From Malay Mail · Julia Chan · · 1m 20s
Mount Kinabalu Training Centre Faces Calls to Halt Work
Indigenous groups demand pause on Mount Kinabalu training centre construction over environmental and cultural concerns.
In brief
Indigenous groups demand pause on Mount Kinabalu training centre construction over environmental and cultural concerns. Malaysia's Mount Kinabalu training centre faces halting due to indigenous land rights and environmental concerns. Originally reported by Malay Mail.
Construction under scrutiny
Mount Kinabalu training centre faces calls to halt work over indigenous and environmental concerns.
Social media controversy
Photographs of structures and drilling near Sayat-Sayat circulated on social media, prompting calls for transparency.
Indigenous criticism
Kundasang Tourism and Culture Association chairman called for investigation into project's location and approvals.
Customary concerns
Bundu Tuhan Village Heritage head questioned community consultation, citing drilling against customary beliefs.
Minister's response
Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister said project was proposed in 2015 but deferred after earthquake, revived in 2025.
Project purpose
Centre provides altitude acclimatisation and technical training for mountaineers targeting Kilimanjaro, Aconcagua and Everest.
Environmental safeguards
Construction uses lightweight materials to minimize environmental disturbance and avoids heavy machinery.
DIO demands halt
Dayak International Organisation calls for immediate stop to construction, drilling and installation work.
UNDRIP concerns
DIO claims project violates indigenous customary law protected under UNDRIP and requires community consent.
Cultural significance
Mount Kinabalu holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for indigenous communities, including sacred rituals.
The essence
Malaysia's Mount Kinabalu training centre faces halting due to indigenous land rights and environmental concerns.
