There is far too much land clearing going on in Cameron Highlands. Ever so often it would come out in the newspaper. And what has the authorities done about them? Almost nothing. Just lip service.
No doubt land is scarce in the highlands for growing vegetables. There should be a systematic way of doing agriculture without jeopardizing the environment.
Stern action to be taken against the culprits
Monday May 20, 2013
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Those caught carrying out illegal land clearing will be arrested immediately, said Cameron Highlands Land and District Officer Datuk Ahmad Daud.
He said he had directed his enforcement officers to conduct a raid in the wake of The Star's report yesterday over the extensive clearing of slopes in Pos Terisu.
Over 40ha of land spread over four valleys and hills were found stripped of forests in less than a month, with the areas leveled for vegetable farming.
Showing posts with label environment. Show all posts
Showing posts with label environment. Show all posts
Monday, May 20, 2013
Monday, February 04, 2013
Landslide in Cameron Highlands and Malaysia
Landslide are common occurrence in Cameron Highlands. Wherever there are hill-slope, high rainfall, insufficient vegetation to prevent soil erosion, landslide would occur. Although I have not faced such misfortune, I don't want to think about it whenever I go up the highlands. After all, disaster is beyond our human control and I leave it to God for our protection and safe journey.
If PWD can come up with the system to predict the probability of landslide, it could be good. Because whenever tourist going up CH, for those who worry, they called up their hotel and asked about landslide. They also email me too. Like I said, nobody knows if there was a landslide or whether a landslide would occur. So until such a predicting system was put up by PWD, just cross your fingers and pray to God that your drive up Cameron Highlands would be uneventful.
Cheers!
Predicting future landslides
By P. Aruna
Monday February 4, 2013
PETALING JAYA: Work has begun on an early warning system that can send out alerts at least two hours before a landslide occurs.
People living in landslide-prone areas will be warned via TV and radio, enabling quicker evacuation.
The Public Works Department (PWD) is in the process of creating the system, similar to the high-tech model used in landslide-prone Hong Kong.
The PWD had already conducted pilot studies at two "hot spots" Bukit Antarabangsa, Selangor and the Tapah-Cameron Highlands road.
If PWD can come up with the system to predict the probability of landslide, it could be good. Because whenever tourist going up CH, for those who worry, they called up their hotel and asked about landslide. They also email me too. Like I said, nobody knows if there was a landslide or whether a landslide would occur. So until such a predicting system was put up by PWD, just cross your fingers and pray to God that your drive up Cameron Highlands would be uneventful.
Cheers!
Predicting future landslides
By P. Aruna
Monday February 4, 2013
PETALING JAYA: Work has begun on an early warning system that can send out alerts at least two hours before a landslide occurs.
People living in landslide-prone areas will be warned via TV and radio, enabling quicker evacuation.
The Public Works Department (PWD) is in the process of creating the system, similar to the high-tech model used in landslide-prone Hong Kong.
The PWD had already conducted pilot studies at two "hot spots" Bukit Antarabangsa, Selangor and the Tapah-Cameron Highlands road.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Collecting Cameron Highlands Hillslope Water for Health
Often when I go to Cameron Highlands, I see people collecting water from the hillslope. I have heard that the water is considered healthy because of the perception of being sourced naturally from nature. Yet on the other hand we do not know the actual source and whether there is any contamination to the water collected. Of course people want to improve their health wherever possible and if it worked for them, they will collect it and drink it. Personally I'm not so keen to drink it unless absolutely no choice (such as going jungle hiking and camping), Anyway it is good to know and keep in view.
Frequent water collectors speak of its boost in energy
Story and photos by Fong Kee Soon
Friday February 17, 2012
FOR more than a decade now, people have been flocking to collect free mineral water from a hillslope at KM10 of the Simpang Pulai-Kampung Raja road leading up to Cameron Highlands.
They believe that the water is therapeutic and can ease joint pains as well as able to boost the energy and stamina of those who consume it.
Auxiliary policeman Zaine Mohd Silan would head out to the spot once a month with enough plastic bottles to collect some 100 litres of water. It is a chore the 56-year-old has been carrying out for the last 10 years.
For consumption: Nor Suhaimi showing two large
plastic bottles filled with the mineral water.
He believes wholeheartedly that the water is safe as it is crystal clear and leaves no residue at the bottom of the containers even after some time.
"Rice cooked with the water also stays fresh longer," he claimed, adding that the water had never made him sick.
The water, added Zaine, has never stopped flowing all these years.
Frequent water collectors speak of its boost in energy
Story and photos by Fong Kee Soon
Friday February 17, 2012
FOR more than a decade now, people have been flocking to collect free mineral water from a hillslope at KM10 of the Simpang Pulai-Kampung Raja road leading up to Cameron Highlands.
They believe that the water is therapeutic and can ease joint pains as well as able to boost the energy and stamina of those who consume it.
Auxiliary policeman Zaine Mohd Silan would head out to the spot once a month with enough plastic bottles to collect some 100 litres of water. It is a chore the 56-year-old has been carrying out for the last 10 years.
For consumption: Nor Suhaimi showing two large
plastic bottles filled with the mineral water.
He believes wholeheartedly that the water is safe as it is crystal clear and leaves no residue at the bottom of the containers even after some time.
"Rice cooked with the water also stays fresh longer," he claimed, adding that the water had never made him sick.
The water, added Zaine, has never stopped flowing all these years.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Simpang Pulai Road to be repaired by Public Works Dept
Hey guys, do be careful when using the Simpang Pulai Road to Cameron Highlands. Apparently there is a stretch that is prone to soil movement and thus landslide. Hopefully the Public Works Department will be able to make repairs to avoid any mishap.
So far while travelling, I seldom think about such so much and leave it to God for journey mercies. So far my trips to Cameron Highlands has been incident free, though I do encounter mad drivers speeding down as though they are Tokyo drifters or what.
Anyway do take care and drive safe!
Cheers!
Safety threat: An overall view of the hillslope affected by
massive erosion along a section of the Simpang Pulai-Cameron Highlands
road near the Perak-Pahang border.
PWD to repair Simpang Pulai-Camerons road
By Sylvia Looi
Friday August 26, 2011
IPOH: The state Public Works Department (PWD) will spend RM16mil to carry out repairs on the KM43 to KM47 stretch of the Simpang Pulai-Cameron Highlands road.
Perak PWD director Datuk Dr Safry Kamal said the project would be implemented in three phases, of which RM4mil would be used to repair a barren slope at a part of the stretch.
He added that the remaining amount from the special allocation given by the Works Minister, would be spent next year.
Dr Safry said the department was closely monitoring the slope which had suffered massive erosion.
"Our slope engineering branch will alert us if there is any soil movement in that area," he said.
He added that a patrol team was also stationed there 24 hours daily.
"We will seal the road if it endangers motorists," he added.
He advised motorists to be vigilant when travelling on the stretch of the road, adding that new signage would be placed there to alert motorists. -- The Star News
So far while travelling, I seldom think about such so much and leave it to God for journey mercies. So far my trips to Cameron Highlands has been incident free, though I do encounter mad drivers speeding down as though they are Tokyo drifters or what.
Anyway do take care and drive safe!
Cheers!
Safety threat: An overall view of the hillslope affected by
massive erosion along a section of the Simpang Pulai-Cameron Highlands
road near the Perak-Pahang border.
PWD to repair Simpang Pulai-Camerons road
By Sylvia Looi
Friday August 26, 2011
IPOH: The state Public Works Department (PWD) will spend RM16mil to carry out repairs on the KM43 to KM47 stretch of the Simpang Pulai-Cameron Highlands road.
Perak PWD director Datuk Dr Safry Kamal said the project would be implemented in three phases, of which RM4mil would be used to repair a barren slope at a part of the stretch.
He added that the remaining amount from the special allocation given by the Works Minister, would be spent next year.
Dr Safry said the department was closely monitoring the slope which had suffered massive erosion.
"Our slope engineering branch will alert us if there is any soil movement in that area," he said.
He added that a patrol team was also stationed there 24 hours daily.
"We will seal the road if it endangers motorists," he added.
