Sustainability of Three Recreational Forest Landscape Management in ,

Mohd Kher Hussein12 1Department of Landscape Architecture, Faculty of Design and Architecture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia. 2Faculty of Landscape Architecture, Corvinus University of Budapest, Villanyi ut 35-43. P.O.B. 53. H- 1118 Budapest, Hungary.

[email protected]/ [email protected]

Different stakeholders managed recreational forests in Selangor, Malaysia. These stakeholders’ involvements have risen a question whether their development have fulfilled the sustainable landscape requirement. The aim of this study was to understand and generate more comprehensive knowledge on the recreational forest landscape management towards forest sustainability. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the management of recreational forest in Selangor, Malaysia that affect landscape sustainability and to gain an overview of recreational forest landscape development in Peninsular Malaysia. The study applies three methods. First is the analysis of documents relating to sustainable landscape concept. Secondly, through case studies where three recreational forest sites in Selangor were selected to analyze their management practices towards landscape sustainability. Thirdly, field observations were carried out to collect data about existing physical conditions of the study sites. The results revealed that landscape management of these recreational forests were not in accordance with landscape sustainability approaches and needs improvement. This was caused by improper planning, low understanding among the staffs regarding sustainable landscape management, shortage of knowledgeable personnel, and poor supervision. Failure to adopt and implement sustainable landscape practices which include environment protection, social improvements, good governance, aesthetics enhancement, economy benefits, and harmonized designs can lead to the increase in the “abandon syndrome” of some recreational forest sites in Peninsular Malaysia.

Keywords: sustainable landscape management, landscape architecture, landscape management, recreational forest.

1. INTRODUCTION environmental quality in developing a forest area (Schutzki & Tripp, 2007). From a landscape perspective, sustainable landscape refers to the role of landscape in Sustainable landscape development also sustainable development and to the sustainable requires reconciling society’s development goals protection, management, and/or planning of with the capacities of landscape systems to landscapes (Selman, 2008). In landscape deliver ecosystem services over long-term (Clark architecture and planning, there is a professional & Dickson, 2003; Kates et al., 2001; NRC, subculture that interprets sustainability in terms 1999). Landscape systems are complex, of low-impact design (Dunnett & Clayden 2007). adaptive, and tightly coupled social-ecological Selman (2008) divides sustainable landscape into systems (GLP, 2005). Therefore, continuously two aspects. First is the design and scenic assets sustainable states of landscapes are unlikely and protection and second, the relationship between efforts for supporting sustainable landscape ecosystem services and human well-being. This development should always aim at making means that in sustainable landscape development progress on a transition towards sustainability there is a need to focus on restoration, (NRC, 1999).Sustainable landscape development preservation, conservation, protection of natural is generally considered right at the inter-section systems, maintaining natural function and of environment, economy, and society. It is also

