A hidden gem of Perak: conservation of Sungai Perak Riverine Ecotone through landscape ecology approach at Sungai Perak, Perak Tengah/ Muhammad Zulkifly Wan Fadzilah

The objective of ecological conservation is the long-term maintenance of populations or species or, more broadly, of the Earth's biodiversity. Many of the threats that elicit conservation concern result in one way or another from human land use. Population sizes may become precariously small when suitable habitat is lost or becomes spatially fragmented, increasing the likelihood of extinction. The author reminisces the ecological aspect of riverine ecotone along Sungai Perak in conjunction with cultural value oflocal community towards protecting the ecosystem and tradition of Perak. The study area is located at part of the riverine ecotone of Sungai Perak from Parit to Bota. The significance of this study emphasized on the conservation and protection of Sungai Perak riverine ecotone and at the same time providing recreational space for the local community through the adoption of landscape ecology approach. In this study, the inventory and analysis process has been conducted and it focussed on the three attributes including the environmental, cultural and physical attributes. The data collected from the inventory are synthesized to identify the potential areas to be conserved and protected. Lastly, the final phase of this study will provide a landscape master plan and design proposal that contributes to the conservation of a riverine ecology, at the same time encourages community participation.