KUALA PILAH: The recent discovery of several potential eco-tourism spots across the state is timely, as Negri Sembilan plans to highlight the sector as one of its key tourism products for Visit Malaysia Year 2020 (VMY2020).
One month after the discovery of a limestone site in Ladang Dangi Langkap near here, the authorities stumbled upon another climbing site in Dangi, which is bound to attract hiking enthusiasts.
Located five kilometres from Dangi town, Bukit Bearop in Kampung Tulang Rimau – which is 362m above sea level – promises exciting challenges for adventurous tourists.
Kampung Tulang Rimau Community Management Council (MPKK) chairman Rohaya Samat, 53, said the uniqueness of Kampung Tulang Rimau's name is the first element that can attract visitors to visit the village.
“The mention of 'Tulang Rimau' will definitely intrigue visitors, and the moment they arrive, they will be greeted by breath-taking views and scenery.
“It is situated 362m above sea level, making Bukit Bearop the highest point in the village, but mind you, to reach the summit is not an easy feat," said Rohaya, who joined an expedition to climb Bukit Bearop recently.
"Participants have to make a 500m crossing at an oil palm plantation before walking through a forest area for about 2.5 km to reach the summit of Bearop Hill," she added.
According to Rohaya, the expedition started at 7.30am with 98 participants, including residents from Kawasan Rukun Tetangga Dangi (KRT), the Royal Malaysian Police, the Dangi Hiker Team, Pilah Hiker, the Kampung Malan Climber Club and residents of Kampung Tulang Rimau.
The expedition was launched by Johol state constituency coordinator Tunku Yazid Tunku Adzim.
Meanwhile, Tunku Yazid said it was time for the site to be developed and recognised by the outside community.
“The first thing to do is to put up signage leading to this area, and to provide basic facilities and infrastructure at the beginning of the climb.
"In addition, we will try to improve access to this area so that it can attract visitors," he said.
Rahimah Rasit, 50, who is a Kampung Tulang Rimau native, said although the height of Bukit Bearop is only 362m, the challenges to reach to the top couldn't be underestimated.
Rahimah, who is an experienced hiker, said that new hikers must equip themselves with training and hone their skills before pursuing to hike higher mountains.
“I have been in the sport for over 20 years and have climbed several mountains abroad, in Nepal, Indonesia and the Philippines, besides in the country.
"The uniqueness of hills and mountains in our country and the greenery of our equatorial forests will surely attract visitors from inside and outside the country to experience this wonderful scenery," he added.