1 Journal of Design and Built Environment Vol. 14 (2), December 2014 Mohd Kher, H. further influenced by two other dimensions as well as to get their full support (Botes & which are governance and aesthetic sustainability Rensburg, 2000). Buchecker et al. (2003) argued (Selman, 2008). that local participation exercises in planning and landscape design process of recreational forest There are six factors affecting landscape landscape need to be improved to increase their sustainability of recreational forests. The first understanding on landscape sustainability. one deals with landscape ecology of spatial Unfortunately, in Malaysia, there are still many patterns and processes (Farina, 2006; Selman, local participation exercises that do not take into 2008). This is commonly referred to as the account people’s real opinions and their needs. green infrastructure which involves biodiversity This is because when authority organized local network of habitat patches and corridors in participatory exercises, it only involves the maintaining healthy and practical populations authority giving information to the public but not (Selman, 2008). It also refers to soil and nutrient really getting any real feedback from them conservation, water quality, hydrology systems (Ahmad, 2001 as cited in Mohd Yazid, 2009). and vegetation’s (Haines-Young et al., 2006). A proper recreational forest landscape planning A fourth factor is good governance. This is (especially in terms of human made landscape closely related with political sustainability and elements) is necessary because landscape is an requires effective governance structures, for both ecological entity that is dynamic and changes the private and public domains (Selman, 2008). according to situation and disturbance (Ismail & Good governance also requires a stable Mohd Sarofil, 2005). Human activities governance to ensure that landscape frequently cause impact to the environment development requirements are being causing resulting environmental destruction and implemented according to the strategy with high creating unhealthy environment to living things. integrity and intentness (Hamilton & Selman, 2005). Good governance is important at all levels Secondly, sustainable recreational forest i.e., from international to local levels. However, landscape relates to the economy. This relates to it is particularly important at the local level, benefits such as recreational activities that makes where numerous high-level decisions can be certain places interesting and haves values to the implemented, ignored or even contradicted public (Powell et al., 2002; Selman 2008; Vollet (Rametsteiner 2007). Szerletics (2011) et al., 2008). Those economic benefits should highlighted the characteristic of good governance also bring benefits to local people to improve as follows: their quality of life. Furthermore, Jamieson and Noble (2000) claimed that recreational forest (1) Transparency – decisions taken and development should provide job opportunity, their enforcement are done in a manner reducing poverty and cut social inequality and that follows rules and regulations. It increase social services to the local community. also means that information is freely Thus, a proper and systematic recreational forest available and directly accessible to landscape development needs to take into those who will be affected by such account local community economic enhancement decisions and their enforcement. to make sure the sustainable use of recreational (2) Responsibility and accountability – the forest. decision-makers in the government, private sector and civil society are Thirdly, sustainable recreational forest accountable to the public and/or to their landscape is also related to the needs of local institutional stakeholders. populations. For generations, parks including (3) Participation – the public can recreational forests have played important roles participate (either directly or through for people, and contributed to social and cultural representatives) in the decision-making aspects of their lives (Osman, 2005; Nicol & and the implementation of public Blake, 2000). Parks also provide a powerful projects or other government activities. setting for “social” (Collins et al., 2007) and (4) Responsiveness to the needs of people – “sustainability” learning (Tabara & Pahl-Wostl good governance requires that 2007). Thus, local participation in recreational institutions try to serve all stakeholders forest landscape plans and design process is within a reasonable timeframe. necessary. This is to ensure their requirements (5) Effectiveness – processes and are met and to avoid injustice in decision-making institutions produce results that meet the

2 Journal of Design and Built Environment Vol. 14 (2), December 2014 Mohd Kher, H. needs of society while making the best (Schmid, 1983). Design of hardscape structures use of resources at their disposal. (e.g. pedestrian path, signage, shelter, etc.) as (6) Equity and inclusiveness – this principle well as buildings, must be visually in harmony requires that all groups, but particularly with the surrounding natural environment the most vulnerable, have opportunities (Schneider, 1981). Forests with high to improve or maintain their well-being. panoramic values should have buildings with (7) Rule of law – this principle requires fair good style that is in harmony and did not legal frameworks that are enforced contradict the existing environment (Doczi, impartially. 1994). Design of buildings and other structures (8) Consensus oriented – good governance should depend on climate, temperature, light and requires mediation of the different color (Stouter, 2008). These factors must be interests in society to reach consensus. seriously considered during the design process. Ceballos-Lascurain (1996) and Walter (1987) Clearly, good governance of recreational suggested that the most important consideration forest needs transparency, accountability, is that the structure and building designs in regulatory reform, skills, cooperation, leadership recreational forest must highlight aspects of the and public participation in their implementation surroundings. process. The author believes that good governance actually is very important in creating 2. AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE a responsible and conducive recreational forest STUDY environment. This is especially in their implementation and management. The aim of this study was to understand and generate more comprehensive knowledge on the The fifth factor is related to landscape recreational forest landscape management aesthetic values. Aesthetic value has influence towards forest sustainability. The objectives of people to react towards recreational forest this study are to evaluate the recreational forest landscapes based on their experiences in management in Selangor, Malaysia that affect proximity of the landscape (Gobster et al., 2007). landscape sustainability and to gain an overview This is because people try to value or perceive of recreational forest landscape development in recreational forest landscape through aesthetical Peninsular Malaysia. values such as to what they observe and to how the landscape is being managed. Selman (2008) 3. METHODOLOGY claim that landscapes have varying degrees of legibility that betray underlying narratives and This study applied three methods. The first is the the extent to which we appreciate or denigrate a document analysis of relevant literature where landscape is closely related to the way people are the author analyzed the topic of sustainable taught to “read” it. Apart from that, landscape landscape concept to understand the topic and to aesthetic also has a close relationship with find out what has been done by other researchers ecology that gives impact to planning, design on recreational forest landscape sustainability. and management of natural sites (Gobster et al., Peer-reviewed literature and best practice 2007). An exploration on how people appreciate guidelines were also included in the study. Even recreational forest landscape could be explored though the best practice in sustainable landscape to understand how people aesthetically value does not appear in peer-reviewed journals, they landscapes (Gobster, 2008). are based on experiences and practical knowledge of the experts in forest park The sixth recreational forest landscape management that is being considered important. sustainability factor is the design aspect. The design of sustainable recreational forests must be Secondly, the study involved a case study in harmony with natural forest landscapes. It where three recreational forest sites in Selangor should take into account their own unique State, Malaysia were selected. These were features that highlight the forest identity and act Sungai Tekala Recreational Forest, Sungai as a tourism product besides being sites of Chongkak Recreational Forest and Templer recreational activities (Jacobs, 1993). The design Recreational Forest. Case studies were used in also must have good combinations between the this study because this method is applicable to natural environment and architectural aspects real-life, contemporary, human situations. Case such as application of vernacular architecture study results also relate directly to the common

