Shelter Home for Children is doing an annual fund raising " Mt KK Charity Climb"  to help raise funds for our work with our children.

Just like the previous years, this initiative has been a very important part of raising funds that we need, reminding the society that we need their help and creating awareness to people who do not know of us yet. There are quite a number of people who plan to go hike Mount Kinabalu every year. Instead of just taking the challenge to scale the 5th highest mountain in South East Asia; why not do it with a greater purpose in mind? Which is to also remove the scales of pain and burden off from our children!

A famous theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, once said "The ultimate test of a moral society is the kind of world that it leaves to its children". Today the self centred culture is more prevalent than ever and the focus is constantly on amassing wealth instead of giving back. The rich will get richer and the poor will get poorer, the polarization of wealth becomes worse. The same goes in education and career opportunity for our children compared to healthy families. Is that the kind of moral standards that we want to leave to our future generation?

Instead of waiting for something to happen, let's make it happen, one step at a time. Come and join us in this climb this year as we "Shelter the Future Generation".

Details of the climb

Dates of the Climb:
5th - 9th Sept 2014
(The actual climb up the mountain will be on 6 - 8th Sept)

Estimate Price:
RM 2100.00 (note: this is a 3 days 2 nights climb and not the usual 2 days 1 night climb)

This price is inclusive all charges including airfare to and fro, all costs pertaining to hotel accommodation, climb expenses (incl guides), meals, transportation etc etc.

*On top of this RM2100.00, we will require you to help us raise another RM2000.00 minimum as charity funds.

Training Schedules:
We will be having a professional climber (who has climbed Mt KK more than 50 times) to assist us with the training schedules (which we will inform all climbers later on).

No of Climbers:
We are only allocating 23 places so it will be on a first come basis.

MOUNT KINABALU CLIMB GUIDE & Q&A

PLEASE READ THIS CLIMB GUIDE CAREFULLY!

This Guide is for those doing the 3 day 2 night climb at 07-00 am in the morning

1…MOUNT KINABALU – INVITATION TO CLIMB

Mt Kinabalu at 4,095m or 13,435 ft is located in Sabah. It is the highest mountain in South-East Asia between Indochina and Indonesian New Guinea and is one of the most “climbable” mountains in the world. The climb will take 3 days 2 nights and Climbers will trek about 6km to Laban Rata on the first day, taking 6-8 hours, before climbing to the summit early on the following morning at 07-00 am. The climb from Laban Rata to the summit and back (to Laban Rata) can take anything from 6-10 hours. Everything comes down to fitness.

2…MOUNT KINABALU CLIMB PREPARATION

The great thing about climbing Mount Kinabalu is that there is no need for special climbing equipment. Good walking shoes, a good but small torchlight and a good raincoat are important. A windproof jacket may be a useful addition. Anyone can climb Mount Kinabalu but fitness is necessary. Climbers as young as 6 and 7 have successfully climbed with the author. There are also climbers aged above 70 who have also successfully scaled the mountain with the author. Training should be taken seriously. There is no other way. To avoid pain and suffering, climbers must follow the recommended Training program diligently.

3…MOUNT KINABALU TRAINING - NO SPECIAL PROGRAM

It is a very simple program and it can be followed by anyone. It is a program that has been formulated by Ong Hock Siew to make training simple and fun. All it needs is commitment and diligence. The exercise programs are largely carried out in the house because the Author knows that discipline is the greatest problem with most city 'folks'. The home exercises are as follows:

• Brisk walking up and down one step – do it 1,500 times a day (at least 5 days a week)

• Half “ab” crunch – Lie flat with knees bent. Lift your head towards your legs about 1 foot 150 times

• Leg kick – sit on a chair with legs together. Lift legs and kick it out together – 50 times

• If possible, walk up a 20 storey stair five times up and 5 times down (as an option to the above)

4…MOUNT KINABALU CLIMB SAFETY

Mount Kinabalu is probably one of the safest mountains in the world to climb. The trail is well marked out and steps have been cut into the steepest parts. So long as you stay on-track, the dangers are within control. There have been people who have been injured and even killed on the climb but these were usually under exceptionally circumstances or the climbers had health problems and should not have climbed. The guides are well-trained and they can handle emergencies pretty well. Their instructions should be closely followed. At the ropes, extreme care should be taken. The ropes must be held at all times. Use gloves.

