Kuala terengganu: Starting next year, visitors to recreational areas in forest reserves and Eco-Forest Parks in Terengganu will be able to apply for entry permits online under a new system to be introduced by the state Forestry Department, with an allocation of about RM200,000.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Terengganu State Forestry director Ramli Mat announced that the system would enable visitors to make permit applications and payments online, eliminating the need to visit a Terengganu Forestry Department office or counter to obtain permits in advance. The system will facilitate applications and payments for various activities and facilities in forest reserves, including daily visitor permits, hiking activities, chalet rentals, infrastructure, and other services that require a fee.

Visitors from outside Terengganu will have the convenience of applying for permits and paying online before arriving at their chosen site, needing only to bring a receipt or proof of payment for registration upon arrival. Ramli discussed these developments during his working visit to the Lata Belatan and Lata Tembakah Eco-Forest Parks.

Also present during the visit was Terengganu Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) Office director Mazshida Ruslal. Ramli noted that the system is being developed with funding from the state government and is expected to be completed this year, with full public implementation set for next year. Importantly, the current permit fees will remain unchanged despite the introduction of the new system.

In addition to the new online system, Ramli mentioned ongoing rehabilitation and upgrading works at the Lata Tembakah and Lata Belatan Eco-Forest Parks, necessitated by a water surge incident in December 2024. Almost RM1 million has been allocated for rebuilding infrastructure, such as a suspension bridge, and repairing the campsite, hall, toilets, surau, and parking lot at both parks. Funding includes RM500,000 from MOTAC for Lata Belatan and a similar amount from the Terengganu state government for Lata Tembakah.

Ramli also reported that six of the 12 eco-forest parks in Terengganu are temporarily closed for maintenance and upgrading works. These include Lata Tembakah (Besut), Jambu Bongkok (Marang), Besul (Dungun), Rasau Kerteh (Kemaman), Bukit Kesing (Kemaman), and Seri Amar (Setiu). However, Lata Tembakah is expected to reopen to visitors next month for activities such as bathing and picnicking, following the completion of repairs to the irrigation system.