illegal land clearing is not taking
place.
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5.2.2.2 Insecurity of Agricultural Land Tenure
Insecurity of agricultural land tenure may have resulted in poor agricultural practices
in Cameron Highlands, which have caused soil erosion and in turn lead to the
siltation of rivers. The cultivation on steep slopes, the need to clear the adjacent
areas for maximum sunlight for their crops; and the use of plastic sheets have
contributed to the environmental degradation of the hill stations. It has been noted
that as most of these vegetable farmers do not own their land, there are few
incentives to invest in good agricultural practices. Most of the farmers in Cameron
Highlands are issued temporary occupation licences (TOL) by the State Authority.
Such licences are usually renewed annually. Therefore there is no security of
tenure.
5.2.2.3 National Land Code 1965
Section 65 of the NLC provides for the State authority to issue TOL for State land,
mining land and reserved land. Section 67 notes that the duration of such licences
are for one calendar year and can be renewed annually up to three renewals, after
which a prior written approval from the State authority must be obtained. It is also
noted that under Section 68, the TOL cannot be transferred on death.
Recommendations
ITEM
ACTIONS
BY
Amend section 67 of the NLC to increase Federal/State
the period of the TOL licences for 3 – 5 Government
years to provide farmers with greater
security of tenure, thereby providing
incentives
for
improved
agricultural
practices.
LI-AP6
LI-AP7
Consider alienation of such lands for Pahang State
agricultural purposes to be leased to the Government
farmers under section 221 for example, for a
period of 10 years of more. This would give
farmers greater security of tenure.
`
5.2.3
Soil Erosion and Landslides
The hill stations of Cameron Highlands, Fraser’s Hill and even Genting Highlands
have experienced soil erosions and landslides of different magnitudes, some with
tragic consequences involving the loss of lives, property and livelihood. A few
examples are noted here:
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Cameron Highlands
January 2000, two major landslides in Tringkap and Kampung Raja; 6 people
killed and farms destroyed. A swollen tributary of Sungai Telom brought a
torrent of mud and debris down (The Sun, 12.11.00).
Fraser’s Hill
April 1999, 45 landslides near Fraser’s Hill, closed access to the hill station
Genting Highlands
July 1995, Genting landslide tragedy, landslides occurring near the slip road to
Genting Highlands loss of 20 lives
Causes of such landslides or critical soil erosion problems range from heavy rainfall
to inappropriate human activities such as land clearing without taking proper
mitigation measures. Some of which, legal instruments can control or provide the
conditions for the prevention of such problems.
5.2.3.1 Land Conservation Act 1960
The Land Conservation Act (LCA) 1960, is an act relating to the conservation of hill
land and the protection of soil from erosion and the inroad of silt. Section 3 of the
Act provides for any ‘area or class or description of land’ to be declared hill land by
the Ruler or the Yang di-Pertua Negeri in Council of the State. Hill lands are then
subjected to a number of restrictions in terms of development, unless permits are
obtained. Restrictions include prohibition of planting short-term crops (Section 5),
and the clearing and cultivation of hill land (Section 6).
Part III of the Act provides for the control of silt and erosion. The Land Administrator
may prohibit the owner of the land to do any act or thing that may cause siltation or
erosion. The penalty for contravening any order under the Act is a maximum fine of
RM 5,000 or in default of payment a prison term not exceeding six months.
The whole district of Cameron Highlands has been gazetted as ‘hill land’ under this
Act since 1961 (Pahang L.N. 47). Therefore, the question is why then have there
been numerous instances of serious landslides and soil erosions. Although high
rainfall, soil erodibility and steepness of slope may be contributory factors to some
of these landslides, we have limited control over such natural factors. However, we
do have powers under the law to control human activities that may cause or provide
the conditions for landslides or soil erosions to occur.
Although Section 5 provides a general prohibition of the planting of any short-term
crops (such as vegetables in Cameron Highlands), the section did provide the Land
Administrator with the discretion to issue annual permits to plant short-term
specified crops, if he is satisfied that ‘such cultivation will not cause appreciable soil
erosion, and in such permit may prescribe the area of the land and the terms and
conditions under which such cultivation is permitted’. Arguably, the annual
temporary occupation licences issued by the same authority (that is, the Land
Administrator) can be considered the requisite ‘permit’ under Section 5.
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Likewise Section 6 which generally prohibits the clearance of any hill land, provides
again the Land Administrator with the discretion of allowing such clearance subject
to permit with specified terms and conditions.
Therefore, with such provisions in place, the gross lack of implementation and
enforcement of the Land Conservation Act is evident. Later in the chapter, under
institutional issues, we will deal with the issue of lack of enforcement of laws.
Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP8
LI-AP9
5.2.4
ACTIONS
BY
Gazette Fraser’s Hill and Genting Highlands Pahang State
as hill lands (section 3 of the LCA). This Government
does not mean no development in the
gazetted areas, but rather more controlled
development as conditions are imposed on
the clearing of land. This would allow better
control by the Land Administrator of actions
of owners in the development of their land.
The onus is on the owner to show that their
activities would not cause siltation and
erosion.
Increase penalties (section 18 of the LCA) in State
view of the seriousness of impacts (involving Government
loss of lives, livelihood and property) of such
occurrences; it is submitted that the current
penalties are insufficient to have a deterrent
effect. Additionally more prosecutions
should be made on such offences and
successful prosecutions highlighted in the
media.
Water Pollution
Water pollution in the hill stations is caused by two major sources. First, soil from
excessive soil erosion is washed into the rivers and lakes causing siltation of these
water bodies. This is evident in Cameron Highlands, for example at the lake in
Ringlet, which is so badly silted that it is affecting the operation of the hydro-electric
dam downstream. The development of a golf course in Fraser’s Hill also resulted in
the Jeriau Waterfall being heavily silted. Till today, the waterfall has yet to recover
from the impacts of the siltation.
