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TOWERING at approximately 850 metres above sea level, Lata Kinjang Waterfall is not only one of the tallest waterfalls in Southeast Asia, but a vital source of life and heritage for the Semai Orang Asli community that has called the surrounding forest home since the 1930s.
Visible from Malaysia’s North-South Expressway, the multi-tiered cascade flowing from the peaks of the Titiwangsa Range entices countless travellers to pause for a glimpse — but for the people of Kampung Orang Asli Lata Kinjang, it is the heartbeat of their way of life.
“From generation to generation, many of our activities have centred around the waterfall. We collect forest produce, farm, fish, and use the surrounding resources,” Bernama cited village headman Rani Ulin, 53, saying.
“Four generations later, this waterfall still sustains us. As long as the water flows, so does our spirit.”
Rani, who also serves as secretary of the Lata Kinjang Orang Asli Cooperative (KOALKB), explained that the name 'Lata Kinjang' is rooted in local language — 'lata' meaning waterfall, and 'kinjang' referring to a deer species, evoking the area's long-standing harmony with nature.
Since February 2022, the site — now officially recognised as the Lata Kinjang Eco Forest Park — has been fully managed by the Orang Asli community through KOALKB. The initiative not only promotes community-led conservation but also offers employment to 25 local villagers.
“We’re proud to create jobs for our youth. They no longer have to leave the village to find work. Instead, they can contribute here and help develop their homeland,” Rani said.
Beyond employment, the cooperative has become a catalyst for economic resilience, winning the 2025 Perak State Award for Best Cooperative in the tourism sector.
Rani stressed that community support and ecological preservation remain paramount as development increases.
“We want our young people to take pride in this land. As long as we preserve the beauty and heritage of Lata Kinjang, future generations will continue to benefit from it,” he said.
“We hope tourists and all who come here will join us in protecting this environment. Development is important, but balance and sustainability are key for Lata Kinjang to remain a source of life well into the future.” - May 11, 2025
