Bukit Larut open to visitors by year's end, says Perak exco

IPOH: Nature lovers and hikers will finally get to go to Bukit Larut, Taiping by the end of this year, says Loh Sze Yee.

The Perak tourism committee chairman said the reopening of one of the state's tourist spots would also include the four bungalows and campsites by the fourth quarter of the year.

"However, vehicles are still not allowed to enter as we can’t guarantee the safety of the slopes.

"The state Public Works Department is still doing some repair work on the hill structure and we expect it to be completed by 2025," he told a press conference at the State Secretariat building here on Friday (May 19).

ALSO READ: Bukit Larut closed due to landslide

Loh said with the uncertain weather and the climate crisis, it was still undetermined when vehicles would be allowed.

"Any movement by vehicles will definitely impact the road structure.

"Therefore we encourage everyone to hike or walk to the hill. Those who wish to spend the night can either sleep in the bungalows or set up a camp.

"It wouldn’t take long to hike up there. Even for someone like me who rarely exercises, it took about two hours to reach the top of the hill," he said.

In January, it was reported that the hill was closed after a landslide at the main access point.

ALSO READ: Stranded Bukit Larut landslide victims reach foothill safely

Separately, Loh said a river cruise along Sungai Perak would be organised in conjunction with Visit Perak Year 2024.

"The cruise will begin from the jetty at R&R Sungai Perak, Kuala Kangsar until Victoria Bridge, Karai.

"Located at the same area will be the living bike river trail managed by the state Irrigation and Drainage Department," he said.