Malaysia’s Highest Kiblat Monument Stands Proud on Mount Kinabalu

27 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Mount Kinabalu, a proud symbol of Sabah and a world-renowned climbing destination, has made history with the installation of a Kiblat direction monument at KM8 of the mountain — officially recognised by the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) as the Highest Kiblat Direction Monument in Malaysia.

The official recognition was announced by Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor during the Malaysia Book of Records Recognition Ceremony for the Highest Kiblat Direction Monument in Malaysia, held at The Pacific Sutera, Sutera Harbour Resort, on Monday.

In his speech, Hajiji said the recognition was not merely a physical milestone but also a reflection of the strength, knowledge, and faith of Sabah’s Muslim community who successfully combined astronomy, technology, and physical endurance in a unique and meaningful endeavour.

“This monument stands proudly on Malaysia’s highest peak, symbolising the steadfastness of faith and the glory of Islam. It is not just a record in a book but a recognition of the efforts made in dakwah (Islamic outreach), knowledge, and innovation,” he said.

Hajiji added that the installation of the Kiblat monument on Mount Kinabalu carries great significance as it enables Muslim climbers to accurately determine the Kiblat direction when performing prayers at high altitudes, thereby addressing the challenges of worship in extreme environments.

“Climbing Mount Kinabalu has become increasingly popular among both local and international climbers. For Muslim climbers, determining the Kiblat direction has always been a challenge. This initiative is timely, providing convenience and confidence for them to perform their prayers properly,” he explained.

The monument was installed at an altitude of 3,930.4 metres above sea level, at KM8 of Mount Kinabalu — officially making it the highest Kiblat direction marker in the country.

According to Hajiji, the project was carried out in several phases, beginning with an initial survey and Kiblat determination using astronomical (falak) methods by the Sabah Mufti Office. This was followed by measurement work conducted by the Sabah Land and Survey Department and the Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia (JUPEM).

Other agencies involved included Sabah Parks, the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM), the Chief Minister’s Department, the Royal Malaysia Police, the Fire and Rescue Department, RTM, Ranau District Office, the Air Operations Force (PGU), and the Ceremonial and Protocol Division.

“The synergy between all these agencies proves that when knowledge, technology, and faith unite, great success can be achieved. Mount Kinabalu is now not only a destination for physical adventure but also a spiritual and intellectual journey that glorifies the greatness of Allah SWT’s creation,” said Hajiji.

He added that the establishment of the monument also strengthens Sabah’s position as a halal and Muslim-friendly tourism destination in the region while promoting greater awareness of astronomical (falak) knowledge among the community.

“Muslim tourists can now perform their prayers with confidence at Malaysia’s highest peak. This makes Sabah a leader in halal tourism and demonstrates that science and religion can coexist harmoniously,” he said.

Hajiji expressed confidence that this initiative could serve as a model both nationally and internationally, showcasing how physical and spiritual development can be balanced.

He also emphasised that this achievement should inspire the younger generation to recognise that success can be achieved through knowledge, determination, and collaboration.

“This monument not only indicates the Kiblat direction but also symbolises the direction of Sabah’s progress. It represents the integration of physical and spiritual development,” he stressed.

The Chief Minister further affirmed that the State Government will continue to support initiatives rooted in faith, knowledge, and innovation, in line with the Sabah Maju Jaya aspirations, which aim to develop the people not only economically but also in terms of values and character.

Hajiji concluded by expressing appreciation to the Sabah Mufti Office, the technical team, and all participating agencies and strategic partners involved in the historic project that earned recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records.