Secondly, water pollution from fertilisers and pesticides used by the farmers get
washed to the rivers either through improper disposal of the containers or through
leaching. Excessive fertilisers in the water body can cause eutrophication, whereby
it allows for a rapid growth of water hyacinths, for example at the Ringlet
hydroelectric dam which clogs and damage the turbines. High levels of fertilisers
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and pesticides in the rivers can also be toxic to aquatic life and to a certain extent
affect human health, as we are part of the food chain. Cameron Highlands has
been reported to suffer from such pollution (New Straits Times, 1.6.99). In Fraser’s
Hill, such pollution has been reported as a result of the fertilisers used at the golf
course.
It is to be noted that water pollution problems are limited at Genting Highlands, as
there exist excellent water infrastructure in terms of wastewater treatment.
5.2.4.1 Land Conservation Act 1960
The LCA as discussed in Section 5.2.2.1 applies also to the control of silt and
erosion that may contribute to the pollution of any watercourse, whether natural or
artificial.
5.2.4.2 Environmental Quality Act 1974
The EQA of 1974 provides for the prevention, abatement and control of pollution
and enhancement of the environment. Section 25 of the Act restricts the pollution of
inland waters (includes any reservoir, pond, lake, river, stream, canal, drain, spring
or well). Fines of RM 100,000 and/or maximum imprisonment terms of 5 years are
imposed for the pollution of inland waters.
This Act is relevant to the pollution from fertilisers or pesticides. However, the
provision is very difficult to enforce, as it will require sufficient manpower for
frequent inspections on the farms as well as frequent sampling of water from the
waterways. Additionally, it is often quite difficult to catch a person in the act of
committing such an offence.
Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP10
ACTIONS
BY
Put the burden of proof on the alleged Department of
polluter with regard to an offence under Environment
section 25 of the EQA
5.2.4.3 Pesticides Act 1974
The Pesticides Act (PA) 1974 is concerned mainly with the control of importation
and manufacture of pesticides, which is effected by registration and permits. Part V
of the Act is concerned with the control of presence of pesticides in food. Section 21
of the Act empowers the Minister to make regulations to control such presence. The
general penalty available in Section 56 for an offence in this Act or the rules or
regulations, is an imprisonment term not exceeding 6 months or a fine of RM1,000
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
5-9
Final Report I
for a first offence. On a second or subsequent offence, imprisonment of a year or a
fine of RM 2,000.
5.2.4.4 Local Government Act 1976
The Local Government Act (LGA) 1976 is a law which consolidates the laws
relating to local government, and spells out the powers and functions of the local
authorities in Peninsular Malaysia.
Section 3 provides for the declaration and determination of status of local authority
areas. The local authority for Cameron Highlands is the District Council of Cameron
Highlands. Fraser’s Hill and Genting Highlands come under the District Council of
Raub and Bentong respectively.
Sections 69 and 70 deal with pollution of streams, whereby pollution of streams,
channels, public drains and water courses is an offence. Under Section 69, the
penalty for an offence is a maximum fine of RM 2,000 and/or a maximum
imprisonment term of one year. Section 70 which deals with the pollution of streams
with trade refuse, etc. and the penalty for an offence under this section is a
maximum fine of RM 5,000 and/or a maximum imprisonment term of two years.
5.2.4.5
Penal Code (Revised 1997)
It is possible to use the Penal Code for environmental offences. Under Section 277,
the act of fouling the water or a public spring or reservoir is a criminal offence. The
penalty is a term not exceeding 3 months and/or a fine not exceeding RM 1,000. It
is difficult to use this provision as it requires the offender to be caught in the act or
sufficient proof must be established on causation.
5.2.5
Inappropriate Developments
It has been noted that there has been inappropriate development or construction of
for example, buildings on the hill stations. Additionally, the lack of maintenance of
public utilities is a drawback to encouraging tourism at the hill stations.
Tourism enterprises especially tourist accommodations and restaurants must also
be appropriately developed to blend in with the ambience of hill stations.
5.2.5.1 Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974
The Street, Drainage and Building Act (SDBA) 1974 consolidate laws relating to
street, drainage and building in local authority areas in Peninsular Malaysia. Section
4 of the SDBA provides for the maintenance and repair of public streets. The local
authority has the power to make public sewers (section 49) and grants approval for
the erection of any buildings (section 70).
Under Section 133 of the SDBA, the Uniform Building By-laws 1984 have been
enacted to regulate the construction of buildings and matters incidental to the safety
requirements of a building.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
5-10
Final Report I
5.2.5.2 Local Government Act 1976
Section 102 of the LGA provides the local authority the power to make by-laws for
the ‘maintenance of health, safety and well-being of the inhabitants or for the good
order and government of the local authority area’. These include for example, the
establishment, regulation and management of any public park, etc.
Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP11
ACTIONS
BY
The gazettement of outstanding by-laws as Local Authorities
well as the formulation of by-laws by the
local authority allows for the enforceability of
such by-laws. These include for example bylaws on litter and solid waste disposal.
5.2.5.3 Tourism Industry Act 1992
In addition to complying with the provisions of the LGA and SDBA, a licence is
required to operate a tourist enterprise, which includes tourist accommodation
premise and tourist restaurant (section 5). Section 7 of the Tourism Industry Act
(TIA) enables the Commissioner (Secretary-General of the Ministry of Culture, Arts
and Tourism (MOCAT)) to attach conditions to the licence. It is proposed that
MOCAT require all hotels for example to implement environmental management
systems as a condition of licence.
Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP12
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
ACTIONS
BY
Attach condition to licence to operate a MOCAT
tourism enterprise such as hotels, to require
that environmental management systems be
implemented (section 7 of the TIA).
5-11
Final Report I
5.2.6
Loss of Biological Diversity
Biological diversity (or biodiversity) is abundant and unique in our highlands where
the hill stations are located. Although there is a need to open up certain amount of
land for development purposes, we must ensure that the extent of which such lands
are opened up do not jeopardise the ecological integrity of the hill stations.
After all the attraction and uniqueness of the hill stations is due to the different
environmental conditions that is enabled by being at that altitude, for example, the
cool climate. It is noted that biological diversity in Cameron Highlands and Fraser’s
Hill such as butterflies in the former and birds in the latter are part of the tourist
attractions. However, species collection such as butterflies, insects and plants in
these hill stations should be regulated.
