Hamilton Biodiversity Park: Revitalising Nature Through Strategic Ecological Restoration
At Sime Darby Property, we see urban biodiversity as more than just the plants and
animals around us—it’s a vital indicator of our environment’s health, where thriving and balanced natural ecosystems
serve a multitude of functions and benefits for us. Hamilton Biodiversity Park (“HBP”) exemplifies this vision of
regeneration and resilience of nature, nestled along the boundary of the Galla Permanent Reserved Forest. At the
heart of this initiative is a robust biodiversity and ecosystem assessment methodology, essential for guiding
successful restoration and long-term ecological health.
This 284-acre plot, located within the 892.47-acre Hamilton Industrial Park, has been set aside to drive our commitment
to biodiversity. Once a disused oil palm plantation, it is now poised to become a thriving, healthy forest, demonstrating
the impact of dedicated ecological planning.
Guided by a solid foundation of baseline data, each phase of this long-term effort to regenerate the former
monoculture oil palm landscape into a thriving, biodiverse ecosystem is rooted in careful planning and scientific
insight. Biodiversity monitoring every five years will help sustain and adapt the transformation, gradually
fostering a resilient natural environment. Sime Darby Property has collaborated with multiple industry experts on
this project, who bring valuable insights and strategic oversight to its Ecosystem Restoration Planner. These
partnerships highlight Sime Darby Property’s commitment to leveraging expert knowledge and fostering innovation in
ecological restoration.
The Split-GIll Mushroom (Kulat Sisir)
Thriving Flora, Diverse Fungi, and Unique Fauna: Hamilton's Restoration Journey
Extending the neighbouring Galla Permanent Reserved Forest, HBP boasts an extraordinary diversity of fungi, with over 49 recorded species. Among them is the Kulat Sisir, a fan-shaped edible fungus cherished by indigenous communities for its delicate structure and cultural significance. These fungi, particularly wood-decay varieties, play a crucial role in nutrient recycling and soil enrichment, underpinning the park’s ecological balance. Beyond their ecological importance, these fungi serve as visual marvels and stand as symbols of Hamilton’s remarkable natural diversity.
Paradise Flying Snake
Sunda Slow Loris
Among the notable fauna species that call HBP home are the critically endangered Sunda Pangolin, listed on the IUCN
Red List of Threatened Species. The park also shelters the Sunda Slow Loris, a venomous primate, which uses venom as
a defence mechanism. Nevertheless, this species plays a vital role in controlling insect populations while acting as
a seed disperser. The park provides refuge for the Wallace’s Hawk Eagle, an uncommon raptor that helps regulate
smaller vertebrate prey populations, and the Malayan Horned Frog, an iconic frog species typically associated with
clean and healthy river ecosystems. Additionally, the Striped Bronzeback and Paradise Flying Snake are among the
diverse reptilian inhabitants. Other species, such as the Large Indian Civet, Mainland Leopard Cat, along with a
handful of bat species, contribute significantly to the park’s ecological balance while demonstrating the variety of
life that finds shelter here.
Engaging Communities and Future Generations
Mainland Leopard Cat
HBP is a demonstration of our commitment to regenerating and protecting a critical ecosystem which will also serve
as a restored extension to benefit the nearby Gallah Forest Reserve. Future plans for the HBP include leveraging
partnerships to deliver community-centric programmes, promote environmental education, and even support nature-based
tourism.
HBP represents a long-term commitment to not only restore but also enhance the natural environment that once
thrived. It is a deliberate effort rooted in patience, scientific rigour, and community collaboration, aimed at
creating a sanctuary where both nature and people can coexist harmoniously.
Although the journey is just beginning, early signs of success are already visible, whether in the diverse fungi,
abundant wildlife, or the renewed sense of hope for shared ecosystems. Hamilton is being nurtured into a sanctuary
that honours the past, fosters harmonious coexistence between people and nature, and cultivates a resilient,
sustainable future for all.
