Reconnecting with nature at Kebun-Kebun Bangsar sanctuary

I recently had the golden opportunity to step into Kebun-Kebun Bangsar, an eco-system paradise quietly thriving in the middle of the city. Walking through its leafy pathways, I felt as though I had stumbled into another world, one that pulsed with life and purpose.

This sanctuary is the brainchild of Seksan, a retired landscape architect whose dream of a greener and better Malaysia took root in 2013. What began as a civic-minded experiment during an election season blossomed into a living, breathing garden that now spans seven acres of elongated land in Bangsar.

The garden itself is a remarkable tapestry of life. More than 40 species of edible plants flourish here, each one nurtured by careful hands. Sharing this space is an animal sanctuary that shelters turkeys, turtles, goats, and even a resident cow, each creature adding to the farm-like atmosphere. Yet what sets Kebun-Kebun apart is its openness. There are no fences, no gates to keep people out—just a welcoming space for anyone who wishes to reconnect with the rhythms of nature. It is a rare sight in a city often defined by high-rises and concrete, a reminder of what urban spaces could become if reimagined with community in mind.

Nature and community intertwined

What struck me most during my visit was the people who keep this garden alive. A steady stream of volunteers, many of them energetic young people from universities, arrive each week to dig, plant, and care for the land. Alongside them is a committed core of long-term volunteers who treat the garden as both a home and a calling. Together, they embody a spirit of civic consciousness—working not for personal gain, but for the shared good of the community. Their efforts ensure that Kebun-Kebun is not only maintained but constantly evolving as a living classroom and sanctuary.

At the entrance of the garden stands a weathered board that outlines its 10 Principles. These guiding values highlight respect for the land, inclusion, civic awareness, and the importance of giving back. They champion immediacy and participation, reminding every visitor that meaningful change often begins with small, everyday actions.

As I stood there reading those words, I realised Kebun-Kebun Bangsar is more than a garden—it is a movement. It is a vision of hope, change, and unity, where people and nature thrive side by side. In a bustling city like Kuala Lumpur, this sanctuary offers a powerful reminder: true progress is not just about development, but about balance, sustainability, and community spirit.