Surrounding areas of the hill stations should be identified for the conservation of
biological diversity and the maintenance of the ecological functions of the
highlands.
5.2.6.1 Protection of Wildlife Act 1972
The Protection of Wildlife Act (PWA) 1972 provides for the protection of wildlife and
its habitat in Peninsular Malaysia. This Act contains detailed lists of totally
protected, protected and game animals. However, this Act does not provide for the
protection of plants and animals that are not listed in the Act. Therefore, newly
discovered species or yet undiscovered species are not protected under this law.
Part IV of the PWA deals with the creation wildlife reserves and sanctuaries, which
may be declared by the State after consultation with the Minister of Science,
Technology and the Environment. The States are given the authority to define or
alter the boundaries of the wildlife reserves and sanctuaries. Part VI of the Act
deals with offences and penalties for a variety of contraventions.
As noted in Section 2.2.2.2, a large part of Cameron Highlands was gazetted as a
wildlife sanctuary in 1962. However the exact boundaries of the wildlife sanctuary is
not clear and may overlap with the existing town and settlement areas, agricultural
areas as well as forest reserves. The area may also have been degazetted.
Section 4.2.2.2 noted that parts of Fraser’s Hill were afforded protection; on the
Selagor side as a reserve for the Preservation of Animals and Birds in 1922 and in
1957 and adjoining areas in Pahang were designated as Residential Reserve and
Game Sanctuary through the National Land Code. Once again the exact
boundaries of these reserves are unclear.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
5-12
Final Report I
Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP13
ACTIONS
BY
Clarify and review the status and determine Department of
the boundaries of the gazetted reserves or Wildlife and
sanctuaries in Cameron Highlands and National Parks
Fraser’s Hill. This is important as it will
ensure that areas that have been gazetted
for conservation are better protected and will
not be subjected to further land conversions
due to lack of awareness of the gazetted
area.
LI-AP14
Explore the addition of plant species lists Department of
under the PWA to prevent illegal species Wildlife and
collection, which may then have further National Parks
implications in terms of reviewing the current
responsibilities of the Department of Wildlife
and
National
Parks,
the
authority
responsible for the enforcement of this Act
5.2.6.2 National Forestry Act 1984
The National Forestry Act (NFA) 1984, a Federal legislation applicable in
Peninsular Malaysia, provides for the administration, management and
conservation of forests and forestry development within the States of Malaysia. The
NFA sets out the legal basis for the concept of a national Permanent Forest Estate
(PFE) as stated in the National Forestry Policy 1978 (Revised 1992). Section 10 of
the Act provides for the classification of the PFE into 11 functional categories.
Forests classified under the following categories for example, soil protection forest,
water catchment forest, forest sanctuary for wildlife, virgin jungle reserve and
research forest can protect the biodiversity within such areas.
It is noted that wildlife reserves or sanctuaries established under the PWA may
overlap with forest reserves. However, these forest reserves may or may not be
categorised as forest sanctuary for wildlife under the NFA.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
5-13
Final Report I
Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP15
5.2.7
ACTIONS
BY
Classify and gazette PFEs around the hill Department of
stations into functional categories such as Forestry
soil protection, water catchment, virgin
jungle reserve, amenity, education and
research forests that are compatible to the
functions and sensitivity of the highland
ecosystems.
Logging
There have been no reports of logging (legal or illegal) happening in of the hill
stations except at Lojing. This could have been attributed to the general guidelines
followed by the Forestry Department that no forests above 1,000 metres would be
logged.
5.2.7.1 National Forestry Act 1984
The NFA (see also Section 5.2.3.2) provides for the use of permits and licences for
carrying out activities in the forest reserves, including the extraction of timber.
Section 15 deals with prohibition on taking forest produce from PFEs and State land
without proper licence or permit. The penalty has been increased to a maximum of
RM 500,000 and/or imprisonment term of 20 years (with a mandatory imprisonment
of at least 1 year). The NFA has also been amended in 1993 to provide for the
Police and Armed Forces to undertake surveillance of forestry activities, especially
in curbing illegal logging and timber theft.
Currently there is no security that forests once classified as soil protection or water
catchment forests will remain as such in perpetuity, as the NFA under Section 11
allows for the excise of such forests for other uses. The State Authority is directed
to act in favour of the option that would have a higher ‘economic value’.
Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP16
ACTIONS
BY
Enforce the current no logging guideline of Department of
forests above 1,000 metres
Forestry
LI-AP17
Review the conversion criteria of a higher Department of
‘economic value’ in terms of highland Forestry
forests; as the ecological functions of such
forests are vital and consider formulating a
policy statement to protect such forests in
perpetuity (section 11 of the NFA)
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
5-14
Final Report I
Table 5-1: Summary of Legal Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP 1
ACTIONS
Gazette the remaining sections of the Town and
Country Planning (Amendment) Act 2001 [A1129]
BY
State Government
LI-AP 2
Gazette the Cameron Highlands Local Plan (section
15 of the TCPA)
Pahang State
Government
LI-AP 3
Amend the Schedule of the Environmental Quality
(Prescribed
Activities)
(Environmental
Impact
Assessment Order) 1987 to include any development
on hill stations as a prescribed activity (with the
exception of building of individual houses). In the
interim, administrative EIAs can be requested for all
development activities on hill stations.
Department of
Environment
LI-AP 4
Encourage macro EIAs to be conducted for separate
developments in the same area to assess the
cumulative impacts of the developments concerned.
Incremental costs of macro EIAs to be borne by the
developers and carried out by their consultants.
Department of
Environment
LI-AP 5
Amend section 62(1) of the NLC to include a
category for the conservation of natural resources
Federal/State
Government
LI-AP 6
Amend section 67 of the NLC to increase the period
of the TOL licences for 3 – 5 years to provide farmers
with greater security of tenure, thereby providing
incentives for improved agricultural practices
Federal/State
Government
LI-AP 7
Alienate lands for agricultural purposes to be leased
to the farmers under section 221 for example, for a
period of 10 years of more. This would give farmers
greater security of tenure.
