Cancer survivor duo among 20 to attempt Mulu Pinnacles, Mount Kinabalu

KUCHING: Twenty climbers, including two cancer survivors, are embarking on an extraordinary journey to conquer Sarawak’s Mulu Pinnacles, and Mount Kinabalu in Sabah.

Majlis Kanser Nasional (MAKNA) said the initiative, aptly called ‘Klimb Pinnacles to Kinabalu’, is aimed at raising funds and awareness for underprivileged cancer patients in the country.

“The climb is a collaboration between MAKNA and Sukarelawan Jalanan Sarawak (SJS), with generous support from Sarawak Forestry Corporation (SFC) and Borsarmulu Park Management Sdn Bhd.

 “This is the ninth edition of the MAKNA Klimb series since its inception in 2013,” MAKNA said in a statement.

The climbers’ ascent of Mulu Pinnacles will take three days, scheduled for Aug 16 to 18, while the journey up to Mount Kinabalu is tentatively scheduled for Oct 1 to 4, subject to favourable conditions.

“Embarking on this incredible journey, often involves teamwork and camaraderie, fostering a sense of community among climbers and supporters.

“It shows solidarity with cancer patients and their families, letting them know they are not alone in their fight.

“This climb also symbolises the challenges and obstacles faced by cancer patients during their treatment journeys. It serves as a powerful metaphor for overcoming adversity and pushing through difficulties. It’s a way to honour their courage.” MAKNA deputy general Vemanna Appannah said.

Earlier yesterday (July 7), Kuching North City Commission (DBKU) member Sih Hua Tong officiated at the ‘Klimb Pinnacles to Kinabalu’ initiative at Plaza Merdeka shopping mall, marking the beginning of the fundraising campaign.

Meanwhile, the public is encouraged to support the initiative by donating to the “Klimb Pinnacles to Kinabalu” campaign at their SimplyGiving page at https://www.simplygiving.com/event/kptk2024.