World · Malaysia Bureau
Perak Fire Department pushes for age restrictions on children's mountain expeditions
The Perak Fire and Rescue Department has called for authorities to establish minimum age requirements for children participating in high-risk mountain expeditions, citing safety concerns.
LSN Malaysia ·
GERIK — The Perak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has recommended that state authorities review operational standards governing children's participation in mountaineering activities, warning that younger participants face elevated risks during challenging terrain expeditions.
The department's appeal comes as officials seek to establish clearer age-based guidelines for outdoor adventure programmes. Fire and rescue personnel have expressed concerns about the capacity of young children to manage physical and environmental hazards inherent in high-altitude and difficult mountain environments.
Currently, no standardised minimum age requirement exists for children joining such expeditions across the state. The JBPM's recommendation suggests implementing age thresholds to better protect minors while allowing age-appropriate outdoor experiences to continue.
The call reflects broader efforts across Malaysia to enhance safety protocols in adventure tourism and youth outdoor programmes. Authorities are expected to consult with relevant stakeholders, including expedition organisers and child welfare agencies, to develop comprehensive guidelines that balance recreational opportunities with child protection measures.