KOTA KINABALU: Mount Kinabalu is not only a proud landmark of Sabah and a world renowned climbing destination but has now made history with the installation of a Kiblat direction monument at KM8 of the mountain, officially recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) as the Highest Kiblat Direction Monument in Malaysia.
The official recognition was announced by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Haji Noor during the Malaysia Book of Records Recognition Ceremony for the Highest Kiblat Direction Monument in Malaysia held at The Pacific Sutera, Sutera Harbour Resort, on Monday.
In his speech, Hajiji said the recognition is not merely a physical achievement but also a symbol of the strength, knowledge, and faith of Sabah’s Muslim community — who successfully combined astronomy, technology, and physical endurance in one unique and meaningful project.
“This monument stands proudly on Malaysia’s highest peak, symbolising the steadfastness of faith and the glory of Islam. It is not just a record in a book, but recognition of the efforts in dakwah (Islamic outreach), knowledge, and innovation,” he said.
He added that the installation of the Kiblat monument on Mount Kinabalu is highly significant as it helps Muslim climbers accurately determine the Kiblat direction when performing prayers at high altitudes, thereby addressing the challenges of worship in extreme environments.
“Climbing Mount Kinabalu has become increasingly popular among both local and international climbers. For Muslim climbers, determining the Kiblat direction has always been a challenge.
This initiative is timely, providing convenience and confidence for them to perform prayers properly,” he said.
Hajiji said the monument was installed at an altitude of 3,930.4 metres above sea level at KM8 of Mount Kinabalu — making it the highest Kiblat direction marker in the country.
He said the project was implemented in several phases, beginning with an initial survey and Kiblat determination using astronomical (falak) methods by the Sabah Mufti Office, followed by measurement work conducted by the Sabah Land and Survey Department and the Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia (JUPEM).
Other agencies involved in the project included the Sabah Parks, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), the Chief Minister’s Department, the Royal Malaysia Police, the Fire and Rescue Department, RTM, Ranau District Office, the Air Operations Force (PGU), as well as the Ceremonial and Protocol Division.
“The synergy of all these agencies proves that when knowledge, technology, and faith come together, great success can be achieved. Mount Kinabalu is now not only a destination for physical climbing but also a spiritual and intellectual destination that glorifies the greatness of Allah SWT’s creation,” said Hajiji.
He added that the existence of this monument also strengthens Sabah’s position as a halal and Muslim-friendly tourism destination in the region, while promoting astronomical knowledge (falak) among the community.
“Muslim tourists can now perform prayers with confidence at Malaysia’s highest peak. This makes Sabah a leader in halal tourism and proves that science and religion can coexist in peace and harmony,” he said.
He expressed confidence that this approach can serve as a model at both national and international levels in balancing physical and spiritual development.
Hajiji stressed that this achievement should inspire the younger generation that success can be attained through knowledge, spirit, and collaboration.
“This monument not only indicates the Kiblat direction but also the direction of Sabah’s progress. It is a symbol of the integration between physical and spiritual development,” he stressed.
He added that the State Government will continue to support initiatives rooted in religion, knowledge, and innovation in line with the Sabah Maju Jaya aspirations, which aim to develop the people not only economically but also in values and character.
The Chief Minister also expressed appreciation to the Sabah Mufti Office, the technical team, and all agencies and strategic partners involved in the historic project that earned recognition from MBOR.-pr/BNN