Pahang State
Government
LI-AP 8
Gazette Fraser’s Hill and Genting Highlands as hill
lands (section 3 of the LCA). This does not mean no
development in the gazetted areas, but rather more
controlled development as conditions are imposed on
the clearing of land. This would allow better control
by the Land Administrator of actions of owners in the
development of their land. The onus is on the owner
to show that their activities would not cause siltation
and erosion.
Pahang State
Government
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
5-15
Final Report I
LI-AP 9
Increase penalties (section 18 of the LCA) in view of
the seriousness of impacts (involving loss of lives,
livelihood and property) of such occurrences; it is
submitted that the current penalties are insufficient to
have a deterrent effect. Additionally more
prosecutions should be made on such offences and
successful prosecutions highlighted in the media.
State Government
LI-AP 10
Put the burden of proof on the alleged polluter with
regard to an offence under section 25 of the EQA
Department of
Environment
LI-AP 11
The gazettement of outstanding by-laws as well as
the formulation of by-laws by the local authority
allows for the enforceability of such by-laws. These
include for example by-laws on litter and solid waste
disposal.
All Local Authorities
LI-AP 12
Environmental requirements to be attached to the
licence to operate a tourism enterprise to encourage
appropriate tourism development (section 7 of the
TIA)
MOCAT
LI-AP 13
Clarify and review the status and determine the
boundaries of the gazetted reserves or sanctuaries in
Cameron Highlands and Fraser’s Hill. This is
important as it will ensure that areas that have been
gazetted for conservation are better protected and
will not be subjected to further land conversions due
to lack of awareness of the gazetted area.
Department of
Wildlife and National
Parks
LI-AP 14
Explore the addition of plant species lists under the
PWA to prevent illegal species collection, which may
then have further implications in terms of reviewing
the current responsibilities of the Department of
Wildlife and National Parks, the authority responsible
for the enforcement of this Act
Department of
Wildlife and National
Parks
LI-AP 15
Classify and gazette PFEs around the hill stations
into functional categories such as soil protection,
water catchment, virgin jungle reserve, amenity,
education and research forests that are compatible to
the functions and sensitivity of the highland
ecosystems.
Department of
Forestry
LI-AP 16
Enforce the current “no logging” guideline of forests
above 1,000 metres
Department of
Forestry
LI-AP 17
Review the conversion criteria of a higher ‘economic
value’ in terms of highland forests; as the ecological
functions of such forests are vital us and consider
formulating a policy statement to protect such forests
in perpetuity (section 11 of the NFA)
Department of
Forestry
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
5-16
Final Report I
5.3
INSTITUTIONAL ISSUES
5.3.1
Lack of Enforcement
The laws also provide the powers to the different government agencies to
implement and enforce the laws. It has often been noted that Malaysia has more
than sufficient laws and even if tighter regulations were to be drawn up, it will not be
useful if there is a lack of enforcement (New Straits Times, 8.1.00; The Star,
18.1.00). Lack of enforcement may be due to complacency or the lack of the
physical capacity to enforce the laws.
5.3.2
Lack of Human and Technical Capacity
As noted, the lack of enforcement may be due to the lack of human capacity in the
relevant agencies to conduct regular monitoring of activities. Additionally, in the
sectoral analyses, it has been noted that there is a lack of qualified professionals at
the District Offices, especially town planners, engineers, etc. which hampers
effective management of land use in the hill stations.
Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP18
ACTIONS
BY
Apply for more enforcement officers from the Local Authority
Federal/ State Public Service Commission.
Alternatively, to encourage the secondment
of officers from the headquarters, who have
the requisite technical expertise to ensure
effective land use management and at the
same time train the officers that are present
there.
LI-AP19
Training of officers in the requisite skills will Local Authorities
enhance their competence in carrying out
their job functions more effectively. The
training modules could consist of –
- laws relating to highlands,
- enforcement procedures.
LI-AP20
Engage local communities in understanding
the consequences of their actions to the
very environment that they rely on for
economic and social sustainability.
Education and awareness programmes
should be conducted. Community Action
Groups should be formed to regulate and
monitor their own activities. An example
could be the recently formed society,
REACH (Residents for Environmental Action
of Cameron Highlands).
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
Local Authorities
5-17
Final Report I
5.3.3
Lack of Co-ordination
Natural resource management in Malaysia is sectoral in nature; as such the
institutional structure reflects this sectoral nature. However, environmental
degradation knows no boundaries, it will need the concerted action of all relevant
agencies to be aware of not only their own roles and responsibilities but of others,
therefore, they can be an effective network that would notify one another of
infringements.
Both Federal and State governments have formed committees to address the issue
of lack of co-ordination. At Federal level, there is now the Cabinet Committee for
the Development of Highlands and Islands. The Committee’s primary focus is now
on Cameron Highlands. There is a Pahang State representative in the Cabinet
Committee. At the State level, Pahang has a set up also a Highlands Development
Committee since the mid - 1990s (The Star, 22.12.95).
Table 5-2:
Summary of Institutional Recommendations
ITEM
LI-AP 18
ACTIONS
Apply for more enforcement officers from the Federal/
State Public Service Commission. Alternatively, to
encourage the secondment of officers from the
headquarters, who have the requisite technical
expertise to ensure effective land use management
and at the same time train the officers that are
present there.
BY
Local Authorities
LI-AP 19
Training of officers in the requisite skills will enhance
their competence in carrying out their job functions
more effectively. The training modules could consist
of –
- laws relating to highlands
enforcement procedures
environmental legislation
Local Authorities
Engage local communities in understanding the
consequences of their actions to the very environment
that they rely on for economic and social
sustainability. Education and awareness programmes
should be conducted. Community Action Groups
should be formed to regulate and monitor their own
activities. An example could be the recently formed
society, REACH (Residents for Environmental Action
of Cameron Highlands).
Local Authorities
LI-AP 20
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
5-18
APPENDIX 1
REFERENCES
Final Report I
APPENDIX 1: REFERENCES
1. Bahagian Pengurusan Tanah (2000). Pelan Pembangunan Pertanian
Kawasan Tanah Tinggi Daerah Cameron Highlands, Jabatan Pertanian.
2. Colin Nicholas (2000), “The Orang Asli and the Contest for Resources,”
Kuala Lumpur.