He advised motorists to be vigilant when travelling on the stretch of the road, adding that new signage would be placed there to alert motorists. -- The Star News
Friday, August 12, 2011
Landslide at Simpang Pulai Stretch
Looks like there are some minor landslide along the Simpang Pulai stretch. Whenever it rains, soil erosion occurs and when the ground becomes liquefied, it won't be able to hold the weight of the soil and landslide occurs.
Danger up high
Friday August 12, 2011
A bus passing through a stretch of the Simpang Pulai-
Cameron Highlands road. — Saiful Bahri / The Star
THE Perak Public Works Department is monitoring a stretch of the Simpang Pulai - Cameron Highlands road which has suffered from massive erosion.
Its director Datuk Dr Safry Kamal Ahmad said the department has deployed a team to inspect the stretch from KM23 to KM27.
On Sunday, seven people died in a landslide at an orang asli village in the highlands. -- The Star News
Danger up high
Friday August 12, 2011
A bus passing through a stretch of the Simpang Pulai-
Cameron Highlands road. — Saiful Bahri / The Star
THE Perak Public Works Department is monitoring a stretch of the Simpang Pulai - Cameron Highlands road which has suffered from massive erosion.
Its director Datuk Dr Safry Kamal Ahmad said the department has deployed a team to inspect the stretch from KM23 to KM27.
On Sunday, seven people died in a landslide at an orang asli village in the highlands. -- The Star News
Monday, August 08, 2011
Cameron Highlands Landslide
Cameron Highlands landslide: Seven dead
Published: Monday August 8, 2011 MYT 8:08:00 AM
Updated: Monday August 8, 2011 MYT 1:44:12 PM
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Seven people, including a family of three, died in Sunday's landslide at Kampung Sungai Ruil, near Brinchang in Cameron Highlands, with two others surviving the incident.
A Fire and Rescue Department spokesman said the last victim was found at 1.21am Monday.
The two injured are being treated at the Ipoh General Hospital.
Following the recovery of all victims, search and rescue operations in the area haved been called off.
Aftermath of the landslide that hit the
Sungai Ruil Orang Asli settlement in Cameron Highlands
on Sunday. - Bernama - 8 August, 2011
The incident caused three houses in the village to be buried while another three were partially submerged.
Villagers gathered at the Sultanah Hajjah Kalsom Hospital mortuary Monday morning to claim the victims' remains.
Cameron Highlands MP Datuk S.K. Devamany, who was at the scene, said this was the first time an incident of such magnitude had hit the village.
Published: Monday August 8, 2011 MYT 8:08:00 AM
Updated: Monday August 8, 2011 MYT 1:44:12 PM
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Seven people, including a family of three, died in Sunday's landslide at Kampung Sungai Ruil, near Brinchang in Cameron Highlands, with two others surviving the incident.
A Fire and Rescue Department spokesman said the last victim was found at 1.21am Monday.
The two injured are being treated at the Ipoh General Hospital.
Following the recovery of all victims, search and rescue operations in the area haved been called off.
Aftermath of the landslide that hit the
Sungai Ruil Orang Asli settlement in Cameron Highlands
on Sunday. - Bernama - 8 August, 2011
The incident caused three houses in the village to be buried while another three were partially submerged.
Villagers gathered at the Sultanah Hajjah Kalsom Hospital mortuary Monday morning to claim the victims' remains.
Cameron Highlands MP Datuk S.K. Devamany, who was at the scene, said this was the first time an incident of such magnitude had hit the village.
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
Waste incinerator in Cameron Highlands
Not all welcome waste incinerator in Cameron Highlands
Tuesday November 2, 2010
FOR years, trash has been tipped over hill slopes at Cameron Highlands, marring the montane landscape and fouling up streams. Now, a waste incinerator has been built to deal with the waste. But not everyone welcomes the plant located on the existing dump in Kampung Raja.
They fear the health and environmental effects, as well as the project cost. Some say information on the project was not forthcoming.
“There was only one briefing for residents sometime in 2008. We had asked for more details then but no news came, and suddenly the plant was being built,” says Ramakrishnan Ramasamy, president of local NGO, Reach.
Suresh Kumar, branch secretary of Parti Sosialis Malaysia, says residents were only told of the positive effects of the incinerator – that there would be no smells and no polluting dump – but not of the risks of foul emissions. He says any possible pollution from the incinerator is especially of concern in Cameron Highlands because of the large farming areas.
Our lamentable track record in operating and maintaining trash incinerators further fuels anti-incinerator sentiments.
“Incinerators built previously were all abandoned due to the high cost of running them. They also had EIAs (Environmental Impact Assessment) then and still ended up as white elephants,” says Suresh.
A recycling scheme started by Reach three years ago has expanded to include five collection centres. Other vendors are also picking up recyclables. Hence, Ramasamy foresees a decline in trash volumes, which will ultimately affect the running of the incinerator. He says the Agricultural Department is also encouraging farmers to compost green waste.
“If all this (recycling and composting) have been given a chance and don’t work, then we can consider incineration. Incinerators should be the last choice,” says Ramasamy.--The StarNews
Tuesday November 2, 2010
FOR years, trash has been tipped over hill slopes at Cameron Highlands, marring the montane landscape and fouling up streams. Now, a waste incinerator has been built to deal with the waste. But not everyone welcomes the plant located on the existing dump in Kampung Raja.
They fear the health and environmental effects, as well as the project cost. Some say information on the project was not forthcoming.
“There was only one briefing for residents sometime in 2008. We had asked for more details then but no news came, and suddenly the plant was being built,” says Ramakrishnan Ramasamy, president of local NGO, Reach.
Suresh Kumar, branch secretary of Parti Sosialis Malaysia, says residents were only told of the positive effects of the incinerator – that there would be no smells and no polluting dump – but not of the risks of foul emissions. He says any possible pollution from the incinerator is especially of concern in Cameron Highlands because of the large farming areas.
Our lamentable track record in operating and maintaining trash incinerators further fuels anti-incinerator sentiments.
“Incinerators built previously were all abandoned due to the high cost of running them. They also had EIAs (Environmental Impact Assessment) then and still ended up as white elephants,” says Suresh.
A recycling scheme started by Reach three years ago has expanded to include five collection centres. Other vendors are also picking up recyclables. Hence, Ramasamy foresees a decline in trash volumes, which will ultimately affect the running of the incinerator. He says the Agricultural Department is also encouraging farmers to compost green waste.
“If all this (recycling and composting) have been given a chance and don’t work, then we can consider incineration. Incinerators should be the last choice,” says Ramasamy.--The StarNews
Saturday, September 25, 2010
World Clean-up Day programme
‘World Clean-up Day’ programme will be held today (Saturday September 25, 2010) at MDCH, Tanah Rata, from 8am-12.30pm and will be officiated by Cameron Highlands Municipal Council president. All are welcome.
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Dirty Parit Waterfall
> Rubbish complaint
Parit Waterfall, Cameron Highlands has lots of floating rubbish on Aug 23. UK tourists also saw shameful scene. Redfaced
Parit Waterfall, Cameron Highlands has lots of floating rubbish on Aug 23. UK tourists also saw shameful scene. Redfaced
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Stop the desecration of Cameron Highlands
Stop the desecration of Cameron Highlands
Thursday July 22, 2010
I was a resident of Cameron Highlands for almost 10 years and returned recently after a short break of three years. I am shocked at what I see today.
There appears to have been no control over land clearing, building development or river preservation. Hotels, housing schemes, farms and small industries have emerged indiscriminately all over the highlands, especially in the larger towns of Ringlet, Tanah Rata, Brinchang, Kea Farm and Bertam Valley.
There has been a complete desecration and disregard for this beautiful highland and its pristine rivers.
Thursday July 22, 2010
I was a resident of Cameron Highlands for almost 10 years and returned recently after a short break of three years. I am shocked at what I see today.
There appears to have been no control over land clearing, building development or river preservation. Hotels, housing schemes, farms and small industries have emerged indiscriminately all over the highlands, especially in the larger towns of Ringlet, Tanah Rata, Brinchang, Kea Farm and Bertam Valley.
There has been a complete desecration and disregard for this beautiful highland and its pristine rivers.
