STATE PARKS POLICY

• to preserve and protect animals, wildlife, fish and plant life and objects of geological, archaeological, historical and ethnological and other scientific and scenic interest;
• by way of preservation and its utilization to promote education, health, aesthetic value and public recreation; and
• to secure the wildlife, animal and fish habitat, conservation and protection of water catchment areas and also preserving and maintaining ecosystem services.

A protected area must always be managed according to the purpose and objectives it was established for, as stated in Part II, Section 4 of the Terengganu State Parks Enactment 2017 – the priority for the establishment of Terengganu State Parks (hereafter known as State Parks) is the conservation of its biodiversity and other associated values, while the sustainable use of its resources is a secondary objective.

The unique beauty of State Park’s wildlife and environment, its tranquillity, and historical heritage, shall continue to be understood and valued nationally and internationally, for its diversity and richness.

State Parks should be promoted as a premier eco-tourism destination for nature-lovers, seekers of peace and tranquillity, and educational tourists interested in history and culture, where low-impact and eco-friendly activities are allowed, i.e. the main draws being wildlife and bird watching, nature photography, glamping/camping, hiking, canoeing and kayaking, and fly-fishing.

The provision of urban type recreational facilities is not part of the purpose of State Parks. Only recreational facilities in harmony with the purpose and preservation of State Parks may be introduced, but always so as to minimize impairment and not at all if substantial impairment is inevitable.

1. Existing rights of local and indigenous groups are recognised especially where traditional resource use has been established and still practised.
2. Such practices can be allowed for subsistence, livelihood and cultural purposes only and resource use must be regulated to remain within Limits of Acceptable Change (LAC) and interventions implemented to regenerate overexploited natural resources.

1. Scientific research seeking to better understanding of nature and wildlife in its natural intact state and especially those contributing towards improving management of the State Parks is considered an integral part of its purpose, but in no case should there be undue disturbance or harassment of rare and endangered species, nor should there be a diversion of resources away from law enforcement within State Parks.
2. Equally important are social studies to understand and promote better human-nature connections and community interactions with State Parks.
3. A basic function of the State Parks is to educate the public and the young in the understanding, appreciation of their State Parks and the importance for conservation of biodiversity.

1. To use, enjoy and benefit from State Parks, one must be able to get to State Parks and remain there for a few days.
2. Therefore, limited and carefully chosen mode of transportation (e.g. road, water bodies) to allow access is acceptable.
3. Accommodation facilities that are compatible with the environment may be provided.

1. Government roads, except for the existing ones, should not be permitted inside a park if suitable area can be found outside.
2. Government utility installations should not be permitted in a state park unless there is no suitable location elsewhere and it is of national importance and its importance outweighs the reduction in park values. Any potential loss must be fairly and adequately compensated based on ecosystem services valuation.