3. Department of Environment (1996, 1997, 1998, 1999). Water Quality Data.
4. Department of Statistics (2000), “Population and Housing Census of
Malaysia, 2000: Preliminary Count Report”, Kuala Lumpur.
5. Department of Statistics (2000), “Yearbook of Statistics, Malaysia, 2000,”
Kuala Lumpur.
6. Environmental Quality Act 1974.
7. EPU (1989), “Pahang Barat Operational Regional Master Plan Study:
Population Report,” Kuala Lumpur.
8. EPU (1989), “Pahang Barat Operational Regional Master Plan Study:
Employment and Manpower Report,” Kuala Lumpur.
9. EPU (1993), “Malaysian National Conservation Strategy, Volume 1,” Kuala
Lumpur.
Lumpur.
Lumpur.
Lumpur.
13. EPU (1993).
Malaysian National Conservation Strategy – Towards
Sustainable Development, Economic Planning Unit, Prime Minister’s
Department, Kuala Lumpur.
14. EPU (1999), “Malaysian Quality of Life, 1999”, Kuala Lumpur.
15. EPU (1999), “Mid-Term Review of the Seventh Malaysia Plan, 1996-2000”,
Kuala Lumpur.
16. EPU (2001), “The Eighth Malaysia Plan, 2001-2005”, Kuala Lumpur.
17. EPU (2001), “The Third Outline Perspective Plan, 2001-2010”, Kuala
Lumpur.
18. EPU. 1993. Malaysian National Conservation Strategy. Vol. 4, Natural
Resource Accounting. Economic Planning Unit, Prime Minister's
Department, Kuala Lumpur.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
i
Final Report I
19. Jabatan Pertanian Semenanjung Malaysia (1998). Panduan Pembangunan
Pertanian di Tanah Bercerun.
20. JHEOA (1997), “Data Klasifikasi Kampung: Perkampungan Orang Asli
Semenanjung Malaysia, 1997,” Kuala Lumpur.
21. JKR (1995), “Preliminary Environmental Impact Assessment Report on the
Development and Use of the Hill Resort Road Linking Genting Highlands
with Fraser’s Hill and Cameron Highlands, Volume II,” Kuala Lumpur.
22. JKR (1995), “Preliminary Environmental Impact Assessment Report on the
Development and Use of the Hill Resort Road Linking Genting Highlands
with Fraser’s Hill and Cameron Highlands, Volume III,” Kuala Lumpur.
23. JKR (2001). Projek Jalanraya Simpang Pulai - Lojing – Gua Musang –
Kuala Berang, Pakej 3 dan 4, Lojing-Pos Blau-Gua Musang.
24. Land Conservation Act 1960.
25. Local Government Act 1976
26. KPMG, (1999), “Malaysia Tourism Policy Study – Tourism Indicators and
Economic Impact Sectoral Report”, Kuala Lumpur.
27. KPMG, (1999), “Malaysia Tourism Policy Study – Tourism Product Sectoral
Report”, Kuala Lumpur.
28. MDCH & PPTCH (1996). Rancangan Struktur MDCH dan PPTCH (1995 –
2020). Majlis Daerah Cameron Highlands (MDCH) dan Pihakberkuasa
Perancang Tempatan Cameron Highlands (PPTCH).
29. MDCH (2000). Rancangan Tempatan Cameron Highlands (1998 – 2010),
Majlis Daerah Cameron Highlands.
30. Ministry of Education (2000), “Data of Public and Private Institutions of
Higher Learning”, Kuala Lumpur.
31. Ministry of Education (2000), “Education Guide Malaysia, 4th Edition”, Kuala
Lumpur.
32. Ministry of Health Malaysia (1997), “Annual Report 1997”, Kuala Lumpur.
33. Ministry of Health Malaysia (1998), “Annual Report 1998”, Kuala Lumpur.
34. Ministry of Health Malaysia (2000), “Health Facts 2000”, Kuala Lumpur.
35. Ministry of Health Malaysia (2000), “Indicators for Monitoring and Evaluation
of Strategy for Health for All”, Kuala Lumpur.
36. Ministry of Health Malaysia (2000), “List of Hospital 2000”, Kuala Lumpur.
37. MOCAT (2000), “Mimeograph,” Kuala Lumpur.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
ii
Final Report I
38. MOSTE (1995), “Environmental Assessment Guidelines for Development of
Resort and Hotel Facilities in Hill Stations”, Kuala Lumpur.
39. National Forestry Act 1984.
40. National Land Code 1965
41. New Straits Times (1.6.99). Pesticide Danger in Rivers.
42. New Straits Times (25.1.00). Need to Pay Heed.
43. New Straits Times (3.4.99). Farmers Continue to Clear Land Illegally,
Causing Landslides.
44. Penal Code (Revised 1997).
45. PE Research Consult / PEMM Consultants Sdn Bhd (1999), “Technical
Education and Skills Training in Malaysia”, Kuala Lumpur.
46. Pesticides Act 1974
47. Pihak Berkuasa Perancang Tempatan Cameron Highlands (1996).
Rancangan Struktur Cameron Highlands, Majlis Daerah Cameron
Highlands.
48. Protection of Wildlife Act 1972
49. Resort World Bhd (2001), “Annual Report 2000”, Kuala Lumpur.
50. Sihombing, J. (1998). The National Land Code: A Commentary, Malayan
Law Journal, Kuala Lumpur.
51. Street, Drainage and Building Act 1974.
52. The Star (19.1.00). Errant Highland Farmers Warned.
53. The Sun (2.11.00). Cameron Highlands Going Downhill.
54. Tourism Industry Act 1992.
55. Tourism Malaysia (1996), “Departing Visitors Survey, 1995”, Kuala Lumpur.
56. Tourism Malaysia (1996), “Report of the Excursionist Survey, 1995”, Kuala
Lumpur.
57. Tourism Malaysia (1997), “Annual Tourism Statistical Report 1996”, Kuala
Lumpur.
Lumpur.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
iii
Final Report I
Lumpur.
60. Tourism Malaysia (1999), “Convention Planner Malaysia, 1998/1999”, Kuala
Lumpur.
