Malaysia Enhances Climbing Safety After 63 Deaths in Five Years

Malaysia is intensifying safety measures for forest recreation and climbing activities following a significant number of accidents and fatalities. Between 2021 and 2025, the country recorded 1,059 climbing incidents, with 63 resulting in death and 87 in injuries, according to Deputy Minister of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh.

In response, the ministry is prioritizing forest recreation and climbing safety nationwide. The Department of Peninsular Malaysia Forestry (JPSM), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has developed national guidelines for mountain risk assessment and management (MoGRAM). This framework serves as a technical reference for mitigating risks and managing the capacity of climbing routes.

Furthermore, JPSM mandates the employment of certified Forestry Mountain Guides (MGP) in 189 high-risk climbing areas. These guides are responsible for safety, emergency response, and ensuring adherence to climbing practices. To date, 2,322 individuals, including those from indigenous communities, have been certified as MGPs through skills development programs.

The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) will focus on implementing international standards for the Tourism Safety Management System (ATSMS). This standard aims to structure risk management mechanisms, staff competency, emergency procedures, and equipment maintenance. Registration and entry permit procedures at National Park offices will be enforced to manage safety records and activity capacity limits.

Risk mitigation is further strengthened by requiring pre-climb health screenings to ensure climbers' physical fitness matches the difficulty of the trails. Mandatory certified nature guide services, safety briefings, public awareness training, and temporary route closures during monsoon season are also ongoing measures.