Quarterly DOE Update on Environment, Development & Sustainability

Issue 1 / 2007 h ttp :// y www.doe.gov.m Natural Heritage of Malaysia BEAUTIFUL MALAYSIA Majestic Mount Kinabalu Beautiful Malaysia, with its long coastline and numerous island archipelagoes, tropical rain forests, geological formations and cave systems, unique valley geomorphology, rivers, and mountain ranges, has diverse ecosystems that support and sustain a rich flora and fauna population. In fact Malaysia is cited as one of the 12 mega biodiverse systems in the world. In the pages that follow, the reader will be taken through an exhilarating tour of our rich natural heritage. But on this page we shall focus our attention on the majestic Mt. Kinabalu, an iconic landmark and a national pride.

The first recorded effort to reach the summit was made Contents page by Hugh Low in 1851. As recent as in 1970, only 1,962 individuals had scaled the summit. The subsequent Beautiful Malaysia improvements to the trail in the 1980s saw a surge in Majestic Mt Kinabalu 1 the number of climbers. By 1994, annually some 30,000 From the desk of the climbers were scaling the summit. This total is considered Director General 2 an appropriate carrying capacity for the mountain, beyond which the ecosystems are likely to be adversely affected. Bukit Larut Rich in Biodiversity 3

National Parks of Malaysia 4

Limestone Caves of Malaysia 6 Located in Kinabalu National Park in the state of Sabah at an awesome height of 4,095 metres, Mt. Kinabalu is linked to the Refreshing Waterfalls 7 many legends of the Dusun community who live in its foothills. Our Rivers It is the highest mountain in the country and the third highest An Upstream View 8 in South-east Asia, after Hkakabo of Myanmar and Puncak Jaya of Irian Jaya Indonesia. Mt. Kinabalu is regarded as one of the Gardens: Conserving Plant most beautiful mountains in the world. Genetic Resources 9 Following a proposal from Professor EIH Corner of the Royal Society of London to establish a national park to protect the The Mangrove Forest The mountain displays many moods - bright and cheery biodiversity of the ecosystems around the mountain, the A Unique Ecotourism Setting 10 when the sun is in the sky, dark and fearsome on a torrential Kinabalu National Park was established in 1964. UNESCO day, and on other days strong and majestic, proud and Fireflies: Nature’s Light Show 11 designated it as a World Heritage Site in December 2000. steadfast, or threatening and scary. Bird Watching Today collaborative efforts between the Government, Learning from Our universities and research bodies are on-going for the The temperature difference from its foothill to the summit Feathered Friends 12 preservation of this mountain habitat for future generations. is dramatic - warm below and cool to freezing as you reach Marine Treasures the peak. Arising from the climatic difference, the different References Our Natural Heritage 13 ecosystems contain a wealth of floral species. The mountain K.M. Wong, KM & A Phillips. 1996. Kinabalu Summit of Borneo. and its surrounding areas harbour some 6,000 plant species Kota Kinabalu, Sabah: The Sabah Society. Activity Highlights 16 including the famous rafflesia. Equally rich are the faunal species Hashim Abdul Wahab. 2001. Adventure Journey in Sabah. Kuala where the inventory lists some 100 species of mammals, 290 Lumpur: Alafhakam Sdn Bhd. butterflies, 322 moths, 21 bats, 61 frogs and toads, 326 birds A publication of the and 40 freshwater fishes. The floral and faunal species numbers Department of Environment, make it the most important biological site in the world! Source Malaysia - FREE copy. Datuk Hashim bin Abdul Wahab Email: [email protected] IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 2 Today many rivers in the forests are designated as recreational sites - sites recreational as designated are forests the in rivers many Today personified.beauty are forests the in rivers Our home. coastline our call world the in extant turtles marine of species seven of out Four region. the to endermic are parks these truly astounding. in found is species orchid the of that Several fauna and flora of diversity a with old years million 130 be to believed are park the in rainforests The Parks. National the take Then Layang-Layang. and Sipidan are them among gems The photographers. underwater and naturalists snorkellers, drivers, scuba by after sought much are which islands enchanting 200 over - Parks Marine The treasures of the Malaysian waters are the islands protected within the what Nature,Malaysiahas! And mind. of bent scientific the lack we if even it of defenders best the romantic view of Nature. That is, ‘enjoying’ Nature will surely make us all the invoke to attempt distinct this made have IMPAK,we of issue this In off asaglobalmassmovement. take really Nature with coexisting of endeavour great this can then Only the romantic yearnings of humankind wake up to the facts and the truths. papers are laudable. But it will remain distant and remote until and unless research and facts data, of mass a by supported and scientists by forth put as Nature, regards with truth’ ‘inconvenient The beauty. sublime its appreciate and Nature with time of bit little that spend us of more when human existence itself, on Earth. Perhaps our greatest success will come it, with inter-linked and Nature sustain both to it!) of left is what of (or Nature of preservation the : millennium new this in us before unfolding scientific establishment reach out to masses in this greatest of endeavours of views romantic and Nature must surely share a unity of scientific purpose. How else can the the concerned both peril, in Nature with Today Creator andthebenigncreativityinherentwithinoursoul. the of reminders all of greatest the is Nature For us. within and us way. Nature made him reach out to the sublime beauty that is all round thoughts and feelings and made him wholesome in a profoundly human innermost his nourished it this, forget often we and important, as just and the flowers from the meadows. Nature provided him his needs but hill-slope the from trees forests, the in deer the streams, the in fish gawked at it. Yes, of course, he took from Nature what he needed - the literally amazement and awe with man, common The praise. its sang musicians and songwriters poets, the Nature, imitated artists and bounty, the Art beauty. its subtle and all miraculous its in felt and understood Romanticists Nature described and classified collected, systematically establishment romanticists the scientific the before likelihood Long all first. In came adherents. their have which of both - scientific the and romantic the - views incompatible, not but different, two of seeds the contain Nature of descriptions human All Romancing From the desk of the Director General

Nature with Mangrove forests are a unique habitat. They are inter-tidal, supporting inter-tidal, are They habitat. unique a are forests Mangrove preferred locations. are Hills) (Maxwell Larut Bukit and Hill Frasers Mangroves, Matang Wetlands, Indah Paya Rachado), (Cape Tuan Tanjung brains! bird have to deem arrogantly so we creatures, these in ‘intelligence’ and ‘humanity’ the reveal will birds watching and life of web the of concept the to connected get eventually will we watching, bird Through friends. ishometoover600speciesofourfeathered bird watching.Thecountry recommends He edition. this to writer contributing a says Nature”, of gifts the enjoy and relax to learn should age, what matter no “Everyone, andMt.PantiForestReserve. Park, MandiAnginForestReserve State Kelian Wang Reserve, Forest Stong Mt. Reserve, Forest Muda Ulu Kenong Forest Park, Endau-Rompin State Park, Mt. Jerai Forest Reserve, Nature. ItwillmakethisEarthabetterplace. with romance still, Better romantic. a be then.... on go So biodiversity. mega in 12th ranked are we wonder No orchids. and gardens botanical And thereismoreyet-ourcaves,fireflies,turtles,mountains,waterfalls, high and wave action. wind to due loss soil from condition soil and shorelines the stabilising and effluents other and water for filter giant a as functioning includes which among system, environmental the play in role Mangroves important an boundaries. its beyond provides recognised also habitat amenities This many habitat. of type this in common quite are crocodiles as such reptiles and Amphibians insects. and crustaceans is also credited with maintaining an aquatic ecosystem for all sorts of fish, mangrove The here. spotted easily be can kingfishers and species birds cats, bats, dolphins and wild pigs. White bellied sea eagles, several water silver-leafmacaques, stump-tailed and civets, leopards, otters, monkeys, long including primates are forest the in live that mammals of examples reptiles, amphibians, and water birds, both resident and migratory. Some it. of mammals, hectares as such wildlife for habitats being 436,000 - roles multiple serve They some has Malaysia And estuaries. tidal lagoons and shores, muddy of composed are and vegetation tolerant salt Department ofEnvironment, Malaysia Director General Dato’ HajahRosnaniIbarahim

