KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Magendran M. Munisamy, the first Malaysian to summit Mount Everest in 1997, is calling for stricter safety guidelines for mountain hikers in Malaysia.
In response to the increasing number of missing person cases on local trails, Magendran is offering to collaborate with the Malaysian Mountaineering & Sport Climbing Federation (MMSCF) to develop a comprehensive safety module for hikers.
The 61-year-old alpinist believes that the lack of preparation and safety awareness among hikers is a key contributor to the alarming rise in incidents on Malaysia’s hiking trails.
He has proposed that the Forestry Department implement regulations to ensure hikers are adequately prepared for the challenges of mountainous terrain.
“There are no proper checks or requirements imposed by the Forestry Department to ensure that hikers are experienced or adequately equipped.
“For example, there should be checkpoints or stations at popular hiking locations to monitor safety and preparedness, similar to the practices followed by the Indian Forest Service in India,” Magendran explained when contacted.
His proposed safety module would include mandatory measures such as hiring certified guides for inexperienced hikers, registering hiking routes, and ensuring participants meet basic fitness and safety standards before attempting more challenging trails.
“Inexperienced hikers should be prohibited from attempting certain trails without proper training or guides. As someone who has faced the harsh realities of mountain climbing,
“I am ready to assist the Forestry Department in designing a safety module in collaboration with MMSCF,” he added.
Magendran’s concerns come amid a rising trend of missing persons in Malaysia’s hiking hotspots.
According to a Forestry Department study, around 2,000 cases of missing hikers were recorded nationwide between 2018 and 2024, with popular locations such as Bukit Jambul, Broga Hill, Gunung Gua Rimau, Gunung Singai, Puncak Jelapang, and Gunung Pulai accounting for a combined total of 1,200 incidents.
Most recently, three youths went missing while trekking Gunung Keriang in Kedah in May this year.
While hiking is increasingly popular as a form of exercise and mental escape, with over 30% of Malaysians participating in the activity annually, the lack of safety measures has led to mounting concerns.
Experts estimate that hiking can burn up to 600 calories per hour, making it an effective choice for those looking to stay fit.
However, the surge in participation has highlighted the need for greater caution and awareness.
Magendran, reflecting on his own experiences, pointed out that hiking was once subject to more rigorous regulations.
“During my time, things were much stricter—we had to adhere to several rules and regulations even before attempting to hike smaller mountains, such as Bukit Gasing in Petaling Jaya.
“Nowadays, hiking is treated like a walk in the park, and many underestimate the risks posed by mountain terrain, taking Mother Nature for granted.”
He stressed that the lack of preparation and safety awareness is at the core of the rising number of incidents.
Magendran has also raised concerns about the broader lack of awareness surrounding Malaysia’s mountain landscapes.
This, he believes, prevents the country from producing more accomplished climbers who could carry on his legacy.
“Our climbers and hikers must master Malaysia’s mountains first before attempting Everest,” he emphasised.
Despite the challenges, Magendran remains hopeful that with greater education and regulation, Malaysia can produce more skilled climbers.
“There are several academies and centres offering training on safe hiking and climbing. I urge enthusiasts to seek knowledge from these institutions and build their skills properly.
“Mountains are teachers; mastering them begins with understanding their language.”
Magendran’s proposal comes at a time when the Forestry Department is also looking to enhance security protocols in the nation’s natural reserves.
Forestry Department director Mohamad Yussainy Yusop stated that plans to upgrade safety measures in jungles, rivers, and mountains across the peninsula could be implemented if the department secures additional funding of around RM 5 million from the Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Ministry (NRES) through Budget 2025. — December 2, 2024