To greater heights
Concerned that her only daughter was not exercising enough, Nor Aini Mohd Apandi took the initiative to introduce Nurunnauroh Nazeyah Mohd Niza, 11, to the wonders of the outdoors.
“Nurunnauroh is a homely girl. She likes to bake, keep house and occasionally play badminton with her brothers. I felt she needed to soak up some sun and have fun outdoors,” said Nor Aini, a teacher from SK Panglima Adnan in Port Dickson, Negri Sembilan.
Two years ago, Nor Aini, 46, decided to introduce Nurunnauroh to hiking. Now, her daughter is a hardcore outdoor enthusiast.
“These days, Nurunnauroh is the first to wake up and get ready before our morning hike.
“We go hiking almost every Saturday with a group of friends. Our favourite hiking trails in Negri Sembilan include Bukit Batu Putih in Port Dickson, Gunung Angsi in Seremban, Gunung Datuk in Rembau and Gunung Besar Hantu in Jelebu,” says the mother-of-four.
They have also left their footprints on numerous trails including Bukit Tabur at Bukit Melawati in KL, Gunung Ledang in Tangkak, Johor, and Pine Tree Hill, Fraser Hill’s.
Among her siblings, Nurunnauroh is the only one who accompanies her parents on hikes.
“My older brothers usually go on hiking expeditions and other sports activities with their guy friends. I love being with Ibu and Ayah on hiking trips. I’ve learnt so much from them, including survival tips and identifying dangerous plant species,” said Nurunnauroh, a Year Five student from SK Panglima Adnan.
Aini says hiking has helped strengthen her bond with Nurunnauroh.
She is happy that Nurunnauroh has grown into an independent and mature individual.
“Through hiking, she’s learning so much about the environment. She can identify different plant species and is aware of its medicinal properties too.
“Parents should allocate time with their children for outdoor activities. It can be anything, from a visit to the park or zoo to going camping. It’s a great way for children to appreciate nature while building a close family relationship.”