ISKANDAR PUTERI: The launch of a bridge at the largest urban community recreational park here is a testament to UEM Group Bhd’s commitment to support Johor’s Green Vision 2030, said Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi.

The Johor Mentri Besar, who officiated the launch of the 65m bridge known as ECO Link at Sireh Park, said the company has played a significant role in keeping the state green.

“UEM Group is one of the main developers in Johor, which has also contributed greatly towards improving the well-being of the people of Johor.

“Today, with the launch of ECO Link, UEM Group has once again proven that development is not just about investment and physical growth, but also about quality of life and sustainability,” he said.

Onn Hafiz said this after officiating the launch of the bridge, which underwent restoration sponsored by Yayasan UEM – the philanthropic arm of UEM Group – and leading the planting of about 100 new trees at Sireh Park yesterday.

The Mentri Besar added that the state government also hopes to collaborate with UEM Group to set up a petting zoo and upgrade Sireh Park, the largest urban community recreational park in Malaysia.

Onn Hafiz leading the planting of about 100 new trees at Sireh Park that was also funded by Yayasan UEM.

“We are taking the whole-of-government approach, and we believe that all parties must work together to truly achieve our goal of making Johor a developed state by 2030.

“It is time for us to stop working in silos. Let’s work together, as what we are doing here will benefit the community and generations to come,” he said.

Yayasan UEM chief executive officer Aishah Nor said they are prepared to fully support the state as it works towards achieving Johor’s Green Vision 2030.

“We believe in investing in initiatives that create long-lasting positive impact for communities as well as the environment.

“The development of Sireh Park and its various ecological projects contributes to creating an eco-friendly urban space that not only enhances community well-being but also provides a safe haven for flora and fauna, a focus and commitment which we share,” she said.

Meanwhile, Sireh Park regional open space head Faisal Mohd Nor said he was grateful for the support they received from all parties, including the public, to grow the park.

“The park is an integral part of a township that supports sustainability, biodiversity and community value, and we are truly grateful to receive the support from the private sector as well as the public to protect and grow Malaysia’s largest urban community recreational park.

“This support goes a long way in nurturing Sireh Park as a shared space for learning, healing and togetherness.”

The unveiling of the ECO Link Bridge also coincided with Eco Day, an event aimed at promoting sustainable living and community engagement through various activities such as a composting demonstration and nature-based art projects.

The event also provided a platform for young talents to showcase their skills and creativity in programmes such as the “Merdeka Recycle Art Challenge” and “Powered by Recyclables” competition.

Sireh Park ECO Link, formerly known as Hill Bridge, was originally constructed for temporary use during the Malaysia Games (Sukma) in 2020.

However, the event was cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic and, over time, the structure of the bridge became unsafe for public use.

The reconstruction of the bridge began last year and was completed early this year using eco-friendly materials.

Sireh Park, short for Sustainable, Initiatives, Recreation and Education Haven, is located on a sprawling 138.8ha green space in Iskandar Puteri.

The park, which recently earned a place in the Malaysia Book of Records as the largest urban community recreational park in the country, has made significant progress in environmental efforts through various initiatives.

These include the “Plant That Tree” programme, which has seen the planting of over 10,000 trees since its launch in 2017, with a goal of reaching 25,000 trees by 2028.