Between 2021 and 2025, Malaysia saw 1,059 hiking accidents resulting in 63 deaths and 87 injuries across the country, according to data from the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM) [1, 2, 3, 4].
Deputy Minister Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh presented the statistics during Dewan Rakyat question time on June 23, 2026, outlining efforts to improve hiking safety [1, 2, 3, 4]. He said, "The Forestry Department has also made it mandatory to engage Forestry Mountain Guides (MGP) in 189 high-risk hiking areas. These certified guides support hiker safety, emergency response and compliance with hiking practices" [2].
To address risk, the Peninsular Malaysia Forestry Department (JPSM), with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), developed the Mountain Risk Assessment and Management Guideline (MoGRAM). The guideline manages trail risks and carrying capacity to reduce accidents [1, 2, 3, 4].
Currently, 2,322 individuals from local and indigenous communities have been trained and certified as Forestry Mountain Guides through a skills development program [1, 2, 3, 4]. These guides are required in 189 designated high-risk hiking areas to improve safety and coordinate emergency response [1, 2, 3, 4].
The Department of Wildlife and National Parks (Perhilitan) adopted the international ISO 21101:2014 standard for adventure tourism safety in protected parks. This supports consistent safety practices during hikes [1, 4].
Hikers also must undergo early health screening and obtain medical certificates for their planned routes. The ministry enforces the use of certified guides, mandatory briefing sessions, and seasonal trail closures during monsoon [1].
The government is developing a digital hiking trail management system with the Malaysian Space Agency (MySA). It will use geospatial technology, GIS, and remote sensing to improve trail mapping, monitoring, and search and rescue operations. At present, registration and permits are handled manually or via state-run online platforms [2, 3].
Deputy Minister Syed Ibrahim’s presentation marks the latest step in Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to enhance hiking safety amid growing outdoor activities nationwide [1, 2, 3, 4].
