Malaysia is cracking down on influencers’ risky hikes after spate of rescues
 

Malaysia is introducing new safety rules for hikers after a rise in search and rescue operations linked to social media hiking trends. The government will require hikers to use guides at 189 high-risk locations and complete pre-climb screening, including health declarations, medical history checks, and insurance verification.

Although hiking has become increasingly popular in Malaysia, the country's tropical forests present many dangers, including extreme heat, high humidity, thick vegetation, and the risk of getting lost. Officials say many hikers are unprepared or choose unauthorized trails, leading to accidents and costly rescue missions.

The government is also restricting "compressed hikes," where people try to complete hiking routes much faster than normal. Experts warn that these hikes require careful planning and can be dangerous. Through these new regulations, Malaysia hopes to prevent accidents, protect hikers, and reduce the need for expensive search and rescue operations.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2026/08/03/travel/malaysia-new-hiking-rules-scli-intl  

Comprehension

Why is Malaysia introducing new rules for hikers?
What are the new requirements before hikers begin a climb?
Why are Malaysia's forests considered dangerous for hikers?
What is a "compressed hike"?
What is the government's main goal in introducing these regulations?

Discussion

Do you enjoy hiking? Why or why not?
Should hikers be required to hire guides in dangerous areas? Explain your answer.
What items should people bring when going on a hike?
How can social media influence people's outdoor activities?
Do you think some people take unnecessary risks to create social media content? Why?
Have you ever been lost while traveling or hiking? What happened?
Who should pay for expensive search and rescue operations—the government or the hikers? Why?
What safety rules would you recommend for beginner hikers?

Vocabulary

authority – an organization or government that makes and enforces rules
mandatory – required by law or rule
screening – a process of checking or evaluating someone
tropical – relating to hot and humid regions near the equator
vegetation – plants, trees, and other plant life
unauthorized – not officially allowed or approved
disorientation – confusion about where you are or which direction to go
rescue – the act of saving someone from danger or an emergency