Nga: Ministry to finalise campsite guidelines by end-April

PARLIAMENT | The Local Government Development Ministry has prepared a draft of guidelines for campsites to be finalised by the end of April this year, according to minister Nga Kor Ming.

In cooperation with the Town and Country Planning Department (PlanMalaysia), Nga (above) said that the draft will be completed after taking the views and feedback from various relevant agencies, local authorities, and campsite operators into consideration.

The guidelines, also known as the Garis Panduan Perancangan, focus on six types of basic camping activities such as setting up tents in natural areas with minimal basic facilities, as well as camping gear and food that people must bring themselves.

Speaking in Dewan Rakyat this afternoon, Nga was responding to Sim Tze Tzin’s (Pakatan Harapan-Bayan Baru) suggestion that guidelines to regulate camping and agrotourism activities be created.

“This draft was made following the Batang Kali landslide incident,” the minister added.

The guidelines for campsites focus on five key aspects:

1) Suitable location in areas such as mountains, rivers, forests, and other environmentally sensitive areas.

2) Safety by considering the proximity to sensitive areas, topography, and soil structure.

3) Access to the site.

4) Basic infrastructure and facilities such as drainage systems, toilets, and parking.

5) Management and operations including staff requirements and emergency management.

In addition, Nga said the guidelines will cover matters concerning adherence to laws and regulations, as well as obtaining permits for both indoor and outdoor structures.

“The draft guidelines also touch on aspects related to legal compliance with the local authorities and related agencies such as the approval of temporary building permits and business licences.

“As well as signage and advertising permits, permits for outdoor or extreme activities, such as ‘flying fox’, and others,” Nga said.

The minister expressed his hopes that, with the guidelines provided, aspects related to safety, comfort, and nature conservation can be given due attention in the planning and development of camping sites. - Mkini