Nestled in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, RSGC stands as a testament to Malaysia’s rich golfing heritage and its commitment to preserving biodiversity. Established 131 years ago, this illustrious institution is not only the oldest golf club in Malaysia but also ranks as the fourth oldest in Asia. Beyond its historical significance and role in hosting international golf tournaments, RSGC serves a crucial ecological function, embodying the essence of an urban green lung amidst the bustling cityscape.
Majestic Fallen Ficus’s rootball tree the opposite of Tun Razak Expressway
As we traverse the 348-acre expanse, once a tin mining site, we are enveloped in a verdant tapestry of gardens, waterways, and tropical forests. The Club’s grounds are home to an array of majestic trees, some of which have stood for over a century.
Imagine walking through the Club’s grounds, where ancient trees whisper tales of bygone eras. The Tembusu and Mahogany, standing tall and stoic, are not merely flora but guardians of a complex ecosystem. This living museum is a sanctuary for vibrant birdlife, elusive oriental squirrels, and watchful long-tailed macaques, each species playing its part in the ecological tapestry.
Through initiatives like the book publications of ‘Majestic Trees of the RSGC’ and ‘Sanctuary in the Heart of Kuala Lumpur,’ the Club not only showcases its lush biodiversity but educates and inspires. The annual planting of 200 saplings, in partnership with the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), is a testament to RSGC’s forward-thinking approach to ecological preservation. This initiative, coupled with comprehensive tree risk assessments and preservation measures, underscores the Club’s dedication to sustaining its natural heritage for future generations. For the past 10 to 15 years, FRIM has helped us by approving the sites and species and setting up an arborist to assess our trees yearly. Although the grounds are private, we still want to ensure everything is done correctly.
The ‘Majestic Trees of the RSGC,’ a collaborative effort by Sreetheran Maruthaveeran and Raminder Kaur, offers an in-depth exploration of the 116 tree species gracing the Club’s grounds. Visitors would fail to notice the majestic Rain Trees that welcome you to the grounds. If you are sharp of eye, you can even spot a stunning rainbow eucalyptus, the deeply fissured bark of Tembusu trunk, and the unique pattern of the buttress root of Mahagony.
Sanctuary in the Heart of Kuala Lumpur, authored by Judith Lee von Nostitz, focuses on the bird life that can be found in the Club’s varied microsystems as well as insects, oriental squirrels, water monitor lizards, and long-tailed macaques. There are pages dedicated to the Club’s resident raptors, including crested serpent eagles, oriental honey buzzards, and the more ubiquitous Brahminy Kites. It would be the delightful sections dedicated to the everyday characters, birds we would find in our very own gardens, such as the yellow-vented bulbul and the red-eyed Asian glossy starling, a feature in most towering trees, particularly the lipstick palm.
Nature walk with members with the background of Heron’s nesting area, soaring eagle and amazing building,TRX
Beyond its ecological and golfing pursuits, RSGC fosters a deep-rooted connection with nature through educational walks and events. These activities bridge the gap between urban living and the natural world, enriching the community’s understanding and appreciation of their green surroundings.
Along with contributing to the Club’s tree planting project, numerous trees have been protected from lightning according to ANSI Standard specifications. The majority of the trees on the golf course and its perimeter are subject to annual tree risk assessments. The following steps are still being taken for advanced tree assessments, such as the Picus Test Tomograph. Tree pruning is done in accordance with the report’s recommendations. In 2000, a census was conducted, and it was found that there were roughly 10,000 huge trees and countless lesser ones. There were simply too many in certain areas, which resulted in crowding and tall, thin trees. We replace those trees since we are aware that they are lost or topple over every year as a result of storms and lightning.
Captured photo of Herons on the top of Pulai tree
Vision for the Future
As we reflect on RSGC’s contributions to both golfing heritage and environmental conservation, it stands as a symbol of balance and sustainability. In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, RSGC is not just a golf club but a beacon of green innovation, demonstrating how spaces can harmonize recreational and ecological purposes.
In the end, RSGC is more than just a venue for golf; it is a living, breathing ecosystem that serves as a sanctuary for biodiversity. Its prestigious history and steadfast commitment to preserving its natural heritage make RSGC a unique jewel in Kuala Lumpur’s urban landscape. As it continues to blend its rich golfing traditions with environmental stewardship, RSGC reaffirms its role as a leader in sustainable urban living, enriching Malaysia’s ecological and cultural heritage for generations to come.
For further inquiries or information, please do not hesitate to contact your horticulturist at nur.farizaa@rsgc.com.my.
