Review canopy walkway fees, Taman Negara management urged

The management of the Titian Kanopi Seberang Ara canopy walkway in Taman Negara, Kuala Tahan, is under scrutiny for its steep entrance fee, which critics claim is deterring domestic tourism. The current charge of RM70 per person for accessing the walkway has sparked discontent among visitors, particularly locals.

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This fee is quite expensive for domestic visitors and is limited to only 350 people per day, raising questions about the rationale and purpose of building the second canopy in this tropical rainforest tourism area.

Datuk Rozilan Salleh, a member of the Jerantut District Council, expressed concern over the fee's affordability for domestic tourists. He also pointed out the daily limit of 350 visitors, questioning the rationale behind the pricing and the construction of the second canopy in the tropical rainforest park. Salleh emphasized that foreign tourists, often with higher disposable incomes, might find the fee acceptable, but it poses a barrier for Malaysians.

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The authorities cannot compare with foreign tourists like 'Mat Saleh' from Western countries because they are financially capable and have already planned their personal needs when visiting tourist destinations.

Further adding to the dissatisfaction, visitors are reportedly required to use a tour guide service, which is included in the fee. Salleh noted the short distance from the service center to the canopy, suggesting the mandatory guide might be unnecessary. While he supports the development of the new canopy walkway, he urged a review of the entrance fee to make it more accessible.

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I agree with the opening of the new canopy walkway between the second suspension bridge in Taman Negara rainforest by the authorities here, but the minimum entrance fee needs to be reviewed so as not to burden visitors.

Conversely, ecotourism proponent Sabri Abdullah defended the RM70 fee, asserting its reasonableness given the comprehensive services included. He explained that the payment covers boat transport, permits, canopy access, and the mandatory guide service, which accompanies visitors on the 25 to 30-minute journey along the 701.10-meter walkway. This walkway features 15 platforms and 14 bridges, ranging from five to 35 meters above ground, and the fee is considered standard for ensuring visitor safety at such attractions.

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This fee covers several service components, including prioritizing visitor safety aspects.