3 Journal of Design and Built Environment Vol. 14 (2), December 2014 Mohd Kher, H. reader’s everyday experiences and make easy to daily life and sustainable use of natural forest understanding the complex real-life situations resources in Malaysia. (Soy, 1997). In general, the three study sites have very Thirdly, field observations were carried out similar characteristics in terms of accessibility, to collect data about existing physical condition layout, and man-made elements, particularly the of the study sites. Field observations were buildings. However, each study site has their carried out in detail, free from bias, and care was own uniqueness and there are being determined taken to ensure the information gathered were by their topography, either hilly or otherwise, original and reliable (Lee, 1976; Mohd Kher, waterfall and history. Two of the study sites are 2012). Photographs were taken during field generally well-preserved in terms of forest observations as evidences of visual assessment originality. Templer Recreational Forest, regarding current status of landscape however, is under threat due to rapid management works on the study sites. development in the surrounding areas such as housing development, road constructions and Recreational forests in Selangor were golf course. selected for this study because Selangor is the fastest developed states in Malaysia and forest Table 1: Recreational Forest in State of Selangor, recreations have a high demand from the public. Malaysia The rate of urbanization in this State is expected to increase significantly mainly due to migration Recreational Forest Manage of people from surrounding states, as well as the By influx of foreign workforce. This has resulted in Gunung Nuang, Hulu Langat SFD conflicts between urbanization and forest Sungai Tekala, Hulu Langat SFD reserve. Moreover, Selangor has the highest Sungai Tua, Ulu Yam SFD population in the Valley that has put Sungai Chongkak , Hulu TSSB pressure to their forest as well as recreational Langat forest for land use (e.g. housing development Sungai Sendat, Rawang SFD and industrialization). This presents a challenge Kanching, Rawang TSSB for recreational forest landscape development Templer , Rawang MPS and management strategy in ensuring their forest Ampang SFD are not affected by those development and being Komanwel SFD managed in a sustainable way. Selected study Hulu Perdil SFD sites are also easily accessible by the public and (Source: Forestry Department Peninsular this posed challenges to the forest authority Malaysia 2007) name the Selangor Forest Department seeking to improve the landscape including existing 4.1 SUNGAI TEKALA RECREATIONAL facilities. FOREST

4. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION Sungai Tekala Recreational Forest is located in

Hulu Langat district (coordinates 03o 03'62 "N Currently, there are ten (10) recreational forest 101o 52'13" E). This park is part of the Sungai sites in Selangor managed by different Lalang Forest Reserve consisting of lowland stakeholders: Selangor Forestry Department Dipterocarp Forest type. The Selangor Forestry (SFD), Municipal Council (MPS) and Department (SFD) developed this park in 1982 Tourism Selangor Sendirian Berhad (TSSB) and it was opened to the public in the same year. (Table 1). Different stakeholders involvement This recreational area is approximately 2,062 have resulted to more development focused been hectares. SFD still managed this area until today. given on getting revenue and profits for This park is intended to be developed as a managing the site. SFD and MPS are the recreational area and for environmental stakeholders that have motivated towards educational purposes. The park charges an conservation, while TSSB seemingly geared to entrance fee of MYR1 (USD 30 cents) for adults profit stakeholder. Indirectly, this phenomenon is and MYR0.50 (USD 15 cents) for children 12 not in line with the main goal for recreational years and below. forest establishment to increase awareness among the public towards forest functions in

