MalayMail/Bernama-June 16
The Kuala Selangor coastline’s mangrove belt acts as a natural buffer against erosion, tidal surges and even tsunamis. However, the destruction of the mangrove forests looms large in the wake of the rapid pace of development taking place in the surrounding areas. Just recently, a proposal has emerged to develop the 292-hectare Kuala Selangor Nature Park (KSNP) into an international-class tourist destination, which has since drawn much criticism from experts, nature lovers and the local communities. Situated on the estuary of Sungai Selangor and adjacent to Bukit Melawati, about 60 kilometres from Kuala Lumpur, the wetlands sanctuary is well known as a transition point for migratory birds. It is also known for its mangrove ecosystems and diverse range of flora and fauna. Although there is nothing in black and white pertaining to the Selangor government’s decision on the proposal, the development — if it goes through — will certainly have long-term repercussions on the environment as KSNP is the only remaining ‘oxygen tank’ in Kuala Selangor’s Banjar South Mangrove Forest. If the project is approved, it will not be the first time the sanctity of the park is violated. Between 2007 and 2008, it was exploited by fish and prawn aquaculture operators who set up their illegal operations there. Fortunately, their activities ceased following swift action by the Malaysian Nature Society (MNS), which has been managing KSNP since 35 years ago. Read more at: https://www.malaymail.com/news/malaysia/2022/06/16/uncertainty-swirls-around-proposed-tourism-project-for-kuala-selangor-nature-park/12613
