Hiking in Malaysia after COVID-19 Lockdown What to Expect

Text & Images by ADELA ROSLAN

During the pre-COVID-19 era, the surge of hikers was a boon for the scenic hiking trails throughout Malaysia. Unfortunately, the disastrous pandemic has put economic activities on hold, especially for those whose livelihood were largely dependent upon mountain tourism. Destinations that once welcomed hikers are now forced to reconsider the risk of welcoming out-of-towners seeking that perfect waterfall shot or jungle-vibe setting. At the same time, when the Malaysian state governments attempted to reopen their borders in late 2020 and early 2021 due to lower COVID-19 infections then, most tourism destinations were full house, much to the dismay of hikers who were craving to commune with nature in peace because the trails were crowded. If the pristine environment at the roof of the world can’t be kept free of COVID-19, what chance is there for the mountains and hiking trails in Malaysia once hikers flock back to them?

The view overlooking Baling from the mountaintop. Beware of sharp rocky formations!

First, the trails might become dangerous for hiking. Long abandoned trails are covered by overgrown trees, weed and bushes that are now home to animals, especially predators like snakes that are well camouflaged. Malaysian mountain trails are not safe when animals build their habitats along the trails. Markings used for wayfinding along the trails might fade too, increasing the chance for hikers to lose their way. When hikers are lost, they get tired, eventually leading to disorientation and malfunctioning of body parts. Without proper maintenance of those trails, hiking wouldn’t be pleasant. Hikers must know and study the tracks, able to read maps and GPS, and bring the right gears. They need to be able to survive and come out in one piece.

Generally, most mountains in Malaysia are guided by local hikers. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic forced them out of service and now they are left with no guiding jobs. What is currently happening to Malaysia’s stately mountains poses questions for tourism operators everywhere, especially Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest peak and arguably among the most rewarding hiking experiences. With mountaineers paying MYR2,000 each for a climbing permit and revenue generated from lodging, transporting, guiding and feeding local and international hikers, opening the trail to Kinabalu’s lofty peak is lucrative for the local economy. However, due to the interstate travel restrictions and border closures, many jobs related to serving these hikers are fast disappearing, negatively affecting those who depend on guiding jobs for daily income.

Going on hiking trips while minimising exposure to other hikers might be tricky. Sticking to two persons for a grocery trip, maintaining social distance in malls, and avoiding restaurants are easy. Conversely, the hiking trails can be narrow and the summits may not be expansive enough to accommodate large number of hikers at any one time, especially when everyone starts taking selfies. The virus could jump from one person to another when passing each other along a hiking trail or at the summit. At the moment, the best solution might be to hike along the trails that are not known by many people so the chances of bumping into other hikers remain small.

PREPARING FOR A HIKE POST-PANDEMIC

For those who are just about to pick up hiking, it might appear intimidating at first. Truth be told, hiking is neither arduous nor complicated. One does not need special skills to hike; rather, one only needs to know how to walk on varying terrains and stay safe throughout the hike to come back home in one piece. Hiking is a great way to immerse ourselves in nature, get a good exercise, and recharge our batteries. The most important thing is not to overdo it. For those who are interested to start hiking, pick a trail that you can complete under two hours with minimal climbing. Once the trail becomes easy, then gradually increase the length of your hike in stages. To prepare for the hike, do research about the trails you are embarking on beforehand to have a good idea of what to expect: study the trail, identify the turns, and estimate how long your hike should take. Otherwise, you might get lost along the way.

While walking is easier and climbing is fun, hikers should possess proper gears during the hike, starting with clothing. The most common mistake beginners make when hiking is by wearing regular clothes, resulting in them becoming heavy and chafed when sweating. Try wearing workout clothes, which are designed for intense activities. Long sweatpants or leggings are good for protecting the legs from getting scraped by bushes along the trail. Likewise, long sleeve tops protect hikers from the elements, and the sleeves can be rolled up when it’s hot. As for shoes, they are crucial because they help to get you safely into the wilderness and then out. One size bigger than the actual size is the most recommended fit and remember not to hike through dense trails using open-toe footwear or sandals.