61. Tourism Malaysia (1999), “Departing Visitors Survey, 1999 – Executive
Summary”, Kuala Lumpur.
62. Town and Country Planning Act 1976
63. Town and Country Planning (Amendment) Act 2001 [A1129]
64. UPEN (1994), “Strategic Development and Action Plan for Pahang Darul
Makmur”.
65. UPEN (2000), “Perak Tourism Master Plan”, Perak.
66. UTEG Consultants Sdn Bhd/Russell Arthur Smith Associates (2nd),
“Selangor Tourism Master Plan and Action Plan”, Selangor.
67. WWF Malaysia (1987), “Using the Law to Implement a State Conservation
Strategy in Malaysia”, WWF Malaysia, Selangor.
68. WWF Malaysia (1995), “The Concepts and Analysis of Carrying Capacity: A
Management Tool for Effective Planning, Part 1”, WWF Malaysia, Selangor.
69. WWF Malaysia (1995), “The Economics and Development of Cameron
Highlands: A Conservation Viewpoint”, WWF Malaysia, Selangor.
70. WWF Malaysia (1995), “Why Malaysian Natural Resources Must Be
Sustainably Managed”, WWF Malaysia, Selangor.
71. WWF Malaysia (1996), “National Ecotourism Plan, Malaysia – Executive
Summary”, WWF Malaysia, Selangor.
72. WWF Malaysia (1996), “National Ecotourism Plan, Malaysia – Part 2”, WWF
Malaysia, Selangor.
Malaysia, Selangor.
Malaysia, Selangor.
Malaysia, Selangor.
76. WWF Malaysia (1997), “Perak: An Ecosystem Profile,” WWF Malaysia
Selangor.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
iv
Final Report I
77. WWF Malaysia (1997), “Policy and Legislation for the Protection and
Conservation of Highland Areas and Hill Lands in Malaysia”, WWF
Malaysia, Selangor.
78. WWF Malaysia (2000), “Socio Economic and Recreational Activity Survey of
Fraser’s Hill,” WWF Malaysia, Selangor.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
v
APPENDIX II
LIST OF MEETINGS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
Final Report 1
APPENDIX II : LIST OF MEETINGS WITH STAKEHOLDERS
List of Meetings with Stakeholders
Date
Agency
Persons Met/ Contacted
Issues Discussed / Data Collected
GOVERNMENT AGENCIES
29 March 2001
Cameron Highlands District Land
Office
Public Works Department, Cameron
Highlands
En Md Alias b. Ibrahim, President
Land use in Cameron Highlands
Ir Ajis Sitin AMP, District Engineer
En Ratnasingam, Technical Assistant
En Shafei b. Pandak, Technical
Assistant (Development)
Existing roads and proposed road development in
Cameron Highlands district
30 March 2001
Cameron Highlands District Council
En R. Sivanathan, Senior Technician
(Technical Unit)
Existing land use and development in Cameron
Highlands
29 March 2001
Department of Agriculture, Cameron
Highlands
En Zulkifli Yunus, Agriculture Officer
Agricultural activities in Cameron Highlands, problems
related to agriculture in Cameron Highlands
31 March 2001
Water Supply Department, Cameron
Highlands
En Abdul Munaim, District Manager
Water supply, distribution, demand and development
projects in Cameron Highlands
10 April 2001
Soil Management Division,
Department of Agriculture, Kuala
Lumpur
Dr Lim Jit Sai, Director
En Mustafa Kamal b Baharuddin,
Assistant Director
Soil conservation measures in the highlands,
definition of highlands, guidelines for highland
agriculture
11 April 2001
Environmental Studies Division,
Malaysian Meteorological Services,
Petaling Jaya
Ms Leong Chow Peng, Director
Climate change and air quality in the highlands,
focussing on Cameron Highlands
29 March 2001
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
i
Final Report 1
Date
Agency
11 April 2001
Corporate Affairs Unit, Minerals and
Geoscience Department, Kuala
Lumpur
Tuan Haji Abd. Halim b. Hamzah,
Deputy Director General
Locations of mineral distribution and mineral potential
11 April 2001
Research & Information Section,
Department of Orang Asli Affairs,
Kuala Lumpur
En Mohd Zamri b. Mustajap, Director
Information on Orang Asli for all states. Discussed
general issues.
12 May 2001
Climatological Division,
Malaysian Meteorological Services,
Petaling Jaya
Dr Chan Ah Kee, Director
Climate change in the highlands and its possible
causes
13 April 2001
Vegetables Division, Department of
Agriculture, Kuala Lumpur
En Ramli b Burhanuddin, Assistant
Director
National Agriculture Policy. Vegetable Production.
Contacts at Cameron Highlands
18 April 2001
Water Supply Department, Bentung
Ir Jalaini Jasman, District Engineer
Water supply in Bentong district, siltation problems in
rivers due to upstream development
18 April 2001
Public Works Department, Bentung
Pn Norasiah Ayob, Technical Assistant
Roads in Bentong district
18 April 2001
Bentung Land Office
En Fadzil b Mahamud, Senior Assistant
District Officer (Land)
Land use status in Bentong district
18 April 2001
3 May 2001
Bentung District Council
En Affendi, Planning Officer
Land use and development in Cameron Highlands
and Bukit Tinggi
26 April 2001
Town & Country Planning
Department, Selangor
Pn Surywati, Technical Assistant
Information on Highlands Study
(Hulu Selangor)
Information on Highlands Study
27 April 2001
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
Pn Jumakyah
ii
Final Report 1
Date
Agency
Department, Selangor
3 May 2001
MARDI Serdang – Horticulture
Division
4 May 2001
Ministry of Science, Technology and
Environment (MOSTE)
10 May 2001
(Gombak)
National Agriculture Policy. R & D. Contacts at
Cameron Highlands
Crop Protection Division
Pesticide Control Division
Planning Division
Department of Agriculture, Kuala
Lumpur
Dr Abdul Shukor b Abdul Rahman,
Director
Dr Vijayasegaran, Assistant Director
Ms Goh Siok Eng, Deputy Director
En Khairul Adib Rahman, Assistant
Director
Cik Asna Booty bt Othman, Director
(Crop Protection)
En Yeoh Ngoh Sum, Assistant Director
En Salleh b. Suradi, Assistant Director
Statistics)
10 May 2001
Department, Pahang
En Wan Naimuddin, Town Planning
Officer
Committed development on the Main Range.
