Sipadan Island

Sipadan Island is located in the centre of the richest marine habitat in the world, the heart of the Indo-Pacific basin. In this ecosystem, over 3,000 species of fish and hundreds of coral species have been classified.

In the waters around Sipadan, rare diving scenes are frequently seen such as schools of green and hawksbill turtles nesting and mating, schools of barracuda and big-eye trevally in tornado-like formations, pelagic species such as manta rays, eagle rays, scalloped hammerhead sharks and whale sharks. Therefore, Sipadan is popular with its unusually large numbers of green and hawksbill turtles which gather there to mate and nest. And it is not really rare for a diver to see more than seventy turtles on each dive.

Besides that, there is a mysterious turtle tomb lies underneath the column of the Sipadan Island. The turtle tomb was formed by an underwater limestone cave with a labyrinth of tunnels and chambers that contain many skeletal remains of turtles that have become lost and drown before finding the surface.

Currently, this beautiful island is in the care of Wildlife Department. The Wildlife Department has stationed several park rangers to oversee the state of nature of the island. In order to protect the world’s unique flora and fauna on the island as well as the underwater world, the Malaysian Government has made a decision that from the year 2005, no more overnight facilities shall be on the Sipadan Island itself. This implies that all dive operators on the Sipadan Island have to move and diving at Sipadan will be conducted from other destinations likes Mabul and Kapalai.

Why Not Go

You really shouldn’t go to this place for holiday unless you are a scuba diver or you like snorkeling very much. There is nothing much to do on this island except enjoy yourself on the beautiful sandy beaches and watching the coral reef with its rich marine life. Besides that, there is no resort and nothing to buy on the island.

Why Go

The name of Sipadan is a legend in the diving circles, conjuring the images of patrolling hammerhead sharks, millions of colorful reef fish and, above all, dozens of sea turtles swimming peacefully everywhere. As one of the five top diving destinations in the world, Sipadan, the small rainforest-covered tropical island rising from a 700 meter abyss in the Celebes Sea, is an ultimate diving spot that a committed diver cannot miss.

Diving at Sipadan is certainly world class, so this place has attracted many diving lovers. It is well-known that divers are able to see about 150 species of butterfly fish within a single dive in Sipadan. Utilized by marine biologists as the indicators of coral reef health, a great number and species diversity of butterfly fish implies the abundance and diversity of corals. Pristine coral reefs are also landlord to other reef dwellers such as angelfish, snappers, wrasse, sweet lips, and parrotfish as well as the larger pelagic, barracudas, mantas, whales, dolphins and schools of hammerhead sharks.

Besides that, Sipadan Island is well-known with its vast numbers of Green and Hawksbill turtles which feed and breed within its waters before the females climb ashore to lay their eggs in the white sandy beaches. Others than that, diving near the coral reefs surprises you with incredible phenomena likes thousands of schooling chevron barracuda and big-eye trevally or ‘Jacks’. Moreover, floating inside such a tornado of fish is a truly breath-taking experience that is hard to beat.

On the other hand, Sabah is becoming one of the world famous location for ‘muck diving’. ‘Muck diving’ is used by divers to describe the search for rare and exotic small marine animals. Numerous rare and newly identified gobies can be found living in the corals, sand, mud and mangroves of Sabah, along with the rarely seen mimic octopus, neon patterned blue-ringed octopus, delicate flamboyant cuttlefish, psychedelic mandarin fish and ghost pipefish.

It is really worth to have a dive at Sipadan. Generally, the rate for three dives at Sipadan is just around RM260, plus RM40 for equipment (if required). Perhaps the rates might vary slightly among different operators. Boat transfers and packed lunch are included as well. Therefore you no need to worry about the food as there is no restaurant on the island.

It is vital to note that you need to have a permit from Sabah Parks in order to access the island, which will cost you RM40. Only 120 permits will be given out every day and they are typically obtained by the dive operators. You must make sure that the diver operator you choose is diving at Sipadan with permits, as some companies have been caught diving at the island without permits. You should check diver reviews of dive operators in the area before choosing as there are many have had customer complaints regarding faulty equipment.

Besides that, another tourist attraction of Sipadan is snorkeling. Eventually from the beach, the reef is easily accessible and parts of the reef further out can be reached by boat. There are a few dive tour operators bring snorkelers to the island at an all-inclusive rate of around RM170.

