Event in Kg Baru attracts jumpers from 19 countries
KUALA Lumpur is making a name for itself as a premier BASE jumping destination.
The sport elevates Malaysia’s capital on the global stage, says Federal Territories Department (JWP) deputy director-general (Management & Socio-Economic) Datuk Parang Abai @ Thomas.
Speaking at the launch of BASE Jump Challenge 2026, he said: “Events like these showcase the diverse range of activities that Kuala Lumpur offers to tourists from around the world.”
Organised by BASE Malaya Club in collaboration with Tamu Hotel and Suites, the event saw the participation of jumpers from 19 countries.
The challenge in Kampung Baru involved a leap from Tamu Sky View on the 42nd floor, deploying the parachute, and gliding down to the Kelab Sultan Suleiman football field.
BASE is an acronym for building, antenna, span (bridges) and earth (mountains, cliffs), the four different types of platforms jumpers leap from.
BASE Malaya Club president Kapt (R) Mohd Noorizan “No Reason” Mohd Yunus said Malaysia was a popular destination for BASE jumping, with events being held not only in the capital, but also in Pahang and Sarawak.
The first official BASE jump in Malaysia, he said, was performed by two Malaysians, Kapt Abdul Rahmat Omar and Lt Aziz Ahmad, alongside Martin Dumas from Canada.
The antenna jump happened in 1999 at Menara Kuala Lumpur.
On BASE Jump Challenge 2026, Kapt Noorizan said he pitched the idea to the hotel to host an international BASE jumping event.
“I surveyed their unused helipad and suggested converting it into something much more profitable.
“I requested a small slot for a launch area as the area had a very suitable layout for jumping,” he said.
Among the participants was ex-commando Jamaludin Ismail, 71, also known as “Pak Din”, who has been BASE jumping since 1985.
“I do my best to keep fit and strong, not letting my age stop me from doing the thing I love most,” said Jamaludin, who entered the Malaysia Book of Records in 2018 as the oldest BASE jumper in Malaysia.
The event’s youngest jumper, Willow Murdoch, 20, from Australia, said she started BASE jumping in 2025.
“I have done span and earth jumps, and this was my first building.
“All that is left now is jumping from an antenna,” Willow said.
The event’s safety and technique briefing was undertaken by BASE jumping instructor Chris “Douggs” McDougall, from Australia.
McDougall said the sport was high risk, but jumps could be done safely.
“People that do it are beautiful, crazy characters living a full life.
“Malaysia is one of, if not the best country in the world for BASE jumping,” he added.
