Climbers raise nearly RM25,000 for Makna cancer fund

KUCHING (Aug 27): A team of climbers have managed to raise nearly RM25,000 for a fund under a National Cancer Council (Makna) programme.

With a target of RM50,000, the funds will go towards providing crucial financial assistance and support services to underprivileged cancer patients in Malaysia, said Makna in a statement yesterday.

On Aug 17, the climbers of the ‘Klimb Pinnacles to Kinabalu’ expedition successfully completed the first phase of their journey, conquering the Mulu Pinnacles.

“The climb to the Pinnacles was physically demanding. The mountaineers faced challenging conditions, including sharp rocks, vertical terrain, winding tree roots, and a brief shower of rain. Nevertheless, their determination and resilience prevailed.

“Spanning 2.4 kilometres, the ascent took approximately four hours, whereas the descent proved even more demanding, lasting six hours. The climbers utilised various techniques, including rope, ladder, and rock climbing, to navigate the treacherous terrain,” read the statement.

Meanwhile, cancer survivor Amir Azizi said through perseverance, the team reached the summit and was driven by their commitment to raise funds for cancer patients.

“As a cancer survivor, standing at the peak was not solely a personal triumph, but also a powerful testament to resilience and hope. I’m incredibly proud to have climbed for a meaningful cause.

“With determination, one can conquer any challenge, even cancer,” he said.

Currently, the team is focusing on the second phase of their expedition to summit Mount Kinabalu, the highest peak in Southeast Asia, on Oct 1.

“We are determined to conquer Mount Kinabalu, reaching new heights in our fight against cancer,” said Sukarelawan Jalanan Sarawak president Suraina Adenan.

She hopes that the team’s journey and cause will inspire others to donate, helping make a difference in the lives of those battling cancer.

The public can donate to the campaign here.

Makna is a Malaysian non-profit organisation dedicated to alleviating the burden of cancer.

Since its establishment, Makna has assisted nearly 90,000 cancer patients, educated over 80,000 individuals through awareness campaigns, and conducted over 70,000 cancer screenings across the country.

For more information, visit the charitable body’s Facebook (@maknacancer), Instagram (@maknacancer), Tiktok (@maknacancer), and YouTube onmaknacancer.