In developing Genting Highlands, I have made efforts to protect the environment and to leave nature undisturbed. I always insist that there should be no development that will result in environmental damage.

In fact, I place water supply and environmental protection as my top priority. I take great care to preserve the forests. Unless it is absolutely necessary, I would not allow trees to be felled. Only a few areas are earmarked for high-rise buildings and through careful maximising of land-use, few trees are felled.

We have budgeted large sums of money for the replanting of trees and promotion of horticulture. To date we have set aside 700 hectares as Government forest reserve.

Our efforts in environmental conservation all these years have been recognised internationally. Attracted by the natural environment in Awana Genting Highlands, the Birdlife International Rare Bird Club held its world conference in Awana Hotel in October, 1999.

At the conference attended by more than 100 bird lovers including Birdlife International Honorary President Queen Noor of Jordan, I had the honour of being invited to be a member of the Birdlife International Rare Bird Club of the United Kingdom, thus becoming the first Malaysian to join the club.

In fact, in the last 35 years, Genting has only developed 148 hectares or 3.4% of the vast land on the highlands. The remaining 96.6% of the highlands is still virgin jungle.

During the early days of development, many timber loggers offered to buy the logging rights on the highlands at attractive prices, but I turned down all these offers.

To me, the surrounding jungle is Genting Highlands’ special feature as a hill resort. The virgin jungle is one of the main attractions for tourists. It also helps to preserve the cool and soothing temperature. Genting Highlands would be no different from other resorts if it were to lose its vast tract of jungle.