SIBU: Police Inspector Kanang Usin, who aims to be the first Sarawakian to conquer Mount Everest, has received a boost in his bid through a donation from state Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
Insp Kanang has been selected to join the Malaysian Everest 2022 Family Exploration team.
According to the Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas), the donation was to help the Bintulu native achieve his dream and mission.
Insp Kanang received the donation from Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier's Department (Corporate Affairs, Information and Ukas) Datuk Abdullah Saidol, representing the Premier, in a brief ceremony in Kuching on Tuesday (April 12).
Datuk Abdullah said he hoped Insp Kanang will make history as the first Sarawakian to reach the summit of Everest.
"The Premier and all the people of the state will be praying for his success and that of the expedition team in their hopes of conquering the mountain," he said.
He also welcomed the involvement of individuals from different groups in the expedition, based on the concept of the Malaysian Family.
"The uniqueness of this group, which consists of different ethnicities as well as persons with disabilities, shows the importance for us to maintain unity even in an atmosphere where there is diversity of opinion," he said.
Meanwhile, Insp Kanang, who serves in the VAT 69 commando unit of the Royal Malaysia Police, expressed his gratitude to the Premier for his support and contribution.
"I hope this climb will inspire other Sarawak youths to take up similar challenges," he said.
Delegation leader Azmi Afif Ishak said the Malaysia Everest Family Mission 2022, which will begin on Friday (April 15), was realised through the desire of a group of climbers who wanted to raise aspirations of unity among Malaysians.
Earlier, Insp Kanang along with other Altitude Exploration Club members paid a courtesy call on Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Minister and Kapit MP Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi.