SEREMBAN: Klawang assemblyman Bakri Sawir will participate in a 15-day expedition to the Everest Main Camp on Sunday.
The camp in east Lobuche is located at an altitude of 6,111m.
The 60-year-old, who is also chairs the state Agriculture and Agro-based Industry Committee, will be accompanied by his friend, Che Kamaruddin Mamat, 67.
Bakri said the expedition was aimed at gaining experience and encouraging the public to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
“I am confident that we will be able to make it through all the challenges after undergoing training to prepare ourselves mentally and physically,” he said after the Exco meeting at Wisma Negeri here today.
“I planned to conquer Mount Everest three years ago, but it was delayed twice.
“This time, the opportunity has finally arrived with the support of the state government and cooperation from the Malaysian Autism Foundation and Malaysia Outdoor Recreation United.
“This expedition is my effort to educate the community to remain vibrant and healthy, even in their golden years, and, at the same time, I will promote Visit Malaysia Year 2020 and visit Negri Sembilan.”
Bakri, who has been taking part in mountain expeditions for 10 years, said mental and physical preparation was important as the expedition to Mount Everest was a far greater challenge.
“Every week I spend about two hours climbing hills around the country as part of the training for the expedition.
“I also take time to train on weekdays. I have made all the preparations and hope to complete the expedition safely.”
Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun said the state government was giving its full support to the expedition.
He added it would give Bakri the opportunity to develop ideas for attracting tourists to the state’s mountainous areas.