SHAH ALAM, Oct 31 — The Selangor Northern Gateway (Anjung Utara Selangor) is targeted to receive recognition as a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Biosphere Reserve by July next year.
Selangor Menteri Besar (Incorporation) or MBI group chief executive officer Dato' Saipolyazan M Yusop said MBI and the state government submitted an application to establish the reserve (AUSBR) after presenting it to the relevant committee.
“Many people are actually unaware that MBI, together with the state government, has submitted an application to designate the area as the Selangor Northern Gateway Biosphere Reserve.
“The application has been submitted to UNESCO, and they have accepted it,” he said during Media Selangor's 'Bicara Semasa' programme.
Commenting on the area’s potential, Saipolyazan said Ban Canal in Sabak Bernam, which hosts an annual carnival, is located within the buffer zone of the proposed biosphere reserve.
Development and tourism activities can still take place in the area if it receives UNESCO recognition, provided they comply with the organisation's policies and guidelines.
“We have core, buffer, and transition zones, and this is the buffer zone where we are holding the programme.
“Even after receiving UNESCO recognition, we can still carry out development, programmes and other activities, but they must follow the policies and guidelines set by UNESCO,” he said.
Saipolyazan added that Ban Canal’s distinctive landscape, surrounded by paddy fields and forest reserves, as well as its rich traditional food, culture, and local products, are among the main attractions for ecotourism in the district.
The area’s potential is further enhanced by the Ban Canal Carnival, which combines environmentally friendly recreational activities, biodiversity education, and local community participation.
For the 2026 edition, MBI is targeting at least 38,000 visitors over the three-day carnival, which will take place from November 6 to November 8 at Parit 14, Simpang Lima, Sabak Bernam.
