Camp OutReach 2005

Mt Kinabalu, Sabah

12^th – 16^th July 2005

On the 12^th July, a group of 35 instructors and participants gathered at Copthorne Orchid Hotel where we checked in our luggage and took a coach to Senai International Airport where we boarded a plane to our destination – Kota Kinabalu. Upon arrival at Kota Kinabalu airport, we then took a bus to the headquarter of Mt Kinabalu where we rested for a night before we embarked on the climb.

On the second day after breakfast, we took a bus ride to Timpohon gate, where we began the trek up one of Southeast Asia’s highest mountains. Everyone is divided into 3 smaller groups, each lead by a Group Lead and a Group Rear. Our aim for the day was to reach Laban Rata Resthouse which stands at 3261m above sea level. The trail was steep and very tiring but every team member cheered each other on. Knowledge was gained as we occasionally stop by to appreciate and learn about the unique flora and fauna of Mt Kinabalu. It rained halfway through the climb, making the path extra slippery and we had to slow down to watch our footsteps. This however created a great experience for all the participants as most have never trekked such trails before, let alone under such rainy conditions. It was really an eye opening experience for all. After 7 arduous hours of climb, everyone finally managed to reach the Resthouse where we had dinner and rested for the night.

On day 3, we awoke at 2 am in the morning, all geared up for the summit climb. Putting on our thermal wear and head lamps, we started the trek in pitch dark. The route was steeper than before and we had to use ropes to aid us in our climb round the circumference of the mountain. It was really tough, and many of us felt like giving up. However, with the mutual support and encouragement from the fellow instructors and HI, most of us persevered to the top. Team camaraderie was truly evident as each and every one of the participants, HIs and volunteers alike, gave each other a helping hand as well as moral support. Although we missed the sunrise, the scenery at the summit was still breathtaking. The view from the summit temporarily removed the fatique from our bodies. All of us felt a sense of achievement in reaching the top of Mount Kinabalu, which stands at 4095.2 m tall, a truly magnificent feat for first time climbers. All of us then made our way back to the HQ where we rested for the night. The route down proved more arduous than before as many of the participants were already physically exhausted. Again, it was the support and encouragement from the group mates that challenged the mind over body to persevere on till the very end.

That marks the end of our trek up Mt Kinabalu. Day 4 was a day of recreation and relaxation. We began the day by bringing all participants to Mesilau Nature Reserve where breakfast was served. Some stayed on to enjoy the beautiful scenery whilst those who are more energetic went to explore the trails at the nature reserve. Late morning, we departed for Poring Hotsprings. All the participants enjoyed themselves thoroughly. It was definitely a well deserved rest for everyone after a very challenging 2 days climb. Apart from soaking in the hotsprings, we had the opportunity to try the canopy walkway as well as visit the bat cave.

Day 5 was a free and easy day for everyone at Kota Kinabalu Town. A mass dinner was thrown for all participants before we returned to Singapore. At the dinner table, everyone reminisced their experiences from the climb. The 5 days of bonding has brought the entire team closer together. Although the camp has come to an end, new friendships were forged and memories of the climb are etched deeply in every participant’s mind.

Camp Out Reach 2005: Xpose, Xplore, Xperience --- a truly memorable and unforgettable journey.