KOTA KINABALU: Sabah Parks is evaluating additional safety measures, including enhanced stamina training, following concerns over recent high-altitude fatalities on Mount Kinabalu.
Its director Dr Maklarin Lakim confirmed that the agency is assessing the feasibility of the proposal, considering its impact on climbers and park operations.
“We have existing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and security measures in place, but we will study possible enhancements. This may involve costs and processing time for both Sabah Parks and climbers,” he told The Star on Wednesday (March 5).
Maklarin was responding to a proposal by Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew, who suggested making stamina training a mandatory requirement for climbers before ascending the peak.
Asked whether stricter regulations might affect the number of climbers, Maklarin stressed the importance of balancing safety with accessibility.
“The priority is ensuring climbers’ safety while maintaining the enjoyment of the climb,” he said.
Liew also confirmed that her ministry has met with the family of a British climber who died recently and has asked Sabah Parks to conduct a detailed investigation into the incident.
Maklarin said his team has already begun gathering data and conducting an analysis of the proposal before presenting its findings to Liew.
“We have been working on this since Tuesday (March 4). It is in progress, but it may take some time,” he said.
Liew previously suggested that stricter requirements, including an age limit for climbers, could help improve safety on Malaysia’s highest peak.
“This is one of the options we are considering, but an SOP is already in place, especially for older climbers, who are required to undergo training before attempting high-altitude climbs,” she said on Monday (March 3).
Her remarks follow the recent deaths of two climbers, a British national in his 70s who collapsed near the summit on Feb 25, and a 65-year-old local man who died at KM5.5 on Feb 9.
Liew is expected to meet Sabah Parks officials soon to discuss further measures to prevent future fatalities.
Mount Kinabalu, standing at 4,095 metres (13,435 feet) above sea level, is the highest peak in Malaysia and on the island of Borneo.
Located within Kinabalu Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is renowned for its biodiversity, rugged terrain, and breathtaking views.
A popular climbing destination, the mountain attracts thousands of climbers annually. Its well-maintained trails lead to Low’s Peak, the highest accessible point.
The climb typically takes two days, starting from its main entryway at Timpohon Gate (1,866m), with an overnight stay at Panalaban (3,272m) before the final ascent at dawn.
Mount Kinabalu is home to diverse ecosystems, from tropical rainforests at lower altitudes to alpine meadows near the summit, which houses rare and endemic species, including the Rafflesia, the world’s largest flower, and unique pitcher plants.
The peak holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Kadazandusun people, who believe it is the resting place of their ancestors' spirits.
