PETALING JAYA: Sixty-year-old Wong Su Chung from Miri has been lauded as a hero after being the first Sarawakian to conquer Mount Everest.
It took Wong 45 days to travel from Kathmandu, Nepal, to the top of the mountain and back, according to The Borneo Post. The endeavour took three years to plan and train for.
He reached the top of Mount Everest on May 19, which coincided with his 34th wedding anniversary.
Wong's returned to Sarawak on Saturday (May 25).
"I am 60 years old this year. Few people my age would want to take on this task, but I see it as a personal challenge.
"I was careful in every move I made throughout the ascent and descent, keeping my family in mind the whole time," he said at the airport.
Born in Sarikei, Wong moved to Miri at a young age.
Last year, he climbed the eighth-highest peak in the world.
Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting, who was also present to welcome Wong's return, praised him and said it was an incredible feat.
"Wong is our hero, and we are proud that he was the first Sarawakian to conquer Mount Everest, especially at 60 years old," said Ting.
