Torch runners to conquer Mount Kinabalu

PETALING JAYA: The KL 2017 Torch Run is set to reach its peak with Youth and Sports Minister Khairy Jamaluddin taking the lead to the top of Mount Kinabalu.

Khairy, with a group of 24 people, are expected to reach the summit today bearing the torch, as part of the run for the 29th Sea Games and 9th Asean Para Games.

The torch, which had earlier arrived from Labuan, was received by the group at Timpohon Gate yesterday at the base of the mountain before they began their 4,095m climb.

Once the phase in Sabah is completed, the torch will be handed to officials in Sarawak where it will continue its journey nationwide until the start of the games.

“I am happy with the enthusiastic response from Malaysians of all walks of life at the places where the KL 2017 Torch Run has gone through so far,” Khairy said.

He added the climb to conquer the mountain would be a challenging one, especially as it was being held during the fasting month.

The Torch Run began on May 14 and is expected to end in Kuala Lumpur on Aug 12 ahead of the sporting events.

The SEA Games will be held from Aug 19 to Aug 30, while the Asean Para Games are from Sept 17 to Sept 23.

The run will pass several selected district in Sarawak between June 8 to June 13, before the torch is brought back to peninsula through Perlis.