speeding down Sungai Reba

Located in the western coastline of Perak, the mangrove forest in Kuala Sepetang, is a world-acclaimed best managed sustainable mangrove ecosystem. This Matang Mangrove Forest boasts 28 true mangrove species and 13 associate species, 19 mammals, 155 species of birds, 112 species of fishes, 3 species of stingrays, 50 species of crabs and 20 species of prawns. Lucky visitors have also spotted the Chinese White Dolphin swimming along the river-mouths.

mangrove swamp

boats that meet in the day

During my visit to the Matang Mangrove Eco-Educational Centre recently, I also took the opportunity to cruise along the Reba River (mangrove river cruise), where I saw a floating village (Kampung Nelayan), which the Chinese community of fishing families call home, harvesting of cockles and crab fishing.

back-breaking work of cockle-harvesting

crab-fishing

As it was low-tide, I was unable to witness more river activities, like the removal of logs from logging sites in the mangrove forest. Nonetheless, it was an eye-opening cruise along the river, where our boatman nearly took us out to the Straits of Melaka!

floating village

a building in the middle of the river

For visitors who would like a longer stay at the Matang Mangrove Eco-Educational Centre, there are chalets and camping platforms for rent. For further information on rates, contact the Perak State Forestry Department or Larut & Matang District Forest Office.

Entrance fee (per entry):
Adult: RM1
Student: 50sen

Perak State Forestry Department (Jabatan Perhutanan Negeri Perak)
Add: Persiaran Meru Utama, Bandar Meru Raya, 30020 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia.
Tel: +605-528 8100 / 8071 / 8072 / 8073 / 8075
Fax: +605-528 8101
Web: www.perakforestry.gov.my

Larut & Matang District Forest Office
Add: 34000 Taiping, Perak, Malaysia.
Tel: +605-807 2762
Fax: +605-806 7743

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