Kota Kinabalu: A five-member team from Sabah Parks’ Mountain Search and Rescue (SAR) Unit made history after successfully reaching the Everest Base Camp (EBC) in Nepal recently.
The team completed the 10-day expedition after battling freezing temperatures as low as -21°C and trekking through thick snow at an altitude of 5,364 metres. Known for their expertise on Mount Kinabalu, the team completed the climb at 1:07pm Nepal time (11:22 am Malaysia time).
The mission was led by Maipol Spait, Deputy Director (Operations, Privatisation & Development) of Sabah Parks, along with team members Rexie Meekenddey Madis, Silver Peter, Najeri Najib, and Suparin Kumin.
The expedition was part of Sabah Parks’ ongoing effort to enhance the skills and resilience of its high-altitude rescue team while representing Malaysia on the international stage.
Each step of the journey tested their endurance, determination, and teamwork in one of the most challenging environments on Earth.
Originally, the team planned to continue their ascent to Kala Pattar (5,545 metres), a higher viewpoint near Everest Base Camp.
However, due to worsening weather and safety concerns, Sagarmatha National Park authorities temporarily closed the route.
The team made the responsible decision to halt their climb, prioritising safety over ambition.
Despite this, the successful arrival at Everest Base Camp was a major accomplishment. It demonstrated the capability of Sabah Parks’ SAR unit to perform under extreme conditions, strengthening their reputation as one of Southeast Asia’s most skilled mountain rescue teams.
The expedition received logistical support from Mount Kinabalu Adventure & Travel Sdn Bhd and Mount Mania Treks & Expedition, Nepal. During their stay, the team also made a courtesy call on the offices of the Director General of Nepal National Parks and the Nepal Sherpa Association.
This diplomatic engagement aimed to build stronger ties between Malaysia and Nepal in the fields of high-altitude rescue training, environmental protection, and mountain safety cooperation. The exchange also opens new opportunities for collaboration in international mountain rescue education and conservation.
Maipol said the achievement is dedicated to Malaysia, the people of Sabah, and Sabah Parks.
The Everest Base Camp mission follows another major international success for the team. In September 2024, they conquered Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa’s highest peak at 5,895 metres.
