Cameron Highlands - Miscellany

Miscellany

The “Camerons" is unlike any other constituency in Malaysia, with a substantially different ecosystem.

In 1958, the outpost was declared a reserve for deer. Four years later, it became a ward affording protection to animals and birds.

There are six mountains at the retreat. The highest peak is Mount Batu Brinchang (Malay: Gunung Batu Brinchang). At the top of the 2,031-metre (6,663 ft) mountain is a radio and television station. Close to it is a 15-metre (49 ft)-high “Observation Tower” with a good view of the neighbourhood.

Much of the Cameron Highlands is under cultivation. There are some 3,642 hectares (9,000 acres) of forest. Jungle trails lead visitors to scenic spots, waterfalls and aboriginal villages.

Most of the tracks here begin at Tanah Rata. There are more than 14 paths to pick and choose from. Depending on its distance, some routes can take as long as five hours to cover.

Apart from its walks, the sanctuary is also known for its tea plantations, vegetable farms, orchards, nurseries, insect life, soaring peaks, nature spots, temperate plants, deep ravines, mossy forest, wild animals, serene lakes, golf links, meandering streams, jungle-clad hills, rest houses, places of worship, waterfalls, rolling greens, reptiles, colonial mansions, Land Rovers, migratory birds, animal traps and last but not least, its native population. The natives or aborigines are basically jungle dwellers. On the surface, their lifestyle has always been made out to be backward. But this has changed over the years. While many have left to take up residence in the nearby towns, there are still some who prefer to treat the jungle as their home.