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 3 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 2 in few other places in the country. country. the in places other few in seen fauna and flora of profusion a of growth the in resulted has rainfall copious and sea the to proximity close Its feet). (4,200 Hijau at Mt. is reserve the in point highest The South. in the Kangsar Mt. Kuala near Reserve Forest Bubu the to North the in stretches border Thai that the from Range Hijau Bintang Mt. the of part Taiping is near 100°47’E), 4°54’N, located (approximately is which Larut, Bukit Bukit Larut(Maxwell Hill) Pahang. TahanRange, the in located is Mt. which metres) the (2,187 Tahan is Malaysia Peninsular in mountain is highest the while metres, range 2,183 at Korbu, the Mt. in peak highest The Sembilan. Negeri of state the in Tampin southwards Mt. at tip its extends to it as the in narrowing border north, Thai the from Peninsular runs of Malaysia, backbone the main is The which range metres. 2,000 over of elevations Titiwangsa reach the Range, Main the as of known also Range, mountains granite The metres) in the Crocker Range, Sabah. mountainMalaysiain theisMt.Trus Madi(2,597 4,095 metres above sea level. The second highest IrianJaya(New Guinea), soaringspectacular ato being the highest of distinctionpeak between the the Himalayas has Kinabalu and Mt. altitude. in metres 2,000 above are Malaysia inmountains ‘highlands’. 20 Over as level sea of metres 300 above land a ‘mountain’, while as to referred is levelseametresabove 900Malaysia,land allIn havenfor many unique plants and animal safespecies. a and refuge provides also mountains the of environment fragile The population. human the of tenth a about to home are and earth the surfaceland the of fifth Mountains of a upmake BUKIT LARUT Rich inBiodiversity 3 2 1 Flora andFauna ofBukitLarut panoramic view of Taiping and the coastline. themain visitor’s area. This is the best location for a analtitude of 1,036 metres above sea level, which is many hairpin bends before arriving at the 6th Mile, atminute journey passes through virgin rain forestsvisitors upandtothe hill station forsmall a fee. The 30- forbirdwatching. hourlyAn landrover service takes ecotourism site an and asis promoted fast now emerging is as importance.botanical Ita popular spot ecological and of area an classified as been has World Conservation Monitoring Centre, BukitLarut Under United the Nations Environment Programme the for UnionConservation of Nature. International the by Reserve’ Nature ‘Strict I category a as classified is Larut Bukit Reserve. Jungle Virgin Hills Larut the as gazettedwas reserve this withinhectares 2,747 ofareacore HillsForest1962,a Reserve, inand Larut the as 1910 in gazetted were Larut Bukit of hectares7,150 metres. 976 aboveelevations at forests oak montane and dipterocarp upper The forests consist mainly of lowland dipterocarp, • • • Importance ofBukitLarut

• • • • • • • • • • •

n eooial rc mrn lf found life marine rich economically diverse and the sustain cannot mangrove freshwater, the of flow constant this Without help Ecosystem. Mangrove Larut Matang the Bukit sustain from flowing Streams amphibians found here are unique to this and area. insects animals, plants, of species the of Some forms. life diverse in rich area an is It was first supplied to Taiping in 1882. Larut Bukit from water 1885, to Reports 1880 supplying catchment waterwater Taiping.to According major thetoPerak Annual the is It Several otherspecies Serow Lawas Toundleaf HorseshoeBat Tapir Clouded Leopard Agile Gibbon Mammals Other montanespecies Mountain peacockpheasant Cutia Peregrine Falcon 200 speciesofbirds 1,449 ofwhichareendemictothearea 1,980 floweringplants • • • • • • esri B Ie, .. 97 Mutis of Mountains 1997. J.D. Ives, & B Messerli, for Associations Research and Education References surrounding areas. theunique function BukitLarut performs forthe their impact on the environment, minimise biodiversity to and activities agriculture and logging ongoingthe outlinedfor be toprocedures need efficientMore reserve.forest the of fringes the along occurring activities development from Taiping. Soil erosion is a major problem resulting oftownship the for well asDistrict Selama and Matang Larut the for area catchment water a as function its is which of important most the ecologicalprocesses,importantmanysupports Bukit Larut is rich in biological diversity as well as

os gss eesd y nutis and industries automobiles. by green- released absorbs it gases as house sink carbon a is It Taiping’s to Bukit proximity Larut. close weather. its to due local is weather cool the moderates It especially in the mornings and evenings. Large numbers of locals walk or run up the hill, recreationlocals.healthandcentrefor a is It old tropicalforest. an through walking like is hill the Walkingup Perak. in watching bird for locations best the It is an ecotourism destination. This is one of telephone equipment areinstalledhere. and radio Television, peak. status, the present near equipment communication for caters It its sedimentation ofriversisavoided. maintaining By domestic waterpollution. severe threat from industrial, agricultural and under now is ecosystem the although here, o hpe 1 o Aed 2) Te Pantheon The Publishing Groups. 21). Agenda of 13 Contribution Chapter Priority(A to Global –A World the Its Surroundings,Perak,Malaysia. Biological Management Study of Bukit Larut and A 1997. Consumer). (ERA Malaysia Consumers [email protected] Email: [email protected] / Loga SunthriVeeraiah Source

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 3 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 4 Sanctuary and the Niah National Park, Sarawak. Rompin, Bako National Park, Sepilok Orang Utan Endau-Pahang),Park,(National TamanNegara the areMalaysia in parksnational famous the Among Malaysia. in parks date, national 12 are to there and parks establishednational Malaysian has government the Malaysia, of beauty natural the of preserving importance the Realising Malaysia –theRafflesia. in found be also can world the in flower largest The Sarawak. Asia, the Rejang River, is also in Sarawak. South-east in river longest The in Caves Niah the called caves limestone world’s biggest the of one the has it Island; Borneo the in Sabah of region, Mt. Kinabalu in the state the in mountains tallest the of one of boasts It beauty. natural with blessed land a is Malaysia throughout theyear. with fairly uniform temperatures climate equatorial an enjoy to country the allows equator the above just location Malaysia’s wonder. and patterns intricate foliage of world a drops, dew green soft and of paradise a are Parks National Malaysia’s NATIONAL PARKS of Malaysia 1938, and since then has emerged as the the as emerged has then since and 1938, in park conservation Taman a declared was park, Negara, national Malaysian oldest The Taman Negara (National Park) ay ln seis uh s aiu pitcher various as such species plant many encounter will one Negara, Taman In creation. makes one feel truly humble at the greatness of memorable a experience. is The beauty and grandeur of the park park the through Trekking Parks. National and Wildlife of the park must get from permits the Department to visitors all that is overlooked be to not point crucial A species. animal and of plants myriad different a producing years of millions for uninterrupted evolving and developing has been ecosystem This astounding. is Park the in fauna and million flora of 130 diversity The about old. years be to the believed in is rainforests world, oldest rainforest, the Its of one beauty. among natural of marvel is a Negara Taman largest Malaysia. the in park it national making kilometres hectares), square (434,300 4,343 of area an covers premier national park in the country. The Park Park The country. the in park national premier rivers cross the train and one has to trek across Several Asia. South-east in treks toughest the Mt. of one as point. hikers many by considered is Tahan departure the is trail as Merapoh recommended the climbers, average For climber. experienced an for days seven about takes trail This trail. classic the Tahan, Kuala at is other the and Merapoh at located is One points. departure two are there Tahan, Mt. up endangered species, will reproduce within the within reproduce will species, endangered Indochinese Tiger and the Sumatran Gaur, both the hope of the Government that the Malaysian an of is It amusing. extremely be antics can calf elephant The female. dominant the by chance upon a herd of Asian elephants headed may lucky,one is one if And (seladang). Gaur Malayan the and Rhinoceros Sumatran Tiger, Indochinese the are animals many the Among many to home country. this to indigenous are that mammals is park human The without interference. business own their going about animals watch to towers locations watch specific with some are There Negara. Animal watching is a popular activity in Taman realms ofahiddenkingdom. secret the through walking elf an like feel one make may canopy the under Walking trees. rainforest large the course of and lianas and never vines ferns, cultivation), will human under flower which of (some orchids plants, atclr onan s o ay ak T hike To task. easy no is this mountain conquering particular that evident is it name the the From high. metres 2,187 being in point highest mountain tallest its Tamanwith in Negara located is Peninsula, the Tahan, Mt. enchant ourfuturegenerations. to continue and Park the of environment safe

