Adventure Travel – Mountain Trekking in Gunung Stong, Malaysia
Undergrads@Adventure Travel – Mountain Trekking in Gunung Stong, Malaysia
Siew Hwee has always been a fan of nature; she feels that the bonds forged between she and her peers strengthened through mountain trekking. Here, she shares her experience and provides some tips for other mountain trekkers out there!
Name: Ling Siew Hwee
Nationality: Singaporean
University: Singapore Management University (Accountancy)
What sparked this interest of yours?
I first started trekking when I was still in Victoria Junior College Outdoor Activities Club and I enjoy trekking because of the tight bonds it allows me to forge with my friends. At the same time, I feel a strong sense of achievement whenever I reach the summit of a mountain. Through every trek, I learn more about myself, becoming more appreciative of my friends and of course the nature.
If you could only choose 5 items to pack for your trekking trip, what would they be and why?
I am no expert in trekking, and 5 items to bring on a trek will definitely be too little. However, the 5 items listed below are considered necessities in my opinion.
1. A good headlamp:
When we are unable to reach our targeted campsite before nightfall, we often have to trek in the dark. Hence, a good headlamp will be very useful in illuminating your path.
2. A jack knife:
A multipurpose jack knife is very useful on a trek. It can be used to cut twine, open cans, saw small branches or leaves that are blocking the path and so on. In this case, I am referring to its usefulness in the wild as compared to a real pair of scissors or can opener or saw
3. A whistle:
In an incident when you get detached from your team, stay put, blow the whistle and wait for your friends to locate you. Nonetheless, the best thing to do is to stay close to your team such that you can hear your friends at the very least.
4. A sleeping bag:
When you climb to higher altitudes, a water resistant sleeping bag will provide the much needed warmth in the night when conditions become cold and wet.
5. A rope:
When river crossing or walking along edges of a mountain is involved, it will be good to bring along a rope for the team as it assists the movement of the team across such obstacles.
Can you share with us some key safety tips for travellers who intend to go mountain trekking?
Trekking is a dangerous sport and there are many areas to watch out for safety. Firstly, a trekker should have sufficient fitness to scale a mountain. Trekkers should undergo proper training before climbing any mountains as physical fitness prevents unnecessary injuries.
Secondly, a trekker should be properly equipped. Personal trekking gear like bag, shoes, outer layer, headlamp, sleeping bag etc. can all make a difference on the trek. A trekker should also pay special attention to group logistics like tents, stoves, food, water and so on.
Thirdly, a trekker should always be well-equipped with safety equipment such as first aid kit, rope, puritab and many others. This provides adequate safety coverage for the trek.
Lastly, personal mental strength will be the most important factor to a safe trek. Make sure the team stays bonded and motivated throughout the trek.
What is the most challenging obstacle that you faced while mountain trekking?
The environment is very unpredictable and it calls for strong situational awareness. Prepare yourself beforehand of the possible dangers on a trek, and learn how to manage and minimise the impact when you are faced with such dangers.
Which other destinations would you recommend to undergrads who enjoy mountain trekking?
Pocket friendly treks are mostly located in Malaysia. If you are looking for breathtaking scenery, waterfall slides, natural Jacuzzi, Gunung Stong will be a good option. The Stong waterfall is claimed to be the highest waterfall in South East Asia. Do head there if you are interested in a tale about a Princess which resides in the mountain!
More costly treks will venture beyond Malaysia. One can head for the famous volcanic mountain, Mount Rinjani in Indonesia on the island of Lombok. Alternatively, one can head to Mount Fansipan which is located in the pretty Sapa town in Vietnam. Mount Fansipan is the highest mountain in Indochina. If you are interested in venturing into the Himalayas, you may want to challenge yourself to some of the trails of the Kanchenjunga Mountain, the 3rd highest mountain in the world.
If you are looking for some reviews of some of the treks, you may head to SMUXtremist Trekking Team’s blog at http://twwk.wordpress.com.
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