IPOH: The state Forestry Department has been told to revise its plan to charge hikers who want to enter the popular Bukit Kledang here.

       “For now, the matter will be deferred so that the department can do another study,” said Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.

       A public outcry erupted following the department’s announcement over the weekend that hikers would need to get an annual pass for their recreational activities at Bukit Kledang starting next month.

       For Malaysians, the permit will cost RM100 (for those below the age of 18), RM200 (adults) or RM10 (senior citizens). Foreigners will be charged from RM400 to RM800 with a processing fee of RM20.

       Yesterday, Saarani said that department director Datuk Mohamed Zin Yusop would need to conduct a re-evaluation of the plan and fine-tune it to resolve the issue.

       “They will come back with another proposal to see where the permit is needed while also fulfilling the requirement of the National Forestry Act.

       “He (Mohamad Zin) has been told to take into consideration that the hill is a popular recreational site and to also look at the safety aspect.

       “Maybe some areas would not require the permit, so the department will need to relook this,” he told reporters after witnessing a signing ceremony between Perak State Development Corporation chief executive Datuk Redza Rafiq Abdul Razak and Kangsar Hidro Sdn Bhd chief executive officer Syaril Ahmad Tajuddin for a hydroelectric project.

       Saarani defended Mohamad Zin over the plan, noting that it was decided at a recent meeting between state forestry department directors.

       “It was decided then to make Bukit Kledang a pilot project (to impose the permit).

       “Under the National Forestry Act, there are two types of forest reserves, one being the open type whereby people can enter freely while the other is the closed type, which Bukit Kledang falls into, that requires a permit to enter,” he said.

       “He (Mohamed Zin) was just trying to follow the law. It’s not about the money,” he added.

       Saarani said a permit was required as various things were being put up there.

       “People have built places of worship, pavilions and a picnic area there. This is wrong.

       “There needs to be control and the reason why the permit is needed, or else more things will be built there,” he said.