11 May 2001
Department, Pahang
En Hassan, Deputy Director
En Wan Naimuddin, Town Planning
Officer
En Izwardi, Technical Assistant
Committed development on the Main Range.
16 May 2001
Department, Kuala Lumpur
Mr Wong Kam Lee, Town Planning
Officer
List of committed development on the Main Range.
18 May 2001
Strategic, Environmental & Natural
Resource Research Centre,
MARDI, Serdang
En Wong Nan Chong, Assistant
Director (Soil Management)
Dr Aminudin Yusof
Soil management, degradation and recovery under
intensive agriculture in Cameron Highlands
18 May 2001
Road Section,
Pn Rohani
Existing and proposed road development in the
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
Cabinet Committee on Highlands and Island.
Environmental problems affecting the highlands, in
particular, Cameron Highlands.
Discussion on crop protection, pesticide usage,
regulation and residues. Statistics on vegetable and
flower production in Cameron Highlands.
iii
Final Report 1
Date
Agency
Public Works Department, Kuala
Lumpur
Pn Aishah, Senior Assistant Director
En Kamil, Assistant Director
Dr Roslan, Head (Environmental
Section)
Tuan Haji Johari, Deputy Director
22 May 2001
Department, Perak
24 May 2001
Pusat MARDI, Cameron Highlands
24 May 2001
FAMA, Cameron Highlands
28 May 2001
Department of Agriculture, Pahang
20 June 2001
Fraser’s Hill Development Centre,
Fraser’s Hill
11 July 2001
Headquarters, Putrajaya
Ir Lee Heng Keng
18 Oct 2001
UPEN Pahang & Pahang State
Agencies
En Badaruddin, UPEN Pahang
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
Dr Kahar b Sandrang, Head
Dr Syed Hj Abdul Rahman,
Entomologist
En Mohd Ridzuan b Mohd Saad,
Agronomist
En Wan Abdullah b Wan Yusoff, Soil
Conservation
En Radzwan b Masrum
Dato’ Saleha bt Dato Hj Ibrahim,
Director
En Md Hatta b Kahar, Agriculture
Officer
En Mohd Moni b. Ismail, Operations
Supervisor
highlands, environmental management of road
construction in the highlands
Committed development on the highlands (Main
Range).
Discussion on aspects of vegetable and flower
cultivation and tea production. Problems of soil
erosion, conservation, cultivation under rain shelter.
Discussion on vegetable prices, markets and
marketing problems.
Data on Cameron Highlands and information on Bukit
Tinggi and Fraser’s Hill
Discussion on existing tourism issues and potential for
tourism
Coordination of highland development. Effectiveness
and relevance of local plans in controlling
development, with reference to Cameron Highlands.
Comments from all State Agencies regarding Draft
Report Volume1
iv
Final Report 1
Date
Agency
PRIVATE SECTOR AND NON-GOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS
29 March 2001
Alam Flora Sdn Bhd, Cameron
Highlands
En Ahmad Bidin, Operations Executive
30 March 2001
Cameron Highlands Indian Farmers'
Association
Mr Viswanathan, President
Mr P. Sambasivam, Secretary
27 April 2001
Resorts World Bhd, Kuala Lumpur
Col (R) Dato Ir Cheng Wah, Senior
Vice President (Property Development)
Mr Teh Guan Soon, Senior Executive
(Property Administration)
3 May 2001
Resort World Bhd Sales Office
Bandar Gohtong Jaya
Mr Koo Keng Sing, Manager
(Development Planning)
24 May 2001
Boh Tea Plantations
Mr Vettivelu
Existing and proposed development in Genting
Highlands, land use, waste management, water
supply and tourism in Genting Highlands. Genting
development. Ongoing constructions – world’s largest
hotel.
Tourism developments. Ongoing projects. Site visit to
Water Treatment Plant, Solid waste incinerator, resort
hotels.
Tea plantations in Cameron Highlands
25 May 2001
Cameron Highlands Flower Growers
Association
Ms Sally Chai, President
Flower growing industry in Cameron Highlands
25 May 2001
Cameron Highlands Vegetable
Growers Association
Mr Chay Ee Mong, Secretary
Vegetable farming in Cameron Highlands
26 May 2001
Vegetable farms at Cameron
Highlands
Chan Yee Yong, Farmer
Lee Ong Sing, Farmer
Ng Kok Weng, Farmer
Wong Foo Choon, Farmer
Problems in vegetable production, crop protection and
marketing
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
Solid waste management in Cameron Highlands, solid
waste generation, problems in solid waste collection
and disposal
Vegetable farming in Cameron Highlands, problems
faced by vegetable farmers
v
Final Report 1
Date
Agency
20 June 2001
Quest Resort, Lady Guillemard Road,
Fraser’s Hil
En Mukhtarruddin b. Khalid, Assistant
Operations Manager
20 June 2001
Fraser’s Hill Nature Education Centre,
WWF Malaysia
Mr K.S. Durai
20 June 2001
Five-H Flora Farm Sdn Bhd, Fraser’s
Hill
En Mohd Razi b. Abdullah, Officer
Discussion on Fraser’s Hill floral garden and tourism
potential.
25 July 2001
TNB Hidro Sdn Bhd
Ir Foon Shyong Wai, Manager
25 July 2001
TNB Engineers Sdn Bhd
Ir Choy Fook Kun, Chief Engineer
Ir Harpreet Singh, Senior Engineer
Significance of hydroelectric power as an energy
source. Impacts to hydroelectric power generation due
to upstream activities.
Hydroelectric power plants in Cameron Highlands and
the Main Range.
25 July 2001
TNB Generation Sdn Bhd
Ir Bhaskar Kannan, Asset Management
Unit
Hydroelectric power plants in Cameron Highlands and
the Main Range.