Thursday, July 01, 2010
Water Quality From Cameron Highlands Rivers
Stream investigators monitor water quality
Thursday July 1, 2010
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Chew Lai Ling and Suhaimi Mamat are teachers in Cameron Highlands. Chew, 42, teaches music at her own Cameron Music School in Brinchang whilst Suhaimi, 28, teaches special education to students with learning disabilities at Sekolah Kebangsaan Tanah Rata.
One Saturday morning, Chew, Suhaimi and another 26 teachers voluntarily gave up their rest day to walk about outdoors. They were assigned to a "crime scene investigation" of a different kind.
They went to several locations and by the time they arrived at the final spot within this highland resort at about 4.30pm, the ambient temperature had rose to 30°C. At the final "crime scene," the team got the results. It was what they had expected and it was not a favourable one.
Thursday July 1, 2010
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Chew Lai Ling and Suhaimi Mamat are teachers in Cameron Highlands. Chew, 42, teaches music at her own Cameron Music School in Brinchang whilst Suhaimi, 28, teaches special education to students with learning disabilities at Sekolah Kebangsaan Tanah Rata.
One Saturday morning, Chew, Suhaimi and another 26 teachers voluntarily gave up their rest day to walk about outdoors. They were assigned to a "crime scene investigation" of a different kind.
They went to several locations and by the time they arrived at the final spot within this highland resort at about 4.30pm, the ambient temperature had rose to 30°C. At the final "crime scene," the team got the results. It was what they had expected and it was not a favourable one.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Illegal land clearing for cultivation in Cameron Highlands
Sultan of Pahang upset with illegal land clearing for cultivation in Cameron Highlands
By Nik Naizi Husin
Saturday May 29, 2010
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Illegal land clearing for cultivation has become a big problem in Cameron Highlands that it has prompted a call from the Sultan of Pahang himself.
Sultan Ahmad Shah Sultan Abu Bakar said he had received complaints and assured that the Government would take stern action against the culprits, especially those involved in the most recent case in Kampung Lemoi.
He gave assurance to the orang asli community living there that the issue would be looked into.
Twelve hectares of land on the orang asli settlement in Kampung Lemoi was found to have been illegally cleared and cultivated.
"I have told the district officer (Datuk Mohd Noor Abdul Rani) to do the necessary pertaining to this matter," the Sultan told the orang asli during his visit to Kampung Manson recently.
He said police would be called to assist, if the need arose, in taking actions against those responsible for the land clearing.
He said there were also some who were given approval by the Government to open up land for cultivation but due to greed, went beyond the total hectarage approved.
He warned that the temporary operating licences of these greedy individuals could be cancelled.
Sultan Ahmad Shah said there had to be proper control on land clearing and excessive development in Cameron Highlands.
"It is a tourist spot visited by people from all over the world, so we do not want the environment to be affected by the illegal land clearing.
"If the environment is not protected, this area will face problems in future, such as disrupted water supply," he said, while commending efforts taken by the relevant authorities to tackle the illegal activity.
"I would also like to thank television stations for highlighting this issue for the Government to take note," he added.
New Route to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lipis to Bertam Valley
Earlier, the Sultan was briefed by Mohd Noor on the new road from Sungai Koyan (in Kuala Lipis) to Lembah Bertam (in Cameron Highlands).
The 79km route is scheduled for completion in August. Work is in progress on the final stretch of 11km.
Sultan Ahmad Shah said that once the road was completed, all buildings next to the road would be vacated.
"I am satisfied with the progress of this project. It is targetted to open by Aug 26," he added.
The new road will be the fourth access to Cameron Highlands, apart from the routes from Tapah, Simpang Pulai (both in Perak) and Gua Musang (Kelantan). -- The Star
By Nik Naizi Husin
Saturday May 29, 2010
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Illegal land clearing for cultivation has become a big problem in Cameron Highlands that it has prompted a call from the Sultan of Pahang himself.
Sultan Ahmad Shah Sultan Abu Bakar said he had received complaints and assured that the Government would take stern action against the culprits, especially those involved in the most recent case in Kampung Lemoi.
He gave assurance to the orang asli community living there that the issue would be looked into.
We are here for you: The Sultan talking to the orang asli during his visit to Kampung Manson.
Twelve hectares of land on the orang asli settlement in Kampung Lemoi was found to have been illegally cleared and cultivated.
"I have told the district officer (Datuk Mohd Noor Abdul Rani) to do the necessary pertaining to this matter," the Sultan told the orang asli during his visit to Kampung Manson recently.
He said police would be called to assist, if the need arose, in taking actions against those responsible for the land clearing.
He said there were also some who were given approval by the Government to open up land for cultivation but due to greed, went beyond the total hectarage approved.
He warned that the temporary operating licences of these greedy individuals could be cancelled.
Sultan Ahmad Shah said there had to be proper control on land clearing and excessive development in Cameron Highlands.
"It is a tourist spot visited by people from all over the world, so we do not want the environment to be affected by the illegal land clearing.
"If the environment is not protected, this area will face problems in future, such as disrupted water supply," he said, while commending efforts taken by the relevant authorities to tackle the illegal activity.
"I would also like to thank television stations for highlighting this issue for the Government to take note," he added.
New Route to Cameron Highlands from Kuala Lipis to Bertam Valley
Earlier, the Sultan was briefed by Mohd Noor on the new road from Sungai Koyan (in Kuala Lipis) to Lembah Bertam (in Cameron Highlands).
The 79km route is scheduled for completion in August. Work is in progress on the final stretch of 11km.
Sultan Ahmad Shah said that once the road was completed, all buildings next to the road would be vacated.
"I am satisfied with the progress of this project. It is targetted to open by Aug 26," he added.
The new road will be the fourth access to Cameron Highlands, apart from the routes from Tapah, Simpang Pulai (both in Perak) and Gua Musang (Kelantan). -- The Star
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Fraser's Hill Development Halted
Pahang state exco rules out any new development in Fraser’s Hill
By Roslina Mohamad
Tuesday April 13, 2010
KUANTAN: No new land will be opened for development in Bukit Fraser, a popular highland resort in the state. The decision, made three weeks ago by the state executive council, is effective immediately.
Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob said the move was necessary to protect and preserve the natural setting of the highland, also known as "Little England".
However, the state government would still allow development that would add value to the current products, buildings or facilities, he added.
"We may entertain requests that will add value, such as a farm or hotel operators who plan to renovate or upgrade their premises," he told reporters after witnessing the signing of a memorandum of understanding at Bukit Gambang Resort here yesterday.
The MoU, between Bukit Fraser Development Corporation (the state’s tourism agency) and 20 tourism-related associations, is aimed at fostering better ties and networking.
Adnan, citing many examples where over-development could spoil the environment, said the state government would not want the same thing to happen to Bukit Fraser.
"Only 10% of Bukit Fraser has been developed and the rest of the highland will remain untouched," he added.
On developments in Cameron Highlands, another popular highland resort in the state, Adnan said the situation was still under control.
Conceding that there was land encroachment, and noting the poor sanitary and waste disposal system, he said the state government was working to overcome the problems.
"We are doing something about it. We can still mitigate the destruction that has occured in Cameron Highlands. It is not that serious," Adnan said.
On the second access route to Bukit Fraser that has yet to be opened to the public due to road defects and ongoing repair work over the past 11 years, Adnan clarified that it was not abandoned.
The works department was in the midst of repairing the route, he added. -- The Star
By Roslina Mohamad
Tuesday April 13, 2010
KUANTAN: No new land will be opened for development in Bukit Fraser, a popular highland resort in the state. The decision, made three weeks ago by the state executive council, is effective immediately.
Pahang Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Adnan Yaakob said the move was necessary to protect and preserve the natural setting of the highland, also known as "Little England".
However, the state government would still allow development that would add value to the current products, buildings or facilities, he added.
"We may entertain requests that will add value, such as a farm or hotel operators who plan to renovate or upgrade their premises," he told reporters after witnessing the signing of a memorandum of understanding at Bukit Gambang Resort here yesterday.
Old world charm: Fraser’s Hill’s clock tower, the town’s landmark is reminiscent of little village squares found in the English countryside.
