Sabah Parks’ elite SAR team reaches 5,364m Everest milestone
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.
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.