The Nature Trails

Trekking through the nature trails at Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM)’s main campus is one of the most popular activities for visitors.

The trails, spanning just 1 kilometre, are gently undulating and easy to navigate, winding through a man-made forest that dates back to the 1920s. Accompanied by experienced nature guides, the leisurely two-hour walk offers a captivating introduction to Malaysia’s lush tropical ecosystem. Along the way, visitors can expect to encounter an array of timber trees, diverse flora and fauna, and insightful educational stops that highlight the importance of forest conservation.

A highlight of the trail is the remarkable crown shyness phenomenon, where the canopies of kapur trees (Dryobalanops aromatica) grow in such a way that their branches avoid touching, forming intricate, skyward patterns that never fail to mesmerise. The trail also features a variety of commercially important timber species, particularly those from the Dipterocarpaceae family, and includes the iconic merbau tree (Intsia palembanica), proudly recognised as Malaysia’s National Tree.