4 Journal of Design and Built Environment Vol. 14 (2), December 2014 Mohd Kher, H. From an ecological aspect, its sustainability environment and lacks the forest identity. Most is being threatened because the landscape of their designs seem to be similar to those of development of this site was implemented urban parks (Figure 1). If this continues, it can without a proper landscape master plan. The result in failure to achieve its sustainable development was carried out on an ad hoc and in development goal. In terms of architectural situ basis depending on visitors suggestions of designs, it portrays local traditional Malay what facilities were required by them. Others architecture (Figure 2). This is evidenced in the were provided by the Department regardless of typical roof design and materials used (wood and whether they were actually needed or not, or clay bricks). The color schemes chosen are those whether they were suitable for the locations and of green and chocolate inducing “cool” and have adverse impacts on the surrounding forests. “peaceful” response in visitors (Brenda & Failure of the management to control the number Robert, 1996). Those colors are suitable for at one point in time has caused overuse of the forest environment and can influence user forest park and led to soil compaction impacting comfort (Arwed 1992). Enhancing local existing vegetation. Urgent solutions need to be indigenous design, materials and natural colors is carried out by the management to ensure future a good step taken to indicate local environmental park ecological sustainability. influences (Ceballos-Lascurain 1996; Walter 1987). It was also observed that facilities were not designed in harmony with the surrounding

Figure 1: Some of the forest recreation designs similar to urban park designs in Sungai Tekala Recreational Forest.

Figure 2: Enhancing Malay architecture to show local culture and in line with ecotourism concept.

Figure 3: Poor maintenance causing damaged and unusable structures and equipment in Sungai Tekala Recreational Forest.

5 Journal of Design and Built Environment Vol. 14 (2), December 2014 Mohd Kher, H. The management paid special attention to facilities. It is recommended that the site cleanliness such as regular rubbish management appoint a qualified landscape collection, sweeping dry/fallen leafs along person including landscape technicians pathways, toilets cleaning and waste disposal. competent in built environment design and However, maintenance work for human made management. At the same time, the management landscape elements such as shelters, benches, needs to establish a unit specifically overseeing rubbish bins, bridges, signage and pergola, were recreational forest development. The unit should not promptly carried out whenever required. consists of forester, landscape architect, This attitude has resulted in some structures and engineer, ecologist and architect. equipment seriously damaged, unusable and affecting the park aesthetic values (Figure 3). From the economic aspect, the park Therefore, it is necessary for the management to management allowed the participation of local prepare and set up proper maintenance plan and community where they are allowed to run a schedules to fulfil sustainable concept enhancing small businesses catering to visitors outside the the aesthetic value to users. This is very park boundary. This has helped locals to important to ensure their quality experiences improve their economy by selling fruits, drinks, were not degraded and they have positive handcrafts, and other agriculture produce (e.g. reactions towards the site when using the park. durians’, petai, mangostane, bananas and mangoes). Nevertheless, locals are not much There is very little local participation in the involved in recreation/tourism related management of Sungai Tekala Recreational employment (e.g. as park ranger/park controller). Forest management. Local people were not Thus, the management needs to increase involved in the management process such as in opportunities where local youths can be trained discussing the future direction of park to work various jobs in the park. development. They were also not consulted to determine recreation activities and choice of 4.2 SUNGAI CHONGKAK facilities and equipments. Therefore, the RECREATIONAL FOREST management should be more proactive in finding ways to increase community involvement in park Sungai Chongkak Recreational Forest is located planning development and activities. This could in (coordinates 03° 12'41" be done through “homestay”, “agro tourism” and N, 101° 50'27" E). This area covers cultural activities. It is recommended that local approximately 2,865 hectares of lowland community representatives be appointed to allow Dipterocarp Forest types and is part of the them to be involved in the development process Sungai Lalang Forest Reserve. The Selangor through Recreational Forest Development State Forestry Department developed this park in Committee. These involvements would increase 1992. Beginning in January 2005, SFD handed their ability to give ideas, opinions, better over the management of this site to the Tourism cooperation and commitment in conserving Selangor Sdn. Bhd. (TSSB). This was done due recreational forest in their area. This can lead to to shortage of manpower, increase in costs of the achievement of landscape sustainability of maintenance and insufficient budget. Since recreational forest objectives. TSSB took over the park, ecotourism concept with sub-concept of ‘resort’ had been In terms of governance, Sungai Tekala implemented in 2005. TSSB applied ecotourism Recreational Forest has relatively good concept with “resort” as sub-concept to governance by the Selangor State Forestry encourage families or other groups to participate Department (SFD). SFD has sufficient foresters in their recreational activities. TSSB also aimed who are excellent in forest management. to attract foreign tourists by offering However, the department lacks expertise in site conveniences and providing international selection, planning, management as well as standard accommodation facilities. Thus, the technical expertise in preparing and park has now been turned to tourist destination implementing a systematic working plan of and charged entrance fees of MYR1 for adults landscape design, construction and management but free for children aged 12 and below. (Chee, 1986, Mohd Kher, 2012). This lack of expertise has resulted in deficiency of eco-design From an ecological perspective, the Sungai approach for human made landscape elements Chongkak Recreational Forest faces threat due to such as bridges, shelters, toilets and other lack of a comprehensive plan being developed by

