KUCHING: Visitors planning to visit Niah National Park have been advised to postpone their trips following a fire believed to have been triggered by a lightning strike, which has led to the temporary closure of all trails.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah described the incident as an unfortunate natural occurrence, stressing that it was not caused by human negligence.
“This is just an unfortunate incident, not because of negligence or carelessness of the people on the ground, but because of a natural phenomenon,” he told a press conference here today (July 14).
He expressed hope that the fire would not spread further and cause greater damage to the state’s natural heritage.
“We hope Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC), with the assistance of the Fire and Rescue Department if necessary, will be able to contain the situation and prevent greater damage to our natural heritage,” he said.
Abdul Karim also advised those planning to visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site to stay updated on the latest developments before making their journey.
“Keep yourself updated on what is happening. If your visit is around this time, defer it for a while and come at another time. We are very sorry for this unfortunate incident,” he added.
Earlier, Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) announced the temporary closure of all trails at Niah National Park after a fire broke out at the limestone hill area yesterday (July 13).
The corporation said it would continue monitoring the situation and provide updates as necessary while the park remains closed until further notice.