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 5 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 4 metres wide and 120 metres high. 40 impressivemost theat isRiver Jasin the on Among the waterfalls, the Buaya Sangkut waterfall inparticular, the numerous waterfalls in the area. sights, beautiful with blessed is Endau-Rompin of therareSumatranRhinoceros. Endau-Rompin is home to the largest population importantly Most tigers. and elephants tapirs, as such animals many offers Endau-Rompin that find will enthusiasts Fauna woodpecker. small the peculate is birds unique more the Among birds. of species different 250 about the for medicines offers Endau-Rompin watchers, bird For future. better and new yield will hoped that continuous research on these plants is it and area the in identified been have plants of species new Many life. plant of diversity offers a Endau-Rompin enthusiasts, plant For life. animal and plant unique observe and seek to place good a is it is Hence, forest. virgin Endau-Rompin still of Much River. River Jasin Selai River, and Endau the as such rivers several of watershed the 248 is and some years million back dating formations rock has also It forests. lowland extensive is of up and made hectares) (48,905 kilometres square 800 of area an covers It Endau-Rompin. the Malaysia, in park national largest second the lies border Pahang-Johor the to Southwards Endau-Rompin foot ofthemountaintomakefinalascent. the reaching finally before ridges, undulating or better known as the world’s smallest refocus such baby orang utan are encountered, they they encountered, are utan orang baby such When baby. may its abandoned ape has or died adult have an where activities logging rampent with areas from received are orphans most Well babies. utan orang orphaned many are there why wonder may One care. human on Thus dependant wild. overly become the orphans in these life successful needed a are lead that to skills and required learn the to master unable are young the babies, forest orphaned of case the mother. In its from skills learns baby utan orang an nature, In coax to them backtothewild. attempt an in utan orang particular orphaned in apes, utan orang rehabilitate to aims It Reserve. Forest Sepilok Kabili of edge the at land protected kilometre 43-square a on located is and 1964 in established was Centre This Centre. Rehabilitation Utan Orang Sepilok as Wind the known Beneath better Land Sabah, of state the In Centre Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation i te ol famous world the is , the but steadily integrating these orang utan into into utan orang these integrating steadily but slowly is Centre The die. eventually they until conditions unhygienic and abandoned sad in kept are are or Many manage. and feed to difficult becomes and grows utan orang the when ugly turns situation the but cute are truly utan pet orang baby exotic young, When the industry. is culprit common Another centre. rehabilitation the to over handed are www.sabah.edu.my/srm-12.wcdd/bm/galeri.html www.greenpeace.org www.loc.gov/vv/scitech/mysteries/images/ Photo sources parks. national the support and preserve to can more we all Malaysians doing world by beautiful this We making survival. to contribute their can for us on depend They fragile. extremely are but behold to beautiful certainly are habitat natural their in peacefully living and plants growing animals unique and various green creepers, The and world. plants the to marvel a truly are parks of beauty The Malaysia’s national natural Conclusion people). (forest utan orang wonder as to no referred fondly is are they It that human. so are antics and behaviour whose animals, these for love and affection much and patience of lot a involves It instinct. pure are possess creatures these that skills all Not forest. the in living of skills basic the taught be first must forest. utan orang the The in utan orang the placing just of matter simple a not is it as task easy an not is process rehabilitation The home apes. natural these for the surroundings, forest the Email: [email protected] Paul Devaraj Michael Source

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 5 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 6 ietn hls n eislr Malaysia.These Peninsular mountaincomplexes together in withlarge limestone hills limestone from sourced important rock an is whichmarble as such forms various into metamorphosed or changed and folded heated, compressed andwas of movementcontinental the plates. by During seathis process the the abovelimestone lifted were around the geological beginning period period, of buildingTriassic, mountain landmasses the During a single cave are necessarily of the same age. caves were formed at the same time or all parts of limestoneallnot thatnoted shouldprocess.be It mudand other sediments in a slow sedimentation lime,together floor with ocean the onother each animals were deposited and compressed on top of otherand corals calcerousskeletonsof thetime, this Duringperiod. Silurian the duringoccurring originally were “Karst”formed in the shallow as waters of a warm sea knownmainly also caves limestone.Limestoneandsandstone ice, lava, in mostly found are caves world, the Throughout Formation emerged as a significant tourist destination. hasCaves Batu celebrated1892.sincebeenhere reportedly has Thaipusam which of festival Hindu Tamil renowned the of centre the is Caves Batu significant interest.southernmost of limestone the hill fact in is Caves Batu or Batu BukitLumpur, Kuala In swiftlet’s nest. of harvesting the to due economicinterestsourceof a Gomantongis Cave limestonecomplexesdominate Sabah,thewhilein Niah and Mulu the Sarawak In Peninsula. the in Kelantan and Range Perlis-LangkawiValley, Setui andcaves inMalaysia arefound mainly intheKinta landscapes limestone significant and Spectacular LIMESTONE CAVES Kanthan Cave, Perak - effects of light through cave ceiling of Malaysia plooit (aes bt lo o wildlife to serve also They also lovers. nature and enthusiasts but (cavers) speleologists ecologists, archaeologists, geologists, not to interest,only human enormous of are Caves Value often tower above the alluvial plains. limestone landscapes with steep sided cliffs which magnificent to in period resulting limestone, prolonged the dissolve a needs acid weak This (CO dioxide carbon when forms and atmosphere the presentacidinweakdissolveswhich the easily in limestone (CaCO carbonate essentially calcium is erosion for basis chemical The substances. harder the behind leaving portions soluble more erosionwhichraincausedslowlybydissolved the karstorplains were subjected hugetheforceto of ucsfly nrdcn te rzla rbe tree rubber Brazilian the introducingsuccessfully exploitshisknownformoreRidleyH.N.inis who workand botanical surveys commenced led by Mr exploring Scientific complex. Caves Batu the of whole the enveloped which vegetation thick the wind” of the strong “caught smell of guano he wafting through when Police of Superintendent first a hunting trip led by Captain H.C. Syers, Selangor’s instancefor firstwas “discovered” July 1878 in in Caves Batu soils. deficient phosphate our to due fertiliser organic of source rich a as droppings) (bat guano the of importance the farmers realised vegetablewho migrant of arrival the since Malaysiancaves have been explored andexploited socio-economic and cultural value functions. 2 ) combines with rainwater. 3 ), What is immediately obvious on entering a cave is Life in the Dark Sarawak Forest Department in 1978. Society Geographical Royal (RGS) Expedition of the Mulu in collaboration with the by those as such expeditions in resulting surveys geological In Sabah and Sarawak, interest arose from various in Sarawak. Caves Niah the and Perak Lenggong Tampan near KotaCave in Man Perak of evidence the significant as as are none but Ridley by recorded Caves Batu in Cave Temple the of entrance the at drawings pre-historic some been have there ( Shaharin Yussof. Shaharin Ben & Wooldridge,FRPS Jerry and Meredith Mike References Kelantan. and Perlis Perak, Sarawak, in regions Karst rich limestone the in especially tourseco-educational immense sustainablypotential isforforcaves managed show There individuals. and groups In for Park. available State are tours Perlis eco-educational Caves, the Batu and Perak in Cave TempurungSabah, in CaveGomantong Sarawak, in Cave Niah and Cave Mulu the as such areas some in cavesexperience allow and view to public to the developed been have facilities visitor Malaysia.commoninso Some bevisitor not may casual the for comfortableenoughcaves” “Show Tourism limestone hills. the of surface the drape plants limestone while cavernsthe atmosphereof damp and darkdeep, theinvertebrates otherinthrive and snakes bats, spectacular.Specially adapted cavefauna such as equally are dripstones and columnsgour-pools, curtains, cave stones, flow as such Formations attractions. important equally but obvious less otherthe ofignoringtimes mostat andlimb and life risking sometimes caves entering people in resulted have imaginable forms and sizes all of formations.uniqueitsStalactites stalagmitesand ee braziliensis Hevea of BatuCaves Lyon. Email: [email protected] Khaeril ZachAbdullah Source Giant CavesofBorneo . The Natural and Other Histories Other and Natural The t Mlyi. Archeologically, Malaysia. to ) .

