New wild ginger species discovered in Lenggong, highlighting Perak’s biodiversity, says Saarani

IPOH, June 4 — Researchers have discovered a new species of wild ginger, Alpinia lenggongensis, in Lenggong, a finding that further underscores Perak’s rich biodiversity and natural heritage, Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said today.

He said the species was discovered by researchers from Universiti Putra Malaysia and Universiti Malaysia Kelantan.

“Perak is fortunate to be blessed with unique natural treasures in terms of geology, flora and fauna, and this discovery demonstrates that the state’s forests continue to harbour valuable biodiversity.

“The discovery of this species in the Bintang Range, Lenggong, at an elevation of about 400 to 800 metres above sea level proves that Perak’s forests still hold highly valuable biodiversity treasures,” he said in his speech at the state-level International Forest Day celebration at the Perak Darul Ridzuan Building here.

Saarani said Alpinia lenggongensis is typically found growing along riverbanks, between eight and 20 metres from the river’s edge.

“It is uniquely identified by its translucent bracteoles and elongated petioles, or leaf stalks,” he added.

He said the discovery further strengthened Lenggong’s position as a unique destination rich in nature, history and knowledge.

Saarani noted that Lenggong is now among the few locations to hold two UNESCO recognitions.

“Lenggong has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 2012 and was officially recognised as the Lenggong Unesco Global Geopark on April 27, 2026,” he said.