30 July 2001
Regional Environmental Awareness
of Cameron Highlands (REACH)
Mr. Ramakrishnan Ramasamy, Vice
Chairman
Dr. Chong Chee Kheong, Secretary
Environmental issues in Cameron Highlands and
potential solutions to the problems.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
Discussion on occupancy rate and formation of
Fraser’s Hill Tourism Association and potential for
tourism
Discussion on existing issues and potential for nature
tourism
vi
APPENDIX III
GUIDELINES FOR THE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION
OF ROADS ON THE HIGHLAND
Final Report I
APPENDIX III:
1.0
GUIDELINES FOR THE PLANNING AND CONSTRUCTION OF
ROADS ON THE HIGHLAND
INTRODUCTION
Highland areas are very sensitive both ecologically and physically to changes
brought upon by construction works. Road construction works on such terrain will
have very adverse impacts on the fragile environment, where the cause and effect
is far reaching.
Among the direct impact to the environment would be the destruction of the flora
and fauna, exposing the steep slopes to soil erosion, sedimentation to the
surrounding watercourses, causing instability to the slopes and making them more
prone to landslides.
Having a set of guidelines for the construction of roads will not totally prevent the
destruction of the environment but serves to minimize its impacts.
2.0
OBJECTIVES
To ensure that road construction practices on highlands are sustainable and
adverse environmental impacts are minimised.
3.0
GUIDELINES
3.1
Planning
3.1.1
Any road constructed on highlands should be planned in an environmentfriendly manner whilst maintaining appropriate standards of engineering
design and construction practices.
3.1.2
The road alignment should be aligned through less sensitive land uses i.e
areas that have already been developed. The road will enhance the
connectivity or accessibility of the areas, and foster socio-economic benefit.
It will also prevent the creation new development spots within undisturbed
areas.
3.1.3
Identify sensitive environmental receptors within the proposed road corridor.
Where possible the sensitive areas should be avoided. Examples of
sensitive receptors include:
• Water catchment upstream of dams and water intakes.
• Landslide prone areas.
• Orang Asli and other settlements.
• Archaeological sites, graveyard, burial sites.
• Virgin – undisturbed forests, unique habitats such as wetlands.
In certain cases, intrusion into the sensitive areas is inevitable. In such
cases proper mitigation measures should be instituted.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
i
Final Report I
APPENDIX III:
3.1.4
The road alignment should follow the natural topography more closely as
this will also reduce the volume of cutting and filling as well as structural
works. Another possible albeit more expensive option is to construct tunnels
3.1.5
Animal paths or animal crossings must be determined at this stage with the
assistance of Jabatan Perhilitan. However, animal crossings or paths should
be avoided if possible but in cases where there are no other options,
underground tunnels can be constructed as animal crossing linking both
sides of the road. Road alignment should be directed as far as possible from
saltlicks and hot springs so as to minimize disturbance to the animals.
3.1.6
Reduce the incidence of road – stream crossings. Any river crossing should
satisfactorily demonstrate that such a location is the most suitable after
considering all available options. The structures should not affect water flow
and debris passage, or hinder the migration of aquatic species. The road
alignment should also take into consideration the groundwater flow.
3.2
Construction
3.2.1
Construction works must be carried out in phases. It is important that only
one stretch of the road is worked on at any one time before moving to the
second stretch and this covers everything from land clearing to earthworks
and pavement construction. This will ensure that soil erosion is kept at a
minimum. This will also ensure an easier access to the next phase of the
construction.
3.2.2
The working time during construction phase must be confined to daylight
hours. Major earthworks should be completed during drier months as in
rugged terrain such as the highlands; exposed soil is easily eroded with
heavy rainfall.
3.2.3
Where possible, previously cleared areas should be used for base camps
and temporary access. This will minimise the loss of terrestrial vegetation
and terrestrial habitats.
3.2.4
Burning of waste or vegetation should not be allowed under any
circumstances.
3.2.5
Cleared areas must be turfed immediately and slopes must be protected to
minimize soil loss. Dust generation must be controlled by constant water
spraying on exposed soil.
3.2.6
Catch drains should be provided at the top of all slopes to prevent runoff
from flowing down the exposed slopes.
3.2.7
Sediment basins must be installed at specific locations to control the
sediment discharge. Sediment basins must be constructed before clearing
and grading work begins.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
ii
Final Report I
APPENDIX III:
3.2.8
Used oil and grease (from machinery) must be stored in proper containers
and disposed off in a suitable manner in the lowlands. Care must be taken
to avoid spillages near streams or rivers.
3.2.9
Machinery used in the construction must be well maintained and where
possible silencers must be installed to minimize noise generation.
3.2.10 Drilling operations must be isolated by perimeter trench or bund to minimize
the noise generated. Noise generated during the construction phase may be
a nuisance to the fauna community in the forest.
3.2.11 Vegetation within 100 feet from any major stream should not be cleared.
Maintenance of buffer strip is important to act as a partial filter for pollutants
from construction activities. This strip also benefits aquatic organisms by
reducing fluctuations in stream temperature that may accompany forest
disturbance.
3.2.12 Base camps for workers must be equipped with basic facilities for health
and safety. They must be immunized against diseases, provided with toilets
with proper septic tanks, encouraged to bury solid waste and supplied with
first aid kits.
3.2.13 All construction debris should be disposed at areas outside forest zones, or
at designated disposal areas.
3.2.14 The maximum cut height must be restricted to ensure slope stability. Cut
slopes shall not be continuous but shall incorporate intermediate berms. The
angle of cut shall vary with the composition of sub-strata.
3.2.15 Road signs must be posted at appropriate locations to provide traffic
guidance and to ensure safety for all road users. The sign faces shall be
constructed of reflective material to ensure good night time visibility.
3.2.16 Uncompleted road segments should be vegetated to ensure adequate
stability prior to total abandonment. Periodic inspections should be carried
out until a well-established vegetative cover is in place and there are no
signs of potential failures.
3.2.17 Environmental monitoring must be made mandatory. The purpose of
monitoring is to provide information that the impacts from the project are
within the engineering and environmental acceptable limits and to provide
early warning of unacceptable environmental conditions so that appropriate
mitigation measures can be adopted.
WWF Malaysia
December 2001
iii

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