ADVENTURE AND EXTREME SPORTS
The terms ‘adventure’ and ‘extreme’ sports are generally used to describe activities that are perceived to have a heightened level of risk and danger. These sports are typically individual rather than team activities, require the use of special equipment, and often involve the individual pitting himself against nature to test the limits of his abilities.
Trekking is one of the most basic forms of adventure sports. It can be a simple one-day affair, with nothing more than a walking stick and bottle of water to help the trekker reach the desired destination. Trekking can also be a multi-day event, with more elaborate equipment and against more challenging terrain and weather. Malaysia offers a wide range of terrain and eco-habitats, ranging from tropical rainforests to limestone caves. Malaysian trekkers have also travelled overseas, venturing, as in the case of Datin Paduka Sharifah Mazlina, all the way to the Antarctic.
Mountaineering shares many similarities with trekking, especially in fulfilling the inherent human need to challenge adverse terrain and weather conditions. Malaysians have sought to conquer the mightiest mountains, not only at home, but also abroad, all the way to the top of the world, Mount Everest.
Skydiving was introduced to Malaysia in the late 1970s and its steady growth is indicative of Malaysians’ growing appetite for activities that are high on excitement. Similarly, paragliding and paramotoring, both introduced in the 1990s, have also become increasingly popular. The novelty of these activities as well as the challenge of conquering the air make them attractive to those seeking an adrenaline surge.
Skateboarding is a more down-to- earth activity. Skateboarders thrill in completing stunts that demonstrate both their creativity and courage. Skateboarding has come a long way since the days when skateboards were constructed from roller skate wheels and planks. Improvements have made the skateboard more durable and easier to control, contributing to the sport’s burgeoning popularity.
First developed in the United States in the 1980s, paintball is a team, rather than an individual, form of recreation. It has caught on quickly since its introduction to Malaysia in 2000, with an annual national tournament first organized in 2005. Paintball is seen by many as a means to foster team spirit as it emphasizes strategy and communication.
