WWFM_Hill Stations Study Vol2_2001.pdf - Sdn Bhd - WWF Malaysia

Study on the Development of Hill Stations
Final Report II
CHAPTER 2: PENANG HILL
2.1 INTRODUCTION
Penang Hill was established around the year 1800 and it is the country’s oldest hill resort.
Penang Hill is a major landmark and the pride of the people of Penang Island. Its uplands
form one of the last remaining areas of natural vegetation in Penang Island.
Presently, the main attractions in Penang Hill for tourists are the cooler temperature and the
breathtaking view of Penang Island from the vantage points. Local Penang folks on the other
hand, tend to enjoy the refreshing stroll up the hill and at the same time, take in the sweet
sounds of birds and other wildlife. Penang Hill is also home to about 200-odd people who
either live in some of the quaint bungalows or in the village houses. These are people who
are drawn to the tranquil atmosphere as well as chose to escape the hustle and bustle of city
life.
There has been no shortage of literature concerning the development of Penang Hill; with
the Penang Hill Local Plan being the most significant report prepared recently. This study
aims to complement the Local Plan by reinforcing the proposals outlined in the Plan as well
as recommending further improvements where necessary.
To date, there have been several development plans for Penang Hill, but most could not
meet the conditions set by the relevant government agencies and were not approved. This
serves as an indication that any development earmarked for Penang Hill must follow a set of
development guidelines to safeguard the environment surrounding this popular hill station as
well as to satisfy the concerns of the public.
2.2 EXISTING SITUATION
2.2.1 Physical Environment
2.2.1.1 Land Use
(a)
Land Use Characteristics
Penang Hill covers an area of about 7,252 ha and is identified in the Penang Hill
Development Plan as an area of unique characteristics particularly in the flora, topography
and heritage. The Hill occupies the central uplands of the island and includes the Penang Hill
Town area (373 ha) with its funicular railway station.
Parts of Penang Hill are gazetted as ‘hill land’ under the Land Conservation Act, 1960. The
land use of the Penang Hill as designated by the Penang Hill Development Plan 1992-2005
is shown in Table 2.1 and in Figure 2.1. Forest areas constitute about 64% of the land use
and include both primary and secondary forest. Agriculture constitutes about 21% of the land
use with fruit tree cultivation, vegetable and horticulture farms. Scrubs and other types of
vegetation make up about 13% of the land use while the remaining areas are urban and
mostly located at Penang Hill Town Centre.
WWF Malaysia 2- 1
December 2001