There are only four firefly sanctuaries in Malaysia, including this one in Kuala Selangor. Now Negri Sembilan wants to restore the sanctuary in Sungai Timun to attract tourists. — Filepic
THE Negri Sembilan government plans to revive the long-dormant firefly sanctuary in Sungai Timun as a flagship eco-tourism attraction ahead of Visit Negri Sembilan Year 2026.
State tourism, arts and culture committee chairman Nicole Tan Lee Koon said the initiative aimed to restore the area’s natural charm and strengthen the state’s tourism appeal.
“Malaysia has only four firefly sanctuaries, in Pahang, Sabah, Selangor and Negri Sembilan.
“We must take advantage of this by redeveloping our own sanctuary, which has been inactive since the Covid-19 pandemic,” she said.
Tan was speaking to reporters after launching the Publicity and Public Participation Programme for the Rembau Local Plan Draft 2035 (Replacement), reports Bernama.
She said the state was also exploring collaboration with the Melaka government to boost cross-border tourism and visitor traffic.
“Melaka has the River Cruise, so their tourists could be brought to Sungai Timun for firefly-watching. We will also engage local boat operators to assess how best to restart the activity,” she said.
Tan also announced plans to expand the Jejak Warisan (Heritage Trail) programme, featuring a trekking route from Kampung Miku in Rembau to Seri Menanti in Kuala Pilah, passing through 10 tributaries.
She said trained mountain guides would lead the activity, offering historical and cultural narratives to enrich the visitor experience.
