Kuala Lumpur:The development of tourism infrastructure in Taman Negara must prioritize the conservation of the area's biodiversity to secure recognition from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) Sultan Iskandar Institute (ISI) deputy director Dr. Norhazliza Abd Halim emphasized that infrastructure development should align with visitor management and conservation requirements. She suggested that upgrading the jetty could establish it as a primary gateway, enabling authorities to regulate activities and monitor tourist movement.
Norhazliza, who also leads the Tourism Planning Research Group at UTM, highlighted the necessity of establishing a visitor carrying capacity to determine the number of tourists who can enter without harming the natural ecosystem. She stated that studies are required to assess this capacity, especially in areas with high conservation value and unique habitats, allowing for adjustments based on seasonal factors and specific conservation needs.
She further added that coordination among relevant agencies, including local authorities, the forestry department, and technical agencies, must be strengthened to ensure infrastructure development does not adversely affect natural habitats. The use of eco-friendly materials, designation of sensitive zones, and continuous monitoring are crucial to prevent encroachment, mitigate erosion, and minimize human-wildlife conflict.
Meanwhile, Sabri Abdullah, a freelance tour guide at Taman Negara Pahang, noted that improvements to jetty infrastructure should consider the needs of various users, including tourists, local villagers, boat and restaurant operators, and fishermen. He stressed the importance of accommodating user needs, particularly during peak seasons.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, while presenting Budget 2027, announced that the government would upgrade tourism infrastructure, such as jetties, and conserve heritage sites with UNESCO recognition potential, including Danum Valley in Sabah, Bujang Valley in Kedah, and Taman Negara in Pahang.
According to UNESCO website, Taman Negara, which spans the states of Pahang, Terengganu, and Kelantan, is included on the Tentative List as a site with the potential to be nominated as a World Heritage Site. It is one of the oldest terrestrial areas in Peninsular Malaysia, dating back over 130 million years, and serves as a biodiversity hotspot, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including species that are endemic, rare, vulnerable, or endangered in Malaysia.