Selangor freezes ‘trans hiking’ and ‘hiking compress’ permits after string on recent incidents

KUALA LUMPUR, June 12 — The Selangor State Forestry Department has suspended all applications for “trans hiking” and “hiking compress” activities across the state’s Permanent Forest Reserves, effective July 1.

The decision follows a series of hiking-related incidents in recent months that have raised significant safety concerns.

In a notice issued by the Director of Forestry for the State of Selangor, the department warned that violators may be prosecuted under Section 47 of the Enactment on the Application of the National Forestry Act 1985.

Penalties include a maximum fine of RM30,000, up to five years’ imprisonment, or both.

The suspension targets high-risk, trail-based activities, particularly multi-day or cross-country treks.

The move was prompted by several high-profile incidents in May, including the 14-day disappearance of 49-year-old Jaslinda Saludin on Gunung Batu Putih and the death of 19-year-old Nur Izzati Humaira Azizul on Bukit Changkat Asa.

A third incident involving a Singaporean national on Gunung Datuk further underscored the risks associated with these remote trails.

In the first five months of 2026, Malaysia recorded 52 cases of lost hikers involving 114 victims. Since 2025, the cumulative total has reached 140 cases with 307 victims.

The suspension specifically applies to “trans hiking” and “hiking compress” itineraries, activities that typically involve traversing remote sections of forest reserves, overnight stays, and limited emergency accessibility.

Authorities have not yet specified when the suspension will be lifted.

Hikers and trekking groups are advised to contact the State Forestry Department for updates before planning any activities within Selangor’s forest reserves.