The MoU, between Bukit Fraser Development Corporation (the state’s tourism agency) and 20 tourism-related associations, is aimed at fostering better ties and networking.
Adnan, citing many examples where over-development could spoil the environment, said the state government would not want the same thing to happen to Bukit Fraser.
"Only 10% of Bukit Fraser has been developed and the rest of the highland will remain untouched," he added.
On developments in Cameron Highlands, another popular highland resort in the state, Adnan said the situation was still under control.
Conceding that there was land encroachment, and noting the poor sanitary and waste disposal system, he said the state government was working to overcome the problems.
"We are doing something about it. We can still mitigate the destruction that has occured in Cameron Highlands. It is not that serious," Adnan said.
On the second access route to Bukit Fraser that has yet to be opened to the public due to road defects and ongoing repair work over the past 11 years, Adnan clarified that it was not abandoned.
The works department was in the midst of repairing the route, he added. -- The Star
Saturday, March 27, 2010
REACH Cameron Highlands
REACH-ing out
Saturday March 27, 2010
Cameron Highlands has been experiencing accelerated growth, especially over the past two decades that, while beneficial to the local economy, is threatening the area with environmental degradation.
Part of this can be attributed to poor planning and enforcement.
Landslides, silted rivers and dams, constant water disruptions and poor water quality have become common issues in this picturesque highland retreat.
Alarmed by the rapidly deteriorating environment, especially the declining water quality and deforestation, a group of Cameron Highlands residents decided to form Regional Environmental Awareness Cameron Highlands or REACH in 2001.
Giving Mother Nature a hand: REACH volunteers planting tree saplings to counter deforestation in Cameron Highlands
"It all began back in 2000 when laboratory testings confirmed the presence of E. coli, a bacterium that’s a health hazard, in our treated drinking water," says REACH president Ramakrishnan Ramasamy, 45.
"As there were farms located above the water catchment areas, we collected water samples and did further tests. We were shocked to find that not only did they show presence of animal faeces, there was human waste as well due to the lack of proper sanitation by farm workers!
"The authorities promised to shut down the 68 farms but till now, nothing much has been done. We have no problems with farming but we are concerned when the farms are located above the water catchment areas," he adds.
REACH reports that 97% of Earth’s water is salty or otherwise undrinkable and almost 3% is locked away in ice caps and glaciers or deep underground. It is estimated that only 0.003% is actually available for use. Mountain areas are the main sources for fresh water, and so must be protected.
REACH is also worried about recent findings that show the presence of DDT in the rivers, a synthetic pesticide for controlling malaria that is banned in most developed countries.
"As DDT is banned in Malaysia, we suspect that it is smuggled from neighbouring countries and mixed into local pesticides. It has a half-life of up to 100 years, which is very detrimental to the environment and our health in the long run. We will publish a full report when we have compiled more facts," says Ramakrishnan.
Besides highlighting the water issues in Cameron Highlands, REACH’s other two core concerns are reforestation and recycling.
"We are working with the foresty department, corporate companies and organisations on an on-going project to reforest a 17ha site at Hulu Bertam Forest Reserve, Gunung Brinchang.
"Planting endemic tree saplings ensures that the original biodiversity of the area is retained," explains Ramakrishnan.
Their recycling project has also gained momentum due to overwhelming response from the community.
"We have set up many collection centres all across town and we have a compactor site where recyclables are compacted to facilitate easier transportation to factories in Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur," reveals Ramakrishnan.
Many hotels and schools in Cameron Highlands are already involved in the programme, encouraging recycling via buy-back schemes and creating awareness through talks.
REACH published Wild Orchids Of Cameron Highlands last year, a coffeetable book featuring the 630 wild orchid species of Cameron Highlands.
"Our committee took eight years to work on this book. Plans are also afoot to set up a wild orchid sanctuary to house wild orchids confiscated from poachers," he says.
REACH is run by a group of volunteers with funds from membership, donations, small grants, reforestation activities and sales of souvenirs. Visit www.reach.org.my to become a volunteer or for more details.
Saturday March 27, 2010
Cameron Highlands has been experiencing accelerated growth, especially over the past two decades that, while beneficial to the local economy, is threatening the area with environmental degradation.
Part of this can be attributed to poor planning and enforcement.
Landslides, silted rivers and dams, constant water disruptions and poor water quality have become common issues in this picturesque highland retreat.
Alarmed by the rapidly deteriorating environment, especially the declining water quality and deforestation, a group of Cameron Highlands residents decided to form Regional Environmental Awareness Cameron Highlands or REACH in 2001.
Giving Mother Nature a hand: REACH volunteers planting tree saplings to counter deforestation in Cameron Highlands
"It all began back in 2000 when laboratory testings confirmed the presence of E. coli, a bacterium that’s a health hazard, in our treated drinking water," says REACH president Ramakrishnan Ramasamy, 45.
"As there were farms located above the water catchment areas, we collected water samples and did further tests. We were shocked to find that not only did they show presence of animal faeces, there was human waste as well due to the lack of proper sanitation by farm workers!
"The authorities promised to shut down the 68 farms but till now, nothing much has been done. We have no problems with farming but we are concerned when the farms are located above the water catchment areas," he adds.
REACH reports that 97% of Earth’s water is salty or otherwise undrinkable and almost 3% is locked away in ice caps and glaciers or deep underground. It is estimated that only 0.003% is actually available for use. Mountain areas are the main sources for fresh water, and so must be protected.
REACH is also worried about recent findings that show the presence of DDT in the rivers, a synthetic pesticide for controlling malaria that is banned in most developed countries.
"As DDT is banned in Malaysia, we suspect that it is smuggled from neighbouring countries and mixed into local pesticides. It has a half-life of up to 100 years, which is very detrimental to the environment and our health in the long run. We will publish a full report when we have compiled more facts," says Ramakrishnan.
Besides highlighting the water issues in Cameron Highlands, REACH’s other two core concerns are reforestation and recycling.
"We are working with the foresty department, corporate companies and organisations on an on-going project to reforest a 17ha site at Hulu Bertam Forest Reserve, Gunung Brinchang.
"Planting endemic tree saplings ensures that the original biodiversity of the area is retained," explains Ramakrishnan.
Their recycling project has also gained momentum due to overwhelming response from the community.
"We have set up many collection centres all across town and we have a compactor site where recyclables are compacted to facilitate easier transportation to factories in Ipoh and Kuala Lumpur," reveals Ramakrishnan.
Many hotels and schools in Cameron Highlands are already involved in the programme, encouraging recycling via buy-back schemes and creating awareness through talks.
REACH published Wild Orchids Of Cameron Highlands last year, a coffeetable book featuring the 630 wild orchid species of Cameron Highlands.
"Our committee took eight years to work on this book. Plans are also afoot to set up a wild orchid sanctuary to house wild orchids confiscated from poachers," he says.
REACH is run by a group of volunteers with funds from membership, donations, small grants, reforestation activities and sales of souvenirs. Visit www.reach.org.my to become a volunteer or for more details.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Cameron Highlands Enviromental Issues
Cameron Highlands will always have environmental issues as long as there are "tidak apa" people in the government approving project without a care. Perhaps the lack of transparency in approving projects or some other undesirably elements (you know what I mean, the sad state of affairs in this country won't be solved overnight). Cameron Highlands will not be the only affected place, there are so many examples of gross neglect in preserving the environment in every part of Malaysia. Once this blows over, it will just be a footnote in the government. Sheesh...
Stop project in Cameron
Tuesday January 12, 2010
GEORGE TOWN: The Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) Anggerik project in Cameron Highlands should be cancelled to prevent tragedies related to hill development.
Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) president S.M. Mohamed Idris said that although the authorities’ move to issue a stop work order was positive, they should in fact put an end to the project.
"The project should not have been approved by the authorities as it falls under Class 4 (above 35 degrees gradient) slopes.
"There should not be any form of physical development in this environmentally sensitive area," he said.
Mohamed Idris, who is also Consumers’ Association of Penang president, was commenting on The Star’s front page report headline, "Hillside hazard" which said phase one of Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) project had encroached into 'forbidden’ zones. The proposed settlement scheme fell on a hilly terrain within Mentigi Forest Reserve and Gunung Jasar.
