Mount Rinjani is always on the wishlist of climbers, both beginners and experienced alike. It stands as the third highest peak in Indonesia after Puncak Jayawijaya and Mount Kerinci, reaching 3,726 meters above sea level. Rather than being intimidating, this height is seen as an exciting challenge by a team of climbers from EMCO Paint: Mas Ridwan, Mas Amy, Mas Sigit, and Mas Sandy. Let’s follow their journey to the summit of Rinjani.
Starting Point of the Climb
Initially, the hike was only planned as a vacation activity. Mas Amy, who initiated the challenge, then invited Mas Ridwan, Mas Sigit, and Mas Sandy. The four of them agreed to take on the challenge. After months of saving up for the trip and supplies, they received support from their workplace. The hike evolved into a full-fledged mission to represent the spirit of the legendary wood and iron paint factory, PT MATARAM PAINT, which has been coloring Indonesia for 75 years since 1950. The drive to turn the ordinary into the extraordinary became their greatest motivation to conquer Rinjani.
The ascent begins in the morning from the Sembalun Start Point at Bukit Tiga, with the goal of reaching the summit of Rinjani the following morning. The journey via the Sembalun Route is undertaken with full preparation, from supplies and physical readiness to mental conditioning, to face the challenges together as a team.
The Struggle of Four Knights
The Sembalun route offers a complete view of Indonesia’s mountain landscapes, ranging from tropical forest vegetation to vast savannas and stretches of pine forest. Because of this, the journey to Pelawangan (camp area) doesn’t feel exhausting, as the eyes are constantly treated to breathtaking scenery.
However, the climb to Rinjani’s summit presents its own set of challenges. Climbers must navigate a sandy cliffside trail flanked by ravines on both sides, while facing strong gusts of wind and temperatures that drop to 6°C. One misstep on this path, and there’s no telling what lies below Rinjani’s steep slopes.
But thanks to the strong solidarity built from years of working together in the PT MATARAM PAINT family, the four of them were able to conquer the route safely and without issue. The journey of Mas Ridwan, Mas Amy, Mas Sigit, and Mas Sandy during the climb left behind unforgettable memories.
Trip Up
Day 1 09.30-19.30 Sembalun Start Point Bukit Tiga – Pelawangan 4 (Camp Area). The trail is still dominated by wide grass savannas, so it’s common to see farmers and cattle or goat herders in the area. The charm of Rinjani has indeed reached international travelers, many foreign tourists can be seen along the climb. Upon reaching Pelawangan 4 (Camp Area), you’re treated to a sunset and a stunning view of Segara Anak Lake from above, it feels like Rinjani’s sweet smile.
Day 2 01.00-08.30 Pelawangan 4 (Camp Area) – Rinjani Peak. The path is dominated by loose sand and narrow trails along cliffs with ravines on either side. The urge to turn back during the ascent is overwhelming—Rinjani throws cold temperatures and shifting sandy slopes at every step, with no comfortable spot to rest, let alone relieve yourself. It’s a true test of both physical and mental endurance, yet the desire to reach the summit keeps pushing you forward.
Trip Down
Day 2 09.45-14.00 Rinjani Peak – Pelawangan 4 (Camp Area). It was a relief to finally reach the summit of Mount Rinjani. Of all the moments, being at the top gave a truly unique feeling. A mix of joy, the urge to linger, but also the excitement of wanting to share the experience with others. Together, they raised the EMCO Paint flag at the summit.
Day 3, 08.00-16.00 Pelawangan 4 (Camp Area) – Start Point (Cowshed) While descending Mount Rinjani, the four of them laughed and shared stories. Mas Amy said, “Turns out dreams can be achieved anytime, as long as there’s intention, this was my goal four years ago.”
Mas Sandy replied, “I’m grateful we made it here together. It shows we’re strong, physically and mentally.”
Mas Ridwan added, “Man, I feel like crying. This was really hard—tougher than any mountain I’ve climbed before.”
Mas Sigit wouldn’t be left out: “This is proof, starting from here, we’re officially pros, bro. Just as strong as the Rinjani porters.”
They all laughed heartily as they continued their descent.
EMCO’s Call to the Future from the Peak of Rinjani
The moment of reaching the summit is truly the peak of celebration. But for these four EMCO Paint knights, it was also a moment to share a message after successfully raising the EMCO Paint flag.
Mas Amy and Mas Ridwan emphasized that dreams can come true, as long as one has strong intention and spirit. Mas Sandy and Mas Sigit reminded us that physical and mental preparation is just as important. Strong intentions are valuable, but they must be supported by consistent effort to build capacity and careful planning.
And with that, the story of the EMCO team’s journey to Rinjani comes to a close.