Best Time to Visit

You may make your way there any time all around the year but due to Sipadan is now a protected site, there is only 120 dives are allowed on Sipadan in a day. Therefore, it is highly recommended to dive as early as possible to beat the crowds and increase your chances of getting on the roster to dive.

Where to Stay

Previously, Sipadan Island was used to have resorts. In order to protect the environment, all the resorts were forced to close down around the year 2002. Hence, to dive on Sipadan, you have to stay somewhere nearby. There are resorts on the nearby islands likes Mabul which is 25 minutes away by boat and Kapalai which is 15 minutes away by boat.

As recommended, Sipadan-Kapalai Dive Resort is the best place to spend your night. It is just a few minutes by boat from the islands of Sipadan. Planned and built in full style as an airy, comfortable, sunny water village with no land in sight, Sipadan-Kapalai Dive Resort boasts a mile-long sandbank of powdery white sand where you can suntan at complete leisure while gazing out to the miles of brilliant turquoise stretching into the horizon offering the purest image of natural serenity. With the combination of sun and water in a unique and serene setting with friendly staff, Sipadan-Kapalai is an ideal stopover for you to have a great holiday experience.

Where & What to Eat

There are no restaurants on the island. You have to bring your own lunch and snacks there. Besides that, you are reminded to bring along your own water and drinks with you.

Nightlife

There is no nightlife on the Sipadan Island as it is not allowed to stay overnight on the island.

My to do List

- Diving
- Go to sandy beaches
- See the coral reef
-‘Muck diving’
- Snorkeling

Stay Away From

You should stay away from those companies that diving on Sipadan without permits from Sabah Parks. Make sure the diver operator you choose has diving permits from Sabah Parks.

Getting There

Getting to the Sipadan Island requires some effort. The best way for first timer is that by plane. At first, you may fly to Tawau from either Kuala Lumpur which is about three hour’s flight or from Kota Kinabalu which is about 50 minutes flight. Then, continue your trip by minivan or taxi to the port town of Semporna which will take you about one to two hours. And from there you may go to Sipadan itself by fast boat, which only spend one hour.

PENANG

Penang: Attractions

Here are maps of Penang, and here’s information on Penang Bayan Lepas International Airport and how to get to Georgetown from there. If you are taking an express bus, you will probably arrive at the new bus terminal Sungai Nibong and the Railway Station is on the mainland, located at Butterworth, Seberang Prai, if you took the KTM train. Ferry services are also available from Langkawi daily.

There’s so much to see and do in Penang, good food everywhere, and beautiful beachesto relax your mind.

Most of Penang’s fancier accommodation is in the form of beach resorts on the main tourist beach of Batu Feringghi. More backpacker-friendly options, as well as a few classical luxury hotels, can be found in Georgetown.

Penang (Pulau Pinang in Malay language) is situated 370 km from Kuala Lumpur on Malaysia’s north-western coast, and consists of a strip of land (Seberang Prai) on Peninsular Malaysia and a turtle-shaped island. The Penang Bridge connects Seberang Prai on the mainland of Malaysia on the Malay Peninsula and Gelugor on the island of Penang. The island of Penang has also been known as ‘Prince of Wales Island’, and more recently ‘The Pearl of the Orient’.

Penang Fun Map

Penang used to be the oldest British settlement in Malaysia predating Melaka, today it is one of Malaysia’s main tourist draws. Although the beaches here are a little lacklustre when compared to many others in Malaysia, but this is more than compensated by Penang’s rich multicultural history which is full of colonial heritage and Chinese influence. Take a walk around Georgetown, the biggest city of the island, as it comes to life with places of worship, inner city communities, wet markets and bazaars, guilds, retail shops and traditional trades, hawkers and trishaw peddlers. The place illustrates a history of peaceful religious co-existence and cultural exchange among the followers of the great faiths of Islam, Buddhism,Hinduism, Christianity, as well as the Chinese religion, which combines Confucianism,Taoism and Buddhism.

For beach lovers, Penang’s best beaches are on the northern side, particularly Batu Ferringhi, but do be prepared for the heavy tourist crowd especially during peak seasons.

Penang is more than just beaches. The most unique tourist attraction is the Snake Temple, swarming with poisonous pit vipers. Apparently these poisonous snakes are believed to be made drowsy by the smoke of the burning incense. The 33m long reclining Buddha is the main attraction in Wat Chayamangkalaram Temple, which is believed to be the 3rd largest in the world.

