Hiking group maintaining Penang Hill trail marks 29th anniversary
(From right) Choong, Koay and Ong presenting a mock cheque for RM5,000 to Tan (third from left) and Khor (second from left) while Heng (centre) looks on during Moon Gate No. 5 Hiking Group's 29th anniversary event in Penang.
A LIVELY reunion dinner celebrating decades of hiking, bonding and trail maintenance was held by the Moon Gate No. 5 Hiking Group in Penang to mark its 29th anniversary.
The hiking club is known for its free refreshments and volunteer-driven upkeep of the famous Moon Gate trail on Penang Hill.
In his opening speech at the dinner, the group's honorary advisor Datuk Seri Benny Khor said the club provided free coffee, water and biscuits to hikers.
'The hiking club focuses on maintaining and improving the trail's condition to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.
'Our mission has always been to bring people together to enhance and care for the Moon Gate No. 5 trail that is now a must-visit for nature lovers and fitness enthusiasts.
'The group relies on donations, surplus funds from the annual dinner and contributions from its committee members to sustain its operations.
'This is because there are no membership fees or public fundraising initiatives,' he said.
Representing Penang Chinese Town Hall (PCTH) chairman Tan Sri Tan Khoon Hai, was vice-chairman Datuk Heng Yak Hoi who said the hiking club promoted both hiking and humanitarian values.
'The stories are truly touching as members and volunteers tirelessly carry gas cylinders uphill, prepare hot drinks and serve hikers come rain or shine.
'This selfless spirit aligns with the Penang2030 vision of fostering an inclusive, healthy and resilient community,' he said.
Heng added that the importance of hiking as a form of physical and mental exercise should be emphasised to encourage people to embrace outdoor activities for a balanced lifestyle.
During the dinner, TG Ocean Health Food Industries Sdn Bhd directors Datuk Ong Thor Guan, Koay Kai Bin and Choong Jin Koi presented RM5,000 to club chairman Tan Chee Yeong to support its efforts.
More than 1,000 people attended the dinner at Che Hoon Khor Moral Uplifting Society in Macalister Road, George Town.
Many of the diners took home prizes such as hiking shoes, electrical goods and motorcycles.
Moon Gate No. 5, is a colonial- era stone archway.
The hiking group's upkeep of this historic path has helped the trail become a popular destination.
At the dinner, members and supporters reaffirmed their goal of keeping the trail accessible and well-maintained to ensure that Moon Gate No. 5 remains a symbol of Penang's community-driven conservation efforts.
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