The Selangor Forestry Department announced it will temporarily suspend applications for trans hiking and hiking compress activities at all Permanent Reserved Forests in Selangor, effective July 1, 2026 [1, 2, 3]. The suspension targets high-risk, trail-based hiking, particularly multi-day or cross-country treks involving remote forest sections and overnight stays [2, 3].
The department cited safety concerns following a rise in hiking-related incidents in recent months, especially in May 2026. These include the 14-day disappearance of 49-year-old Jaslinda Saludin on Gunung Batu Putih, the death of 19-year-old Nur Izzati Humaira Azizul on Bukit Changkat Asa, and a separate case involving a Singaporean national on Gunung Datuk [2, 3].
From January to May 2026, Malaysia recorded 52 cases of lost hikers involving 114 victims; since 2025, there have been 140 cases involving 307 victims nationwide [2, 3]. The department said the suspension is a preventive measure to reduce risks on remote and challenging trails.
Violators of the suspension may face prosecution under Section 47 of the National Forestry Act 1984 (Adoption) Enactment 1985, with penalties including fines up to RM30,000, imprisonment for up to five years, or both. "Violators may be prosecuted under Section 47 of the Enactment on the Application of the National Forestry Act 1985," the Selangor Forestry Department said [1, 2, 3].
Authorities have not specified the length of the suspension but emphasized the need to prioritize public safety on hazardous routes [1, 2, 3]. The suspension will begin on July 1, marking an immediate cutoff for new trans hiking and hiking compress activity permits in Selangor's Permanent Reserved Forests.