Mohamed Idris said that in view of the grave danger and previous tragedies in highland areas, it was vital the proposed development be relocated to a safer location.
"The authorities should also take firm action to ensure that the developers undertake rehabilitation of the exposed slopes," he said in a statement. -- Star News
Bureau urged to do own probe on environmental complaints
Wednesday January 13, 2010
PETALING JAYA: The Public Complaints Bureau's (PCB) over-reliance on feedback from government agencies that it is investigating can undermine its ability to resolve recurring problems of over-development in Cameron Highlands.
"I don't think the bureau is doing a thorough job. It is overly reliant on agencies against which complaints were levelled for clarification.
"It should be more proactive in handling complaints, like analysing all angles of mismanagement," said R. Ramakrishnan, the president of environmental watchdog Regional Environmental Awareness Cameron Highlands (Reach).
He said that from his experience in handling environmental-related complaints filed with PCB, the bureau wrote to the agencies concerned for comments.
"For instance, the slopes on Gunung Jasar clearly fall into the category of environmentally-sensitive area, where no physical development is to be allowed, and this is noted in the Local Plan, a document prepared by the district council itself," he said in response to a Starprobe article on the proposed settlement scheme in Tanah Rata.
The scheme, Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) Anggerik, is to be undertaken by the chairman of the Desa Anggerik Development Committee and claimed on its signboard that it had obtained the work permit from the Land Office.
District officer Datuk Mohamad Noor Abdul Rani, who is in charge of the Land Office, however, has refused to comment on the matter.
Local residents have petitioned for the project to be relocated as the development could destabilise the steep hillside. -- Star News
Contractor erred during earthworks
Thursday January 14, 2010
KUANTAN: The contractor who carried out earthworks in a settlement scheme that apparently encroached into a hilly terrain within the Mentigi Forest Reserve and Gunung Jasar did not put in place mitigation measures.
State Local Government, Environment and Health Committee chairman Datuk Hoh Khai Mun said the contractor, who started earthworks on May 4, did not have measures such as a siltation pond, causing silt to flow into a nearby creek.
"A stop-work order was issued on May 8 last year and no work has been done since as the authorities are not satisfied with the contractor's mitigation steps," he said after a state exco meeting here yesterday.
The Star highlighted the adverse environmental effects following earthworks carried out for the Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) Anggerik project, which is a new settlement in Cameron Highlands.
Silt and uprooted old growth during land clearing had affected the creek's water quality while nearby residents had expressed concern over the site, described as an "environmentally sensitive area".
It was also reported that the project was undertaken by the Desa Anggerik Development Committee chairman and a building plan indicated that there would be 80 lots on a 13ha area.
Hoh said an application for a land clearing permit was submitted to the land and district office about three months earlier by Sabri Saad, a Desa Anggerik committee representative.
He said the Drainage and Irrigation Department had, in its feedback, stated that the DID had no objection to the application as the creek was small.
"A permit was issued on April 17 last year with various conditions and that the department would monitor the progress," Hoh said, adding that the stop-work order was issued following a complaint from the DID.
However, Hoh denied the scheme had encroached into the reserve, adding that it was actually located within a Malay reserve area gazetted on Nov 19, 1998.
He said the creek was also not feeding into Sungai Terla, which was the main source of water for Cameron Highlands, as the site was located downstream from the river and the temporary occupation licences were only for 76 individuals on an 8ha land.
Hoh said he would meet the district officer today.
Stop project in Cameron
Tuesday January 12, 2010
GEORGE TOWN: The Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) Anggerik project in Cameron Highlands should be cancelled to prevent tragedies related to hill development.
Sahabat Alam Malaysia (SAM) president S.M. Mohamed Idris said that although the authorities’ move to issue a stop work order was positive, they should in fact put an end to the project.
"The project should not have been approved by the authorities as it falls under Class 4 (above 35 degrees gradient) slopes.
"There should not be any form of physical development in this environmentally sensitive area," he said.
Mohamed Idris, who is also Consumers’ Association of Penang president, was commenting on The Star’s front page report headline, "Hillside hazard" which said phase one of Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) project had encroached into 'forbidden’ zones. The proposed settlement scheme fell on a hilly terrain within Mentigi Forest Reserve and Gunung Jasar.
Mohamed Idris said that in view of the grave danger and previous tragedies in highland areas, it was vital the proposed development be relocated to a safer location.
"The authorities should also take firm action to ensure that the developers undertake rehabilitation of the exposed slopes," he said in a statement. -- Star News
Bureau urged to do own probe on environmental complaints
Wednesday January 13, 2010
PETALING JAYA: The Public Complaints Bureau's (PCB) over-reliance on feedback from government agencies that it is investigating can undermine its ability to resolve recurring problems of over-development in Cameron Highlands.
"I don't think the bureau is doing a thorough job. It is overly reliant on agencies against which complaints were levelled for clarification.
"It should be more proactive in handling complaints, like analysing all angles of mismanagement," said R. Ramakrishnan, the president of environmental watchdog Regional Environmental Awareness Cameron Highlands (Reach).
He said that from his experience in handling environmental-related complaints filed with PCB, the bureau wrote to the agencies concerned for comments.
"For instance, the slopes on Gunung Jasar clearly fall into the category of environmentally-sensitive area, where no physical development is to be allowed, and this is noted in the Local Plan, a document prepared by the district council itself," he said in response to a Starprobe article on the proposed settlement scheme in Tanah Rata.
The scheme, Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) Anggerik, is to be undertaken by the chairman of the Desa Anggerik Development Committee and claimed on its signboard that it had obtained the work permit from the Land Office.
District officer Datuk Mohamad Noor Abdul Rani, who is in charge of the Land Office, however, has refused to comment on the matter.
Local residents have petitioned for the project to be relocated as the development could destabilise the steep hillside. -- Star News
Contractor erred during earthworks
Thursday January 14, 2010
KUANTAN: The contractor who carried out earthworks in a settlement scheme that apparently encroached into a hilly terrain within the Mentigi Forest Reserve and Gunung Jasar did not put in place mitigation measures.
State Local Government, Environment and Health Committee chairman Datuk Hoh Khai Mun said the contractor, who started earthworks on May 4, did not have measures such as a siltation pond, causing silt to flow into a nearby creek.
"A stop-work order was issued on May 8 last year and no work has been done since as the authorities are not satisfied with the contractor's mitigation steps," he said after a state exco meeting here yesterday.
The Star highlighted the adverse environmental effects following earthworks carried out for the Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) Anggerik project, which is a new settlement in Cameron Highlands.
Silt and uprooted old growth during land clearing had affected the creek's water quality while nearby residents had expressed concern over the site, described as an "environmentally sensitive area".
It was also reported that the project was undertaken by the Desa Anggerik Development Committee chairman and a building plan indicated that there would be 80 lots on a 13ha area.
Hoh said an application for a land clearing permit was submitted to the land and district office about three months earlier by Sabri Saad, a Desa Anggerik committee representative.
He said the Drainage and Irrigation Department had, in its feedback, stated that the DID had no objection to the application as the creek was small.
"A permit was issued on April 17 last year with various conditions and that the department would monitor the progress," Hoh said, adding that the stop-work order was issued following a complaint from the DID.
However, Hoh denied the scheme had encroached into the reserve, adding that it was actually located within a Malay reserve area gazetted on Nov 19, 1998.
He said the creek was also not feeding into Sungai Terla, which was the main source of water for Cameron Highlands, as the site was located downstream from the river and the temporary occupation licences were only for 76 individuals on an 8ha land.
Hoh said he would meet the district officer today.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Hillside hazard and other issues
Cameron Highlands is popular for tourist. But it has a number of enviromental issues. And yet again they are in the limelight for irresponsible development. And this was showcase in the frontpage of the local daily too! Cameron Highlands popularity sure produces it own set of problems. Hopefully the authority will do the needful to keep the enviroment protected or we are going to lose this beautiful highland retreat, not to mention the damage to its biodiversity. Sigh!
Hillside Hazard
11-January-2010
By Hillary Chiew
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: This famous hill resort is no stranger to bad press, environmentally speaking.