5…MOUNT KINABALU WEATHER CONDITIONS

Mount Kinabalu weather conditions can range from really pleasant conditions to extremely severe weather. The weather conditions have changed so much that it is no longer predictable. Because of global warming, the weather is now generally much warmer (probably by an average of perhaps 3 degrees Centigrade). It is an advantage to climbers now because the need for winter clothing has diminished but it can still be cold at times. It is better for climbers to be ready for cold weather as a safety measure as cold fronts can still blow in.

Sabah is often ‘hit’ by tail-end of Typhoons from the Philippines. At such times which can take place in the months of June to November, extreme weather conditions can result. At such times, climbs may have to be aborted. Fortunately such occurrences take place few and far between. The North-East monsoon from October to March is also a time of heavy rainfall. Aside from this, the Equinox taking place in Early April and early October can bring heavy rainfalls in the morning. At the present times, the weather patterns have changed so much that no one can make accurate predictions anymore. Climbers should therefore come prepared for the worst.

6...MT KINABALU – POSSIBLE FOR ORDINARY PEOPLE?

That's the question every prospective climber will ask. There's nothing more disappointing than attempting the climb, only to have to turn back with the peak in sight. As unlikely as it sounds, only very few climbers on my trip had to turn back, one or two with less than a kilometre to go to Low's Peak. To avoid disappointment, train diligently and you will have a wonderful climb. Different people give different accounts of the climb. Some say it is not really difficult and some say it is the toughest journey of their lives. Whatever the situation, many say that they will never climb it again only to forget their pain and difficulties over time and some actually climb again.The second climb is always better than the first because the climber knows what to expect on the second climb.Don’t listen to those who have climbed 2-3 times and think they are experts. They have not seen enough!

Whatever the situation, preparation is the key. Unfortunately, most people don’t follow the recommended Training schedule enough and they suffer badly as a consequence. There are many parallels for life and the biggest lesson is that success has a price to be paid. The Mount Kinabalu climb is achievable if the ‘right’ preparations are made. Climbing Mount Kinabalu is certainly difficult but the summit can be reached with application, commitment and determination. For ordinary office-workers, it is likely to be one of the most physically demanding things they can ever attempt. Many good sportsmen find the climb tough because fitness at sea-level is no guarantee of fitness at the higher parts of Mount Kinabalu.

7..MOUNT KINABALU TRAINING – HOW MUCH?

You don’t need to be a great sportsman to successfully make the climb. If you regularly go for long walks, supplementing your regular exercise would be enough. Over an ideal period of two months, follow the Training program formulated by the Author that is done in the comfort of the house (the bedroom can do)

The Author has an addition program that is based on a holistic approach to health and age is not a big factor. Visit Youtube Ong Hock Siew and look for his exercises there. Even if you are pretty fit, extra preparation will help. The training program is not only about fitness. It is also about conditioning the muscles to adapt to the effort needed to climb. If you have an injury, remember to consult a Doctor and treat the ailment before attempting the climb. For more information about the training and fitness testing, you can go to the following blog address:

www.climbmountkinabalu.blogspot.com and www.mountkinabalubeckons.blogspot.com.

8..MOUNT KINABALU – DO THE MAJORITY SUCCEED?

The majority actually reach the top – many will reach the verge of almost giving up – a little encouragement and a little persuasion helps a lot. In 63 climbs the Author has seen a success track-record of more than 95%. This is because of the training he imposes on all those who follow him on his climbs. The biggest problems he has seen ranked in order of difficulties are as follows:

• Altitude Sickness (AMS) – In severe cases, nausea and vomiting takes place. Even then, after throwing up, many actually make it. It requires determination to overcome AMS

• Cramps – this is quite common but it has seldom stopped climbers from reaching the top.

• Stressed muscles – this is quite common and rest will help

• Breathing difficulties – At the high levels, this is quite common – deep breathing helps

• Overtiredness – Sometimes, the whole body just grinds to a halt with sheer exhaustion. Just rest a while

• Fainting spells – Because of the lack of oxygen, there can be fainting spells. In-pricks is an indication.

