After over two years, Taman Eko Rimba in Bukit Mertajam reopened its gates to the public today.

Nestled near Cheruk To’Kun, the park is known for its lush 37-hectare landscape and the peak that stands 545 metres above sea level, offering a haven for recreational activities and nature lovers.

According to a report by Buletin Mutiara, the reopening comes after extensive slope mitigation works and the construction of an off-road track were completed to enhance visitor safety and park infrastructure.

The park’s diverse flora, including species like Meranti Seraya and Meranti Rambai Daun, beckons hikers and nature enthusiasts to explore its depths and marvel at the ‘giant tree’ – a focal point for memorable photographs.

The park offers a challenging hike to the mountain peak where a telecommunications tower resides.

With a distance of about 3.5 kilometres from the base along the concrete off-road track, it takes an average hiker over an hour to reach ‘station 3’, promising a rewarding adventure for visitors.

Speaking to Buletin Mutiara, Azman Saad, the district forest officer for Seberang Perai Utara/Tengah provided insights into the park’s closure and the crucial upgrade works.

“In 2017, during the flood disaster that hit the state (of Penang), several areas with steep slopes collapsed and posed a danger to visitors, especially mountain hikers here.

“For over two years now, the entire area of Taman Eko Rimba Bukit Mertajam has been completely closed to any recreational activities to allow JKR to carry out the mandatory mitigation work,” he was quoted as saying.

Azman also revealed that an RM8 million investment had gone into the park’s maintenance and preservation, ensuring the safety of steep slopes that had collapsed during the 2017 flood disaster.

The park’s handover ceremony on Jan 18 symbolised the readiness of the eco-park for public enjoyment, with officials from various departments including the Public Works Department and the Penang State Forestry Department present.

With the reopening, the park’s main gate will welcome visitors from 7am, while hikers often begin their ascent from alternative routes as early as 5am.

The influx of visitors is expected to be substantial, especially on weekends and public holidays, highlighting the park’s popularity and the community’s enthusiasm for reconnecting with nature.

However, visitors are advised that parking facilities are limited and to plan accordingly.

Source: NST Online