Miri Friendship Association Fitness Group Successfully Completes Mulu Pinnacles Hiking Challenge

(Miri, 27th)—The Fitness Group of the Miri Friendship Association recently completed a highly challenging 4-days 3-nights Mulu Pinnacles hiking expedition, with all 12 members successfully reaching the summit, demonstrating unwavering team spirit and physical endurance.

The group departed from Miri by plane at 12 noon on April 22, 2026, and arrived at Mulu Airport about half an hour later, then checked into a local homestay. After a brief rest, members traveled to the famous stalactite caves—Lang Cave and Deer Cave—for sightseeing and enjoyed the spectacular sight of bats emerging from the cave at dusk, a truly breathtaking scene.

The next morning, the team registered at the Mulu National Park and took a boat to Wind Cave and Clear Water Cave—the longest underground waterway in Southeast Asia. After the tour, the group continued by boat to Camp 5. Upon arrival, each member carried a backpack weighing 10 to 15kg (including water, food, and clothes), and hiked about three hours to reach the camp, preparing for the summit attempt the next day.

At 6 a.m. on the third day, the group officially began their climb to the summit of Mount Api (about 1,200m above sea level). According to the mountain guide, the team had to reach 900m elevation within one hour, otherwise they needed to return. The entire 2.4km route was almost entirely steep uphill with treacherous terrain, especially at 400m where there are 17 nearly 90-degree iron ladders—an extremely challenging section. Eventually, after about 7–8 hours of round-trip climbing, the team successfully reached the summit, accomplishing a remarkable feat.

During the climb, members deeply experienced the unique and dangerous terrain of the Pinnacles. The Mulu stone forest is covered with sharp rocks, so even the slightest carelessness could result in injury. Therefore, everyone had to stay extremely alert and proceed carefully throughout the journey.

On the fourth day at 7 a.m., the team retraced their steps and hiked about 9 kilometers back to Mulu National Park, had a meal at the airport, and safely flew back to Miri at 2 p.m.

This journey was not only full of challenges but also filled with wonderful memories. Members set out in good spirits and returned safely. President Yang Zhenping expressed his gratitude for the mutual support and close cooperation of all teammates, which enabled the successful completion of the challenge. This is yet another unforgettable and precious hiking experience, following last year's successful ascents of Mount Kinabalu and Mount Santubong in Kuching.

He also extended special thanks to Fitness Group Director Lai Lijie for his careful planning and thorough arrangements, making the entire trip run smoothly and successfully.