HIKERS are being urged to place greater emphasis on preparation, safety awareness and self-reliance before venturing into forests, hills and mountain trails, amid growing concern over accidents and emergencies involving outdoor enthusiasts.
Outdoor activities trainer Mohd Hafiz Nordin said many hiking incidents could be avoided if participants adequately prepared themselves physically and mentally while ensuring they carried appropriate equipment for the terrain and conditions they would encounter.
Speaking on Bernama TV's Darah Muda programme, Mohd Hafiz stressed that prospective hikers should first evaluate their fitness levels before selecting a trail, noting that hills and mountains present significantly different challenges in terms of endurance, planning and equipment requirements.
He said a safe hiking experience begins long before setting foot on a trail, with careful planning that includes monitoring weather forecasts, establishing realistic hiking schedules and determining target times for reaching the summit and completing the descent.
Mohd Hafiz also encouraged outdoor enthusiasts to adhere to the internationally recognised Leave No Trace principles, which promote environmental responsibility while enhancing overall outdoor safety and awareness.
The founder of D'republic Global said every hiker should carry basic emergency equipment capable of assisting in unforeseen situations.
Among the essential items he highlighted were a first-aid kit, whistle, emergency blanket, fire-starting tools and a knife or machete that could prove invaluable during an emergency.
While acknowledging the benefits of modern technology, he cautioned against becoming overly dependent on electronic devices.
"Those who frequently hike at elevations above 2,000 metres should equip themselves with at least basic navigation and survival skills, which can be crucial when faced with unexpected circumstances," he said.
He noted that various non-governmental organisations and outdoor activity groups offer training programmes that teach essential navigation, survival and emergency response techniques.
Mohd Hafiz warned that devices such as GPS units and smartwatches should be viewed as supplementary tools rather than primary lifelines, as batteries can fail and equipment can malfunction in remote environments.
He also highlighted the importance of the buddy system, urging hikers never to move alone and to maintain constant awareness of fellow participants throughout a trek.
According to him, adherence to instructions issued by group leaders and sweepers, combined with effective communication among hikers, significantly reduces the likelihood of individuals becoming separated or lost.
"Maintaining good communication within the group helps foster the buddy system naturally, as hikers become more aware of the condition and whereabouts of their fellow participants," he said.
Mohd Hafiz further advised hikers who experience fatigue or physical difficulties to stop, rest and seek assistance rather than continuing beyond their capabilities.
He stressed that successful outdoor adventures depend not only on enthusiasm but also on preparation, knowledge and discipline.
Adequate training, proper equipment and meticulous planning, he said, remain the three pillars of safe hiking and are essential to ensuring that outdoor activities remain both enjoyable and free from unnecessary risk. - June 6, 2026
