The Malaysian Hills Network (MHN) today launched a public appeal letter calling for more efforts to protect and conserve hills and highlands.

At the press conference held for the event, MHN representative Meenakshi Raman said it was learnt recently that the Highland Resorts Road is being revived and will incorporate tunnels instead.

Proposed in 1997, the controversial 220km road linking Cameron Highlands, Fraser's Hill and Genting Highlands had been shelved due to the ensuing economic slowdown.

Meenakshi said the latest development is cause for concern to highland residents as well as those in the lowlands. She emphasised the need for the public to speak up on the issue, noting that people are starting to realise how developments on ecologically-sensitive highlands can disrupt their daily lives.

"MHN welcomes public participation and interaction. If anyone has any highland issues to bring up on, we are here to help them," she said.

Public appeal letter

One measure towards this end is the public appeal letter which was launched at a public forum entitled 'Our highlands in danger: need for urgent action', at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur.

The letter asks that highland developments be re-examined to reflect sustainable practices.

It is addressed to the prime minister, minister of science, technology and environment and the Cabinet Committee of Coordination of Highlands and Island Development.

An online petition will be made available in a few weeks on the [#1] Water Partners International[/#] website.

Formed in 1996, MHN is a coalition of non-governmental organisations comprising the Consumers Association of Penang, Sahabat Alam Malaysia, Malaysian Nature Society, Wetlands International-Malaysia Programme and WWF Malaysia.