Selangor Temporarily Closes Hiking Activities for Safety

The Selangor Forestry Department (JPNS) will temporarily halt applications for 'trans hiking' and 'hiking compress' activities in the state's permanent forest reserves starting July 1. This decision aims to enhance safety for outdoor enthusiasts venturing into these natural areas.

The suspension is in accordance with the National Forestry Act 1985. While the exact duration of the closure has not been specified, the department emphasized that any breaches of this directive could lead to legal consequences. Offenders may face fines not exceeding RM30,000 or imprisonment for up to five years, or both, as stipulated under Section 47 of the Enactment.

This move follows a similar temporary suspension of hiking activities at Gunung Batu Putih in Tapah, Perak, which was enacted after a female hiker went missing in May. The Perak Forestry Department had halted activities there for three to six months. The Selangor department's decision underscores a growing emphasis on safety protocols within the state's protected forest areas.