National Landscape Day 2025 sparks gardening passion across all ages
There were smiles and the rustling of petals underfoot as families, couples and nature lovers strolled through vibrant floral installations at Taman Bandar Bukit Layang-Layang in Johor during the National Landscape Day (HLN) 2025.
For many visitors, the annual celebration of greenery and creativity offers more than just a walk in the park.
Organised by the Housing and Local Government Ministry, the HLN is in its 26th edition.
For some, the six-day event was a joyful escape from their busy schedules to admire nature's beauty.
From flower-filled arches to imaginative local council park displays, the event turned the public park in Pasir Gudang into a canvas of colour and community spirit.
Among those soaking up the atmosphere was 26-year-old cook Muhammad Farhan Mohd Hisham, who came with his fiancee Nurul Iylia Diyana Razi for a morning jog but ended up staying longer than planned.
'We did not even know of the event. We happened to stumble upon it during our usual jog in the park. When we saw all the flowers and creative floral displays, we had to stop and explore,' he told StarMetro.
The couple found themselves admiring the artistry of the landscape exhibits, especially those showcasing colourful blooms arranged in intricate patterns.
Muhammad Farhan and Nurul Iylia Diyana who have planned a garden-themed wedding in August, said HLN had given them inspiration for their big day.
'I've always liked greenery, but never really got the chance to experience something like this. It has made me want to learn more about landscaping and the art behind it,' he said.
Visitors appreciating the beauty of orchids sold at HLN 2025.
The event brought together local councils, landscaping professionals, gardening enthusiasts and the public for a week of exhibitions, workshops, and family fun activities.
For Tang Siew Cheng, a 46-year-old mother of two from Permas Jaya, the event was a chance to create special memories with her sons, aged 11 and eight respectively.
'I saw a post regarding HLN on social media and thought it would be something fun to do together,' she said, adding that the flowers were so colourful with each park decorated to reflect the unique character of the participating districts.
She added that her sons were especially drawn to displays by the Kluang and Segamat municipal councils which had cleverly incorporated model trains into their landscaping themes.
'They love trains, so that really caught their attention.
'I like how the displays have storytelling elements connected because it's not just about flowers but there's also meaning behind them,' she added.
Tang is hoping the event will return to Johor again as it is a platform for visitors to have fun and build awareness on landscaping.
Housewife Anita Abu Bakar, 45, who lives just a few minutes away from the park, said she brought her nine-year-old daughter for an outing during her visit.
'This park is usually known for the kite festival, but the event this time is something different. It feels fresh and exciting,' she added.
She described the floral displays as 'therapeutic' and loved the peaceful environment.
'I have a good time looking at the various plant and flower designs as I find them very calming to look at,' she said.
Anita, who is not into gardening, said the event had changed her perception on plant care.
'Now I understand how beautiful and calming a well designed landscape can be,' she said.
Lorry driver K. Thanesh, 51, said he and his wife went to the event to explore plant stalls as they were looking for new additions for their home in Masai.
'We have some herbs and local vegetables growing in our garden, but my wife is looking for orchids to add colour to the landscape,' he said.
Thanesh said they also attended a few talks by landscape professionals and horticulturists to learn more about plant care.
'The talks were really good as the experts provided tips on how to care for plants,' he added.
He also said the HLN was a valuable platform for cultivating interest in gardening among Malaysians of all backgrounds.
'Not everyone has a big garden, but events like this show that even small spaces can be made beautiful by having flowers and plants,' he added. — By MOHD FARHAAN SHAH
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