Illegal chalet development raises alarm over Behrang River ecosystem in Perak

New Straits Times

30-05-2025

TANJONG MALIM: Several cases of unauthorised commercial development on government land are raising environmental concerns in Perak, as illegal chalet construction threatens the ecosystem along Sungai Behrang in Muallim.
What began as a trend of encroachment for agricultural and residential purposes has now shifted towards commercial ventures.
In this latest case, permanent structures — including a two-storey bungalow-style building — have been erected near the river, believed to be without planning approval, a visit by Berita Harian to the site revealed.
Located near Kampung Sungai Dara, the riverside area is a popular spot for nature enthusiasts, particularly hikers and swimmers. The illegal development poses a risk to the integrity of the river reserve, which plays a vital role in protecting water quality and biodiversity.
The structure is believed to have been built over an area of 500 square metres, encroaching on approximately half an acre of government-owned land, including part of the protected river reserve.
According to a source, the chalet construction has exceeded the boundaries of private land and intruded into both government land and the river buffer zone. "The construction of the permanent structure goes beyond private land and is found to encroach on government land and the river reserve," the source said.
Under environmental regulations, developments near rivers must maintain a buffer zone of between 20 and 40 metres. However, the structure in question was found to be less than 20 metres from Sungai Behrang, in direct violation of these guidelines.
"We found that the structure was erected about two months ago before a canvas fence was put up to hide the activity from villagers and authorities," the source added.
Authorities had already issued two eviction notices under Section 425 of the National Land Code (Act 828), dated February 2025. The notices confirmed that the party involved was occupying government land in the Sungai Dara region without permission.
"The developer is requested to vacate the site within 14 days from the date of the notice," the document stated. "If you fail to do so, the Muallim land administrator or any officer authorised by them has the right to take legal action to ensure the site is vacated."
"If necessary, destruction, demolition, seizure, or removal of any property belonging to you will be carried out without reference to any party," the notice warned.
Despite the deadline having passed, the structure remains standing, and the residence is believed to be occupied by foreign workers linked to the chalet project. A site inspection revealed gas cylinders and clothing, indicating recent activity inside the premises.
"This is the second time the operator has built on the same site," a source said, referencing a previous attempt in 2018 involving piling work, which was later dismantled by authorities.
Monitoring of the site began earlier this year, culminating in the issuance of the February notices. Still, the operator has failed to comply.
"We identified at least five workers at the site, but they have stopped work since February," the source noted.
The case highlights not only a legal violation but also a growing pattern of disregard for environmental safeguards. Experts warn that illegal development in river reserves accelerates erosion, pollutes water sources, and damages habitats.
Officials stress that any construction must follow the proper procedures. "For any development, the operator must obtain planning permission from the local authority before land ownership can be requested from the district land office," the source explained.
Muallim district is a natural gem, surrounded by the Titiwangsa Range and home to nine scenic mountains, including Mount Behrang, and Mount Sanggul.
The area also features popular waterfalls like Strata Falls, Warin Falls, and Ulu Slim, drawing both local and international tourists seeking outdoor adventure and relaxation.
Meanwhile, officials in Muallim have moved swiftly to curb illegal land encroachment, as unauthorised chalet developments threaten sensitive river ecosystems.
The Muallim District and Land Office has taken action in at least five cases of encroachment on government land and river reserves, all involving construction for commercial purposes. Investigations into other affected areas are currently under way.
Assistant District Officer from the Technical and Enforcement Unit, Sarina Omar, said the authorities have been proactive in demolishing structures built without approval. A recent operation involved dismantling a concrete structure in the Sungai Dara river reserve, believed to be intended for commercial use.
"Following investigations, we launched the operation in coordination with multiple departments and agencies, under the oversight of the Muallim District and Land Office and the Perak State Land and Mines Office," Sarina. Notices were issued in advance under Section 425 of the National Land Code (Act 828).
Sarina said that those found guilty of encroaching on government land face fines of up to RM500,000 or imprisonment for up to five years. She said that the operations aim to stop illegal expansion, protect river access, and preserve the area's natural environment.
River reserves serve as vital buffer zones, safeguarding ecosystems and nearby land from natural disasters, she explained. "This initiative is aligned with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 agenda, which places environmental sustainability at the heart of state development," Sarina added.