Metro

Saturday October 31, 2009

Rocky side of Tioman Island

Story and photos by NIK NAIZI HUSIN


PULAU TIOMAN: Tioman Island is world-famous as a scuba diving site because of its mesmerising underwater life.

But, if Tioman Development Authority (TDA) has its way, the world will come to appreciate the adventure sports it has to offer on land as well.

STEEP: The course participants walking up a rock formation in Kampung Genting, Pulau Tioman.

TDA is working to promote the extreme sport of rock climbing on the island.

Its community development manager Wahialkhan Ibrahim said that most tourists visited Tioman for its beaches and diving activities, but overlooked its inland features.

“A big portion of the island is made up of hilly areas.

FAST ASCENT: Two participants competing in a speed climbing event.

“There are a number of sites which have beautiful rock formations and offer opportunities for rock climbers to explore and test their skills,” he said.

Wahialkhan said the sites were known to avid rock climbers in Malaysia and abroad.

“We do not have statistics as the climbers come on their own and get the help of villagers to find the rocky hillsides.”

He said a lot more could be done to develop the island’s potential as a haven for rock climbers.

WE DID IT: The participants posing for a group photo after completing the course.

In laying the groundwork, TDA recently held a three-day rock-climbing course for 24 youths, including six women, from Kampung Juara and Kampung Genting here.

Its aim was to train youths in the sport and produce guides for rock-climbing enthusiasts.

“We foresee that this physically demanding sport will become one of Tioman’s attractions, and will do what is needed for its development and promotion,” said Wahialkhan.

The course was conducted by outdoor adventure company Mad Monkeyz Climbing Gym.

LEARNING EXPERIENCE: One of the techniques of rock climbing.

Led by manager Rozaman Ismail, the participants were taught the basics of rock climbing including the use of ropes and anchors.

Rozaman said that rock climbing tested an individual’s strength, endurance, agility and balance along with his or her mental control.

“It can be a dangerous sport. However, with knowledge of proper climbing techniques and the use of specialised climbing equipment, the activity is thrilling.

“As there is a variety of rock formations, the climbers need to learn various techniques,” he said.

GETTING EQUIPPED: Climbers preparing for the start of lessons

The group of village youths had a lot of enthusiasm and proved their endurance, he added.

During the course, they familiarised themselves with equipment such as hangers, harnesses, carabiners, belays and the rappelling device, besides learning about proper climbing gear including shoes, helmets and gloves.

The participants also underwent self-confidence, teamwork and fitness exercises.

At the end of the training, they were tested on numerous theories and the practical aspect.

Rounding up the course was a speed-climbing competition.

Wahialkhan said the youths, mostly food stall operators, had an interest in the sport and would make good guides because of their knowledge of the island.

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