FOREST RESEARCH INSTITUTE MALAYSIA (FRIM)
Located in Kepong, on the outskirts of Kuala Lumpur, the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM) is a world-class center for tropical forestry research. Spanning 1,528 hectares, this man-made forest—reclaimed from old mining sites and vegetable farms since 1926—stands as a testament to successful reforestation and biodiversity conservation.THE FRIM EXPERIENCE
FRIM offers a unique opportunity to explore a primary-like forest environment within the city. It is a sanctuary for nature lovers, joggers, and birdwatchers, featuring diverse arboreta and specialized nature trails.KEY ATTRACTIONS
- Forest Skywalk (Menara Khayangan): The new 250-meter long skywalk stands 50 meters above sea level. Featuring aluminum towers and platforms, it offers breathtaking views of the forest canopy and the Kuala Lumpur skyline. (Note: The original wooden canopy walkway is permanently closed).
- Crown Shyness: Witness the "surreal" phenomenon of Kapur trees (Dryobalanops aromatica), where the uppermost branches do not touch each other, creating a jigsaw-like pattern against the sky.
- Botanical Gardens & Arboreta: Explore 8 specialized arboreta housing over 750 species of timber trees, bamboo, and medicinal plants.
- Traditional Houses: Visit the authentic Terengganu and Melaka houses, which showcase traditional Malay architecture and serve as cultural landmarks within the grounds.
NATURE TRAILS
- Salleh Trail: A 1.5 km trail through old plantations, ideal for learning about forest shrubs and medicinal flora.
- Keruing Trail: Highlights Malaysia’s prime commercial timber species and demonstrates the success of forest reclamation.
- Engkabang Trail: Passes through former wetlands and features trees harvested for their valuable fats.
VISITOR INFORMATION (UPDATED 2026)
FRIM is approximately 16 km northwest of Kuala Lumpur.- Access: Visitors must purchase tickets online via the FRIM visitor portal or at the main entrance. The Forest Skywalk requires a separate ticket and has limited daily slots.
- Operating Hours: Open daily, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Check for seasonal maintenance closures.
- Birdwatching: Best visited in the early morning for sightings of resident forest birds and raptors.