Potential of Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve, Selangor as a Wildlife Reserve

Abstract

In the rapidly developed Klang Valley, Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve has served as a last bastion for the conservation of the indigenous fauna and flora. Its strategic location has attracted many threats particularly from land developers and industries. Security of this piece of pristine land is at stake, which needs to be protected by specific legislation. This paper addresses the conservation needs of Ayer Hitam Forest Reserve, in particular the preservation of the decreasing wildlife populations within this reserve by meaningful legislative provisions. The protection alternatives for this forest include its designation as a forest reserve for wildlife under the State Selangor Forest Department or as wildlife reserve/sanctuary under the Wildlife and National Parks Department.