Sixty years ago a young botanist named Dr Salleh arrived at the Forest Research Institute Malaysia. He was tasked with classifying newly discovered plant species. The Forest Research Institute Malaysia or FRIM is more than just a museum. It’s a living testament to human endeavor and nature’s resilience. Founded in 1929 FRIM began as a small experimental plantation. Its purpose was to restore land ravaged by tin mining.
Over time FRIM expanded significantly. Today it covers 545 hectares. It is one of the world’s leading tropical forestry research institutions. Dr Salleh’s work contributed greatly to our understanding of Malaysian flora.
The oldest arboreta at FRIM were planted with dipterocarp and non-dipterocarp trees. Later additions included bamboo collections and fruit tree groves. Seeds and spores from nearby Bukit Lagong Forest Reserve naturally colonized FRIM. This increased biodiversity. FRIM became a haven for wildlife.
Today FRIM is home to diverse species. These include mammals birds reptiles amphibians and insects. The Forest Research Institute Malaysia also boasts beautiful trails. The Salleh Trail and Keruing Trail are popular with visitors. Along these trails one can find unique plants. For example Tongkat Ali a wild shrub with properties similar to ginseng. Engkabang trees provide wax used in lipsticks. Jelutong trees are used in pencil and match production.
A truly remarkable sight is the crown shyness. This is a phenomenon where the crowns of Kapur trees create a mosaic-like pattern in the canopy. This is due to the trees leaves ‘shying’ away from each other. Kapur trees are also significant for their aromatic resin and wood used for railway sleepers.
The Forest Research Institute Malaysia has a wetland ecosystem. This includes ponds streams the Sungai Kroh waterfall and a small lake. This supports a rich aquatic life. Dragonflies and damselflies are commonly seen. At night frogs and even rare Spiny Turtles can be spotted. The area near the Sungai Kroh waterfall is also ideal for picnics.
FRIM recently opened its impressive Forest Skywalk. This 250-meter long structure rises 50 meters above the forest floor. It offers stunning views of the surrounding Klang Valley. The Forest Research Institute Malaysia continues its commitment to research conservation and preservation. It actively works towards sustainable development. The thriving ecosystem is a remarkable achievement in forest restoration. FRIM is a true oasis in the city a place to appreciate and conserve nature’s wonders.