• Injuries – Sprains and knocks are quite common and usually some treatment will do.

• Serious injuries – Occasionally, some injuries are more serious but these are rare

9..MOUNT KINABALU CLIMB – THE POWER OF ‘PACING’

Most climbers actually climb too fast because of ego, anxiety or excitement. The body needs to adjust to the environment. The human body is wonderfully created – it can adapt to the harshest of conditions and so long as the spirit is strong, the rest of the body can adjust to such harsh conditions. Going really slow is the secret and there is really no need to rush. It is all about tolerance and recovery.

10..MOUNT KINABALU - KINABALU NATIONAL PARK

Kinabalu National Park was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2000, the first in Malaysia. The park is an unspoilt paradise and it carries a wide variety of species of fauna and flora, some endemic only to Mount Kinabalu. Mount Kinabalu is one of the few mountains in the world that has so much diversity. Mount Kinabalu is famous for its montane birds, insects and Pitcher plants (Nepenthes). More than a third of Malaysia’s 1,200 species of butterflies are found in the greater Kinabalu area (compared with 50 for the whole of Great Britain). The orchids here are legendary and the Slipper orchid sells for a huge price on the black market. Conservation remains the big problem and it is the responsibility of every climber to help.

11..MOUNT KINABALU CLIMB – THE DETAILS!

11.1 WELCOME TO THE CLIMB

It is an opportunity of a lifetime for the many who will make the climb. The moment of reckoning is when the first steps are taken from Timpohon Gate, the starting point. At that point, nothing else matters. The

urban world as many of us know it will fade from our minds for at least the few days that the climb is made.

Welcome and make it an unforgettable experience

 

11.2…FOR INFORMATION – CAREFULLY NOTE

• Always wear the tag given out by the Park HQ. It is your identification tag and have to be presented atthe various Checkpoints to get your certificate. Very Important!

• Remember to read the list of things to bring. There should be 3 bags in all

Bag 1 - place your clothes and stuff that you need after you have come down from the climb. You will be staying IN KOTA KINABALU for one more night after the climb. (Clean Underwear, Spare Trousers, Spare shorts, Spare T-shirts, Toiletries, Spare socks, Spare specs, Personal items) (AFFIX BLUE TAG)

Bag 2 – to place all your clothes and stuff that you need for the 2 day climb. This bag will be carried by Porters and you will be PAYING THE PORTER CHARGES YOURSELF. So don’t overload. If you put water and stuff, you will be paying for really expensive water. Remember to put all your clothes in this bag inside plastic bags so they don’t get wet when it rains. (Clothes for the 2nd day climb --- clean Underwears, Spare socks, Longs, Shorts, Socks, Waterproof Jacket, Woolen Sweater take along just in case), Raincoat, Towel, Slippers, Warm hat, Warm gloves, Toiletries, Camera, Video camera, Chargor, Mobile Tel, Tel chargor, Pen, Paper, Chocolates & Munchies, Fruits, Money) (AFFIX RED TAG)

Bag 3 –this should be a smaller bag (say, haversack) for you to carry yourself for the first day of the climb. Put your first day stuff like rain-coat, warmer or wind-breaker (temperature can drop even on the first day to 12-16 degrees celsius), small torchlight, water bottle, fruits, munchies & plastic bag in this bag. (Water bottle, Lunch pack, Raincoat, Water purification tablets, Warm jacket (kept in case it gets cold), Fruits, Munchies, Small torchlight, Whistle, First-aid (by Team Leader). There should be some Diamox tablets in the first-aid kit as well as Blister plasters (Diamox is for AMS and should be taken where AMS is a problem otherwise a couple of Panadol should be enough). (AFFIX YELLOW TAG)

11.3 GUIDELINES FOR CONSIDERATION

a. Everyone should be punctual and “on-time”. Kindly don’t keep everyone else waiting

b. Everyone should be considerate on the trip. If you fart/ burp, say excuse me. It is OK.

c. Everyone Please cut your toe-nails and fingernails. Beauty must go!!!

d. Don’t wear your knee guards or ankle guards before hand. Wear only when you have pain

11.4 GROUP DIVISION

a. Paulus (my staff) will collect the Laban Rata room keys for the rest.