From landslides to rising temperatures, from illegal land use to river contamination, the famous hill station is threatened by overdevelopment.
With the scarcity of flat land, development projects have inevitably encroached into forbidden zones. The latest involves a settlement scheme on a hilly terrain within Mentigi Forest Reserve and Gunung Jasar.
Last May 4, bulldozers cut a 500m trail into the forest reserve, uprooting the old growth and silting creeks that feed into Sungai Tela, a major water source of Cameron Highlands.
A signboard declared that the clearing is for phase one of Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) Anggerik undertaken by the chairman of the Desa Anggerik Development Committee. There is no mention of the architect, geotechnical engineer and developer.
But the earthwork stopped abruptly four days later. Sources said a stop-work order was issued by the District Office, signed by its Chief Assistant District Officer Mohd Isa Awang Chik, purportedly following complaints from the Drainage and Irrigation Department over the absence of silt prevention measures during the construction of the access road.
For the last eight months, residents of Carnation Park and their neighbours in Lembah Jasar, who live next to the project and had opposed it, have been left in the dark over the fate of the project. The residents numbering approximately 2,800, are wary that the project might be allowed to resume later.
A resident, who only wanted to be identified as Mrs Chong, said the residents first heard about plans to develop the forest reserve in 2005.
"We collected (signatures for) a petition and submitted it to the Mentri Besar. Then everything went quiet. Right after the March 8 general election (in 2008), word went around that part of the reserve had been degazetted and turned into a Malay reserve, and that temporary land titles had been issued to the Desa Anggerik Committee.
"We are shocked that a human settlement is going to be located on such steep slopes. It will endanger the would-be occupants as well as we who live at the fringe of the hill," she said.
An area of 562ha was gazetted in 1933 as the Mentigi Forest Reserve but a total of 203ha were already excised over the years, with the largest plot being 192ha in 1996.
She said Gunung Jasar is prone to erosion, as evident from the occurrence of several landslides along the TNB pylon; the area was destablished when the transmitter structures were erected. Chong expressed concern that future phases of the housing project will creep into steeper terrains.
She insisted that the petition was not against the creation of a Malay village but was an appeal for the project to be relocated to a safer place.
According to the Local Plan, the project site falls into Class 3 (above 26° gradient) and Class 4 (above 35° gradient) slopes which are environmentally sensitive areas that should not have any form of physical development.
Nevertheless, the project claimed that it had obtained a "work permit" from the Land and District Office, as declared on its signboard.
District officer Datuk Mohamad Noor Abdul Rani, however, refused to be interviewed. He conveyed a message of "no comments" through his personal assistant.
When contacted, Desa Anggerik Committee chairman Usop Yong also declined comment.
"The matter is with the state government. No comments," he said.
Meanwhile, the contractor for the project – Alam Rimba Sdn Bhd – when approached in Tanah Rata in June last year confirmed that a stop-work order was issued in the early days of the project but said the directive came from Kuantan, the state administrative centre.
"The state government instructed that all hill slope projects be stopped temporarily. The rest of it, I don't know. I'm just the contractor," said its director Capt (Rtd) Azman Ahmad.
However, he claimed that the title for the land was approved 15 years ago.
"We discussed with the Land and District Office and the State Govern-ment the shortage of land for the growing population of Malays in Cameron Highlands. Those given the lots are Malays who live in the town, like civil servants, business operators and pensioners. They are low-income earners."
When asked about safety measures, he explained that the cutting of the slope will be limited to a built-up area of around 278sqm in a lot measuring 501sqm to 929sqm.
The building plan obtained indicated that there would be 80 lots on the 13ha site. Overlaying the plan on the Local Plan clearly showed the type of terrain the development will be located on (see graphic).
He said the building plan was drawn up by the Town and Country Planning Department and submitted to the Land and District Office for approval.
He later turned hostile and questioned this reporter's intention. "Is this going to be a positive or negative story? Are you trying to jeopardise a project for the Malays?"
Last July, residents brought their concerns to the attention of the Public Complaints Bureau (PCB).
Following its inspection of the site on Sept 20 by two of its officers, accompanied by a land and district senior officer, state PCB director Azlan Shah Abdul Latif informed Chong (the complainant) that the case was closed as there was no evidence of earthwork that contravened the stop-work order and that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission is investigating the case which it has listed as case No.48793.
The state Malaysian Anti-Corrup-tion Commission has not found any element of corruption in the development of the project in Kampung Tersusun Melayu Angerik.
Pahang MACC Director Datuk Sutinah Sutan said the commission had received complaints and reports from the public alleging corrupt practises.
"We investigated each and every allegation and found that the problem was more towards administrative than corrruption.
"Nonetheless we will continue to keep an eye on the project to ensure there is no hanky panky involved,'' she told The Star.
She appealed to the public to contact or provide the MACC with information if they knew of any corrupt practises that took place either involving the project or any other deals. -- StarProbe.
Water supply affected by overdevelopment
11/1/2010
IT may be the coolest place in Pahang but Cameron Highlands is a water-stressed district in the state.
A resident of Carnation Park, Vasu Karupiah, said that overdevelopment has affected the water catchment areas in the highlands and that illegal vegetable farms are placing tremendous strain on the water supply. The situation is further compounded by the influx of tourists during the holiday seasons.
"During peak season, the flow is controlled, and this housing estate is at the end of the supply line, so we often end up without any water," he lamented.
As Carnation Park, a mixed housing estate comprising four-storey apartments, link-houses, low- to medium-cost flats and bungalows – and 570 households – is close to the Mentigi Forest Reserve which has clear running streams, residents have resorted to siphoning the water off the hills.
They claimed that they had no choice as they could not cope with the frequent water disruptions. A check in the hills showed rubber pipes lining the paths, transferring mountain stream water into huge rubber water containers which are then directed to individual homes.
Other residents said it was a shame that the water supply is getting contaminated as more water catchment areas are contaminated due to soil erosion and the leeching of agro-chemicals from indiscriminate land-clearing and farming practices.
Tung Wan Fee, who used to picnic atop Gunung Jasar, said the highest pylon is perched precariously on the ridge. He expressed concern that any further disturbance could destabilise the slope and cause the pylon to collapse.
Many Kandasamy, a resident of Block B of the SEDC flats located on a hillock, said he learnt that the controversial Kampung Anggerik development project will stretch from Carnation Park to the slopes surrounding the flats.
"We have a water tower here that might collapse if the slope is disturbed. We've not been told what exactly the project entails. How can a housing project on these slopes be approved?" he said, gesturing towards the slopes that are presently covered in thick vegetation. -- StarProbe.
Hillside Hazard
11-January-2010
By Hillary Chiew
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: This famous hill resort is no stranger to bad press, environmentally speaking.
From landslides to rising temperatures, from illegal land use to river contamination, the famous hill station is threatened by overdevelopment.
With the scarcity of flat land, development projects have inevitably encroached into forbidden zones. The latest involves a settlement scheme on a hilly terrain within Mentigi Forest Reserve and Gunung Jasar.
Last May 4, bulldozers cut a 500m trail into the forest reserve, uprooting the old growth and silting creeks that feed into Sungai Tela, a major water source of Cameron Highlands.
A signboard declared that the clearing is for phase one of Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) Anggerik undertaken by the chairman of the Desa Anggerik Development Committee. There is no mention of the architect, geotechnical engineer and developer.
But the earthwork stopped abruptly four days later. Sources said a stop-work order was issued by the District Office, signed by its Chief Assistant District Officer Mohd Isa Awang Chik, purportedly following complaints from the Drainage and Irrigation Department over the absence of silt prevention measures during the construction of the access road.
For the last eight months, residents of Carnation Park and their neighbours in Lembah Jasar, who live next to the project and had opposed it, have been left in the dark over the fate of the project. The residents numbering approximately 2,800, are wary that the project might be allowed to resume later.
A resident, who only wanted to be identified as Mrs Chong, said the residents first heard about plans to develop the forest reserve in 2005.
High tension: The TNB pylon on the ridge of Gunung Jasar, Cameron Highlands has caused landslides on the steep terrain.