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 7 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 6 boat tripacrossGalasRiver, Kelantan. a and Dabong, to Station Central Lumpur Kuala from rail through is GSSP to travel to the by Department. The best Kelantan way Forestry managed and (GSSP) Park State Stong Gunung the of part is falls Jelawang The metres. 250 being drop single tallest the with waterfall, seven-tier impressive an metre slope. Meanwhile the Jelawang falls is a305- Billah down magnificently thunders Al-Muktafi Shah, of town the from away Chemerong Waterfall, situated 30 kilometres Asia. South-east Jelawang in waterfalls highest the of and Terengganu waterfalls in Kelantan are purported to be two in waterfalls located Chemerong the with, begin To and refreshingwaterfalls. cool the all, of invigorating most the and mountains tall rainforests, luxurious thick beaches, sandy beautiful are Malaysia in spots hot The enjoyed. and explored be to of nature’s hidden treasures. Some are yet Malaysia, is a land containing an abundance Refreshing WATERFALLS etnto, wtral ra nw a the as known area waterfall a destination, and tourist see” “must a beautiful is there beaches, secluded long, by tourist surrounded is popular Island most Langkawi Although Malaysia. the of destinations of one Island, of region Kedah, northern to the stunning and legendary Langkawi the to go we there From order tocleansethemselves ofbadluck. in hair their wash to leaves the use often who fairies the by left were pools the around grow that pods large with plant climbing a ‘sintuk’, the and trees lime unique the that believe locals The elusive. remained have fairy they but the maidens, of one capture to tried once prince mountain A properties. healing has supposedly that delight in frolicking in the cool waters which fairies of tells falls the surrounds that myth the Langkawi, in everything with As drop. straight cascading waterfalls. The vertical fall of is about 80 metres of series a flowing forming river downstream, a by fed are that pools natural seven are There Wells). (Seven Tujuh’ ‘Telaga Malaysia Year 2007. Visit the for waterfalls breathtaking Malaysia’s visiting by experience unforgettable an Have • • • • • • • waterfalls are easy. the conserving of rules basic The Rawang. to road trunk the using Lumpur will take you there in an hour and half half and hour an in there you take will Lumpur

sprays mist as the water crashes into the the into crashes water the as mist continuously sprays which Falls, Niagara famous the of reminiscent is scenery falls’ breath-taking Mahua ride). half and hour an be about would it (if Kinabalu, Kota Waterfall, from come you Mahua the reaching minutes before 15 or 10 will after village you Patau where reach Ranau, Tambunan of leave direction the to in have you Mahua waterfalls, the reach To waterfalls. Mahua lies the Sabah in Sea, China South the Across No.66 from Puduraya bus station in Kuala Kuala in station bus Puduraya Bus from camping. No.66 and ample picnicking for are There facilities getaway. weekend perfect a for waterfalls, green cascading lush with of area forests expansive an Park is The itself Park. seven Kanching are the in There waterfalls of Rawang. town and the Selayang between nestled waterfalls, Kanching from the is drive Lumpur Kuala of minutes heart the 30 home, to Closer captivating. definitely is serene, and beautiful environment, The below. pool the recreationalcentre. recreational base. Poaching andloggingisprohibited. Do notsmoke. Do notharmorinjurethewildlife. Do notleaveanycampfireunattended. Do notlitteratthepicnicarea. the at Hikers are encouraged to refer to a guide at rules basic the observe Do Email: [email protected] Gopalakrishnan Kumutha Malar Source

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 7 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 8 aasa i fls ne Cas wtr quality status. water 1 Environment, Class under falls of it Malaysia, Department of the by standards or area, catchment the within quality water better to contributes environment free large flowing streams, high DO, and a pollution- and inorganic pollution sources. organic The combination of of influence the of independent also usually is forest the Besides, water. river the in (DO) oxygen dissolved of concentration the increase river the of streams flowing Large water quality, a result of their large flow stream. better have generally forests, in found Rivers supply ofcleanwaterinMalaysia. continuous provides world, the in rainforests oldest the of one be to said is which rainforest, tropical Malaysian The area. important catchment natural an as serves which forest a in life its begins river A course. its along use land of types upon dependent is which quality, water of terms in varies river Every onthe surface. earth’s valleys awater natural through as flowing defined body is river a view, of point of stream water anatural flowing in a channel. From a geographical is definition, by river, A OUR RIVERS An Upstream View these two factors, its natural natural its factors, two these Besides purposes. recreational suitable for is which flow steady rivers and clean the of because areas areas recreational be to These chosen also are Johor. in Reserve Forest in Panti Mt. Reserve and Terengganu, Forest Angin Perlis, Mandi in Park State Kelian Wang Kelantan, in Reserve Forest Stong Mt. Kedah, in Reserve Ulu Forest Muda and Reserve Forest Jerai Mt. sounds of wild animals in the natural natural the in animals wild of sounds surroundings, the by time to time from the interrupted of silence The foster awareness of the importance importance the of awareness foster surely will experience This body soul. and mind, of calmer great a also is river the of environment soothing The experience. and come to lovers nature and certainly visitors for is attraction forest an the in river the of environment gentle and pleasing This forest. the in river pristine a of beauty the by captivated and amazed be would one forest, biodiverse-rich State Park in Pahang, Pahang, in Endau-Rompin Park State and Park Forest Kenong such as re- sites are as creational forests designated the rivers in many Today, generations. future for water fresh supply clean of continuous a the ensure of to and environment care forests our taking of beauty of these rivers. rivers. the these of beauty experience to visitors draw other that are factors facilities available and landscape Email: [email protected] Zainudin &Ahmad ZaharinAris Mohd Kamil Yusoff, MohdFaiz Source rtcin peevto, con- through preservation, protection, possible made be only can quality water river of management to The nation. the of important sustainability the the maintain is say water quality river of to management Needless sustain our rivers. our sustain to effort massive this in play to role a forest have All the catchment. of rehabilitation servation, remediation and and remediation

