Malaysia's hiking community is abuzz with the recent tightening of safety rules for mountain trails. The new regulations, introduced by authorities, are a response to a surge in costly search-and-rescue operations linked to hikers following social media trends. This has led to a reevaluation of safety measures, impacting both experienced and novice hikers. While some express concern over the higher costs and changes to their hiking itineraries, others welcome the stricter rules as a necessary step towards enhanced safety. The debate centers around the influence of social media, with experts attributing the rise in hiking emergencies to people underestimating the risks while chasing aesthetic content for their feeds. The trend of 'express hikers' seeking to conquer multiple peaks in a short time has become a significant challenge for mountain guides and organizers. This article delves into the implications of these new rules, exploring the perspectives of hikers, guides, and organizers, and examines the broader implications for the hiking community in Malaysia.
