Sixty-year-old Miri resident Wong Su Chung has been hailed as a hero for becoming the first Sarawakian to summit Mount Everest.

According to The Borneo Post, it took Wong 45 days to trek from Kathmandu, Nepal, to the mountain's summit and back. The project required three years to prepare and train for.

On May 19, he summited Mount Everest, which also happened to be his 34th wedding anniversary.

Wong returned to Sarawak on Saturday (May 25).

"I am 60 years old this year. Few individuals my age would want to take on this duty, but I consider it a personal challenge.

"I was careful in every move I made throughout the ascent and descent, keeping my family in mind the whole time," he told at the airport.

Born in Sarikei, Wong relocated to Miri at an early age.

Last year, he ascended the world's ninth highest mountain.

Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Sebastian Ting, who was also present to greet Wong's return, commended him and said it was a fantastic effort.

"Wong is our hero, and we are proud that he was the first Sarawakian to conquer Mount Everest, especially at 60 years old," Ting remarked.

Source: The Star  & The Borneo Post