Public perspective on mangrove restoration at Kuala Selangor Nature Park, Malaysia

The study presents the public perceptions of the restoration of coastal mangroves in Kuala Selangor Nature Park. The natural function of mangroves in this study area is to conserve the rich biodiversity and as a natural filter to the park. The primary objective is to identify the importance of the coastal mangrove restoration programme along the shoreline of the nature park. The study also investigates the effectiveness of restoring coastal mangrove forests and examines user perceptions and appreciation of the area. The target respondents are visitors and the surrounding local community. This study applies mixed methods, qualitative and quantitative. Questionnaires were distributed to members of the public connected to the Nature Park. Observation was used to record the current restoration programme/data. The results show that the restoration of coastal mangroves in the study area is thriving and well-managed while it has also received positive feedback from visitors and nearby residents. Increased awareness of the local conservation/restoration of mangroves started after the devastating events of the 2004 Asian tsunami. This restoration programme is an excellent effort to conserve our precious natural ecosystem in order to maintain a healthy coastal environment. The programme also plays a vital role in educating the public.