IPOH: Due to heavy rain, strong winds and thunderstorms, all recreational activities at the Cameron Highlands permanent forest reserve have been temporarily suspended.
Cameron Highlands district forestry officer Arifhadi Johari Affandi said all recreational hiking and jungle trekking activities have been halted as a precaution until Sunday.
“Notices have been posted in affected areas to inform the public about the temporary closure, given the uncertain weather forecast for the coming days.
“We are taking precautionary measures based on the weather reports from the Meteorological Department. Currently, around 30 hiking trails are closed,” Arifhadi said when contacted yesterday.
Popular sites, such as the Mossy Forest eco-park and the Sungai Pauh campsite, are among those closed.
He emphasised that the ongoing rain and strong winds in the highlands necessitate caution.
“I hope no one enters the recreational areas when we have clearly put up the notices. This is for everyone’s safety. Please do not enter the permanent forest reserve at this time.
“We will assess the weather conditions before reopening the parks,” he added, expressing concerns about falling trees and potential landslides.
Cameron Highlands OCPD Deputy Supt Azri Ramli advised the public to avoid hiking there until weather conditions improve.
He noted that there have already been many incidents of trees being uprooted in the area due to strong winds.
“Thankfully, there have been no casualties or damage to vehicles from fallen trees.
“But we must always be vigilant and cautious at all times.
“There have been instances of trees falling on roads leading to Cameron Highlands from Tapah and Simpang Pulai.
“The fallen trees have all been promptly removed by the authorities,” said DSP Azri.
