Bangsar Ecological Connector (BEC)

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Project Date:

May 2024 to January 2026

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Project Status:

Completed the Bangsar Ecological Connector (BEC) was a community-driven initiative that ran from May 2024 to January 2026, aimed at linking the Pulai Trail urban forest with the green spaces of Rimba Ilmu at the University of Malaya. By creating an ecological gardenscape across the city, the BEC promoted the planting of native species to support local wildlife, particularly birds and butterflies. The programme transformed fragmented green areas into a connected ecological network, demonstrating how urban communities can actively contribute to biodiversity conservation and a greener, more resilient city.

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Programme Goals:

The Bangsar Ecological Connector aimed to:

• Link key urban green spaces to create a continuous ecological corridor
• Restore and expand habitats for native wildlife, including birds and butterflies
• Promote the planting of native species for biodiversity conservation
• Engage residents, students, and local organisations in environmental stewardship
• Provide accessible spaces for recreation, education, and connection with nature

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Key Activities:

Throughout its duration, the BEC was activated through multiple community and restoration initiatives:

• Native Tree Planting
  • Planting sessions focused on locally appropriate native trees, shrubs, and flowering plants to improve habitat quality and ecological connectivity.
• Community Plant Giveaways
  • Residents, students, and workers were encouraged to adopt native plants and integrate them into their homes and local neighbourhoods.
• Habitat Restoration
  • Restoration efforts enhanced soil health, increased plant diversity, and created spaces that support birds, butterflies, and other local wildlife.
• Volunteer & Corporate Engagement
  • Community groups and corporate partners joined hands to plant, maintain trails, and conserve biodiversity.
• Guided Walk & Educational Tours
  • Learning experiences introduced participants to native plants, urban ecology, and ways to nurture biodiversity in city environments.

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Programme Impact:

During its run from May 2024 to January 2026:

• 2,771 native trees and plants are distributed across the ecological connector
• 23 Forest Stewardship Workshops were hosted in Pulai Trail
• 118 Volunteers helped plant and gained hands-on ecological skills 
• 158 Native trees planted in Pulai Trail over a span of 18 months

The BEC strengthened the ecological and social fabric of Bangsar, leaving a lasting legacy for both nature and the community.

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Legacy & Continuing Stewardship 

Though the Bangsar Ecological Connector programme concluded in January 2026, its impact continues through the thriving native plants, restored habitats, and ongoing stewardship at sites like Pulai Trail. The project serves as a model for urban biodiversity initiatives and demonstrates the power of community-driven ecological restoration.

This project was brought to you by Free Tree Society, with support from GEF-SGP-UNDP.

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