Dear Editor,

MOST expect to have a pleasant journey when taking a drive through highland roads.

However, the journey was far from pleasant from Simpang Pulai, Perak, to Gua Musang, Kelantan. We noticed that before reaching Blue Valley from Simpang Pulai, a huge area had a serious soil erosion problem, with an entire side of a mountain eroding. Sediment could be seen at the bottom of the mountain from a distance. Nearing the Blue Valley landfill, we saw solid waste that was not disposed of properly. The eyesore will leave a bad impression on tourists who should be enjoying the sights of beautiful Cameron Highlands. Entering the Kelantan border, we noticed excessive deforestation. There were traces of open burning throughout the journey to Gua Musang. Such vast land clearing not only affects the cleared mountains and hills, but also the water supply downstream, the reserve forest next to it, the habitat of the animals and the whole eco-system. Many incidents such as these are taking place throughout the country. Who is responsible for these examples of unsustainable development? The hill development will contribute to global warming and result in the loss of natural habitat. We should take measures to prevent such incidents from occurring. The Environment desk of the Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations hopes that less destructive sustainable development will be carried out from now on. These beautiful forests cannot be recreated once we have lost it. Work together to ensure that there is a future for all.

Source: Malay Mail – March 27, 2008