Try to picture a 68-year-old Malaysian sipping coffee during breakfast or walking in the mall. Now, try imagining them climbing the tallest mountain in the world, Mount Everest. While it might seem impossible to some but for James C.M. Lee, age is just a number and he is on his way to climb Everest.
James started hiking when he was 40 and was working in China. What started out as just an activity to fill up his time has turned this former mechanical engineer into an advocate and passionate hiker.
“I’ve climbed more than 20 mountains, including Mount Rinjani in Indonesia, Mount Fuji in Japan and Nepal’s Mount Ama Dablam,” said James. He has also climbed Mount Kinabalu sixteen times, including completing the world’s highest via ferrata and scaling to Mount Kinabalu peak in a record time of two and half hours.
James’ expedition is organised by Lions Club International District 308B1 in conjunction with Lions Club International’s 100th anniversary. This trip is jointly sponsored by leading property developer, Andaman Property Management Sdn Bhd. During the press conference held recently, managing director of Andaman Property, Dato’ Sri Dr Vincent Tiew couldn’t help but salute James’s bravery and determination.
“Despite his age and how challenging this expedition will be and the time taken up for training, James manages to find time to protect the environment and raise awareness on the issue of climate change,” said Vincent.
One of Lion Clubs’ aim for this expedition was to raise environmental awareness among the public and manifest the spirit of Malaysia Boleh. “Andaman hopes this climb will be smooth and successful. The spirit of Malaysia Boleh must be upheld!” added Vincent.
If successful, James will make the record as the oldest man in Southeast Asia and first Malaysian Chinese to climb the incredible peak of Mount Everest (8,848m above sea level) and mark a record in the Malaysian Book of Records.
Ipoh Echo wishes him all the best and Malaysia Boleh!
Ili Aqilah
