REQUIRING resilience and discipline, and fostering a love of nature, the sports of trekking and mountaineering should have more media attention.
National journalism laureate Tan Sri Johan Jaaffar said the achievements of Malaysian climbers and trekkers often went unnoticed despite their extraordinary feats.
“Trekking and climbing do not always receive the media attention they deserve.
He hoped more people would understand the passion, sacrifice and values behind the achievements of climbers and trekkers.
Comparing their feat to his former roles helming media companies, he said it was like climbing an 8,000m high mountain.
“The rarefied air, the problems you are facing, the challenges, the weather and everything, it’s similar to that,” he said during the Gathering of Trekkers & Climbers 2025 event at his Bukit Gasing residence.
The gathering which brought together seasoned mountaineers, novices and enthusiasts including the first Malaysians to conquer Mount Everest - Datuk M. Magendran and Datuk N. Mohandas – celebrated the community’s achievements and camaraderie.
Among the stories highlighted was the feat of completing the Trans-Titiwangsa V6 Trail, a 65-day expedition from Gua Musang to Fraser’s Hill.
Climber Qayum Ahmad said it was a mental and physical challenge.
“One of the toughest sections was B5. It is cold and rarely explored and we had to hack our way through from start to finish,” he said.
But the rewarding part was the journey itself, he said.
“Moving from valley to valley and peak to peak was unforgettable.
“Travelling with strangers also taught me patience and tolerance. You learn how to work together.”
Qayum said gatherings such as this were important to inspire younger people to take up trekking and climbing.
“We do not have many avenues to share our stories so this is why we hope the media will highlight more of these expeditions.
“Hopefully, it will encourage even bigger and bolder journeys in the future,” he said.
Johan said media attention would help promote trekking and climbing as a healthy lifestyle, as well as Malaysia’s natural beauty.
