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Saturday, February 17, 2024

First Summits On The Air (SOTA) Activation in 9M2




On the 6th of January, 2024, a milestone was achieved in the world of amateur radio in West Malaysia. The first Summits On The Air (SOTA) activation took place at Bukit Habu, located in the scenic Cameron Highlands region. This inaugural event marked a significant moment for the 9M2 Summits On The Air Association and opened a new chapter in the exploration of Malaysia's stunning summits. Let's delve into the details of this historic activation.


The Enchanting Bukit Habu:

Bukit Habu, nestled amidst the picturesque Cameron Highlands, stands as a captivating summit that beckons adventurers. With an elevation of approximately 1,800 meters, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding lush valleys, tea plantations, and mist-covered mountains. The pristine natural beauty and moderate hiking difficulty make Bukit Habu an ideal choice for the first SOTA activation in West Malaysia.


Preparations and Planning:

The 9M2 Summits On The Air Association meticulously planned and prepared for this momentous event. They conducted site surveys, assessed the trail's condition, and ensured compliance with safety protocols and environmental regulations. The association worked closely with local authorities and land management agencies to secure necessary permits and permissions for the activation.


The Activation Day:

On the morning of January 6, 2024, a group of enthusiastic amateur radio operators gathered at the base of Bukit Habu. Equipped with their portable radio equipment, antennas, and backpacks filled with essential supplies, they embarked on the ascent. The atmosphere was filled with anticipation and excitement as they began their journey to the summit.


Conquering the Summit:

The ascent to the summit of Bukit Habu presented hikers with a mix of well-marked trails, dense vegetation, and occasional steep sections. The group navigated through the challenges, motivated by the thrill of activating the summit and making radio contacts with fellow hams around the world. The journey itself became an adventure, with participants immersing themselves in the sights and sounds of the Cameron Highlands.


Radio Communication and Contacts:

Upon reaching the summit, the operators wasted no time in setting up their radio stations. Antennas were carefully erected, radios were powered on, and frequencies were tuned. With their call signs ready, the operators began making contacts, reaching out to fellow hams across Malaysia and beyond. The airwaves came alive with conversations, exchanges of signal reports, and the excitement of establishing connections from this pristine mountaintop location.


Commemorating the Achievement:

The first Summits On The Air activation in West Malaysia at Bukit Habu was a moment to be cherished. Participants took photographs, recorded videos, and shared their experiences on social media platforms, celebrating their achievement and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps. The activation served as a testament to the spirit of adventure, technical expertise, and the beauty of radio communication combined with outdoor exploration.


The Legacy and Future:

The successful SOTA activation at Bukit Habu paves the way for future explorations and activations in West Malaysia. It showcases the potential for radio enthusiasts to discover and conquer the country's diverse summits while fostering a sense of community and adventure. The 9M2 Summits On The Air Association aims to continue organizing activations, expanding the network of participating operators, and promoting the wonders of Malaysia's natural landscapes.

West Malaysia 9M2 Summits On The Air (SOTA) Association




The 9M2 Summits On The Air Association was officially established in Malaysia to promote and facilitate participation in the global Summits On The Air program. The SOTA program itself originated in the United Kingdom in 2002 when John Linford, G3WGV, proposed the idea of combining radio communication with outdoor activities. The concept quickly gained traction, and SOTA was officially launched in 2002.


Over time, SOTA spread to various countries worldwide, including Malaysia. The 9M2 Summits On The Air Association was formed to cater specifically to the Malaysian amateur radio operators, commonly known as hams, who wished to participate in the SOTA program within the Malaysian context.


The association began its operations by identifying and cataloging suitable summits across Malaysia. These summits, which include mountains, hills, and other elevated locations, were assessed for their accessibility, safety, and the potential for establishing reliable radio contacts.


The founding members of the 9M2 Summits On The Air Association worked diligently to establish partnerships with relevant authorities, such as governmental bodies responsible for national parks, forest reserves, and land management. These partnerships were crucial in ensuring that the association's activities aligned with local regulations and environmental conservation efforts.


As the association gained momentum, it organized numerous expeditions and field days to encourage its members to conquer summits across Malaysia. These events provided opportunities for operators to test their skills, exchange radio contacts with other hams, and accumulate points toward SOTA awards and certificates.


The association also played a vital role in educating its members about the technical aspects of radio communication. Workshops and training sessions were conducted to enhance participants' understanding of equipment, antenna design, propagation theory, and operating procedures specific to SOTA activations. This knowledge-sharing culture helped foster a supportive and knowledgeable community of radio enthusiasts.


The 9M2 Summits On The Air Association also actively collaborated with other SOTA associations worldwide, contributing to the global SOTA community. This collaboration allowed Malaysian operators to engage with hams from different countries, exchange experiences, and broaden their perspectives on outdoor radio activities.


Throughout its history, the 9M2 Summits On The Air Association has remained committed to promoting safety, responsible outdoor practices, and ethical radio communication. By emphasizing these principles, the association ensures that participants engage in SOTA activations while respecting the natural environment and the interests of other radio users.


As the association continues to grow, it aims to expand its reach, encourage more operators to participate, and discover new summits within Malaysia. By doing so, the 9M2 Summits On The Air Association will continue its mission of fostering a love for outdoor adventure and radio communication while contributing to the global SOTA community.


In conclusion, the 9M2 Summits On The Air Association in Malaysia has a rich history rooted in the global Summits On The Air program. It has played a pivotal role in promoting outdoor exploration, technical excellence, and camaraderie among radio enthusiasts in Malaysia. With its dedication to safety, responsible practices, and ethical communication, the association serves as a beacon for hams seeking thrilling experiences, personal growth, and connections with nature and fellow operators.


For more info please visit https://www.sota.org.uk/