Page 22 - E-BOOK PULSE@FASS ISU NO.02/2023

PROTÉGÉS Issue no. 2 | 2023
PROTÉGÉS
Geo Adventures 23': Kuala Langat Unveiled

By Meen Nordin & Atirah Fatini, 2nd year
On 16 May 2023, 49 students from the Department of Geography, FASS, conducted fieldwork at the Kuala Langat district. It
went on for six days and was supervised by Prof. Dr. Rosmadi Fauzi. Over six days, the students had briefings with local district
officials, conducted surveys at several local schools and villages, and visited cultural and conservation centers. Reflecting on
the six enriching days spent in Kuala Langat, the students came back with more than just data and notes; they returned with an
appreciation for the culture and environment they had immersed themselves in. The connections made, the traditions
witnessed, and the landscapes explored will be etched in their memories, forging a deeper understanding of the human-
geography relationship.

By Aroe Ajoeni, a 2nd year student from the Department of Geography, shared her reflection of this trip.

Kuala Langat and Pulau Carey proved to be an eye-opener
for us, environmental students accustomed to the hustle
and bustle of campus life in the city. The contrast was
striking, as the lush greenery and serene surroundings of
Kuala Langat enveloped us. One of the captivating sights
was the Langat River, which is undeniably the lifeline of the
area.

Eco-tourism thrives in the area, with places like Jugra Hill
and Morib Beach attracting nature enthusiasts. This draws
attention to the significant environmental value Kuala
Langat holds. While there, collecting data through door-to-
door surveys was a unique and somewhat awkward Students at Downtown Banting after conducting our door-to-door
experience for me. In an age where online surveys are the survey at Kampung Olak Lempit
norm, interacting with locals face-to-face was both
enriching and challenging.
One of the revelations from our survey was the residents'
affinity towards green spaces, particularly among the youth.
It was heartening to discover that, amidst the
encroachments of modernity, a connection to nature
persists.

However, Kuala Langat is at a crossroads. During our stay,
discussions were rampant regarding the area's growth and
development. The craving for natural spaces is on a
collision course with the increasing demands for
development. As an environmental student, this raises
pressing questions – How do we strike a balance? What Carey Island (Telok Gonjeng), Langat River, and the Straits of
does development entail and at what cost? It is crucial to Malacca can be seen from Jugra Hill
consider the ramifications on the social fabric and cultural
heritage of Kuala Langat.

In sum, the expedition to Kuala Langat was not merely an
academic experience, but an immersive journey that
highlighted the delicate connection between human
aspirations and environmental preservation. This
experience underlines the importance to tread thoughtfully
on the path of development, keeping in mind the invaluable
natural and cultural heritage that makes places like Kuala
Langat unique and irreplaceable. Left: Aroe at Jugra Hill, a hotspot for hikers during weekends and
also a paragliding spot. Right: A video compilation of the field trip:
https://youtu.be/wfTOBYn9Apg
22 | Pulse@FASS