Only one million and half years ago, a mass of granitic rock that
had been cooling and hardening under the surface for several million
years began to rise and break through the overlying crusts of
softer rocks. Erosion by heavy rains and, later, by ice and glaciers
shaped the new mountain. Even today the striations, "glacial
polish" and the sculptured and streamlined forms and the
summit peaks give witness of the effects of this glaciation. Millions
of tons of rock debris were washed into lowland approaches of
the mountain.
The Park Headquarters itself sits on a ridge of
accumulated muds, clay and rock washed off the eroding heights
34,000 years ago. With the return of a warm climate and the melting
of the glaciers, Kinabalu attained its modern form and appearance.
At its present height of 4,101 meters (13,455 feet) Mount Kinabalu
is still rising at approximately 5mm per year. The landslides
on its slopes and rocks debris beneath its peaks are evidence
of its still-continuing movement Nature's powerful forces have
produces a scenic location of remarkable beauty. The gradual evolutionary
process has also resulted in fauna and flora, some of which are
found nowhere else in the world.
The slopes of Kinabalu are the home of the hill tribes of Dusuns
or Kadazans who believe the mountain to be the resting place of
the spirits of their departed and therefore remains sacred to
them. Their Kampung or villages are scattered throughout the area
and they traditionally plant rice and other crops on the steep
slopes on a shifting cultivation basis. They scamper up and down
the mountain with the greatest of ease, often with heavy loads
on their back. They are the registered mountain guides you are
required to hire for the climb.
Other attractions in Kinabalu Park:
More information on Sabah:
This page: http://www.cockatoo.com/english/malaysia/malaysia_kinabalu_mount.htm