6 Journal of Design and Built Environment Vol. 14 (2), December 2014 Mohd Kher, H. the management. Currently, TSSB only applied materials like wood and clay bricks. These are the development ad hoc approach where the more in harmony with nature and did not pollute development was based on users’ requests. This the natural environment (Zucker et al., 1983). approach is unsuitable and has resulted in The color applied to the accommodation environment degradation such as soil erosion, buildings portrays peacefulness and harmony flora and fauna destruction, and visual quality (Brenda & Robert, 1996) with surrounding reduction (Figure 4). environment which is green and chocolate. It does also create unity towards the environment However, Mustaqim-Alias & Ahmad (2013) as well as influence users convenience (Arwed, claimed that Sungai Chongkak is clean and 1992). suitable as a recreational stream. Nevertheless, it is very important to consider soil susceptibility To maintain the aesthetic values of the park, to erosion and protection of soil and water cleanliness, grass cutting, rubbish collection, resources in forest-based recreation (Maleknia et sweeping fallen leafs, toilets cleaning, bench al., 2013). In the meantime, a landscape master wipes and keeping the chalets tidy are normal plan should be prepared. It should be sensitive tasks that have been carried out. These efforts to the environment, manage the recreational reduce visual interference to the visitors such as forest to satisfy user needs, highlight from rubbish mass, dirty walkways, roads opportunities presently exist on site and the damages, and fallen trees. Furthermore, TSSB necessary actions necessary to bring about the has also done repairing and reconstruction works level of recreation sought by the public. for accommodation in ensuring users safety and convenience as well as increasing their In terms of design, it was found that Sungai experiences. Those activities have maintained Chongkak applied medium designs (buildings and enhance the aesthetic value of the park. are not too huge and high) and portrays Malay However, from field observation, there are some architecture (Figure 5). Malay architecture seems elements that need to be repaired. For instance, to be more sensitive to local context and floor replacement for wooden bridge, repainting environment, and can be applied to fulfil and repairing works for wooden table and ecotourism concept. Construction materials cleaning the fallen leafs on the roof and wild selected for the park are largely of natural grasses on pedestrian walkways (Figure 6).

Figure 4: An ad hoc development approach of Sungai Chongkak Recreational Forest leading to environment degradation.

Figure 5: Malay architecture applied in structure design in Sungai Chongkak Recreational Forest.

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Figure 6: Some elements in Sungai Chongkak needs repairing and reconstruction works and wild grass on pedestrian walkway need to be clean off.

