KUALA LUMPUR: The first residential road canopy bridge in Malaysia for treetop animals called Ah Lai's Crossing has finally received a facelift.
Situated in Teluk Bahang, the bridge was installed to ensure the safety of wildlife crossing the busy road.
In a Facebook post, Langur Project Penang (LPP) said the crossing was initially constructed as a single firehose line design in 2019 and later enhanced to a double firehose line design in 2020.
"This initiative has facilitated the safe passage of over 6,000 animals from at least eight wildlife species, including dusky langurs, long-tailed macaques, plantain squirrels and paradise tree snakes, thereby reducing the incidence of roadkill and accidents," it said.
LPP took the opportunity to reinforce the bridge, ensuring its stability and strength for primates, squirrels and reptiles.
Parts of the bridge were replaced and tensile strength tests were conducted to guarantee its durability and public safety.
"Ah Lai's Crossing serves as an important testament to human-wildlife coexistence and community science.
"We hope LPP and APE Malaysia will work hand-in-hand for the long term, alongside important stakeholders and funders, to create positive changes and further reserve the red," it said.
The public has commended LPP for their dedication to improving Malaysia's first road canopy bridge.
A Facebook user, @Sara Fang suggested implementing similar measures along the Negri Sembilan highway to mitigate the risk of wildlife road accidents.
@Myra Sha expressed heartfelt admiration: "This is beyond amazing! It made me cry somehow. Huge applause to all of you guys!"