Rotary Launches Mount Kinabalu Climb to End Polio and Raise Awareness

20 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Rotary members from District 3310 and District 3860 are joining forces to climb Mount Kinabalu in celebration of World Polio Day on 24 October 2025. This initiative aims to raise awareness about polio, highlight Rotary’s efforts in eradication, generate funds for global polio elimination, and foster camaraderie among members across districts.

Polio remains a threat despite Malaysia being declared polio-free by the World Health Organization. Recent cases in Tuaran (2019) and Singapore (February 2025) serve as reminders that the virus can resurface if vaccination and sanitation are neglected. Polio primarily affects children under five, causing paralysis or death, but it can be prevented through vaccination.

Since Rotary’s first immunisation project in the Philippines in 1979 and the launch of PolioPlus in 1985, Rotary has played a pivotal role in reducing global polio cases by 99.9%. The Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), established in 1988, involves WHO, UNICEF, CDC, and Rotary, working tirelessly to end the disease worldwide. Today, over 20 million people walk without paralysis thanks to vaccination efforts, but the fight continues in remaining hotspots.

The climb aims to mobilise funds through Rotary’s PolioPlus programme, which has raised millions globally. Rotary’s 1.4 million members aim to raise US$50 million annually, with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation matching these donations up to US$100 million.

This collaboration marks the first between the two districts and symbolises strengthening regional ties, particularly between Sabah and southern Philippines. It also aligns with the broader BIMP-EAGA initiative to promote sustainable economic growth and regional cooperation.

Founded in 1905, Rotary International is a global network of 1.4 million members committed to creating lasting change through community service and international collaboration.