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 9 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 8 educational role and usually have laboratory laboratory have usually and role an educational genetic play also plant gardens botanic of The resources. conservation the in helps plants of collection The world. the over all from plants named of specimens dried of up made herbarium a as well as environments different from plants of spectrum wide a of collection a well besides recreational. It normally consists of as purposes other serves garden botanic true a But public. the by admiration and display for plants of collection a of consist gardens Most Brindavan Gardens is India’s pride. the while trees bonsai and arrangements rock hedges,skillfullymanicuredtheir for noted are Kyoto of city royal the in one the like gardens Japanese Babylon. of Gardens Hanging the garden. gardensis famous beautiful most the a of one ofHistorically components all are stones and rockscolours, of maze a in hedges out well-laid and fountains, topiaries trimmed artistically light and musical features, Water beautifyingtheirhomescitiesand withgardens. in role major a played have governments and leaders years, the Over enjoy. and admire to people for nurtured and cultivated are palms and trees shrubs, plants, flowering of varieties different where areas definition, are gardens By GARDENS: Conserving Plant Genetic Resources adn a etbihd u ws od y the by sold was but established was Garden secondBotanical a1834, in Then garden. a in was Penang theyplanted sometropical fruit when trees andspices Company in India East garden the by established botanic first The The Penang Botanic Garden greenery, bursting with a myriad of colours. loverswillsurely awedbethisby lush undulating showcasedfor all to admire. All flower and nature thatthe rich plant genetic heritage ofthe nation is Kuala Lumpur Lake Gardens. It is in these gardens housedanotheryetin garden, alsolocatedthe at is Malaysia of heritage orchid richLumpur. The HibiscusGarden, near tothe Lake Gardens, Kuala nationalourflower,garden devotedto just the a have we Then, Heritage. National a considered now is Gardens Botanic Penang century the a Yes, old! over just is which of one gardens, unique and beautiful several has too Malaysia Kew RoyalBotanicalGardeninEngland. the is garden botanic known best world’s The gardens. such few a have may some garden, botanic a have will countries research.for facilities Most cnuyod ue an re ( tree rain huge century-old a entrancethegarden,to youwillwelcomedbe by of animals, birds, plants and flowers. At the main name, Waterfall Gardens. It has a rich biodiversity head of which is a deep waterfall,the athence valley deepits formera in locatedideally is It city. thebusiness centre majorisa green lung forthe from awayminutes 15 justlocatedGarden, The rare, exotic and beautiful plants. BotanicveritableGardendeveloped storehousea into of 72-acre the that Settlements, Straits the of Department Forest and Gardens the of wasre-established andunder theadministration only in 1884 when the Botanic Gardens of Penang Governor who had little interest in plants. It was aae saman Samanea ) ats os, en os, ogivle house bougainvillea orchidarium, house, fern house, the cactus as such collections special display which houses plant of number a also soothingbandsplayvisitors.musicto There are where lawn bandstand the and collection palm rockery, sun garden, herbal garden, formal the gardentheopenisplant collection thatincludes warm welcome to you. The main attraction in the whoseoutstretched branches appear extendto a rhd my ae Lo fr h common experience ofastrollthroughthisgarden. the for Look names and enjoy the exhilarating and rewarding have. may ofthese orchids some that names scientific long by the disturbed be not Do environment. cool a provide to waterfalls and pools with pergolas the under kept are shade the prefer that those loving orchids are found in the open areas while sun the instance, For different plants. orchid of the species of growth support to arranged dead beautifully all stands, pergolas, wooden and gardens, trunks tree rock with out laid specially is garden four-acre The luxuriantly. is also host to thousands of hybrids, all growing garden This Malaysia. in found are 3,300 which the plants, of family orchidaceae. They consist of 25,000 species, of largest world’s the to belong Orchids Lumpur. Kuala of skyline the near the Lake Gardens, on a hill top overlooking housed is Malaysia of heritage orchid rich The The Orchid Garden selected as our National Flower. – its shape, colour, variety and why and howthis Gardenit andwas learn all about our National Flower here in various stages of bloom. Just walk through consisting of 10 species and 80 varieties are found hibiscus plants, 6,000 than Lumpur. Kuala More and hill occupies a over 0.9 hectares on near locatedthe Lake Gardens, is garden beautiful This The Hibiscus Garden n te eoi hue Fr ot iios a visitors, most For house. begonia the and Email: & SumangalaPillai Emeritus Prof DrChinHoongFong Source walk through the garden will surely refreshsurely will garden the through walk h mn wie o te nrei, trek a energetic, the for while mind the through the garden will surely bring youbring surely willgarden thethrough closer to nature. [email protected] [email protected]/

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 9 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 10 THE MANGROVEFOREST of Avicennia roots stilt of of stands pure almost vegetation of The consists shrubs. and climbers herbs, trees, plant include that species 28 and littoral families 11 comprises vegetation of Mangrove characteristics formations. the have mangroves sea, and land between Interfaced areas. coast west the in located mostly are mangroves Sarawak, and Malaysia Peninsular in while Sabah, of coast northern of the in area mainly found are and total hectares 436,714 a cover In mangroves mangrove. Malaysia, connote to a word ‘mangue’, Portuguese introduced biologist a H.M.M. the Bowman, described 1878, in on Gulf Later Cuba. the Batabao, of past had sailing Columbus, while forest explorer mangrove Christopher Spanish times, a early In and tidalestuaries. tolerant lagoons shores, salt muddy along found vegetation inter-tidal, an The is areas. tree mangrove coastal along located sub-tropical and formation tropical of is landscape Its forests. tropical inland to contrast in inhabited formation uniform their area with trees an mangrove by is mainly forest mangrove The Bruguiera Rhizopora and A UniqueEcotourism Setting spp. p. n pemtprs of pneumatopores and spp. Sonneratia ih n understorey an with og n suptie mcqe, silver- macaques, stump-tailed and long including primates are forest the in live that mammals of examples Some poles charcoal. for and timber of migratory, production and the besides resident both birds, water and amphibians reptiles, mammals, as such wildlife for habitats their include to in roles lies multiple mangroves of importance The scientific and cultural merits. merits. cultural and scientific and scenic, hold inherent its with experiential destination enjoyable forest exciting an of mangrove promise a the in programmes Ecotourism its activities. and harvesting and logging habitats mangrove various observe could visitors where is experience canals enjoyable an water along trips boat or Cruising available. are fish of types many enthusiasts, fishing high For value. of recreational and be educational can formation forest unique this of interpretations and tours Site night. the of in the middle light the natural can enjoy people where attraction tourist a been has fireflies of presence The their stopovers. and routes on migration birds these appreciate and can observe enthusiasts bird and Visitors Asia Siberia. Central or of conditions winter cold site harsh the and from transitory escape to and birds path migratory for flyway Malaysia the Peninsular in of are shores west the in Mangroves harbours. it wildlife the and forest the with directly interact to able be will challenges. People rich and a nature on offer which based can experience people forest many to This for foreign is avenue suggested. new is main a the lives, tourism many as for serves habitat mangrove the While Email: [email protected] Assoc Prof DrAbdullah Source functioning as a giant giant a as includes functioning which among system, environmental the in role important an Mangroves play its boundaries. beyond also recognised amenities many habitation provides condition. of in This type common this quite are crocodiles as such reptiles and Amphibians insects. and crustaceans, sorts fish, of all for with aquatic ecosystem an credited mangrove maintaining also The is spotted easily here. be kingfishers can and species sea birds water several eagles, bellied White wild pigs. and cats, dolphins bats, otters, civets, leopards, monkeys, leaf impacts. wave high loss and wind to due soil soil from and condition shorelines the stabilising and effluents other and water for filter Mohd

