KAJANG, Jan 10 — The Ministry of Environment and Water (KASA) aims to turn river reserves into recreation areas and public parks with the construction of 10,000 kilometres of trails at selected areas in the country by 2030.
Its secretary-general, Datuk Seri Ir Dr Zaini Ujang said it would be carried out under the National Trail programme where the ministry, in collaboration with the state governments, would identify suitable river reserves to be developed as recreational areas with the construction of trails and river beautification activities.
“Since this effort was started in 2020, 42 trails have been built, covering about 210 kilometres , turning the riverside into recreational areas.
“Many more areas will be identified, as we are targeting to build 1,000 kilometres of trails every year until 2030,” he told the media after receiving the proposal paper for the Sungai Air Hitam master plan from residents of Kampung Dato ‘Abu Bakar Baginda here today.
He said river reserves are often known as squatter areas, landfills and covered with undergrowth, which are factors contributing to pollution in the country.
He said with the construction of river trails and beautification programmes, it would encourage the people to go there for recreational activities, like jogging, picnic, angling and cycling.
“When people go there, it will prevent irresponsible parties from making the river area a landfill, and if well-developed, the area could be promoted for eco-tourism,” he added.
It would also encourage the participation of the public, local community, corporate bodies and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in monitoring, conserving and beautifying of rivers nationwide, he said.
— Bernama
