A hiking group in Gunung Rajah, Selangor. Hikers are now required to engage mountain guides on trips above a certain elevation. — Filepic
I AM writing in response to the StarMetro report “Don’t climb without them” on July 29 regarding the mandatory use of registered mountain guides in Peninsular Malaysia’s forest reserves.
It is not accurate to say that this policy is widely accepted by the hiking community.
There was no discussion or feedback solicited from hikers before implementing this policy.
To verify this, please refer to the Hiking and Recreation Around Malaysia Facebook page, where many hikers have voiced concerns and dissatisfaction.
Hiking was once a very affordable activity accessible to everyone.
However, the compulsory mountain guide policy has significantly increased costs, making it less affordable.
What previously cost around RM5, now ranges from RM90 to RM100.
This steep increase has forced many hikers to abandon their hobby.
While we recognise quality training provided to mountain guides, it is unreasonable to mandate their services for all hikers. Not everyone needs or wants a guide.
The Peninsular Malaysia Forestry Department (JPSM) claims the charges for guides are between RM250 and RM300, yet there is no monitoring to ensure this is adhered to.
If left unchecked, some mountain guides may overcharge hikers, taking advantage of the lack of oversight.
Incidents have been reported where mountain guides questioned hikers about their guides, which raises concerns about their authority to do so.
Moreover, experienced hikers who have climbed certain mountains multiple times should not be forced to hire guides.
It is unnecessary and an additional financial burden as the policy does not take into account the experience and capabilities of seasoned hikers.
If the mountain guide policy is truly for the safety of hikers, why not station a few at popular mountains and hills in Malaysia and increase the permit fee slightly, say from RM5 to RM20?
This would cover the cost of ensuring greater safety without imposing a hefty charge on every group.
However, if the policy is aimed at promoting ecotourism, why are local hikers being treated as tourists and subjected to these high fees?
Additionally, there are concerns about the potential conflict of interest and commercialisation of our natural heritage.
The jungle, which belongs to all tax-paying citizens, should be accessible without unnecessary financial barriers.
It is the responsibility of JPSM to ensure that all citizens have safe and free access to our forests.
While we support measures to improve safety and the professionalism of mountain guiding, these should not come at the expense of affordability and accessibility.
A more balanced approach, involving dialogue with the hiking community and considering the varying needs and experience levels of hikers, is essential.
SENGGARAN SB
Bayan Baru, Penang
