:EXPERIENCING
OFF ROAD DRIVING::
A number of companies offer
safe, true to life off road driving packages. These are designed
to suit an individual visitor's time constraints.
Enthusiasts can choose between
day trips and a two night short haul to Cameron Highlands.
A six days long haul trip flies a prospective adventurer from
Kuala Lumpur to Kuala Terengganu where a 4X4 whisks them of
to a campsite in the beautiful Kenyir Lake before heading
to a beach resort and returning to Kuala Lumpur.
The operators will provide
food, drivers and camp beds to who is needed. Although visitors
can rent 4X4s by themselves, they are advised not to venture
into the wilds without a guide and a few other driving partners,
as the terrain is difficult to negotiate without the help
of a seasoned driver. Monsoons, landslide and rain may also
change the tracks and make them impassable or
inaccessible. Some operators also offer off road training
courses of one or two day duration with a certificate upon
completion.
::PARTICIPATING
IN OFF ROAD COMPETITIONS::
There are two major off road
driving competitions held annually in the country. The National
Challenge is held in July and the top ten teams are eligible
to take part in the November Rainforest 4X4 International
Challenge of Malaysia which pits the 50 teams against the
full force of nature's tropical rainstorms.
Teams will need to take charge of the transport and freight
expenses of their vehicles and fuel. Although teams can hire
4X4s, these are limited and arrangements need to be made two
months in advance. In soft or open topped vehicles, it is
mandatory for competitors to wear certified crash helmets.
Alcohol and drug abuse is banned and will result in immediate
disqualification.
The Rainforest Challenge covers 2,500 km through seven states
in Peninsular Malaysia with varying competition stages. The
major emphasis first and foremost is on safety, 4-wheel driving
and recovery skills. Awards given include Team Individual
Spirit awards for exceptional motivation, leadership skills
and the ability to act on ideas to assist others; Jungleman
award for outstanding teamwork, survival, mechanical and outdoor
skills and the Environment award for demonstrating the most
care and attention to the preservation of the environment.
The event itself takes eight
days but most contestants take three days prior and after
the event for repairs, adjustments and a holiday in beautiful
Malaysia whether by the sea, or in the city or wilderness.
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Pictures
and Information courtesy of Tourism Malaysia.
All information contained herein is correct
at time of production.
Tourism Malaysia and malaysiahotels.com.my
cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracy,
ommission or alteration that may occur. |
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Off Road Driving