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 11 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 10 Kinabatangan). (Klias, Sarawak Sabah and River), Puteh), Oya (Bako-Buntal, Bali-Pasir Tok Kelantan Penarik), (Tumpat, Setiu, species, 2 – River Kerteh River, (Yakyah Terengganu Kuantan), (Rompin,TanjungPahangNenasi,Tinggi,Piai), (Kota Johor (Merbok), Kedah (Krian), Penang Datoh), Bagan Bernam, Gula, (Matang-Kuala Perak of states the in synchronousfireflies, are Other areas with different synchronous and non- species, Pteroptyx tener, is at the Selangor River. fireflysingle a ofmangrovestretchlongest The established. be should conservation and development vis vis-à- inclination and motivation their the locals, by ultimately and by pressure determined development primarily are conditions use land As retarded. be will growth their or levels salinity low very tolerate only can trees display quality. The water and use land are fireflies the of survival the to relevant are that components major two The quality. water river the and use land (Berembang), trees display (snail), food Therefore, suitable conditions are the moist soil, fireflies willbereadyforthenextday. emerging of batch another and eggs their lay and vegetation the behind banks muddy the to After mating, the successful female will fly back purpose. mating for flashing and their synchronise dusk after river the beside trees display to the fly then will fireflies adult The adulthood. into stage pupa their Everyday from emerge fireflies new soil. moist the in eggs firefly their female laying the with snails on feed turn larvae in firefly The on. feed to snail of particular species a for food as suitable is fruits and is firefly synchronous dependent on the the riverbanks where the leaf litter of ecology The FIREFLIES Nature’s LightShow fireflies, synchronous the River, Kerteh in example For fireflies congregating in different mangrove trees. a display varies, resulting in fireflies as by used An interesting finding is that the plant preference the river. and petrol driven motorboats were banned from Later, the Government took over the cooperative shoots. Berembang young much not was there ( Astudy fireflies. the that found out carried the including wildlife, the in motorboat disturbed motorboat the the Unfortunately, 1996. of introduction the saw corporative the of establishment The formed. was Trading Klip-Klip called cooperative a and in joined boatmen only other 30 the Later rower. boat as Jalaluddin Encik firefly with up watching set Selangor, Kuantan, Kampung helped Society MNS 1971, In 1970. in Nature member (MNS) Malaysian a by ‘discovered’ were fireflies synchronous River Selangor The declined due to land clearance, water pollution pollution water already clearance, land to due has declined habitat firefly again. the of fireflies spread The the Batang threatening at is Hulu stream Berjuntai mid in the in development upstream and Selangor place supply taking water activities various The Ibok, KliasandLowerKinabatangan. Krian, Selangor, in Kuala Gula, locals Kuala Sepetang, Kampong by initiated been have tours caseolaris Sonneratia River, Selangor the albaAvicennia the Bali, Tok In trees.mangrove of types seven to six on least Berembang Pteroptyx ) tree belt was diminishing fast and fast diminishing was belt tree ) and trpy malaccae Pteroptyx sp trpy tener Pteroptyx Sonneratia albaSonneratia . . Lately, firefly watching firefly Lately, . an oois r o at on are colonies main Sonneratia caseolaris Sonneratia , whereas in whereas , rfr the prefers rfr the prefer

are dependent on the Berembang display trees display Berembang the on dependent are a is turn fireflies The trees. forest and fruit in for pollinator which bat, the on Berembang dependent is the of survival The Berembang. the and bat pollinator nectar the e.g. area the in species keystone are There protected. not also are corridors river These forests. protected and studied least the of one is river intertidal the Apart from the fireflies, the riparian forest along factors. natural other and industries from Wong, CH. 2006. Local Community and the Sungai morphology External 2004. CH &Wong, N Ohba, Selangor in Kuala studies Firefly 2001. MNS. Issue. Anniversary 50th Special Our 1990. MNS. References the for ofthecongregatingfireflies.continued survival light and hope bringing mangroves, the conserving into Sabah looking are Sarawak Penang, and Terengganu, Perak, Johor, Selangor,Kedah, of Governments State others. their function as a nursery for fisheries amongst Tsunamiand the like disasters from protection offer to mangroves the of importance the and Japan, 26Aug2006 the World Firefly Symposium in Kitakyushu City, at presented Paper Malaysia. in Firefly Selangor 51: 1-33 Museum, City Yokosuka Report, Science firefly tener the of study ecological and Nature Society Malaysian Lumpur. Kuala Government. State Selangor the to submitted Report Final District. Malayan Naturalist at Kampong Kuantan, Selangor,Malaysia. Kuantan, Kampong at Email: [email protected] Sonny Wong CH Source 44 :1 firefly species are in species not firefly many is how to in as known it research Malaysia, little firefly very is there As and thetreesarelost. bats the once changed The be will river.ecosystem whole the along the tourism industry industry tourism of the result a efforts mainly firefly are nation’s conservation Generally, the shrinking. are located are fireflies congregating the where know that the mangroves do we But country. the Pteroptyx

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 11 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 12 adn snig (oaiain, s yourself ask (vocalisation), ‘singing’ garden your in bird a hear you When mind. human the stimulate will it but cat the kill may Curiosity we deem tohavebirdbrains! creatures in ‘intelligence’ and ‘humanity’ the reveal time over will them watching birds, the of part about much know not does one one if Even whole. only is homosapiens that appreciate to get and life of web the of concept the to the connected get eventually at will We world. look we way the at horizon new a up birds or nature with an eye from the mind opens Watching them. watch to care would many not but neighbourhood their in birds of aware are secrets of at least one bird species. Most people hold already may garden front or backyard our to watch their interesting behaviour. To places start with, special to go not need you that is persuasive more Even birds. to enjoy and ornithologist watch an be to need not does One of nature. gifts the enjoy and relax to learn should what age, matter no Everyone, birds. watch and relaxing with friends or family is to go outdoors of ways enjoyable most the of One play. a to going or as outings such socialising, sports, tension through our releasing for several avenues are There tantrums. and headaches tension stress, – predictable quite is result The . home work their take even executives young Many work. more and work but else anything for time little us leaves style life modern The BIRD WATCHING Learning from ourFeathered Friends friends. a life time to unravel the secrets of our feathered than more take will it ornithologist, an for Even ‘singing’. is it why of picture better a get will you and action in bird the of visuals with audio this Combine mate. its its to signal of a or proclamation territory a rival, a to challenge a call, love a be to intended is song the whether rus f id. o eape i yu eie to desire you if example, For birds. of groups specificwatchecosystems various to the to out venture to want may you Then habits. their of learningmoreidentifyingand speciesinserious more get to want you if must a binocularsis of pair good a investmentin An species.600 has countrythe which ofMalaysian birds,on books Societybuyandreadoranyone thedozens of of MalaysianNaturethe of Group Bird the join you To get yourself excited (if you aren’t yet), I suggest which canattract15to20speciesinaday! forest a of edge the at especially fruits with tree fig big a be will bonus big A am. 10.00 about of till break day from morning the in is birds most songs the hear or watch to time best The those we see in the parks of the city. from different birds, interesting of habitats be that is rich in insects, flowers and fruits will likely area rural Any outing.day’s a in speciesmany sighting of chance best the offer respectively Perak and Pahang in Larut)(Bukit Maxwell and Fraser’s of stations hill the birds, colourful For movements. northward and south their during numbers at Tanjung Tuan (Cape Richado, in Melaka) spotted be can raptors Migratory Selangor. ash ponds of the Tenaga Power Station at Kapar, mudflats Matang Mangroves of the Perak and in the birds, shore for Wetlands, Indah Paya the is go to place the then birdswetland the watch sharing themwithothers. and observations your of records keeping by conservation their to contribute and adopt hobby this can You urbanites. many for pastime Bird watching has become a popular hobby and Email: [email protected] Babjee Tan Sri DrAhmadMustaffa Source

