“Everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you are climbing it.”
– American radio and television writer, Andy Rooney.
LAST Saturday, I went on a hiking trip to Bung Jagoi in Bau for a work assignment, and it was my first-time hiking after a very long time.
It has been almost eight months since my herniated slipped disc surgery, and prior to that I used to follow my dad to go hiking a couple of times.
My dad is an avid hiker who enjoys exploring different hiking spots like Bukit Selabat, Gunung Serapi, Mount Santubong, and Sri Maha Mariamman Mount Matang Temple among others during his free time.
It is something he is passionate about which can be evidently seen through the numerous postings of different location’s picturesque pictures and videos on his social media.
It is also something that he has tried to get my mom, sister, and I to be a part of. To him, it is some family quality time in nature during the weekend.
While I admit that I admire people who have the stamina and fitness to go hiking with a breeze, unfortunately it is an activity that I do not excel in.
I remember a trip with the State Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA Sarawak) to Mulu sometime early last year where my colleague and I were surprised to an adventure caving in Racer Cave.
Both of us were unprepared, unfit, and on the chubbier side of the scale. I remember telling her, ‘Oh, they are just going to let us experience what it is like to wear these hiking gears and see the entrance of the cave’.
Of course, this was far from reality as we ended up exploring the cave together with BOMBA Sarawak’s very capable Mountain and Cave Search and Rescue (MOCSAR) team.
It was a remarkable experience, but both my colleague and I fell on our bums a couple of times, made standing declarations that we were going to lose weight and be fitter when we get back home, and most importantly, come more prepared the next time we were invited on an outing by the BOMBA Sarawak.
Following the end of the COVID-19 pandemic, hiking was growing in popularity among the community in Sarawak.
The state is blessed with diverse and breathtaking natural landscapes, including lush rainforests, imposing mountains, stunning waterfalls, and pristine beaches.
It comes as no surprise that hiking allows local and foreign hikers to immerse themselves in these natural wonders and experience the beauty of the outdoors.
Of course, hiking also gives nature enthusiasts the opportunity to encounter unique wildlife and plant life along the trail considering Sarawak is renowned for its rich biodiversity.
I remember going to Bako National Park with a group of friends a few years back and we encountered monkeys and wild boars in their natural habitat, it was truly a sight to behold.
For many people, hiking offers a sense of adventure and a chance to challenge themselves physically and mentally.
Climbing steep slopes, crossing rivers and navigating through the dense jungle can be thrilling and rewarding experiences.
On that note, I think it is important to go hiking with a group of people who are patient, supportive and willing to look out for one another.
Every person has different levels of stamina and fitness, so it is understandable that one may be able to make the trip within an hour while others will take a slightly longer time.
I think group members should not lose sight of how this activity provides bonding opportunities too.
Hiking trails in Sarawak often pass through traditional villages and communities, providing hikers with opportunities to learn about local cultures and interact with indigenous tribes.
This cultural immersion adds a unique dimension to the hiking experience which I personally experienced during the hiking trip to Bung Jagoi where a hidden Bidayuh settlement lies on top of the mountain.
Moreover, hiking in Sarawak often emphasises ecotourism principles, encouraging visitors to appreciate nature’s beauty while supporting conservation efforts and local communities.
Numerous efforts and initiatives have been taken to ensure that hiking trails more accessible and safer for visitors.
Many trails are well-marked and equipped with basic amenities like shelters and campsites, enhancing the overall hiking experience.
With the rise of social media and travel influencers, picturesque hiking spots in Sarawak have gained attention and popularity among travelers.
Positive word-of-mouth recommendations from those who have visited these trails also contribute to the growing interest in hiking.
Overall, hiking offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature.
The serene and tranquil environment of Sarawak’s wilderness provides a welcome retreat for individuals seeking a break from their daily routines.
