Bid to Save Rare Orchids, Plants

HULU TERENGGANU: Saving wild plants from exposure in logging areas may not be a priority for a logging company, but the state Forestry Department is making this its business to save the various species from being lost forever.

For a start, the department has taken the initiative to set up a mini conservation area at the Sekayu recreational park where plants known for medicinal properties and ornamental values are being nursed back to health.

The department’s officers will be venturing into logging areas and will bring out such plants to be placed in the conservation area.

At the moment, more than 400 species of medicinal plants and nearly 100 species of wild orchids have been grown in the area and the varieties of species have become a new attraction at the recreational park.

All medicinal plants that have been identified are tagged and described, while at the orchid park, some rare and endangered species are on display.

A picture gallery will also be opened to the public soon.

There is also an aroma garden where plants with scented flowers are cultivated.

“The Sekayu recreational park can be the most popular destination among locals and outsiders alike.

“These new attractions will become new landmarks for the park,” state Forestry director Na’aman Jaafar told the New Straits Times.

“But, what is more important, we are saving the plant species from extinction and providing a platform for botanists to conduct research at the park.

“They (the botanists) could make a name for themselves by describing a species that is unknown or if it is a new discovery.

“There will be more new additions in the park and we hope to attract medicinal plant and orchid enthusiasts, and students to visit the park for an awareness programme.

“We have also published books on the medicinal plants and wild orchids. We hope to make it available to the public soon.”

The orchid park is still under construction but the medicinal plant area is almost complete.

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