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By Karen Bong
KOTA KINABALU, Sept 13: Twelve Sarawak media professionals who are also members of the Kuching Division Journalists Association (KDJA), pushed their physical and mental limits to conquer Mount Kinabalu, Southeast Asia’s highest peak, braving and enduring a challenging journey through rain and near-freezing temperatures.
Of the group, four successfully reached the South Peak, standing at an elevation of 3,921 metres above sea level. These achievers were Douglas Elliot from TVS, Firdaus Materang from Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Karen Bong from DayakDaily, and Gerrald Gilles from Suara Sarawak.
The highest point, Low’s Peak, stands at 4,095.2 metres above sea level (masl).
The remaining eight participants had to turn back after covering at least 2 kilometres of the 2.7-kilometre climb. They had ascended to 3,000masl, but had to retreat due to the formation of strong currents resembling waterfalls, made dangerous by the downpour.
Throughout this third edition of the trip organised by KDJA, the team was accompanied by two officers from Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Sarawak, Mohd Khairol Erman Anis and Raden Budiwandawi Budiman, ensuring their safety.
This is a story of the team’s climb which tested our perseverance, endurance, and triumph.
The hike from Timpohon Gate to Laban Rata Resthouse, at 3,300masl, commenced on Monday (Sept 11) at 8.45am. Spanning 6 kilometres (km), it primarily consists of stairs and rocky terrain, with the last kilometre being the most arduous. The initial four kilometres present a moderate to difficult incline on rocky surfaces and numerous stairs.
The vertical ascent covers 1,400m from Kinabalu Park. The final two kilometers to Laban Rata are steep and rocky. Despite rain during the last stretch, the team reached Laban Rata in approximately 6.3 hours.
The second day’s climb from Laban Rata to the summit, spanning “only” 2.7km, commenced at 2.30am. With an elevation gain of 800m, the ascent was primarily a slow progression up steps and over smooth rock faces. Over the roughly 2km climb across smooth granite rock surfaces, guide ropes assisted in the challenging sections. Climbers faced steep portions, often relying on ropes to navigate.
Less-than-optimal weather conditions, including a heavy downpour starting from 5.40am and lasted over an hour until 7am, coupled with cold temperatures and strong winds, hampered the climb. Those who had not reached the South Peak were instructed to descend due to rainwater flowing down forming streams with strong currents.
Firdaus, 31, said that the combination of rain and freezing temperatures tested his limits but expressed his pride in reaching the peak and receiving a certificate from Kinabalu Park.
“But I’m still glad to be able to reach the peak despite all the challenges and pushing myself to the max. It is a great feat to receive the coloured certificate from Kinabalu Park,” he said when interviewed today.
Douglas, 30, relied on his mental strength to push himself forward in the climb, especially the challenging final 2km to the summit “which seems so near yet so far”.
“Upon reaching the peak, everything is worthy like an award for achievement.
“There are times I felt like giving up, especially as it was extremely challenging due to the rain and cold condition when descending from the peak,” he said.
With sheer determination and perseverance and to not wasting every effort to train prior to the trip, Douglas said successfully reaching the peak for the first time was unexpected but definitely a proud moment for him.
Despite feeling anxious, Safri Ali Sobeng, a 46-year-old TVS editor, expressed joy at taking on the challenge, even though he did not reach the mountain’s peak.
“Part of the team was just 900m away from the summit but had to turn back due to dangerous conditions. But I’m definitely happy to be able to nearly conquer the mountain,” he said.
Gerrald, 29, said he dragged his body and mind up even though he was shivering due to the wet and cold conditions.
“I almost gave up due to the rain and strong wind but persisted to climb to the peak because the distance from Laban Rata is only 2.7km.
“With the strong water gushing down when descending from the peak, I nearly gotten swept away but managed to grip the rope tightly. The descent was the hardest, plus I’m already soaking wet and hungry. Yet, I’m totally thrilled to receive the coloured certificate and everyone is safe and happy,” he said.
Debbie Amanda Padan, a 29-year-old journalist from RTM, described her second attempt at conquering the mountain as a priceless experience.
She highlighted the challenges faced during the climb, especially in group dynamics, but emphasised the value of teamwork.
“This time, it is a bit challenging due to the rain starting at the 3km hike up to the base camp at Laban Rata. It’s even more challenging during the summit hike because we are moving as a group.
“It is a very different experience as we have to take care and support each other. But it is worth it,” she said.
KDJA president Ronnie Teo regarded the trip as a success, even though some members of the team did not reach the summit due to adverse weather conditions.
He expressed hope that this annual programme would continue to expose and challenge Sarawak media personnel to new experiences.
Despite muscle aches and strains, the team safely completed the journey, organised in conjunction with Malaysia Day celebrations on September 16. — DayakDaily
