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| Junjong Waterfall |
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| Stream beside the Junjong Waterfall |
My parents and I were on a recent visit to Junjong Waterfall
in Kulim, Kedah on 7 January 2016. We have not been there since ages ago so we
thought that we should visit there again. The waterfall is popular with locals
with families and visitors alike for recreational activities such as
picnicking, strolling and taking a dip in the river while enjoying the natural
beauty. However, we found out that the waterfall’s natural beauty is marred by
several problems caused by under-maintenance and inconsiderate visitors, which
leaves much to be desired. We felt that the waterfall has been degraded from
its former glory without any positive development.
As we entered the waterfall, the archway greeting motorists
to the waterfall along the road is in a dilapidated state with structures, roof
tiles and timber boards about to fall down. This might pose a danger to
motorists and passers-by. After we parked our car and walked along the river, we noticed that river water is still clean, but the area around the river was strewn with rubbish. Not only it makes the area
dirty but it also pollutes the river, which pose a health risk to visitors who
wish to take a dip in the river. This may lead to illnesses such as typhoid and
leptospirosis. This proves to be an eye sore to visitors.
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| Stream that flows beside the waterfall at the end of the footpath. |
Aside from that, the existing facilities on site such as the toilets, changing room, information counter, gazebo and surau are also in a state of neglect and disrepair. I don’t think that any visitor would dare to use these facilities as these places may be a breeding ground for mosquitoes, spiders, leeches, snakes and rats.
There was a pathway along the stream beside the waterfall
and also a bridge over the stream. However, the pathway which leads to the
waterfall are not clearly marked as it is broken and overgrown with grass,
making the access to the waterfall difficult for visitors.
When we hiked up the pathway next to the waterfall, the steps which goes
up the waterfall is also damaged due to erosion. After we reached the end of the footpath, we saw another pool and another waterfall cascade at the far end of the pool. Compared to the pool at the bottom of the waterfall, this one has a stronger river current.
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| The pool at the top of the waterfall |
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| The pool at the top of the waterfall |
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| View from the top of the waterfall |
After visiting the waterfall, I hope that the Kedah State Government
and the Kedah State Forestry Department should take the necessary steps to
revitalise the area, such as cleaning up the area and maintaining and upgrading
the facilities. The authorities should also look into the safety and
cleanliness of other popular waterfalls and nature sites around the state to
ensure that they are on par with tourism standards.
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