Penang Hill is set amidst the island, with a 730 metre or 2,300 feet peak, where tourists who don’t mind the long queues for the funicular train are rewarded with beautiful views and jungle walks.

You can see Penang’s top sights in a rush on an overnight stay, but you’ll need at least two days to do them justice, and three or four days to really get a sense of the island. In a week, you can get a good look at most of what Penang has to offer.

Welcome to Penang, The Pearl of the Orient.

PANGKOR ISLAND

Lying off Perak on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia, this tranquil island with its white sandy beaches and charming fishing villages will enthrall you.

The name Pangkor may have originated from the Thai word Pang Ko meaning “Beautiful Island”. However others believe it may have been a memorial to Pang Kui, a legendary Chinese adventurer said to have lent his skills in seamanship to the bands of pirates this island once sheltered.

Pangkor’s main attractions are undoubtedly the wonderful offerings of its pristine beaches on the western coastline. Name after a legendary lovelorn princess, Golden Sands Beach or Pantai Puteri Dewi is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Located on the northwest of Pangkor, this 1.2 km stretch boats warm turquoise waters fringed with tall swayinf coconut palms. The beach here is ideal for sunbathing and recreational activities such as bird watching. Look out for hornbills said to roam the area.

Pasir Bogak Beach, a snorkeling site with an extensive reed and shallow waters, faces the channel between Pangkor and Pagkor Laut. Located nearby Pangkor town, this popular destination is a favourite haunt for picnickers due to its shady trees. Here, visitor can enjoy a kayak run or the simple pleasure of beachcombing.

Teluk Nipah is where tourists can enjoy both solitude and excitement by the beach. Take in the soothing lush greenery or browse the open-air stalls by the beach. A walkl across to Giam Island at low tide will reward you with a treasure trove of marine life.

Head to the Pulau Sembilan group of islands, 27 km south of Pangkor for a superb diving experience. The nine islands (sembilan means ‘nine’ in Malay) are uninhabited with an abundance of colourful marine life.

Eating out in Pangkor is a delight as there are restaurants serving both local and international cuisine. Alternatively, head to Pangkor town to enjoy fresh seafood.

Pangkor Laut
Pangkor Laut is a world-renowned tropical island destination. A 20-minute boat ride from Pangkor, it boasts one of the finest beaches in the Straits of Malacca. Sunset cruises can be specifically arranged upon request. Couples can choose to have dinner by Emerald Bay which affords scenic views for a truly romantic experience.

Pangkor Laut houses an exclusive resort named after the island. The Pangkor Laut Resort was rated as the ‘best among the best’ by Conde Nast Traveller in 2003. Actress Joan Collins and renowned tenor Luciano Pavarotti have graced the resort. For those seeking complete rejuvenation, pamper yourself at the luxurious Spa Village.

Lumut
Lumut is the staging point to Pangkor if arriving by road or rail. Located 83 km from Ipoh, the state capital, it is home to the country’s principal naval base and a port which serves the hinterland. Teluk Batik, south of Lumut is popular for camping, boating and windsurfing. Nearby is Teluk Rubiah, another fine beach with a golf course. The Lumut International Yacht is a stopover while sailing the Straits of Malacca.

Lumut is 3-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur via North-South Highway. It can be reached by taxi or bus from Ipoh, Kuala Lumpur or Butterworth.

Getting There
By Sea
Pangkor is a 15 minute ferry ride from Lumut. Departures every half hour.

By Air
Berjaya Air operates direct flights from Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah Airport nearby Kuala Lumpur to Pangkor

PULAU REDANG

One of the largest and the most beautiful of the east-coast islands, Pulau Redang has, inevitably, been targeted by big developers, and there are few options for the independent traveler; nearly all visitors come on all-inclusive package deals.

reef is teeming with fish, turtles, live corals and other spineless creatures

Pulau Redang is one of nine islands that form a protected marine park, and it offers excellent diving and snorkeling. Of most interest to travelers are the beautiful bays on the eastern side of the island, including Teluk Dalam, Teluk Kalong and Pasir Panjang. Most resorts are located around the sandy beaches at Teluk Kalong and Pasir Panjang. Berjaya Beach Resort is located at Teluk Dalam, a bay that is so sheltered that it is hardly affected by the northeast monsoon.