"We collected (signatures for) a petition and submitted it to the Mentri Besar. Then everything went quiet. Right after the March 8 general election (in 2008), word went around that part of the reserve had been degazetted and turned into a Malay reserve, and that temporary land titles had been issued to the Desa Anggerik Committee.
"We are shocked that a human settlement is going to be located on such steep slopes. It will endanger the would-be occupants as well as we who live at the fringe of the hill," she said.
An area of 562ha was gazetted in 1933 as the Mentigi Forest Reserve but a total of 203ha were already excised over the years, with the largest plot being 192ha in 1996.
She said Gunung Jasar is prone to erosion, as evident from the occurrence of several landslides along the TNB pylon; the area was destablished when the transmitter structures were erected. Chong expressed concern that future phases of the housing project will creep into steeper terrains.
She insisted that the petition was not against the creation of a Malay village but was an appeal for the project to be relocated to a safer place.
According to the Local Plan, the project site falls into Class 3 (above 26° gradient) and Class 4 (above 35° gradient) slopes which are environmentally sensitive areas that should not have any form of physical development.
Nevertheless, the project claimed that it had obtained a "work permit" from the Land and District Office, as declared on its signboard.
District officer Datuk Mohamad Noor Abdul Rani, however, refused to be interviewed. He conveyed a message of "no comments" through his personal assistant.
When contacted, Desa Anggerik Committee chairman Usop Yong also declined comment.
Who's responsible? The signboard announcing the Phase One development of Kampung Tersusun (Melayu) Anggerik next to the road leading into Carnation Park. It does not state who the architect, geotechnical engineer or developer are.
"The matter is with the state government. No comments," he said.
Meanwhile, the contractor for the project – Alam Rimba Sdn Bhd – when approached in Tanah Rata in June last year confirmed that a stop-work order was issued in the early days of the project but said the directive came from Kuantan, the state administrative centre.
"The state government instructed that all hill slope projects be stopped temporarily. The rest of it, I don't know. I'm just the contractor," said its director Capt (Rtd) Azman Ahmad.
However, he claimed that the title for the land was approved 15 years ago.
"We discussed with the Land and District Office and the State Govern-ment the shortage of land for the growing population of Malays in Cameron Highlands. Those given the lots are Malays who live in the town, like civil servants, business operators and pensioners. They are low-income earners."
When asked about safety measures, he explained that the cutting of the slope will be limited to a built-up area of around 278sqm in a lot measuring 501sqm to 929sqm.
The building plan obtained indicated that there would be 80 lots on the 13ha site. Overlaying the plan on the Local Plan clearly showed the type of terrain the development will be located on (see graphic).
He said the building plan was drawn up by the Town and Country Planning Department and submitted to the Land and District Office for approval.
He later turned hostile and questioned this reporter's intention. "Is this going to be a positive or negative story? Are you trying to jeopardise a project for the Malays?"
Last July, residents brought their concerns to the attention of the Public Complaints Bureau (PCB).
Following its inspection of the site on Sept 20 by two of its officers, accompanied by a land and district senior officer, state PCB director Azlan Shah Abdul Latif informed Chong (the complainant) that the case was closed as there was no evidence of earthwork that contravened the stop-work order and that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission is investigating the case which it has listed as case No.48793.
The state Malaysian Anti-Corrup-tion Commission has not found any element of corruption in the development of the project in Kampung Tersusun Melayu Angerik.
Pahang MACC Director Datuk Sutinah Sutan said the commission had received complaints and reports from the public alleging corrupt practises.
"We investigated each and every allegation and found that the problem was more towards administrative than corrruption.
"Nonetheless we will continue to keep an eye on the project to ensure there is no hanky panky involved,'' she told The Star.
She appealed to the public to contact or provide the MACC with information if they knew of any corrupt practises that took place either involving the project or any other deals. -- StarProbe.
Water supply affected by overdevelopment
11/1/2010
IT may be the coolest place in Pahang but Cameron Highlands is a water-stressed district in the state.
A resident of Carnation Park, Vasu Karupiah, said that overdevelopment has affected the water catchment areas in the highlands and that illegal vegetable farms are placing tremendous strain on the water supply. The situation is further compounded by the influx of tourists during the holiday seasons.
"During peak season, the flow is controlled, and this housing estate is at the end of the supply line, so we often end up without any water," he lamented.
As Carnation Park, a mixed housing estate comprising four-storey apartments, link-houses, low- to medium-cost flats and bungalows – and 570 households – is close to the Mentigi Forest Reserve which has clear running streams, residents have resorted to siphoning the water off the hills.
They claimed that they had no choice as they could not cope with the frequent water disruptions. A check in the hills showed rubber pipes lining the paths, transferring mountain stream water into huge rubber water containers which are then directed to individual homes.
Other residents said it was a shame that the water supply is getting contaminated as more water catchment areas are contaminated due to soil erosion and the leeching of agro-chemicals from indiscriminate land-clearing and farming practices.
Tung Wan Fee, who used to picnic atop Gunung Jasar, said the highest pylon is perched precariously on the ridge. He expressed concern that any further disturbance could destabilise the slope and cause the pylon to collapse.
Many Kandasamy, a resident of Block B of the SEDC flats located on a hillock, said he learnt that the controversial Kampung Anggerik development project will stretch from Carnation Park to the slopes surrounding the flats.
"We have a water tower here that might collapse if the slope is disturbed. We've not been told what exactly the project entails. How can a housing project on these slopes be approved?" he said, gesturing towards the slopes that are presently covered in thick vegetation. -- StarProbe.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Cameron Highlands Farming Issues
Farms encroaching on reserved land taken down
By Ivan Loh
23/Dec/2009
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Enforcement officers demolished the sheds covering four vegetable farms built in the buffer zone of reserved land near Sungai Terla.
It was not a smooth operation with the farmers screaming and crying aloud as Rela personnel held them aside. Reporters who had gathered there were also yelled at.
The distraught farmers even tore down a bridge across the river to prevent the enforcement personnel from getting to the farms.
District Officer Datuk Mohamad Noor Abdul Rani said action was taken as the plots were too near the riverside, with pesticides and fertilisers seeping into the river.
He said plastic bags and pesticide containers were also dumped near the river.
Mohamad Noor said the ruling was that farms should be at least 10m away from rivers.
"The river is the intake point to a reservoir in Cameron Highlands. Tests conducted on the water quality by the Health Department recently showed that it was unsatisfactory," he told a press conference after the demolition work.
He assured that the water could still be treated and would be safe for consumption, adding that another seven farms there would be monitored by the Pahang Drainage and Irrigation Department until new directives to clear the farms were given.
Mohamad Noor said all 11 farmers have had their Temporary Occupancy Licences revoked for encroaching into the reserved land.
He said the issue only came to their attention following a TV programme that highlighted the pollution caused by the farmers.
"The farmers already know that they will not get any compensation because they have encroached onto reserved land. But they can still appeal to the Pahang government for land to continue farming," he added.
Tanah Rata assemblyman Ho Yip Kap pledged to raise the matter with state officials to help the affected farmers. -- The Star
Chaos as vegetable farms near river are demolished
By Ivan Loh
24/Dec/2009
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Enforcement officers demolished sheds covering four vegetable plots in the buffer zone of a reserve land near Sungai Terla.
It was not a smooth operation, however. The farmers were screaming and crying aloud as Rela personnel held them down. Reporters who had gathered there were also yelled at.
The farmers even tried to tear down a bridge across the river to prevent the enforcement personnel from getting to the farms.
District Officer Datuk Mohamad Noor Abdul Rani said action was taken as the plots were too near the riverside, with pesticides and fertiliser seeping into the river.
He said plastic bags and pesticide containers were also dumped near the river.
Mohamad Noor said the ruling was that farms should be at least 10m away from rivers. "The river is the intake point to a reservoir in Cameron Highlands. Tests conducted on the water quality by the Health Department recently showed that it was unsatisfactory," he told a press conference after the demolition work.
He gave an assurance that the water could still be treated and would be safe for consumption.
Mohamad Noor said all 11 farmers have had their Temporary Occupancy Licences revoked due to the encroachment into the reserve land.
He said the issue only came to their attention after a TV programme that highlighted the pollution caused by the farmers.
