This exciting activity requires participants to descend a rock cliff while being “showered” by a waterfall at a height of over 80m and at a 90° angle. Some even flip upside down mid-air, Spider-Man-style, while hanging on to a single rope.
The popularity of rappelling is being fuelled by social media, where photos and videos of exotic locations are beckoning netizens. Among them is Suzana Hassan, who found herself intrigued after watching a short video on TikTok.
“It looked fun and ‘stylish’, and since it’s not often done by locals, I felt like trying it, even though I’m actually afraid of heights,” the 40-year-old said.
“When the time came, as I was going down, I kept thinking, ‘What am I doing?’ I even wanted to turn back. But I pushed on.
“When I reached the bottom, I felt so proud. It was satisfying to know I managed to challenge myself,” the mother of two said.
Nur Zahirah Ainaa Mohd Zamri, a longtime fan of extreme sports, describes the activity as something everyone should try at least once, especially while still young and energetic.
She told Bernama she uses social media to find information on locations, operators and safety measures.
“I also use my platform to inspire others. If I can do it, anyone else can,” said the 22-year-old, who hopes to explore other types of extreme activities in the future.
Meanwhile, abseiling operator Wan Zonnum Al Masri Wan Abdul Aziz said social media has given a major boost to his business, with demand increasing more than sixfold since June.
“I started offering this activity in 2019. Back then, even once a month was enough.
“But following one viral video from Indonesia, I’ve had participants coming almost every week, sometimes even on weekdays,” said Wan Zonnum, who operates around the Gunung Stong State Park in Dabong, Kelantan.
He said the surge in interest in abseiling has also created job opportunities for the local community, including photographers and videographers.
According to Wan Zonnum, participants are given basic training before attempting the actual descent. Operators also place strong emphasis on safety, using internationally certified equipment and training their crews through formal, certifiable courses.
“Many people come feeling scared, but after trying it, they’re not only happy to take photos but are also proud of themselves for overcoming their fears,” he noted.
Water abseiling is also offered at other locations such as Gombak, Selangor; Gopeng, Perak; Changlun, Kedah; and Kota Tinggi, Johor.