Craving an escape from Kuala Lumpur’s urban sprawl? Welcome to Lagong Hill Permanent Forest Reserve. This biologically diverse area provides clean water for local communities. It also protects slopes and prevents landslides.
Lagong Hill Permanent Forest Reserve spans approximately 3700 hectares. This excludes the Forest Research Institute Malaysia’s 530 hectares. The area is ranked as an Environmentally Sensitive Area. Only low-impact tourism is allowed here. Physical development and agriculture are prohibited.
The Forest Research Institute of Malaysia FRIM borders Lagong Hill. It was declared a National Heritage Site in 2012. FRIM was nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2017. Lagong Hill Forest Reserve serves as a buffer to FRIM.
Once inside Lagong Hill Permanent Forest Reserve you will find diverse flora and fauna. The forest boasts over 73 butterfly species. A quick bird survey identified 31 species. Some animals are threatened. The critically endangered Sunda Pangolin calls Lagong Hill home. So does the Helmeted Hornbill. The vulnerable Sumatran Serow and Black Leopard also live here.
This forest has faced threats from quarrying. Approximately 1000 hectares were designated as quarriable. Six existing operators quarried about 200 hectares. This happened under minor licenses renewed every six months for almost 30 years. Another 800 hectares were allocated to concessionaires but not yet quarried.
The Selangor state government imposed a 25-year moratorium on logging starting in 2010. Quarrying in forest reserves goes against this moratorium.
Lagong Hill Permanent Forest Reserve is more than just trees. It’s a treasure trove of biodiversity. Two Orang Asli villages are close to existing quarries. These are Kampung OA Hulu Kuang and Kampung OA Sungai Buloh. Their water sources are downstream from the proposed concessions.
Lagong Hill is a vital water catchment area. It contributes to climate change mitigation. Malaysia committed to maintaining 50% forest cover. Selangor has less than 50% forest cover. It is crucial to conserve existing forest reserves.
Imagine hiking through the forest. You hear the calls of primates. You might even see glimpses of huge birds. Perhaps you will spot slithering worms or reptiles. The sounds of the jungle come alive.
Bukit Lagong offers amazing views of the city. It presents a challenging hike. No permit is required. It is a conservation area.
Lagong Hill Permanent Forest Reserve stands as a testament to nature’s resilience. It also highlights the need for conservation. Its future depends on responsible stewardship. Let’s protect this precious green lung for generations.