FIFTEEN locations involving forest eco parks, state parks and permanent forest reserve areas in Johor are now opened to the public for recreational and climbing activities, but only to those who are fully vaccinated against Covid-19.

The Johor Forestry Department, through a post on its Facebook page, said public entry is permitted for only 50% capacity of the area and they are required to comply with stipulated standard operating procedures (SOP).

It said out of the 15 locations, four are forest eco parks – Gunung Pulai 1, Gunung Arong, Soga Perdana and Taka Melor, which opened since yesterday. The Gunung Arong State Park will open from Monday.

The other locations are permanent forest reserve areas that are popular for climbing activities. They include Gunung Sumalayang, Gunung Muntahak, Gunung Panti, Pelepah Kiri and Gunung Lambak, which will open from Monday.

“People who have been fully vaccinated are allowed to bring their children under the age of 18 for any activity, but they are to strictly comply with the SOP and must always wear masks and maintain cleanliness,” it said.

“People with symptoms and body temperature of above 37.5℃ are not allowed to enter.”

It also said those intending to go to the areas concerned are required to obtain a permit from the nearest district forestry office before they could be allowed to enter.

The public is also advised to use the service of registered “malim” (mountain guide). – Bernama, October 9, 2021.