Nestled among the mountains of Pahang, two hours from Kuala Lumpur, Fraser’s Hill is popular for its cool climate and nature activities. One of Malaysia’s few remaining hill stations, it boasts a rich history dating back to the colonial era. Named after the Scottish adventurer Louis James Fraser, who established a tin ore trading station in the area, the town retains its nostalgic charm as a “Little England” amidst Malaysia’s natural beauty.

The famous clock tower of Fraser’s Hill surrounded by the picturesque colonial-style buildings
welcomes all guests to the small, yet historical grounds of Fraser’s.
Photo by Cassie Leong, The Habitat Foundation. 

For many, life here revolves around the market square, dominated by a small clock tower—arguably the most photographed object in town—alongside the picturesque colonial-style buildings, now repurposed as the post office, police station, cafes, and restaurants. 

Like any tourist destination, Fraser’s Hill faces an uphill battle against overdevelopment. News of the development of a 15-storey resort and spa in a forest complex that includes six permanent reserved forests have shocked many naturalists, concerned by the threats of land use change.

We spoke to Nik Jassmin Hew, President of the Persatuan Alam dan Warisan Bukit Fraser (PAWBF) and a native of Fraser’s Hill, who shared her experience and voiced out for a stronger stand in sustainable tourism. 

Behind the Scenes: Nik Jassmin’s Journey to Conservation Advocacy 

I met Nik Jassmin during a work trip with The Habitat Foundation to Fraser’s Hill. It was an impromptu meeting with her and her team, who are incidentally her school friends who had come back to work for PAWBF. 

Renowned scriptwriter and President of Persatuan Alam dan Warisan Bukit Fraser,
Nik Jassmin Hew. Photo by News Straits Time. 

She welcomed us with a warm smile at The Glasshouse, a cafe known for their homemade scones and coffee. 

Before PAWBF, Nik Jassmin realised there was a real need for more suitable activities and events in Fraser’s Hill. This was how the society started—by organising activities and events aimed at preserving the nature and heritage of the hill.

Recounting on the motivation to set up PAWBF, she said, “When we first started, we did not know what to do exactly. I come from an arts and culture background, I was a scriptwriter. But we had the knowledge, skills, and passion to do something different for the hill.”

Emphasising the importance of gaining as much knowledge as possible and to seek expert guidance when needed, she noted how accommodating and encouraging most people were when approached for help. 

PAWBF: Guardians of Fraser’s Hil’s Natural Heritage 

Comprising ten members who grew up in Fraser’s Hill, PAWBF was founded from a shared recognition of the need for an organisation dedicated to safeguarding the area’s natural heritage and community. They conduct and document studies to create awareness and to lobby authorities, businesses, and visitors for the right kind of tourism and branding of Fraser’s Hill. 

“To us, sustainable tourism means tourism that has low impact to the environment, does not damage the natural environment, does not dilute the heritage and value of a place, and benefits the local community economically and enriches them just as it enriches the visitors.”
– Nik Jassmin

Exploring Fraser’s Hill: Exciting Events and Eco-Adventures

Fraser’s Hill hosts a variety of events throughout the year, catering to both locals and visitors. 

“These activities and events are to steer Fraser’s Hill towards the right direction. We often have to go back to basics in creating awareness about the environment.”
– Nik Jassmin

Here are some upcoming events that may pique your interest on your next visit:

1. Fraser’s Hill Story Walk 

Since its founding, the hill has gone through many different phases and touched many lives—hence the stories are diverse, soulful, and heartfelt. 

Immerse yourself in a three-hour storywalk led by Nik Jassmin, as she takes you on a journey through Fraser’s Hill’s past and present, with stories told through the buildings, the community, and its breathtaking forests. 

Visitors listen closely to the stories Nik Jassmin has to share.
The rich and diverse knowledge of the hill, shared through local stories. Photo by PAWBF. 

2. Birdwatching for Beginners 

Renowned for its rich biodiversity, Fraser’s Hill is a popular birdwatching spot. The cool climate and diverse ecosystems make it an ideal habitat for birds—over 250 bird species are found here, both resident and migratory. 

Whether you are an avid birder or just starting out, Fraser’s Hill offers Birdwatching for Beginners with local guide, K.S. Durai. He will take you into forest trails such as The Gap, Bishop’s Trail, and Jeriau Waterfall; teaching you how to bird ethically (Read more about Ethical Birding here). 

Local guide K.S. Durai  grew up in Fraser’s HIll, and currently brings guests along
Fraser’s Hill to trails to witness and admire the beauty of the biodiversity. Photo by PAWBF. 

3. BBQ @ The Glasshouse and Mari Bercerita di Bukit Fraser 

After a long day exploring the town and trails, gather at The Glasshouse where locals and visitors unite for a delightful BBQ and storytelling evening. 

Mari Bercerita di Bukit Fraser welcomes all visitors to listen and
experience the uniqueness of Fraser’s Hill with the locals. Photo by PAWBF. 

Surrounded by the nocturnal forest, The Glasshouse turns into an enchanting stage for the sharing of bittersweet stories from the local residents: from their fond memories of growing up in a unique and historical landscape, to the pain and sadness of how much has transformed. 

“We are encouraging visitors to enjoy Fraser’s Hill the right way and to take away the right values, as well as for locals to be aware and be involved in the potential for sustainable practices and businesses.”
– Nik Jassmin

Shaping the Future: PAWBF’s Vision for Sustainable Conservation and Tourism in Fraser’s Hill 

As PAWBF continues to attract volunteers for on-ground surveys, exhibition booths, and other initiatives, the organisation has also forged collaborations with universities and like-minded organisations, working to preserve the natural heritage and biodiversity of Fraser’s Hill for future generations.

“Volunteers get to experience Fraser’s Hill in a different light. There’s a sense of excitement, inspiration and maybe a slight sense of guilt in them, and that is what we want to stir up.”
– Nik Jassmin

Taking Action: How You Can Contribute to Conservation Efforts

Become responsible stewards of the environment by supporting local conservation initiatives and advocating for the protection of our natural treasures. Here are a few ways to get involved:

1) Volunteer with PAWBF: 

Join PAWBF’s efforts by volunteering for on-ground surveys, community events, or educational programmes.

2) Support Sustainable Tourism: 

Choose eco-friendly accommodations, engage in responsible travel practices, and support businesses that prioritise environmental conservation.

3) Spread Awareness: 

Share PAWBF’s mission and the importance of conservation with your friends, family, and social networks.

Together, we can ensure that places like Fraser’s Hill remain vibrant havens of biodiversity and beauty for generations to come.

Find out more about PAWBF here

Writer: Rebecca Anne Chin (The Habitat Foundation) 
Contributor: Nik Jassmin (Persatuan Alam dan Warisan Bukit Fraser, PAWBF)