32 visually impaired youths conquer Bukit Dinding

KUALA LUMPUR: Thirty-two youths who are visually impaired proved that they can live like other normal persons by conquering Bukit Dinding in Wangsa Maju here, despite being persons with disabilities (PwD).

The feat to make the ascent was achieved recently through the Visually Impaired Youth Exploration Programme organised by the Malaysian Association for the Blind (MAB), which aims to expose the visually impaired to the natural beauty of the flora and fauna.

MAB chief executive officer George Thomas said the programme also aims to raise awareness among the group on the government's efforts in maintaining the sustainability of forest reserves and nature.

"The programme, under the association's Youth, Sports and Recreation unit, and involved the participation of 14 volunteers and MAB staff, will be expanded to cover various activities in the country," he told Bernama.

One of the climbers, Evelyn Angut Palau, 31, described the climbing expedition to Bukit Dinding, which is 291 metres above sea level, as breath-taking but uniquely satisfying as this was her first climbing experience.

Evelyn, a national 'goalball' (played exclusively by athletes who are blind or vision impaired) player, took an hour to reach the peak, accompanied by an escort.

"I was very excited despite getting leg cramps at the beginning of the climb. However, it didn't break my spirit, especially with cheers and support from friends.

"I couldn't believe it when I reached the top and was up there for about 30 minutes," said Evelyn, who hails from Kapit, Sarawak.

It wasn't a tall order for Nurain Bokari, 30, who was born with stargardt disease (STGD), as she enjoys extreme sports activities such as climbing, camping and swimming.

"I often take part in activities like this. For me, being disabled is not an obstacle to indulge in extreme activities.

"What is important, we just have to work harder to succeed but I still admit there are some things that still limit our movement," said Nurain, who has climbed Gunung Nuang in Hulu Langat, Selangor.

-- BERNAMA