Broga
Broga is a small town in Lenggeng, Seremban District, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia. While the town itself lies within Negeri territory, the famed Broga Hill is situated on the Selangorean side.
History and etymology
Broga takes its name from the River Broga which runs through the area. The name Broga is believed to be derived from Buragas, a mythical beast that lives in the forest.Broga was mentioned by Freddie Spencer Chapman in his book, The Jungle is Neutral, to be a location where British-backed rebels fought against the Japanese during World War II.
Location
Broga is unique in that it sits right on the border of both the states of Negeri Sembilan and Selangor. On the Selangorean side, Broga falls within the mukim of Semenyih in the Hulu Langat District. On the Negeri side, it falls within the mukim of Lenggeng which is part of the district of Seremban. The Government Health Clinic and the town football field is located on the Selangorean side of the border and the police station is located on the Negeri side.Demographics
The majority of those residing in Broga town are the Chinese. There is also a small number of Orang Asli population whose village is located just outside Broga.Religion
The Chinese are predominantly Buddhists or Taoists. The Broga Sak Dato Temple is located about 1 km from the Broga town. This Taoist temple is set on a picturesque hillside often frequented by hikers to Broga Hill and has unique statues of the Chinese zodiacal animals. A pedestrian suspension bridge spans the valley besides the temple. A large statue of Sun Wukong sits atop the adjacent hill, gazing across the valley. There are also other temples in Broga town like Soon Yin Kwan Temple.Geography
Broga sits on the edge of the Titiwangsa Range. Consequently, the town is surrounded by lush green hills of a tropical rainforest, the most prominent of which is Broga Hill.The hill, approximately 400 m in altitude, is notable for its unique appearance as it is rather devoid of trees, which is an uncommon sight amongst the tropical rainforests surrounding the region. Cogongrass typically dominates the summit area. Remnants of burnt out tree trunks indicate that the area may have been ravaged by a forest fire and the trees did not regrow.
Broga Hill is easily climbed by most people due to its aforementioned altitude, becoming a frequent destination for casual hikers. The hilltop offers a good view of the surrounding area and has become a popular picnic and photography spot.
Broga Hill became increasingly well known after some scenes from a local movie Ola Bola were filmed here. Despite the fame, recent developments of the hillside have permanently damaged the unique beauty of this hill.