Lata Kinjang waterfall lifeblood of Orang Asli
TAPAH : Cascading from a height of about 850m, Lata Kinjang waterfall – one of the highest waterfalls in Southeast Asia – is clearly visible when travelling along the north-south highway, beckoning road users to pause to take in its natural beauty before continuing their journey.
Located about 18km from Tapah town, this multi-tier waterfall flows swiftly from the peak of the Titiwangsa range. Yet, it is more than just a scenic attraction – it holds deep significance for members of the Semai Orang Asli community, who have inhabited the area for nearly a century.
According to Rani Ulin, the 'tok batin' or head of Kampung Orang Asli Lata Kinjang, the waterfall has been a lifeline for his community since their forefathers settled there in the 1930s.
'For four generations, many of our activities have centred around the waterfall. We gather forest produce, carry out farming and fishing activities, and make use of the various natural resources available around the falls.
'The waterfall remains the heart of our livelihood. As long as it continues to flow beautifully, so, too, will our spirit,' he said when met by Bernama recently.
Rani Ulin.
Rani explained that 'lata' means 'waterfall', while 'kinjang' refers to a type of deer. These symbolise the harmony of nature, which has remained well preserved in Lata Kinjang despite its relative proximity to Perak's capital, Ipoh.
Now known as Taman Eko Rimba Lata Kinjang, the area has been under the management of the local Orang Asli community since February 2022 through Lata Kinjang Orang Asli Cooperative Bhd.
The cooperative was established to improve the livelihoods of the indigenous community here. So far, it has provided jobs to 25 villagers.
'We're very happy to offer job opportunities to the youths here,' Rani said. 'They no longer need to migrate elsewhere to earn a living. Instead, they can serve and develop their own village.
'It's not just about providing employment; we've also become more confident in competing in the tourism sector. Tourism has become a major catalyst for our village economy.'
Rani hopes tourists and other visitors will help protect Lata Kinjang's natural environment, which has remained well preserved despite its proximity to Ipoh. (Bernama pic)
Rani, who is also the secretary of the cooperative, hopes his community will continue to receive support from relevant parties so that Lata Kinjang remains a natural treasure for future generations.
'We want the younger ones to feel proud of their ancestral land. As long as we can preserve the beauty and heritage of Lata Kinjang, there will always be opportunities for future generations to enjoy and benefit from it.
'We hope tourists and everyone who visits Lata Kinjang will help protect its natural environment. Development is important, but balance and sustainability are the keys to ensuring that Lata Kinjang continues to provide benefits in the future.'
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