Taman Negara: An Introduction
Taman Negara is classified as being one of the oldest rainforests in the world, more ancient than both the Amazon and the Congo. The word 'taman' means both 'park' and 'garden' in Malay while 'negara' means 'nations' - together they translate simply as 'National Park'.
It was the first officially protected area in the country, originally named King George V National Park. Designated in 1938 by the Sultans of Kelantan, Pahang and Terengganu (during King George's Silver Jubilee), it was created to preserve the land's wildlife and indigenous populations. The park was renamed Taman Negara when Malaysia gained independence in 1957.
The primary forest of the Taman Negara is a haven for endangered species such as the Asian elephant, rhinoceros, clouded leopard and tiger to name a few, although you are more likely to see some of the 350 species of bird, a wide variety of primates, lizards, snakes and the perhaps the odd leech. The most popular activities here are river cruises and jungle trekking. The canopy walk is also a must-see, offering a fantastic close-up view of the surrounding rainforest that sprawls out below you. Observation hides are another great way to spy on animals in their natural habitats.
It is possible to visit an Orang Asli (original people) village where you can meet aboriginal tribesmen and witness some of the traditional activities that these hunter gatherers still practice today.
'The canopy walk is also a must-see, offering a fantastic close-up view of the surrounding rainforest that sprawls out below you.'