waaaa so many climbers here! that's great. do you guys know that there's a specialised forum that act as the reference center and knowledge hub for mountaineering activiteis in Malaysia? there are lotsa sifus and otais there who organise trips, courses and exchange climb/trek logs.

btw here's mine:

Name: Qahar aka QtrMaster
Summits conquered: Irau, Brinchang, Korbu, Gayong, Raya, Hijau, Chamah, Ulu Sepat, Inas, Yong Yap, Yong Belar, Tahan, Batu Putih, Bubu, and several others in Wales and Scotland
Next target: retired
frequent workout place: no longer applicable

if u wanna go rock climb, just head to Kiara Extreme park, Shah Alam Extreme park for cheap climbing facility... if need lessons better go to Camp5 in OneUtama or Damai near/behind batu cave

Better if u have ur own, otherwise can rent for a peanut from the operator on site.

bukit tabur, near genting.. the trailhead started behind hotel seri malaysia at gohtong jaya..

but on merdeka eve sure gonna be packed. every merdeka like that cos it has best view of the city and all the fireworks

aiyaaaaa salah ka?
this haze is really affecting my thinking cap

aiseh man... lupa, nadir: I still owe u the price list... gimme some time to sort through the confusion.

nadir, book me one free gift!

actually the shoes/boots depends on the terrain that you're climbing. Kinabalu is a "resort mountain" so any sneakers/running shoes can do. But if you plan to summit Tahan, Korbu, Mulu, etc.. better invest in a better hiking boots.

Ankle high boots with proper padding can also provide ankle protection against spraining, etc.

plugging

etigge, you guys seem to have a load of fun! congrats on your successful trip.

i understand your feelings, being a newbie following a seasoned group. the only solution for you would be training, like jogging and simple bushwalking like bukit gasing, rimba kiara, etc.

otherwise its better to set up your own group with similar experience and fitness level so that you all can trek at your own pace, and plan accordingly.

but one big advantage of trekking with seniors/experienced members is that you get to push yourself past your own personal limit. by trying to catch up with others you'll also strengthen your body and stamina, beyond what you thought you are capable of.

it'll be interesting experience to climb during these rainy season