KOTA KINABALU: Reaching the summit of Low’s Peak may feel like the ultimate achievement for climbers but it does not amount to a true conquest of Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest peak at 4.095m.
Sabah Parks Board of Trustees chairman Peter Lintar said Mount Kinabalu boasts five additional peaks, and climbers should reach every summit for a true sense of accomplishment.
“Many believe they have conquered Mount Kinabalu after reaching one peak, but the true victory lies in conquering all six,” he said at the Marai-Parai-West Gurkha XPDC Scientific Seminar 2024 held here recently.
The other peaks are St John’s Peak, the mountain's second highest; Donkey’s Ears Peak, named for its distinctive twin rock formations resembling donkey ears; South Peak, known for its sharp pointed appearance in photographs of Mount Kinabalu; Ugly Sister Peak, a less commonly recognised peak near Donkey’s Ears; and King Edward’s Peak, one of the less well-known on the mountain.
While Low’s Peak remains the primary goal for most climbers, the other peaks add to the mountain’s rugged and striking skyline, attracting adventurers and photographers alike.
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Lintar noted that mountain climbing is one of the most sought-after activities in Sabah, drawing both local and international adventure seekers.
However, he said, this popularity has led to overcrowding and congestion on existing trails.
To address these challenges, Sabah Parks is planning to open new trails on Mount Kinabalu to ease congestion, provide fresh experiences, and boost the local tourism economy while safeguarding the mountain’s fragile ecosystem.
“The current trails are congested. Online bookings for six months (in advance) are snapped up within just two days, leaving many enthusiasts disappointed... (and) affecting not just the hiking experience but also the environment,” Lintar said.
The proposed new trails will traverse districts such as Kota Belud and Kota Marudu, complementing existing tourism efforts in Ranau.
“We are exploring multi-day hiking options, particularly for those seeking a more challenging adventure.
"This will not only enhance Mount Kinabalu’s appeal but also distribute economic benefits to local communities,” Lintar explained, adding that these efforts align with Sabah’s eco-tourism goals.
One such plan involves routes passing through Gurkha Hut and Sayap, offering hikers the chance to see rare flora and fauna unique to the mountain.
Researchers have even discovered new plant species along these paths, adding scientific and ecological value.
“These areas provide a different perspective of Mount Kinabalu, with some sections featuring vertical climbs of up to 90 degrees. Such features will appeal to those seeking a thrilling challenge,” Lintar said.
Although all peaks are accessible via current routes, the new trails aim to facilitate broader exploration while easing congestion on popular paths.
Lintar was optimistic that the new routes would be finalised and opened soon to meet growing demand from hikers worldwide.
In addition to trail developments, Sabah Parks recently concluded the Marai-Parai-West Gurkha Scientific Seminar 2024, which featured 33 presentations on flora, fauna, tourism, and community impact. These findings inform the Sabah Parks Strategic Plan 2021-2025.
The seminar also launched the Ulu Mandalipau Scientific Expedition 2025, scheduled for April in the Crocker Range Biosphere Reserve, to gather supporting data for conservation and park management.
Sabah Parks remains committed to conservation alongside tourism, with recent publications like the Sabah Parks Nature Journal and studies on dark tourism influencing future policies, Lintar added.
“These initiatives enrich visitor experiences, preserve natural beauty, and ensure Mount Kinabalu remains a vital asset to Sabah’s communities and ecosystem,” he said.
