Malaysia: 'Fraser's Hill cable car project won't harm environment'

New Straits Times 28 Jun 13;

RAUB: The proposed cable car project on Fraser's Hill will not lead to environmental degradation and the hill will be maintained as an idyllic destination.

State Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Sharkar Shamsuddin said the project was timely, as it would attract more tourists to enjoy the panoramic view at one of the last hill stations in Malaysia.

He said since no major infrastructure projects could be approved on Fraser's Hill, a cable car was the most suitable mode of transport for shuttling tourists or visitors to and from the resort.

"There are no plans to build new hotels and resorts on Fraser's Hill.

"Instead, we will refurbish the existing English colonial buildings, which have been the main attraction for the town."

He added that once the project was completed, tourists could park their vehicles at the foot of the hill before travelling up Fraser's Hill in cable cars.

He said this would eventually help reduce traffic congestion at the hill resort.

Dong assemblyman Datuk Shahiruddin Ab Moin said a feasibility study for the project must include the types of attractions along the route for people to view, the total distance involved and ways to attract people to use the service.

He expressed hope that the ministry would submit a proposal for the cable car project soon.

Shahiruddin, who is also Raub Umno division chief, said if the cable car project materialised, residents in Raub would enjoy a positive spillover in terms of economic gains.

Pahang Tourism Action Council general manager Idrus Yahya said proper planning should be done before the project was introduced as it would involve a huge cost.

"However, I believe if the project is given the nod (to continue) it will help reduce pollution at the resort."

A spokesperson from the state Environment Department said building the cable car system and routes might require clearing some trees, but it would have minimal impact on the environment.

On Sunday, Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz said the ministry would review the suggestion from Shahiruddin.

Nazri, who had earlier presented prizes to winners of the Fraser's Hill Bird Spotting Contest 2013, promised to turn the proposal into reality and said that he would discuss the matter with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.