Kuala lumpur: The government is actively engaging with landowners around Bukit Kiara to establish a 300-metre ecological buffer zone aimed at safeguarding a rare firefly species recently rediscovered in the federal park. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Hannah Yeoh highlighted ongoing discussions with stakeholders, following Kuala Lumpur City Hall's (DBKL) announcement regarding the buffer zone.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hannah Yeoh stated that the KL mayor had committed to creating the buffer zone, necessitating talks with landowners. This initiative, announced during a panel discussion titled "Business vs Nature: Who Wins and When?" at the National Climate Governance Summit (NCGS) 2026, aims to balance environmental conservation with landowners' interests, given the premiums paid for their lands.
The proposal for the buffer zone came after DBKL announced on Earth Day that it would impose a 300-metre setback on a proposed development near Bukit Kiara Federal Park. This decision was influenced by residents' concerns over biodiversity, traffic congestion, and potential impacts from nearby construction. Hannah Yeoh emphasized that the buffer zone is designed to protect the firefly habitat while ongoing discussions with developers seek practical solutions.
Reflecting on the Taman Rimba Kiara dispute, Hannah Yeoh noted that a seven-year process showed the potential for reconciling environmental conservation with housing needs through sustained engagement with residents, government agencies, developers, and civil society. She also stressed the importance of collaboration with the private sector to enhance environmental conservation and urban liveability in Kuala Lumpur, urging businesses to drive sustainable practices.
Hannah Yeoh emphasized that the government alone cannot implement necessary reforms. Developers, financial institutions, and businesses all have roles in protecting green spaces and improving flood resilience. She mentioned that DBKL is working with developers to review redevelopment guidelines, ensuring that public open spaces created through new projects are meaningful and accessible.
Partnerships with the private sector are being expanded to support environmental initiatives. Hannah Yeoh noted that banks have started contributing funding for programmes aimed at activating and maintaining protected parks.