"The farmers already know that they will not get any compensation because they have encroached onto reserve land. But they can still appeal to the Pahang government for land to continue farming," he added.
Tanah Rata assemblyman Ho Yip Kap pledged to raise the matter with state officials to help the affected farmers. -- The Star
By Ivan Loh
23/Dec/2009
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Enforcement officers demolished the sheds covering four vegetable farms built in the buffer zone of reserved land near Sungai Terla.
It was not a smooth operation with the farmers screaming and crying aloud as Rela personnel held them aside. Reporters who had gathered there were also yelled at.
The distraught farmers even tore down a bridge across the river to prevent the enforcement personnel from getting to the farms.
District Officer Datuk Mohamad Noor Abdul Rani said action was taken as the plots were too near the riverside, with pesticides and fertilisers seeping into the river.
He said plastic bags and pesticide containers were also dumped near the river.
Mohamad Noor said the ruling was that farms should be at least 10m away from rivers.
"The river is the intake point to a reservoir in Cameron Highlands. Tests conducted on the water quality by the Health Department recently showed that it was unsatisfactory," he told a press conference after the demolition work.
He assured that the water could still be treated and would be safe for consumption, adding that another seven farms there would be monitored by the Pahang Drainage and Irrigation Department until new directives to clear the farms were given.
Mohamad Noor said all 11 farmers have had their Temporary Occupancy Licences revoked for encroaching into the reserved land.
He said the issue only came to their attention following a TV programme that highlighted the pollution caused by the farmers.
"The farmers already know that they will not get any compensation because they have encroached onto reserved land. But they can still appeal to the Pahang government for land to continue farming," he added.
Tanah Rata assemblyman Ho Yip Kap pledged to raise the matter with state officials to help the affected farmers. -- The Star
Chaos as vegetable farms near river are demolished
By Ivan Loh
24/Dec/2009
CAMERON HIGHLANDS: Enforcement officers demolished sheds covering four vegetable plots in the buffer zone of a reserve land near Sungai Terla.
It was not a smooth operation, however. The farmers were screaming and crying aloud as Rela personnel held them down. Reporters who had gathered there were also yelled at.
The farmers even tried to tear down a bridge across the river to prevent the enforcement personnel from getting to the farms.
District Officer Datuk Mohamad Noor Abdul Rani said action was taken as the plots were too near the riverside, with pesticides and fertiliser seeping into the river.
Total disarray: A woman crying as Rela members restrain her husband after they were overcome by emotion when their farm in Kuala Terla was demolished by Cameron Highlands district office enforcement officers yesterday. – Saiful Bahri / The Star
He said plastic bags and pesticide containers were also dumped near the river.
Mohamad Noor said the ruling was that farms should be at least 10m away from rivers. "The river is the intake point to a reservoir in Cameron Highlands. Tests conducted on the water quality by the Health Department recently showed that it was unsatisfactory," he told a press conference after the demolition work.
He gave an assurance that the water could still be treated and would be safe for consumption.
Mohamad Noor said all 11 farmers have had their Temporary Occupancy Licences revoked due to the encroachment into the reserve land.
He said the issue only came to their attention after a TV programme that highlighted the pollution caused by the farmers.
"The farmers already know that they will not get any compensation because they have encroached onto reserve land. But they can still appeal to the Pahang government for land to continue farming," he added.
Tanah Rata assemblyman Ho Yip Kap pledged to raise the matter with state officials to help the affected farmers. -- The Star
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Erosion watch at Bukit Larut
Erosion watch at Bukit Larut
By Christina Koh
Tuesday July 28, 2009
The Perak Government will direct the developer of the Tea Garden Restaurant project on Bukit Larut in Taiping to take precautionary measures to prevent severe erosion.
State Health, Local Government, Consumer Affairs, Environment, Public Transportation and Non-Islamic Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon said the developer was now clearing the land for the project’s septic tank system.
He told reporters after a recent inspection of the project site 636m above sea level that the state would ensure that the developer planted grass cover once the clearing was done.
He said the Department of Environment would monitor the situation.
Dr Mah said this following complaints that Bukit Larut, a popular tourist destination and sensitive water catchment area, was apparently being threatened by erosion and indiscriminate dumping of rubbish.
By Christina Koh
Tuesday July 28, 2009
The Perak Government will direct the developer of the Tea Garden Restaurant project on Bukit Larut in Taiping to take precautionary measures to prevent severe erosion.
State Health, Local Government, Consumer Affairs, Environment, Public Transportation and Non-Islamic Affairs Committee chairman Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon said the developer was now clearing the land for the project’s septic tank system.
He told reporters after a recent inspection of the project site 636m above sea level that the state would ensure that the developer planted grass cover once the clearing was done.
He said the Department of Environment would monitor the situation.
Dr Mah said this following complaints that Bukit Larut, a popular tourist destination and sensitive water catchment area, was apparently being threatened by erosion and indiscriminate dumping of rubbish.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Clean up of Cameron Highlands tourist spots
We need to clean up our act at tourist spots
Tuesday July 14, 2009
I was in Cameron Highlands recently and the weather was refreshingly nice - cool and breezy. There were many foreigners there, which goes to show that Cameron Highlands still manages to draw the tourists inspite of the rapid developments that go on at the resort.
However, what upsets me is the rubbish that people throw on the streets and into the rivers.
Take a trip to Parit Falls, for instance, and the stench of the rubbish in the water hits you immediately.
Why doesn’t Majlis Perbandaran Cameron Highlands clean it up instead of allowing it to float on the water for days. I was there for four days and by the time I left, it was still there.
Then, there are the dirty toilets.
Even at Mardi’s agriculture park, maintenance of public toilets is below par altough entrance fee is charged.
Malaysia has numerous beautiful destinations. However, we fail in maintaing these areas nor do we keep them clean.
Alan Yu Toh Bing
Shah Alam, Selangor.
-- Star News Opinion
Tuesday July 14, 2009
I was in Cameron Highlands recently and the weather was refreshingly nice - cool and breezy. There were many foreigners there, which goes to show that Cameron Highlands still manages to draw the tourists inspite of the rapid developments that go on at the resort.
However, what upsets me is the rubbish that people throw on the streets and into the rivers.
Take a trip to Parit Falls, for instance, and the stench of the rubbish in the water hits you immediately.
Why doesn’t Majlis Perbandaran Cameron Highlands clean it up instead of allowing it to float on the water for days. I was there for four days and by the time I left, it was still there.
Then, there are the dirty toilets.
Even at Mardi’s agriculture park, maintenance of public toilets is below par altough entrance fee is charged.
Malaysia has numerous beautiful destinations. However, we fail in maintaing these areas nor do we keep them clean.
Alan Yu Toh Bing
Shah Alam, Selangor.
-- Star News Opinion
Monday, July 13, 2009
Birds moving up to beat heat
Birds moving up to beat heat
Monday July 13, 2009
KUALA LUMPUR: More lowland birds are flying off to live in the highlands and this is an indicator of deforestation and climate change.
Consultant naturalist on birds, wildlife and bio-diversity Mike Chong said birds such as magpie robins (burung murai) and spotted doves which normally lived in lowlands and valleys were seen in Cameron Highlands recently.
"Such birds have been spotted in the highlands such as Genting Highlands and Fraser’s Hill and this shows a change in climate pattern and a disturbance in the environment," he said during the Zoo Negara Birdathon 2009 here yesterday.
Chong said temperatures in mountain forests had also increased due to global warming, which had allowed lowland birds to adapt easily to their new habitat.
Monday July 13, 2009
KUALA LUMPUR: More lowland birds are flying off to live in the highlands and this is an indicator of deforestation and climate change.
Consultant naturalist on birds, wildlife and bio-diversity Mike Chong said birds such as magpie robins (burung murai) and spotted doves which normally lived in lowlands and valleys were seen in Cameron Highlands recently.
"Such birds have been spotted in the highlands such as Genting Highlands and Fraser’s Hill and this shows a change in climate pattern and a disturbance in the environment," he said during the Zoo Negara Birdathon 2009 here yesterday.
Chong said temperatures in mountain forests had also increased due to global warming, which had allowed lowland birds to adapt easily to their new habitat.
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