Everest conqueror Khafiz safely returns home after two-month expedition

SEPANG: Mount Everest climber Khafiz Bachok received a hero’s welcome at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) today after successfully conquering the world’s highest peak following a two-month expedition.

Khafiz, 47, fondly known as Kicok, arrived at Terminal 1 at 5.36pm aboard a Himalaya Airlines flight, ending an anxious wait for his family and supporters.

His wife, Syuaibatul Islamiah Roeswardhi, 47, expressed relief and gratitude upon his safe return.

“We are beyond grateful. I have been so restless and could not wait to see him because this expedition has been a long journey of nearly two months,” she said at the airport.

Khafiz reached the 8,849m summit via the Nepal route at 5am local time on May 18, becoming the 30th Malaysian to scale Mount Everest.

He began his journey on April 4, departing for Nepal for acclimatisation and final preparations.

Syuaibatul said the family’s anxiety continued even after Khafiz reached the summit, as the descent is often the most dangerous part of the climb.

“In mountaineering, reaching the top is a major goal, but returning home safely is what truly matters. We only felt relieved once we were informed he had safely reached Base Camp,” she said.

The mother of four said the family fully supported Khafiz’s passion for high-altitude climbing.

She also accompanied him during the first 20 days of the expedition, trekking with him to Everest Base Camp at an altitude of 5,364m before returning to Malaysia.

© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd

المصدر: New Straits Times