b. Room sharing for Pines Hotel and Laban Rata will be listed earlier but it will be subject to change

c. For Laban Rata, it may be “mixed” accommodation. Sometimes it cannot be male and female

d. Please see the “PERSONAL THINGS TO TAKE LIST” in this guide. Follow it.

e. The likely time schedule for the fast and the slow group is given as a guide for you

f. On the trip, raincoat, warmer, water & good pair of shoes is compulsory

g. In trouble, approach the guides for help. On the mountain, 019 is the best. The others can be used

11.5 TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS (KL & OTHER CLIMBERS)

a. Remember to bring your IC along for immigration purposes. Malaysians don’t need passport

b. For those below 12 & don’t have an IC, bring along the Birth cert or Passport

c. Your travel weight on Air Asia is 15 kg – it is expensive to exceed this

d. If altitude sickness hits (dizziness, head-ache, nausea, etc), take 2 Panadol. Diamox in severe cases

e. FOR OVERSEA CLIMBERS, you need to arrive by 12-00 noon on the first day

f. Remember your passport

11.6 SOME ADDITIONAL POINTS – DETERMINATION

a. The whole climb should be an exercise of “encouragement”. Encourage each other

b. Clear guidelines are given to each climber. It takes the guessing out from each climber.

c. Food is usually well-organized on the trip and meals are taken at interesting places

12..REMEMBER YOUR COMMITMENT

Nothing great is ever achieved without commitment. So make the commitment to reach the top. Look for highlights in your life. Mount Kinabalu is one of such highlights. Go for it. Never let failure deter you from rising again and taking the next step. See you at the top!

13..THINGS TO TAKE

There are many suggested items. Most over bring & many of these things will just be given away at the end of the
climb. So think carefully about what you should bring. All the second day’s items should be packed inside plastic bags and put into a soft bag (in case it rains) for the porter to carry. Pre-pack and organize all this well in KL or Singapore.

14…DRESS CODE (FOR 07-00 AM CLIMB)

15..THE CLIMB COMMENCEMENT

The climb actually begins a long time before you arrive at Timpohon gate, the starting point. It begins when you make the decision to do the climb. That is when images will be conjectured in your mind and you will have many nights lying in bed wondering about the many descriptions of the climb made to you by people who would share with you their own perception of the climb.

Arriving at Timpohon gate is usually the culmination of many training sessions taken across usually 2 months and many training venues like FRIM, Tun Ismail park, Bukit Kiara Park and perhaps even Bukit Tinggi hills (for KL climbers). The climb starts at Timpohon gate (6,000 feet) and it takes the climbers across about 4,800 feet of climbing up to Laban Rata, the mountain huts where the climbers sleep.. The distance of the entire climb is about 5.5 miles or 8.8 kilometers (one way)

The second day will take the climbers from 10,800 feet to the summit and this is where ladders & ropes are a common feature. There is no real climbing abilities needed as the ropes are meant more as ‘guide ropes’ and ‘assistance lines’. The sceneries at the massive rock-face on Mount Kinabalu are ‘out-of-this-world’ and truly magnificent. Standing at the summit with the wind blowing in your face is a “top-of-the-world feeling”. You will know that you have succeeded in achieving a big goal in your life and you will take this feeling with you.

16..THE STRAIN & THE DIFFICULTIES

Will there be difficulties? You bet! There will certainly be hardships along the way and difficulties that will require determination to overcome. Preparing the knees, ankles and legs well is a huge advantage. So is strengthening your lungs with aerobic exercises. Can someone with some pain in the knee do the climb? The answer is yes! Many who have pain in the knees and some joint problems have made the climb without too much difficulty. It is all about going at your own pace.

The greater problem in climbing Mount Kinabalu is the altitude sickness (AMS) that will ‘hit’ most first time climbers above 10,000 feet. It will be a bother of some sort but it generally goes away after a while. It is all about the mind-set and those who are determined usually overcome it.


 

“WINNERS NEVER QUIT, QUITTERS NEVER WIN!”

*the whole Q&A is taken from Ong Hock Siew's material. He will be helping us with the training as well as the arrangements of the climb for this initiative. Ong Hock Siew is a professional and has been training others to hike Mount Kinabalu for a long time and has led 112 climbers at a time before.