KUALA LUMPUR – Pushing on despite the impending possibility of failing their mission, the 10 Malaysian climbers of Keluarga Malaysia Everest 2022 (KAME 2022) will be celebrating Hari Raya in the foothills of Mount Everest.
Arriving in Nepal on April 15, the team have been undergoing acclimatising training in the Himalayan mountains in preparation for the Everest ascend, which is expected to begin during the third week of May if the weather permits.
As the Raya period approaches, the climbers are celebrating together at the Everest Base Camp (EBC), which sits at 5,364m above sea level in the mountain range.
Speaking to The Vibes, expedition leader Azim Afif Ishak said the team have been in good spirits after arriving at the base camp.
“The team is excited to arrive in EBC.
“Everyone is energetic and full of spirit for Raya,” he said.
The climbers had just descended from the peak of Lobuche (6,119m) as part of their preparation for the main endeavour for the Everest mission.
“Everyone is excited because we have a slice of home prepared by our sponsors for Raya.
“We have lemang panjang, serunding, and many different types of kuih raya up here in the mountains,” said the 33-year-old climber Azim.
He added that the situation is under control and all team members are doing well.
The expedition, once successful, will see 10 Malaysian climbers from different races, religions, and backgrounds atop Mount Everest, showcasing the nation’s diverse ethnic and cultural mix.
However, the journey has not been smooth. The mission hit a snag when a particular sponsor unexpectedly pulled out at the last minute.
Hampered by the challenge, Azim said the possibility of sending all 10 climbers on Everest’s peak looks bleak.
“Due to the lack of money, we have decided that only a minimum number of climbers can be sent to the summit.
“The range would be about one to three climbers,” he added.
It is currently uncertain which climbers will be heading for the summit, but the entire team is working hard to keep their spirits up amidst the festive season and challenging time. – The Vibes, May 3, 2022.
