Embracing the outdoors – a path to wellbeing

I love open green spaces. I love nature. I love the flora and fauna and the fresh air that invigorates both body and soul, especially at Bukit Kiara.

While I used to hike up Bukit Kiara frequently, I have now slowed down – after all, I am 75. Living next to Bukit Kiara is truly a gift. My house is just a two-minute walk to the park, making it an extension of my backyard. Bukit Kiara is a sanctuary, a rare gem in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya.

It is an oasis that I feel deeply connected to.

As I turn 76 in July, I am blessed with good health and an appreciation for nature. Initially, my hikes were all about burning calories and building stamina, pushing my limits. But over time, I have slowed my pace, allowing myself to truly absorb my surroundings.

I now stop to observe birds, insects, and the intricate beauty of leaves in all shapes and sizes. A whole new world has opened up to me – hiking is no longer just a workout; it is an experience, a connection with nature.

Power of outdoor exercise There is something magical about exercising in the open. Unlike the artificial atmosphere of an indoor gym, green spaces like Bukit Kiara provide a natural, rejuvenating setting.

The fresh air, the scent of damp earth after rain, and the rustling leaves create an environment that is both energising and calming. Exercising in nature has tremendous benefits for the body, mind, and soul. Studies show that outdoor activities reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function.

If more Malaysians embraced outdoor exercise, we could foster a healthier society. The key is sustainability – not just a one-off jog in the park, but a lifelong habit of walking, hiking, or cycling in green spaces.

Our urban lifestyle often traps us indoors, but nature offers an escape, a sanctuary where we can recharge and refresh our minds. I encourage more people to make this a part of their routine and experience the transformative effects of outdoor activity.

A lifetime of walking in nature My relationship with the outdoors began in my childhood in Melaka. For six years, I walked the Bukit China trail as a shortcut to school. My parents couldn’t afford a bicycle, so walking became a necessity.

Little did I know, I was unknowingly gaining tremendous health benefits – stronger legs, improved stamina, and overall fitness. That early experience laid the foundation for my lifelong appreciation for outdoor exercise.

Fast forward 30 years. Despite a demanding career, I made time to join Mother Hash, a running club exploring Malaysia’s countryside. We ran through forests, rubber and oil palm plantations, and rural trails, breathing in fresh air devoid of pollutants. The green theme persisted as I eventually shifted my focus to hiking at Bukit Kiara.

Encouraging others to embrace Bukit Kiara Over the years, I have introduced many people to Bukit Kiara. Friends, family members, and even strangers have joined me on hikes, discovering the joy of being in nature.

It is heartening to see more and more people embracing the Bukit Kiara lifestyle. Parents bring their children, seniors walk in groups, and cycling enthusiasts explore the trails.

The ripple effect has been gratifying, knowing that in my own small way, I have contributed to this growing community of nature lovers. What makes Bukit Kiara special is its accessibility. Unlike high mountains that require extensive preparation, Bukit Kiara offers trails that cater to all levels. Whether you want a gentle walk or a challenging hike, there is a path for you.

The park welcomes everyone, creating an inclusive environment where people of all ages and backgrounds can benefit from outdoor exercise.

Protecting Bukit Kiara for future generations As a co-founder of Friends of Bukit Kiara (FoBK), I played a crucial role in pushing for its protection against developers who saw it as prime real estate. It was an uphill battle, but our persistence led to its partial gazettement as a green lung.

This means families today – and future generations – can walk, hike, and cycle in this magnificent space, surrounded by nature.

Because of my deep involvement, the hiking community affectionately calls me the “Datuk Bandar of Bukit Kiara” (Mayor of Bukit Kiara).

Over the years, I developed strong ties with the authorities, enabling me to resolve park-related issues quickly. My commitment to this green haven has only grown stronger with time.

A sanctuary for mind and body One of the greatest gifts of Bukit Kiara is the tranquillity it offers. During non-peak hours, it is a haven of peace, where one can truly listen to the heartbeat of the forest – the rustling leaves, chirping birds, and the occasional call of a monkey. The biodiversity here is remarkable, from wild durian trees and coffee plants to smooth-coated otters and hornbills.

Hiking alone is when my mind is at its best. Without distractions, I get my most brilliant ideas. It is during these hikes that I outline articles, solve problems, and reflect on life. In many ways, hiking has kept my brain sharp, possibly keeping the dementia doctor at bay!

The joy of community and responsibility Bukit Kiara is more than just a place for exercise; it is a social hub. I have made countless friends on the trails, starting with a simple greeting that often blossoms into lasting friendships.

Many hikers feel a sense of pride when they take photos with me and share them on social media. They also seek my help in clearing blocked trails, knowing I will ensure action is taken.

What truly sets Bukit Kiara hikers apart is the “Keep BK Clean” culture that is deeply embedded in the community. Hikers here take responsibility for maintaining the cleanliness of the trails.

It is heartening to see people pick up litter, reminding each other to leave no trace behind. This collective commitment ensures that Bukit Kiara remains pristine, reinforcing the bond between nature lovers who share a common goal – preserving this precious green space.

A call to embrace the green I share my story not for accolades, but to inspire. If we all embraced outdoor exercise in green spaces, our lives would be enriched in ways beyond fitness.

Nature rejuvenates, heals, and offers solace from the fast-paced urban lifestyle. I urge Malaysians to step out – walk, hike, cycle – and experience the immense benefits of being outdoors.

Bukit Kiara has been my sanctuary, my playground, and my source of inspiration. It can be yours too. Let us cherish and protect our green spaces for ourselves and for generations to come!

Yes, the outdoors (especially Bukit Kiara) has truly brought out the best in me!