Gunung

Gunung is the Indonesian and Malay word for mountain or large hill. In everyday use it denotes any elevated landform and is frequently used in toponyms to name mountains, especially volcanic peaks. The term often appears as a prefix in mountain names, such as Gunung Merapi in Central Java, Gunung Semeru, Gunung Rinjani on Lombok, Gunung Kinabalu in Sabah, Gunung Agung in Bali, as well as Gunung Gede and Gunung Pangrango in Java.

Geography and ecology: Mountains in Indonesia and Malaysia vary in size and height, from modest hills to peaks over 4,000 meters. They are often volcanic or dissected by tectonic activity. Altitude creates distinct climate zones, with cloud forests and montane ecosystems that host diverse plants and wildlife. Many mountains are protected as national parks or reserves and attract hikers and climbers.

Cultural significance and human activity: In local cultures, mountains are frequently regarded as sacred spaces and are associated with myths, temples, and ceremonies. They are also important for water resources and biodiversity. Climbing and trekking are popular tourism activities, but access is managed for safety and conservation; volcanic mountains can pose eruption hazards requiring monitoring by authorities.