KUALA LUMPUR: The pint-sized Jacquelin Kaur, daughter of former national athlete Melinder Kaur, captured the hearts of many by becoming the youngest Malaysian to reach the 5,364m Everest Base Camp (EBC) last month.
The six-year-old has also emerged as a young philanthropist, succeeding in raising RM10,000 for charity, divided equally between the Orphan Care Foundation and World Vision Malaysia Assistance Fund.
Jacquelin was officially recognised yesterday by the Malaysia Book of Records for her one-week expedition from the Lukla starting point to EBC from Sept 10-16, covering a total of 130km, including a two-day descent.
Accompanied by a group of trekkers, including Melinder, Jacquelin broke the record previously set by Lee Min Qi, who achieved it at the age of 10 in 2016.
"We wish to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Malaysia Book of Records for granting Jacquelin the opportunity to attempt this record and raise funds for a noble cause," said Melinder, whose 3,000m steeplechase national record of 10:55.31 set in 2010, still stands till today.
"We would also like to thank KL Wellness City for sponsoring Jacquelin with RM10,000, which she then donated to two charity bodies of our choice."
Being a philanthropist herself, Melinder expressed her desire to instil the spirit of helping the needy in Jacquelin from a young age.
She said although it was challenging at first, Jacquelin has gradually come to understand what charity work truly entails.
"One of the greatest sources of pain as a parent in life is watching your child suffer. My daughter has never experienced all that. As parents, we always protect our children from suffering," said Melinder.
"I've brought my daughter to many underprivileged homes to teach her about poverty, about the less fortunate kids.
"I would make Jacquelin mingle with them, be friends and learn to appreciate whatever she has. I always tell her if you live a comfortable life, learn to help people and make this world a better place.
"Many times she cried, she got scared because she hadn't seen kids like that before. I always wanted her to feel how much joy can be spread by helping and sharing with the less fortunate.
"For me, I believe being able to give back to those in need helps you achieve a greater sense of personal satisfaction and growth."