Photo from: AsiaExplorers.com

Pulau Redang: Pasir Panjang beach

There is so much to do on and around Pulau Redang, one can return year after year and still find new places to explore. The reef is teeming with fish, turtles, live corals and other spineless creatures. There’s snorkeling, diving, windsurfing and kayaking available at most resorts. Berjaya Resort offers a golf course in an idyllic setting if you are on a Malaysia golf vacation.

Pulau Redang Diving: Sea turtle

The Redang Archipelago is truly a gift sent from the heavens. The water surrounding these islands is teeming with marine life. About 500 species of living, breathing soft and hard corals create a wondrous seascape just below the white caps. And in turn these reef-building variety of corals shelter a host of inhabitants – a myriad species of bivalves and fishes. It forms part of Indo-Pacific Ocean’s breeding ground and nursery for many species of fish and other marine life. Sponges, algae and plankton provide a rich soup of nutrient for the thriving community. Green and hawksbill turtles drag themselves onto the white, sandy beaches to deposit their fertilised eggs into deep holes excavated under cover of night. Flying foxes, pythons, birds, mousedeers, monkeys and iguanas take refuge under the canopy of the forest. And in the late evenings when all human activities have quieten down, listen closely for you will here the heartbeat of the land, the whispers of the wind and the secrets of life – at Redang

MOUNT KINABALU

Mount Kinabalu Introduction

Mount Kinabalu is the tallest mountain between New Guinea and the Himalayas and reigns over an astonishing variety of scenery. While the lower reaches of the mountain serve as a botany fanatic’s dream, it is the upper reaches that captured the hearts and imaginations of climbers. Mount Kinabalu is known to be one of the most accessible peak and no specialized mountain climbing skills are required to ascend it. Thousands of tourists visit Kinabalu National Park every year with the intention of reaching the summit (number of visitors at park headquarters now hovers around 200,000 per year).

the upperreaches that captured thehearts and imaginationsof climbers

Most people take 3 days 2 nights to ascend and descend Mount Kinabalu, although it is doable in 2 days 1 night. The 8 kilometers ascend starts from the Timpohon Gate near park headquarters (1800m) at least before 11am, then another estimated 6 hours to reach the rest point Laban Rata (3273m). An overnight stay at one of the guest houses at Laban Rata is required if you intend to see the sun rise at Mount Kinabalu summit – you depart next morning at around 2am and it will take another 3 to 4 hours to reach the summit. Climbers then descend back to Laban Rata for breakfast before making their way down to the park headquarters by mid afternoon.

The distribution of flora on the mountain is a classic example of altitude and temperature-related zonation. From the warm lowland rainforests to the near-freezing alpine conditions at the summit, each zone is characterised by a quite different assemblage of plant species.

The best time to come to Mount Kinabalu is during the dry season from February to April, when walking and climbing is much more enjoyable. The temperature ranges from a comfortable 20-25 degrees Celsius at the main park to something approaching freezing near the top (depending on the weather).

What to Bring

1. Good Boots: Bring boots with good ankle support. Make sure they fit properly and are broken-in enough to ensure they are comfortable, because well-fitting boots can make the difference between an entertaining and a painful trip. Waterproof is a plus. Make sure it has good grip! Do not wear sneakers since they don’t support your ankles like boots do. The number one injury hikers face is twisted or broken ankles especially on during descend.

If packing space permits, pack in an open-toed sandals for your descending trip. It will be easier for the descend trip without pressing your toes against your boots all the time! Use it after Laban Rita and only if the ground is NOT slippery.

2. Water bottle: You can refill it on each shelter along the trail (rain water). I suggest reusing the plastic bottled water bottles; they’re a good size and very lightweight when empty.

3. Torchlight: Head-mounted is ideal for the night climb to the summit, as most of the time you have to hold the rope in the dark.

