On JULY 19, I accompanied 40 members from Wednesday Hash PJ on a hike to Monkey Beach (Teluk Duyung) in Penang.
I was shocked to find that the bridges and railings along the park trail in horrendous condition.
Collapsed wooden planks from the bridge and rusted steel railings created a severe hazard for hikers along the popular trail.
They especially pose risks to visiting families and children.
The rust shows that rails have not been maintained for a long while.
Taman Rimba is widely promoted and fees are charged for venturing into it.
Where does the money go, if there is no maintenance? Maintenance and safety should be prioritised.
There is an urgent need to review the whole hiking track as there several areas that need to be attended to.
It would be helpful if ropes or cables are provided to hold on to while navigating several stretches which have been affected by landslides or where the track is very narrow.
As it stands, one now has to hold on to bushes and undergrowth to make a safe crossing.
DATUK AJIT SINGH JESSY
Tanjung Bungah, Penang
