Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM)
Selangor
The Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), located in Kepong near Kuala Lumpur, is a statutory agency dedicated to sustainable management and optimal use of Malaysia's forest resources. Established in 1926, FRIM is renowned as the world's oldest and largest recreated tropical rainforest. The institute began on a site largely stripped of original forest cover, where experimental plantations of dipterocarps and other hardwood species were carefully nurtured. Over the decades, FRIM expanded its plantations and collections, including extensive arboreta and a herbarium that grew from 1,500 to over 53,000 accessions by the 1950s. In 1984, FRIM was established as a statutory body under the Malaysia Forestry Research and Development Board. Its research focuses on tropical forestry, biodiversity, and forest conservation, supporting Malaysia's environmental sustainability goals. In 2025, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its global significance. Visitors can experience a unique tropical rainforest environment that combines scientific research with conservation and education.
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Astuce: Visitors are advised to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the tropical rainforest environment and research facilities. It is recommended to check FRIM's official website for updated opening hours and to book guided tours or special programs in advance. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups. Comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent are recommended for exploring the forest trails. Early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and better chances to see wildlife.
Faits intéressants
- •FRIM is the world's oldest and largest re-created tropical rainforest.
- •The institute's herbarium collection grew from 1,500 to over 53,000 accessions between 1928 and 1957.
- •FRIM was officially transformed into a statutory body in 1984, announced by then Prime Minister Dr. Mahathir Mohamad.
- •The site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2025, highlighting its global ecological and scientific importance.
- •FRIM's grounds expanded to 600 hectares by the 1960s, encompassing extensive plantations and arboreta.
Histoire
FRIM was established in 1926 when Frederick William Foxworthy was tasked to create a forest research unit for Malaysia's Forestry Department.
The initial site was largely deforested, but by 1928, 42 hectares of experimental plantations were established.
The institute expanded steadily before World War II, developing arboreta and a large herbarium.
After Malaysia's independence in 1957, FRIM continued to grow, expanding its grounds to 600 hectares by the 1960s.
In 1984, FRIM became a statutory body administered by the Malaysia Forestry Research and Development Board, formalized in 1986.
The institute's role has evolved to include research, development, and application of tropical forestry knowledge, culminating in its UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 2025.
Guide du lieu
Main Research and Administration Building1928
The original building completed in the late 1920s serves as the central hub for FRIM's laboratories, herbarium, and museum, as well as housing sections for Chemistry, Zoology, and Silviculture. It represents the institute's historical foundation and ongoing research activity.
Experimental Plantations and Arboreta1928 onwards
Spanning hundreds of hectares, these plantations include dipterocarp and non-dipterocarp species, representing one of the world's largest recreated tropical forests. The arboreta showcase over 200 species, serving as living laboratories for forestry research and conservation.