SEREMBAN: A nature-loving group of friends, many in their golden years, have been maintaining and beautifying the hiking trails of Kepayang Hill near here.
Over the past six years, the 16-member group has been the guardians of the scenic hiking spot which offers a challenging climb and a breathtaking view at the peak.
What started as a one-man effort by septuagenarian Hooi Ah Lek, or Uncle Iceman as he is known, evolved into a larger volunteer squad.
Jessie Chew, who at 49 is the youngest of the volunteers, said Uncle Iceman, 70, was doing the work single-handedly for almost two decades until she approached him to lend a helping hand.
“Now a bigger group, we actively maintain the trails and carry out beautification work, including decorating certain stretches of the trails during major festivals.”
Labour of love: The ‘hill crew’ sprucing up the trails with the Jalur Gemilang and Negri Sembilan flags for National Day.
Led by Uncle Iceman and retired carpenter Ng Kong Siong or Uncle Kong, the group painstakingly clears the hill’s 46 trails of fallen trees and obstacles.
They even installed safety ropes along sections of the more challenging terrain. There are also strategically placed benches and tables, many made by Uncle Kong.
To prepare for National Day, the team has spruced up the route with the Jalur Gemilang and Negri Sembilan flags.
The group has also given names to the trails such as Sky Garden, Sand Beach, Eagle, Hong Cai, Wishing Tree, Tiger Way, Old Ladder and Stone Wall, so they are easily identifiable.
Their commitment goes beyond cleanliness and safety. Chew said the volunteers have acquired chainsaws and other tools to cut and remove uprooted trees.
Funding to finance equipment and activities is mainly raised through an annual T-shirt sale.
“We love Kepayang Hill and want to help out for as long as we can. We also help those new to the area to familiarise themselves with the trails so they can truly enjoy the experience,” said Chew who is a professional mountain guide, adding volunteers hike up the hill on a daily basis.
Chew said it was heartening that the number of visitors to Kepayang Hill, also known as Kanni Kuil or Victoria Hill, have been increasing.
“We have families coming together and many bring their children along,” she added.
Chew said there are two Hindu temples located at the hilltop and frequented by devotees with one said to be more than a century old.
It can take between 20 and 25 minutes to reach the top depending on one’s pace and fitness.
