The seventh edition of the Gua Damai Extreme Carnival saw more than 3,000 people participating in various extreme sports over the weekend.
Selangor menteri besar Dato’ Seri Amirudin Shari launched the carnival, which ran for two days, from September 10 to 11.
He symbolically lighted a flare during the launching ceremony, held in conjunction with the Selayang Municipal Council’s (MPS) 25th anniversary.
Situated behind the Batu Cave hill, Gua Damai is one of the best climbing sites in the country.
It has more than 120 bolted routes with grades ranging from 5 to 7’s, making it suitable for newcomers.
There are also two other natural protection routes suitable for learning how to use the natural protection devices used in rock climbing.
Taman Ekstrem Gua Damai charges participants RM5 to enjoy activities including skydiving, limestone climbing, abseiling, ziplining (flying fox), abseiling, tree climbing, paintball, jumaring, slack line, and roller blade.
Amiruddin, who made time to attend the event, commended Selayang Municipal Council (MPS), Tourism Selangor and Tourism Malaysia for successfully organising the carnival.
“This programme is a praiseworthy effort by its organisers to empower the community and give people the opportunity to try out extreme sports.
“I noticed that attending participants are made up of various ages and genders. Many parents came together to ensure their children have the opportunity, as well as to provide support, in participating in the activities,” Amirudin said during the carnival’s officiation.
Also in attendance were MPS president Mohd Yazid Sairi and Gombak Orang Besar Tan Sri Wan Mahmood Pa’wan Teh.
The Menteri Besar said extreme sports, which have been in Malaysia since 1980, continues to grow and attract the attention of more youths with various annual activities.
As a result, different types of sports were introduced at Taman Ekstrem Gua Damai due to the presence of facilities like a BMX circuit, futsal court, ‘skate park’ and natural limestone.
“Indeed, Gua Damai has become a location and attraction for extreme sports fans in Malaysia as well as from abroad,” Amirudin added.
Source: Selangor Journal