From economic aspect, the author noticed that themselves have built over the rules imposed that the indirect benefits of the park are shared on them by force (Wilshusen et al., 2003). with the local community as what Sungai Tekala In term of governance, TSSB can be management had done. The management considered as weak in landscape planning, allowed local people to run a small business in design, construction and maintenance. This is and surrounding the park. This has helped the because TSSB does not have any professionals local people to increase their socio-economy in those fields, but they have professionals in through fruits, drinks, recreational essentials and tourism activity and marketing. Nevertheless, other agriculture products (e.g. papaya, petai, TSSB has formed a collaboration activity with tapioca, bananas and pineapple) selling. Municipal Council (MPKJ), SFD and However, that activity only benefits small Indah Water Consortium in construction works. number of local residents. More effort need to However, the collaboration exists only when it is be carried on to increase the economic benefit of necessary (when a new accommodation/facility the local people such as the management should wanted to be build) and not from the beginning work with local tourism bodies to configure of the development process. These situations recreation facilities to bring most added values to happen because TSSB develop human made the local economy and work with local landscape elements according to the necessity community groups who wish to develop and user’s need. Therefore, to make sure the facilities, or offer franchises or agreements for collaboration exist in a whole development on-site infrastructures development. process, it is suggested that TSSB form special work group that includes several experts namely In term of local participation, author noticed landscape architect, engineer, architect, forester that TSSB has taken a good step in involving the and product manager for their recreational locals into Sungai Chongkak Recreational Forest forests sites under supervision. landscape management system. There are seven local people that have being appointed as general 4.3 TEMPLER RECREATIONAL FOREST workers. At the same time, several lots of business space have been established in the park Templer Recreational Forest is located at to give opportunities for them to run business (as coordinate 030 17'60" N 1010 39'25" E. Their food and souvenirs sellers). This has contributed vegetations is a type of Lowland Dipterocarp to positive economic growth of local peoples Forest. This recreation area is about 853 directly or indirectly. However, local hectares. The area is bounded by the Ulu community involvement should be increased by Gombak Forest Reserve in the east, appointed representatives among them in Forest Reserve in the north and Kanching Forest management and invited them to attend meetings Reserve in the west (Gangadharan, 2005). In related to Sungai Chongkak Recreational Forest October 1955, the government has allowed landscape development in the future. TSSB can Friends of Templer Park Society to manage the also make a memorandum of understanding park and they have been given MYR10,000.00 (MoU) with local people for homestay and every year (Nadchatram, 1971). The society agrotourism projects surrounding the Sungai managed the park until January 2002. Starting Chongkak Recreational Forest. In fact, local February 2002, MPS takes over the management people who involved in managing natural until today (Gangadharan, 2005). MPS has a resources will be more compliant with the rules plan to develop the Templer Recreational Forest as a tourism site based on ecotourism concept

8 Journal of Design and Built Environment Vol. 14 (2), December 2014 Mohd Kher, H. and recreational activity. Currently, MPS has less in harmony with the surrounding appointed consultant to prepare overall Templer environment. This is especially true with an Park Landscape Master Plan. This step has been element that has been built by the earlier taken since earlier management did not provide management. Those elements have been built on any development plan including landscape an ad hoc and in situ basis, without any master plan for the area. The park is free to the suitability and environmental effects study public. (Figure 7). It is recommended that the management replace unsuitable materials used Nowadays, the ecological integrity of earlier to a more harmony materials such as Templer Recreational Forest is being threatened natural stones. Meanwhile, new landscape due to development pressure. Author noticed that elements that has been built by MPS are looking there are construction works in the vicinity of the more eco-friendly and harmony with park such as housing development (bungalow surrounding environment such as wakaf and and high-end terrace house), road project and public toilet (Figure 8). The architecture itself golf courses. These have resulted in portrays Malay architecture that enhances local deforestation, losing the rare and endemic forest design with calm and peaceful colors (earth tree species such as Hopea subalata and impact colors). Materials used for construction which the streams quality in the park due to erosion. are more resistant to the climate change were Therefore, a close and thorough monitoring need made from concrete and clay bricks. The used of to be done by the management to make sure the wood as construction materials were reduced by ecological stability of the park are not affected the MPS due to high maintanence. Furthermore, seriously in the future. footing system has been used for flood protection and erosion especially near the river During the field observation, it was found bank and steepest area for certain elements. that the designs of some landscape elements are

Figure 7: Materials that have been used by earlier management before MPS take over such as marbles and zinc are less harmony with surrounding environment and causes visual interference and it did not fulfil the ecotourism concept.

Figure 8: New landscape elements that have been built by MPS are looking more eco-friendly and harmony with surrounding environment such as wakaf and public toilet.

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Figure 9: Some landscape elements in Templer Recreational Forest are unsafe to users and in bad conditions due to landscape maintenance system weaknesses, no inspection and lack of budget.

Figure 10: Lacking supports from public to Templer Recreational Forest development could cause site “abandonment”.