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 13 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 12 smooth pebble beach of Pantai of beach pebble smooth the and Hitam Pasir Pantai of beach sand black Ma the to laysia Peninsular of eastern coastline the characterise that sand of stretches powdery the beautiful beaches. Ranging from Malaysia’sof one over thousand every describe to task possible im an be would It life. marine of biodiversity incredible with ed by many breathtaking islands surround coastline affluent and long a with blessed is and Asia South-east of shelf continental the on and rests Malaysia Sabah Sarawak, of states the and Malaysia Peninsular Comprising Islands and Beaches charm ofthesenaturaltreasuresMalaysia. and beauty the by humbled and nature of gift with a blissful feeling of being able to enjoy this us left sites, snorkelling prolific and beaches sandy white experiencing of vacation 2-night 3-day The us. astonished days sunny during distinguishable especially blue milky light blue deep to from ranging ocean and the of waters, colour clear crystal The mesmerized. better known as Pulau Redang. I was absolutely Island, Redang to friends few a with vacation In early March this year, I went on my first island MARINE TREASURES Our Natural Heritage - - - deep dives,driftdivesandwreckdives. reefs, submerged reefs, sloping coral blocks, wall dives, gentle along diving include Malaysia around sites dive Top life. marine of a spectrum with experience surface astounding sea’s an warm guarantees the below dip A world. the of destinations dive leading becom the of one ing isfast Malaysia the Basin, in Indo-Pacific environment marine richest the With Dive Destination a beachtowelandsoakupthesun. grab sunscreen, some on slap to be would tive alterna an but adventure crave who those for plenty a are activities Water vacation. peaceful a for place perfect the them making coves, and Malaysia’s islands secluded of in huddled found are beaches Many beaches. for choice for the Peninsula’s long coastline, visitors are spoilt With years. of hundreds to back traced are that to fame through association with Malay legends claim lay instance, for Island, Tioman and land Is Langkawi islands. tropical hundred a over possesses also country the Malaysia, East of coasts the and Peninsula the along beaches of plenitude the to addition In locales. idyllic most Batu Kerikil, Malaysia’s shores offer some of the - - - the best water visibility of 20 to 50 metres. The metres. 50 to 20 of visibility water best the with blessed is Island Layang Layang Sabah, Kinabalu, Kota mainland 300 from miles some nautical Located Malaysia. Peninsular of Redang, Kapas, Tenggol and Tengah,Tioman in the eastern coast Lang , Perhentian of is lands the of waters the in observed those from differs Malaysia Peninsular of coast western the along Island Payar and Island Pangkor of waters the around life marine of diversity The Coral Reefs fascinate thediver. to something always is there pipefish, ghost or frogfish bizarre the to turtles various and das barracu of schools huge sharks, hammerhead schooling From carrier). troop Japanese ll War World (a Maru Katori diving can wreck in divers engage mainland, the from away further and diving reef feature Sarawak off TurtleRock and Island TalangTalang animals). macro out seeking areas rubble coral the in diving is (that dives’ ‘muck their for famous are Island palai Ka and Island Mabul Island, Lankayan diver. vour Sipadan Island one should be an advanced sa fully to whereas dives, easy and training for popular are islands Park Rahman Abdul Tunku oa res r massive are reefs Coral f pned o bu 30 about to pinhead a of size the from range may polyps Coral polyps. coral called animals spineless tiny of consist actually als Cor reef-building corals. are organisms most important the Nevertheless, molluscs. even and weeds sea algae, as such reefs coral of structure the to contributing reefs, coral inhabit animals and plants marine of species of sands Thou organisms. by living deposited of limestone up made structures ------

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 13 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 14 tions are suitable for corals to flourish, is consid South-eastAsia, where theenvironmental condi polyps existtogethertoformcolonies. these of Thousands diameter. in centimetres tourism, ocean warming and coral bleaching. carelesspractices, destructivepollution,fishing as coastal development and sedimentation, water either directly or indirectly linked to humans such currentlyfacing the biggest threat arefrom activities world the around reefs coral reefs. Regrettably, the about fragments scatter and apart break to corals large causing waves powerful andtyphoonshurricaneslargebring oras such nificant damage to coral reefs. Natural calamities sig causecan disturbancesnaturalSeveral too is snapped off. destroyedsmallcouldreeffragmentbea evenif growth of decades as systems,fragile are reefs suitableunderconditions.yearCoral one in tres centime20 to up grow may Staghorncoral the as such species millimetres/year while 5-25 as slowly.Forexample, somespecies growslowas 20˚C to 32˚C and saltwater. Corals grow extremely cleanandwater, optimum watertemperatures of clear sunlight, require corals survive, To reefs. Sabah containing more than 75% of the country’s coralspecies350inhabit Malaysian waters,with aboutfigure, this Of world. the in speciescoral accommodating over 600 of the 800 reef-building coral reefs, equivalent to 34% of the world’s total, It is home to almost 100,000 square kilometres of ered to be the global epicentre of marine diversity. - - - - and eventuallyerode. damage, storm and action wave to vulnerable become would many buildings coastal reefs, and beaches coral Without waves. pounding ocean the of from areas inshore shielding buffer, a as act Reefs coastlines. our protect also reefs coral healthy that known commonly less is It discovered. been just have which of many compounds, medicinal contain animals and plants reef coral species, rainforest of case the in As year. per billion USD2.4 at estimated is whole the on fisheries reef coral Asia’s east South of value sustainable the whereas tential, shoreline protection, fisheries, and research po tourism, for million USD563 of value economic assessed total a hold to said been have alone Straits Malacca the in reefs coral the example, For communities. local the for resources food of wealth a providing as well as divers, scuba and snokellers, sunbathers, sightseers, for ing surround attractive an provide reefs coral by supported beaches protected and of marine organisms variety The fisheries. and tourism on depend through income source of significant a as them reefs coral with countries Many area offishbiodiversity. valuable globally a are and species fish in rich are Malaysia of coasts the Hence, Philippines. the from total the of 86% and Indonesia from total the of 82% constitute Malaysia in found ofdamselfish species 101 The (damselfish). clude such important in species as which species, fish reef coral approxi 450 are mately there Malaysia, in example For ing rainforestsintheirrichnessoflife. rival species, marine known all of quarter one nearly house that structures physical intricate and huge construct organisms reef coral tems, ecosys complex most planet’s the of one As Conservation Importance of Coral Reef Pomacentridae ------Malaysia Marine Park Centres in Peninsular management. better for together grouped are which Sabah, and Malaysia Peninsular in islands 40 around situated are parks national These reefs. coral country’sthe of 7% containing areas, protected marine 136 are established there Currently, parks. has marine Malaysia Fisheries of ment theDepart research, and tourism, fisheries, and conserve protect coral reefs for sustainable to 1983 in directive government a under reefs, and coral of value incredible the Realising Conservation Action in Malaysia fragile andeasilydamaged. very are reefs as carefully done be must it but world undersea spectacular this explore to way nating creatures. Snorkelling or diving is a great fasci beautiful, many to home are reefs Coral when Diving or Snorkelling Observing Proper Reef Etiquette

5. Tinggi IslandMarineParkinJohor 4. Tioman IslandMarineParkinPahang 3. PerhentianIslandMarineParkin 2. RedangIslandMarineParkin 1. PayarIslandMarineParkinKeda 6. MersingMarineParkinJohor to infectionanddisease. vulnerable it leaving covering, mucus tective growth. of Even a light touch can rub off the coral’s pro years destroy and coral break can kick single A coral. the touching Avoid Never standoncoral. touch thereef. not do flippers and body your that Ensure Avoid finning close to the seabed as this kicks upsiltthatcansmotherthecoral. the seabed to close finning Avoid rupt feedingormating. dis can them harassing and stressed are easily animals reef life; reef harassing Avoid and shouldnotbetaken. plays an important role in the reef ecosystem coral dead Even souvenirs. collecting Avoid and spoilsthereefsnaturalbeauty. life marine endangers litter littering; Avoid Throw litterinabinortakeitback with you. of thereef. or anchors areas large damage will it reef as coral smashing the on anchoring Avoid Ensure thatyourboat usesamooringbuoy. Terengganu Terengganu - - - -

IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 15 IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 14 turtles. However, recent scientific research has research scientific However,recent turtles. to marine of species other than thought migratory less be once were They food. for forage to go they where even or season the for ing nest after go Hawksbills female where exactly to help increase their population. No one knows hatchlings of production the ensuring and eggs their safeguarding on focussed been have tles tur Hawksbill the save to efforts decades, For Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). Convention on International Trade in Endangered the protectionundertheirdespiterampant still world, commercial trade of hawksbill products is the of parts other In development. coastal and pollution, mortality, fishery-related collection, egg- excessive habitats, of feeding loss and the nesting by threatened are turtles These centimetres in length, weighing 40-60 kilograms. 70-90usually are andCheloniidaefamily the to karah/sisik,penyubelongtheyas locallyknown or turtles Hawksbill as addressed Commonly Hawksbill Turtles nonee b sokles n scuba-divers and snorkellers be by can encountered and reefs, coral to close nests often Hawksbill The Melaka. in year every August to May from peaks and seasonal is Nesting time. a at eggs 200 to 60 lay They years. three to two has shown that Hawksbills appear to nest every world the of parts other in conducted Research Breeding bers inJohorandTerengganu. num smaller in nests also species This year. every nests 200-300 as much as numbering group, nesting largest the to home is Melaka of islands and coastline sandy the Malaysia, sular Penin In Sabah. of Islands Turtle the in found is turtles Hawksbill of population largest The Distribution in Malaysia search offood. migrate hundreds to thousands of kilometres in do Hawksbills of populations some that shown - - - - highlight protectionoftheirfeedinggrounds. to identify how far they go to forage for food and information valuable scientists give should ted transmit data the and tagged been has Straits Malacca the in Hawksbill a time first the is This 2006. August 29 on Island Upeh on nesting bill Hawks a on deployed was transmitter satellite 2006, August after her nesting of 114 eggs. The 26 second of hours early the in Linggi Kuala of rookeries nesting prime the of one Dahan beach, Tanjung the at Hawksbill female a on deployed successfully was transmitter first The grounds. feeding to back way their make they as system satellite Argos the using tracked be to were Melaka in beach Dahan Tanjung from Two Hawksbills nesting on Upeh Island and one carapace. its to transmitter satellite a taching at by creature magnificent this of movements the track to move a was there 2006, August In to feedintheprocess. fish reef opportunistic allowing thus surfaces, coral from pieces dislodge inadvertently they reef, the on crevices from prey on feed they As on invertebrates, with a preference for sponges. feed They reefs. coral of component biological important an are turtles Hawksbill good condition. a in is habitat turtle where localities at on theentiresystem. effects unpredictable have will ecosystem an of component the in changes Any choice. not a have do We take. to path so the is depends, conservation industry tourism the which on assets main the hold areas Sensitive visits. in increase tremendous a experiencing been have habitats, living of interdependence and versity di great a contain which those and changes physical by endangered critically are sources re natural where areas those areas, sensitive Ecologically cultures. and destinations away far- and new exploring in interested are people more and More significantly. growing is and industries world’slargest the of Tourismone is Tourism and Ecology - - - - - NPs e picpe fr h tuim industry, tourism the for principles key UNEP’s the in out pointed As development.sustainable integratedbemustbut overalltheinto policy for isolation in occur not should planningTourism http://www.wwfmalaysia.org http://www.ioseaturtles.org http://www,nre,gov.my http://www.wri.org http://www.coralreef.org http://www.coralreefalliance.org http://www.coralcay.org/expeditions/marine/my1/ and (WRI), Selig Liz (WRI), Burke Lauretta 2002. References development in the coastal areas. environmentallypromotesustainabletourism to managementstrategiesof mix implementa and develop jointly to is organisationsdevelopment and conservationists industry, tourism the for planning.challengeuseThevelopmentland and multi-sectoralbe andintegrated intonational de mobilisation.sedimentTourism shouldplanning physicalalteration aredestruction ofhabitat, and coastal/nearshore minimising to relevant most photogallery/ Reefs atRiskinSouth-eastAsia UK). Cambridge, (UNEP-WCMC, Spalding Mark imagination. beyond wealthy are we gifts, these With tiful intheeyesofGod; Treasurebeau are we for self, of gift the to love; us for himself God by entrusted been have they diversity, of gift the Treasure pillars ofourexistence; the are they nature, of gift the Treasure Email: [email protected] Parimala Ponniah Source

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IMPAK - Issue 1 / 2007 - 15 Upcoming Event

Activity 17th Inter-University Environmental Debate The 17th Inter-University Envi- ronmental Debate will be held from 27 Highlights July 2007 to 31 July 2007 at Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia (USIM), Nilai, Department of Environment, Malaysia Negeri Sembilan. The Final Debate will be officiated by YB. Dato’ Seri January 2007 Azmi Khalid, Minister of Natural The Sustainable School – Environment Award Resources and Environment. 2005/2006 Forthcoming Issue

The Sustainable School – Environment Award, a collaborative programme The UN-sponsored Inter-Governmental between the Department of Environment and the Ministry of Education Panel on Climate Change has issued a series of reports early this year, Malaysia to promote environmental awareness within the school community drawing on the studies of some 2,500 was jointly launched on 27 January 2005 by the Ministry of Natural scientists on the harsh realities of Resources and Environment and the Ministry of Education. The Institute for global warming. Quite obviously, Environment and Development (LESTARI) of Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Governments have to move quickly (UKM) provided the technical support for the purpose. to educate their people and commit resources to prevent the worst For the 2005/2006 Award, 67 schools voluntarily participated. The award giving ceremony for the Sustainable School outcome. The 2nd issue of IMPAK will – Environment Award 2005/2006 programme was held on 29 January 2007 at Sekolah Menengah Datuk Peter Mojuntin, therefore impart information on the Penampang, Sabah. The ceremony was officiated by likely effects of global warming on all YB. Dato’ Sazmi Miah, the Parliamentary Secretary of us so that the people can play their of Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. role in warding off the catastrophic effects of global warming. Sekolah Menengah Datuk Peter Mojuntin and Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan (C) Chi Hwa emerged as the first Article contributions and comments recipients of the Sustainable School – Environment are welcomed. They are to be Award 2005/2006 for the secondary and primary directed to : [email protected] schools categories respectively. Both schools received Tel: 603 8871 2083 a plaque together with RM 10,000 in cash and certificate Fax: 603 8889 1042 of commendation.

March 2007 Editorial Board Sustanable City – Environment Award 2005/ 2006/07 Advisors 2006 : Independent Assessment Panel Workshop Dato’ Hajah Rosnani binti Ibarahim Dr Ir Shamsudin Ab Latif Ir Lee Heng Keng

Chief Editor Patrick Tan Hock Chuan

Members Choong Mei Chun Ling Ling Chui Parimala a/p Ponniah K Nagulendran (NRE) Puan Rosta Harun (UPM)

Quarterly Publication of the Department of Environment, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment

In collaboration with the Institute for Environment and Development (LESTARI), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Correspondence address: the Department of Environment (DOE) organised an Independent Assessment Panel Workshop for The Sustainable City Chief Editor, IMPAK Department of Environment, – Environment Award at Danau Golf Club, UKM, Bangi on 28 March 2007. The primary objective of this workshop was to Ministry of Natural Resources brief the independent panel on the procedures to conduct a detailed assessment during field visits to selected cities. and Environment Level 1-4, Podium Block 2&3, Lot 4G3, Precinct 4, Participants to the workshop were also tasked to assess the brief city reports and award marks accordingly based Federal Government Administrative Centre, on environmental information provided. The Panels consisted of members from different areas of expertise (NGOs, 62574 Putrajaya Government, the Private Sector and Academia). These Panels were established for the three categories: (i) Capital Cities, Views and opinions expressed by the contributors do not necessarily reflect the (ii) Municipal / Town Councils and (iii) District Councils. Field assessments were conducted and the Award Ceremony is official stand of DOE. scheduled for August/September 2007.