The other items on the list are backpack, water, snacks, and extra layers. One might forget to bring along an emergency or first aid kit, assuming the hike stays smooth and safe along the way; by right, this should be the first priority. Hiking can be fun, yet it could also develop into your worst nightmare. Be prepared for rain, leeches or for volatile temperature change. Start the hike as early as possible because the later in the day you begin the hike, the more crowded the trail. Night hike is not recommended for beginner hikers.

In short, if you decide to hike, be sure to take all precautions and safety measures by adapting to the new norm since it is becoming obvious that we have no choice but to learn to live with COVID-19 as it turns endemic. Being extra attentive to the surroundings and adequately prepare for any form of eventuality are essential for hiking post-pandemic. It also helps when all hikers are vaccinated and the Malaysian population has achieved herd immunity since it is proven that the vaccines can lessen the severity of COVID-19 infection. On that note, have a safe hike everybody!!!

Previous page, Clockwise from Top, Left: Right haversack is crucial for long hikes; Enjoying the clear sky when descending from the summit of Mount Tahan; If you were lucky, you might pass by pitcher plants along the trail; Hiking in groups is way merrier. Below: Gears checked before final packing for mountain trips Bottom: Be sure to rest when your legs start to sore

Where is Adela heading to once interstate travel in Malaysia is allowed?

#WhenAdelaHikes

1. Mount Tahan, Pahang is the highest point in Pahang. The trails are long and hilly but the view is glorious. It’s full of wild animals and offer you the feeling of being on a safari while hiking. This is definitely my favourite pain.

2. Mount Kinabalu, Sabah is a must-hike, so much so that the peak is depicted on the Malaysian MYR1 and MYR100 notes. When traversing the trail, you get to witness other peaks besides the summit. Kinabalu stands at 4,095.2 metres tall, the highest peak in Malaysia. The latest procedure on hiking Kinabalu during pandemic requires hikers to complete the two doses of vaccination and pass the swab test (RTK-Antigen, RTPCR) three days before hiking. Should hikers need to be quarantined at time of arrival, refer to the latest update by the Malaysian Ministry of Health by visiting https://covid-19.moh.gov.my/ garis-panduan/garis-panduan-kkm/ANNEX_9MANAGEMENT_OF_COVID-19_AT_POINT_ OF_ENTRY_17062021.pdf.

3. Mount Tok Nenek, Perak/Kelantan has a unique rocky peak that offers 360-degree view of the Titiwangsa Range. Nothing but lush greenery and sky.

4. Mount Chemerong, Berembun, and Langsir

(CBL), all in Terengganu. Berembun is where you head to for summiting, Chemerong for the waterfalls, and Langsir for watching sunrise. When hiking up these mountains, remember to dip into the crystal clear Bangan river in between the three stops. 5. Mount Irau, Pahang. The peak is super cold and the trail leading there is known as Mossy Forest with a mysterious atmosphere similar to the forest depicted in the movie Lord of The Rings minus the hobbits.

6. Mount Stong, Kelantan reserves second nicest spot to watch sunrise after Mount CBL. The waterfalls are safe for a dip and an ideal place to set up camp to get away from the urban bustle.

7. Mount GAP & Ulu Semangkuk, Pahang

(they’re like twins). Among the easiest mountains to hike among the best trails for self-reflection, the views along the trails at these mountains are heavily dominated by trees and sometimes the sky. No wild animals.

8. Mount Nuang, Selangor. Top trail for training and making loops. You can start from the other part of Selangor and descend through the other way that leads to Janda Baik, Pahang.

9. Mount Ophir (Ledang), Johor is the highest point in the state. On the way to the summit, hikers need to climb hard and edgy rocks. Descending can be a bit of a challenge and might take longer because you might only see rocks and trees rather than a clear pathway, making you unsure where to place your feet.

10. Mount Kutu, Selangor is popular at above 1,000 metres high. The peak is just made up of huge rocks and you need to take the metal stairs tied between the rocks. Though it can pass off as scary, it is also thrilling and tests your willpower.

Clockwise from Top, Left: At the peak of Mount Tahan in Pahang, the highest point in Peninsular Malaysia; Hiking according to my own pace; Only greenery to be found along the way from Mount Tahan to Gedung; The top of Kutu Hill offers a 360-degree view of the dam, but hikers must always exercise caution when being here by not moving too much for safety reasons.