In ensuring the park aesthetic is in good activities in this recreational forest and attracting condition, cleanliness activity has been carried more tourists to visit the park. In the meantime, out every day while repairing and reconstruction MPS did not impose any charge to the user, thus works of structural elements such as toilet, they are free to use, enjoy and do recreation surau, shelter and others were carried out when activities that they like in the park. These necessary. However, it was found that some of indirectly will reduce their burden to find a space the landscape elements in the park are in bad for outdoor activities for practicing healthy conditions, unsafe to users and affecting the lifestyle. beauty of the park (Figure 9). This situation happens because there are some weaknesses in On the aspect of local participation, it was maintenance system and no inspection tasks have found that the involvement was very low. MPS been taken to inspect the landscape elements involves them only as food and beverage sellers condition regularly as well as budget constraint. at business space provided in the park, similar to Aesthetic of the park was also being threatened Sungai Chongkak and Sungai Tekala by unsuitable developments like electric power Recreational Forest. Even though MPS claimed line across the park. Unsuitable materials used that voices from the public (especially for those such as marbles for park facilities also who had business in the park before) has been contributed to the aesthetic value degradation. accounted, it did not represents the whole local community voices. Previously, local Economically, Templer Recreational Forest communities via Friends of Templer Park benefited the local residents. MPS has built Society was given a chance in managing the specific building for them inside the park to do area, but this permission was taken away business like selling foods, drinks and snacks. recently. This situation has resulted in the local The author believed that in the future, local community perceiving that their involvement is people will receive more economic benefits due no longer needed. At the end, their supports to to MPS planning to develop the park as one of Templer Recreational Forest development were their tourism attraction. This effort indirectly lower and could cause site “abandonment”. This will attract more investors for ecotourism situation can be seen through the close proximity

10 Journal of Design and Built Environment Vol. 14 (2), December 2014 Mohd Kher, H. to housing and village area, beside the main in benefitting the internal expects that MPS have. roads, but the number of daily and weekend Thus, it is suggested that MPS form experts’ visits from local people were very low. These team among their internal experts to gain situations portray that local community ignore concrete ideas and full commitment for the the Templer Recreational Forest existence. If this recreational forest. Through these expert groups, phenomenon continues, it will give some planning and development of recreational forest difficulties to MPS to fulfil sustainable will be more efficient and effective as well as development concept because of lower public reducing consultancy costs. involvement. 4.4 ANALYSIS TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE Looking at the governance aspect, MPS has LANDSCAPE DEVELOPMENT a good management structure. MPS has enough experts like landscape architects, architects, Table 2 shows the results of analysis towards engineers, planners, technical staffs and sustainable landscape development of the study administrators for managing the park. But, MPS sites. Analyses were focusing on landscape has failed to fully use their staffs in giving full ecology, economy, local participation, commitment and focus for Templer Recreational governance, aesthetic and landscape designs Forest development. This can be seen where aspects which eventually need to be fulfilled by there is no special groups formed among their respective management for achieving sustainable experts in discussing the park development. landscape development of recreational forest. Thus, there is a room for improvement especially

Table 2: Analysis towards sustainable landscape development of the study sites

Sustainable Study Sites Aspects Sungai Tekala Templer Sungai Chongkak Landscape  Maintained natural forest  Prepared overall  Preserved natural forest Ecology from serious /major landscape master plan conditions from major damages  Maintained existing damages  Established nursery plots natural topography  Has bigger and linear flat for educational purposes  Used eco-friendly area for activities  Established demonstration method in controlling  Has clean river that is plots for forest river bank erosion suitable for water management educational  Has waterfalls that is activities purposes in good condition that  Forest vegetations in  Has clean river and small portrays natural virgin condition waterfall that are suitable environment  Maintained existing for water activities  Forest vegetations in natural topography  Maintained existing virgin condition  Rich with faunas natural topography  Rich with faunas  Rich with faunas

Economy  Provided business spaces  Provided business  Provided business spaces for small business spaces for small for small business activities such as food and business activities activities such as food beverage such as food and and beverage  Privatized rubbish beverage  Appointed local peoples collection and cleanliness  Privatized as cleanliness staff activity construction and  Privatized construction  Developed the park as reconstruction works and reconstruction works recreational area  Developed the park  Developed the park as as recreational and recreational and ecotourism area ecotourism area

11 Journal of Design and Built Environment Vol. 14 (2), December 2014 Mohd Kher, H. Local  Local participation  Gets early opinions  Allow existing aborigine Participation through business activities from existing retailers peoples in the park to before new business continue collect forest space will be build products  Local participation  Local participation through business through business activities activities