4. Personal First Aid

• Panadol / Paracetomol
• First aid kit with moleskin and bandages designed to cover blisters
• Sunscreen lotion
• Energy snacks: Trail mix or dried fruits are recommended but anything with high carbohydrate and low sugar will do. Also avoid snacks with a lot of salt as salt makes you thirsty.
• Bug Repellent

5. Plastic Bags: To hold your rubbish / keep clothes dry

6. Spare batteries: For torch light and camera

7. Smaller Bag / Waist Pouch: For the night climb

8. Waterproof jacket / Raincoat

The technical difficulty of the final summit stretch and the temperature at the top came as a surprise to most of the climbers on our trip, and few were prepared. The climb is not considered difficult in good conditions, but can rapidly become treacherous if the weather deteriorates. Mountain weather is notoriously volatile, as is tropical weather, and the two together pose a real threat to the safety of climbers and should never be underestimated. Make sure you have proper clothing prepared for the morning climb.

2 different sets of clothes for the Day climb, and Night climb.

Night Climb:
• Warm, lightweight jumper
• Warm, lightweight pants
• Woolen socks
• Beanie/woolen hat
• Gloves: To protect from cold and rope burn

Day Climb: It will usually be warm and sunny during the day climb, so lightweight clothing (t-shirts and Bermudas) is sufficient.

From the store at Laban Rata you can rent the following items:
• Sleeping Bag @ RM10 each;
• Jackets @ RM10 each (limited numbers of these);
• Blanket @ RM10 each;
• Towels @ RM5 each;
• Torch lights @ RM15 each (with battery) or RM5 without battery;

The Cost

Entrance Fees:

Malaysians – Adult RM3, Below 18 RM1
Non-Malaysians – Adult RM15, Below 18 RM10

Compulsory Guide:

(Timpohon Gate / Peak / Timpohon Gate)
1-3 Climbers RM70
4-6 Climbers RM74
7-8 Climbers RM80

(Timpohon / Peak / Mesilau Trail)
1-3 Climbers – RM80.00 per trip
4-6 Climbers – RM86.00 per trip
7-8 Climbers – RM92.00 per trip

(Mesilau Trail / Peak / Mesilau Trail)
1-3 Climbers – RM84.00 per trip
4-6 Climbers – RM90.00 per trip
7-8 Climbers – RM100.00 per trip

Climbing permit: This will be checked at both Laban Rata and the Sayat-Sayat hut.

Malaysians: Adult RM30, Below 18 RM12
Non – Malaysians: Adult RM100, Below 18 RM40

Insurance: RM7

Day Climb to Laban Rata

trail rises steadily as a series ofrough, uneven steps, right up tothe overnight huts

Climbers are issued with permits after paying for their guide, their insurance and their climbing fee. The permit, which is individually numbered with your day of departure, must be carried on the trail for the duration of the climb. Most climbers will start their climbing at 8.00am from Timpohon Gate. After a short registration at the gate, you will be surprised that the short first section of the rough gravel and sand track leads down, not up, across small gully to join the main flank of the mountain, and past the little trickle of Carson’s falls, named after the first Park Warden.

From here the trail rises steadily as a series of rough, uneven steps, right up to the overnight huts at Laban Rata (3,272 meters/10,735 feet). One of the most appealing aspects of the trail is the regular appearance of rest huts every kilometer or so. Each shelter has a toilet and untreated mountain water source to refill your drink bottle.

At a height of about 2600 m. is the region which abounds with pitcher plants. Pitcher plants are carnivorous plants whose prey-trapping mechanism features a deep cavity filled with liquid known as a pitfall trap. Once an insect fell in, it is impossible for them to get out. As they drown and dissolve in the liquid, the nutrients are absorbed by the plant.

The average time taken to reach Laban Rata is about four or five hours.

Laban Rata

Laban Rata, the name of the most comfortable hostel on the mountain and also unofficially the name of everybody’s rest stop for the night, is located at 3272 meters. It has 52 dormitory style bunk beds with a common bathroom, heated showers and room heaters, conveniently located in the same building as the restaurant. It also has two private units the first of which can sleep 4 (2 x twin and 1 x double bed) or 2 (1 double bed). Both the private units have attached bathrooms and heated rooms and showers and is still in the same building.
• Dormitory bunks @ RM 69 per person per night;
• 4 pax unit @ RM 300 for the unit per night;
• 2 pax unit @ RM 180 for the unit per night;

Another 10 minutes walk further up from Laban Rata is the Gunting Lagandan Hut, a second dormitory style accommodation. Featuring 60 beds at RM 46 per person per night, it’s usually the next option when Laban Rata is full. It has basic cooking facilities (as Laban Rata has the only restaurant) and a common bathroom, which now feature hot water. The rooms, however, are still not heated.

