Aided by the scattered sunlight shining through the huge, tall trees, each step taken in the 130-million-year-old Royal Belum-Temengor Rainforest deepened the participants’ understanding of the important need for sustainable conservation efforts, as they hiked their way around the pristine rainforest.

Accompanied by the melodious sounds of buzzing and squeaking insects, chirping birds, and gushing waterfall, the trip to the rainforest, organised by UTAR Staff Sports and Recreation Club (USSRC) from 30 September to 1 October 2023, left the 55 participants from both campuses, mesmerised. More so, it left a deep impression on them, that the opportunity to immerse in the wonders of the rainforest should continue to extend to the next and following generations.

The team was led by USSRC Kampar Chairperson Shamshul Kamal bin Ahmad. He said, “We often think that taking part in sustainable efforts requires us to participate in big projects or do big things, but that is not always the case. It can be as simple as appreciating the rainforest, by visiting the rainforest and learning about its beauty, biodiversity, and ecological importance. It helps our participants to develop a deeper understanding on valuing our national rainforests, when they experience the sounds and smells of that place. The younger ones will also learn about conserving the rainforest, and hopefully, they will share with their friends and encourage others to visit the rainforest.”

The two-day expedition started with a cruise on two boathouses, from Banding Public Jetty to the Royal Belum-Temengor Rainforest. The three-hour journey was indeed pleasant to the eyes, as the group enjoyed beautiful sceneries of nature along the route.

In the rainforest, the group visited two famous tourist attractions, namely the Shower Waterfall in Sungai Kooi, and the Fish Sanctuary / Waterfall in Sungai Ruok. They bathed in a waterfall and played with the flock of fish found nearby. Meanwhile, in the boathouses, participants also engaged in leisure activities, such as UNO, JENGA, and entertaining karaoke sessions.

Shamshul also commented, “Apart from having fun and spending time together with families and friends, the water activities, such as swimming, kayaking, and rafting, also helped build their self-confidence as they participate in the water activities. Stronger friendships were forged, and teamwork was enhanced. It was truly a joy seeing the participants having a good time in a beautiful environment.”

Their adventure was also filled with friendly visits to the Orang Asli village, Kampung Klewang. They met the Orang Asli community and were welcomed to visit the Orang Asli houses. It was a privilege to learn about their lives and culture as they interacted with the Orang Asli. The group also donated some basic necessities, such as rice, sugar, milk and other treats to 45 families in the village.

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