A social media trend encouraging hikers to rush through demanding mountain routes has caught the attention of Malaysian officials. The country is tightening its hiking rules after more people became lost or stranded in remote areas this year.
Malaysia has recorded 52 lost-hiker cases involving 114 people during the first five months of 2026. That was nearly 30% more than during the same period one year earlier, according to New Straits Times.
Officials are particularly concerned about “compressed hikes,” which condense routes that normally take several days into a single day. Some hikers attempt them with minimal equipment, trying to make videos that go viral online.
The new measures include restrictions in high-risk mountain areas, mandatory use of certified guides at 189 locations, and stronger health screening. Travelers may also need to provide medical information and insurance details before attempting certain routes.
Malaysia Is Restricting “Compressed Hikes”
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Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability announced the tighter controls on July 29. According to Malaysian national news agency Bernama, the Perak Forestry Department has banned compressed hikes in high-risk areas, while the Department of Wildlife and National Parks has imposed similar restrictions at some ecotourism sites.
The restrictions do not amount to a nationwide ban on ordinary day hikes, and requirements will vary by state, trail and difficulty, so travelers should confirm permit and guide requirements before heading out.
Certified Guides Are Required at 189 Locations
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Certified Forestry Mountain Guides are now mandatory at 189 high-risk hiking locations across Malaysia. The government says guides can help hikers remain on approved routes, respond to emergencies, and follow required safety procedures.
Malaysia has certified 2,322 guides from local communities, including members of the Indigenous Orang Asli population. The country is also developing a digital trail-management system and testing GPS tracking devices for climbers.
Pre-climb screening may include health declarations, medical-history checks and insurance coverage. Additional screening for altitude illness is being considered for climbers attempting Mount Kinabalu in Sabah and Mount Tahan in Pahang.
Malaysia recorded 1,059 hiking accidents between 2021 and 2025, including 63 deaths and 87 injuries. Officials now hope the tighter rules will reduce accidents and costly search-and-rescue operations.