Governance  Park was managed by  Park was managed by  Park was managed by Recreational Forest and Park and Recreation TSSB Product State Park Unit, lead by Unit, lead by Management Unit Forest Officer Landscape Architect  Staffs expert in tourism  Staffs expert in forest  Staff expert in marketing management environmental design  Has initiative to have  Has initiative to have and landscape collaboration with other collaboration with other management experts group via experts group via  Organization has consultancy consultancy experts group such as landscape architect, architect, planner and engineer that are suitable for recreational forest development  Has initiative to have collaboration with other experts group via consultancy Aesthetic  Maintained forest  Preserved interesting  Preserved natural forest virginity for good undulating from major destruction panoramic topography including  Has shallow and linear  Keep natural landscape in seven natural river with a clean water good condition such as waterfalls and natural rocks waterfall and river  Preserved natural  River stones are nicely  Has undulating stone hills for active arrange naturally topography recreational activity without human  Has own historical disturbance value due to it was opened by British colonial Designs  Human made landscape  Human made  Human made landscape elements quite harmony landscape elements elements quite harmony with existing environment quite harmony with with existing  Enhanced Malay existing environment environment architecture which is the  Enhanced Malay  Enhanced Malay local design architecture which is architecture which is  Color scheme is harmony local design local design with existing  Color scheme is  Color scheme is environment harmony with harmony with existing  Use local materials such existing environment environment as clay bricks and timber  Use local materials  Use local materials such such as clay bricks as clay bricks and and timber timber

12 Journal of Design and Built Environment Vol. 14 (2), December 2014 Mohd Kher, H. Table 2 has shown that SFD compliance is forest environment, culture, landscape more on the aspect of ecological planning where appreciation, flora and fauna. Ecotourism is they managed natural forest in the park more expected to bring a minimal impact on the effectively which stressed on informal education environment as it stresses on environmental for visitors that can increase awareness among conservation and the preservation of the local the public. Furthermore, SFD is an experience community and culture. Ecotourism would also stakeholder in managing forest resources. On bring economic benefits to local communities. the other hand, MPS complied more on the aspect of good governance practice since it However, this study also shows that encompass enough experts’ group in recreational forest development in Selangor still implementing/practicing sustainable designs and did not implemented sustainable landscape has collaboration with other outsource experts development and thus need an improvement. via consultancy. For TSSB, their compliance is This lack of implementation was due to a more on increasing local peoples’ economy. number of reasons including no proper planning, Many local people are being appointed as parts low understanding of sustainable concept, lack of of management staff and business opportunity staffs and insufficient supervision. If there are had been given to them. no constructive actions taken to remedy the situation, then the goal of sustainable The above analysis also shown that all development cannot be achieved. Therefore, parties of respective recreational sites study need several immediate actions need to be carried out. to improve their planning development, increase These include encouraging staff to attend related expert collaboration, involve more local people courses and seminars about sustainable in management process, improve landscape landscape development, increase the staff maintenance system and programme, improve numbers especially in landscape and built landscape designs and control the number of environment field and focus on landscape visitor. Most important thing is that the designs. management needs to understand that the design concept of recreational forest should show the This study found that all study areas did not uniqueness of forest, which differentiates urban have landscape development master plan. Most and natural design area. The design must put of the development that has been implemented is higher concerns with the natural environment on an ad hoc basis and according to users’ through the understanding and adoption of the demand. This has resulted in difficulty to create "sense of place" and "genius loci" of the site recreational forest identity and fulfill sustainable (Mohd Kher & Noorizan, 2006; Stephankova, et. landscape development requirements. Human al., 2012). All responsible parties should also made landscape elements were also designed seriously take into account the social, economic much like those in urban areas. A comprehensive and environmental aspects of ecotourism activity master plan for each recreational forest area is that are being adopted on their site. This will necessary. The plan should focus on creating ensure a quality and sustainable recreational identity and more accurate decision-making to forest landscape. monitor the development process. This is very important to achieve landscape sustainability for recreational forests. 5. CONCLUSION Recreational forest landscape development The sustainable development approach must be planned before implementation to make implemented for the studies of recreational sure natural landscape resources (e.g. forest, forests in Selangor is good as it takes into river, hill, waterfall, stones, etc.) continuously be account the environment, social and economy. It protected and preserved. It is also to make sure also stressed on unity and balance between that human made landscape elements can be in socio-economic development and environment harmony with existing environment. Thus, needs to fulfill current requirements without infrastructure must conform to environment- affecting future needs. At the same time, friendly, low-impact architecture; renewable introducing recreational forest as ecotourism including solar energy, waste recycling, destinations is in line with sustainable rainwater harvesting, natural cross-ventilation, development approach where it can educate no use of asbestos, controlled sewage disposal, publics in understanding and learning about and merging with the surrounding landscape.

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