Two additional units, further away from Laban Rata than just quick walk, is the Panar Laban Hut and the Waras Hut. Each able to sleep up to 8 people on dormitory style bunk beds, it has basic cooking facilities with common bathrooms. The water is not heated, as are the rooms. The rate is also RM46 per person per night.

The dining room at Laban Rata is quite a pleasant place to unwind from the walk. Tea and coffee is available, as well as a range of soft drinks, alcoholic drinks, chocolate and snacks. There’s also a ‘post office’ where trekkers can write and send postcards from high altitude! Drinks and snacks are more expensive than you’d expect to pay elsewhere in Sabah, but keep in mind that all the supplies at Laban Rata have to be carried up by porters.

Dinner is available from the early evening onwards. A range of four or five dishes is served, buffet-style, and it’s amazing how much food you can eat after expending so much energy during the day. Malaysian and Western dishes are offered, so everyone will be able to find something to satisfy their hunger.

If you are susceptible to mountain sickness, you may feel some headache, nausea, muscle ache and giddiness just before dinner time. You can take some medication to relieve the symptoms before you go to sleep.

In addition to the restaurant, there is also a reception area/check-in for your accommodation, as well as a souvenir/supply shop for if you still don’t have everything you need. There’s also limited facilities for excess luggage you deem unnecessary for your final stretch to the summit.

Night Climb to Low’s Peak

The next phase of climb will begin at about 3.00am, when you are woken for an early breakfast (at least a hot drink is advisable). You do not have to bring your alarm clock, as the noise of other climbers and guides will definitely wake you up. The restaurant is open at that time, but you can have you own hot drinks at your own hostel.

Above Laban Rata, the trail continues as a series of wooden ladders, fashioned out tree roots and branches. This is where a good torchlight is essential – as most of the time you have to hold something for stability, it is best if you have a headlight.

It would take about 1 – 2 hours to reach Sayat-Sayat. This is the highest mountain hut at 3810 meters (12,500 feet). Climbers will have their permits, registrations checked and given a whistle for safety here. This is also the last point to refill water, and to answer nature’s call. Beyond this point, there’s not even a small bush to hide you doing your nature’s call! You will now head up to the Summit of Mount Kinabalu, Low’s Peak.

The gradient after Sayat-Sayat can become incredibly steep and can be quite tricky and treacherous in parts, there are some places where the trail can be as steep as 70° angle! Always stay close to the rope so that you will not get lost.

The actual terrain is flat underfoot, but it is common to see climber bent almost double at the waist to keep their balance. There are parts when you’ll need to grab the rope, which is bolted into the rockface at regular intervals, to help you up short sections. It will take up to an hour and a half to get from Sayat-Sayat to Low’s Peak. Even before you reach the top of Low’s Peak, the views in all directions are incredible – St John’s Peak to the west, the Donkey’s Ears to the east and the distinctive South Peak to the south make up incredible scenery. The view of the surrounding peaks is magnificent. By 6.00am, you will be able to see most of the peak very clearly.

Panoramic Mount Kinabalu

Descent

On the way down, don’t run down the summit slabs. Several people break a limb doing this every year, when they get to a bit where it steepens and find that they are unable to stop…

At first, the downhill walk from Low’s Peak is blessed relief to your weary legs. However, as most seasoned trekkers know, it’s often harder to walk downhill for long periods than it is to climb uphill and Mount Kinabalu is no exception. When climbing down, you are exhausted and most of you weight will fall on both of your thighs, knees and the ball of your foot. Be very careful. Most of the accidents happen during the descent.

The descent to Laban Rata will take about two hours and it can be quite dangerous in places. Again, take your guide’s advice about where to walk and how to approach some of the more dangerous steep sections. Take some breakfast at Laban Rata and relax for a while, pack your gear and head on down. Stop and drink water regularly and eat high-energy snacks as it will get warmish on the way down and you need to remain hydrated.

If you start climbing down at 10.00am, you will arrive at Timpohon Gate at about 1.00pm. There will be a bus waiting for you there to pick you up and send you to the Kinabalu Park HQ office where you will register with park authorities that you’ve completed the climb. You can also purchase your certificate (RM10) for climbing the mountain: a colour version for those who reach Low’s Peak, and a black and white version for those who reach Sayat-Sayat.