US envoy praises adventurer Qobin
KUALA LUMPUR: United States ambassador to Malaysia Kamala Shirin Lakhdhir congratulated Malaysian adventurer Muhammad Muqharabbin Mokhtarrudin on becoming Malaysia’s first Grand Slam Explorer.
Muqharabbin, fondly known as Qobin, is now one of 60 people in the world who have managed to reach the North and South Poles and who have climbed the highest peaks of the seven continents.
Lakhdhir said Qobin’s accomplishments were inspirational.
“Qobin’s accomplishments make him an inspiration, and his messages of equality and mutual respect are genuine in that they come from his experiences meeting people around the world.
“I think we all can draw inspiration from Qobin’s work ethic and fortitude.
“I loved hearing about his cross-country cycling adventure in the US when he rode from Los Angeles to Washington, D.C., and will think of him the next time I’m riding in Putrajaya.”
She said she was proud that Qobin was able to reach the summit of Denali in Alaska, a mountain that the latter said was as challenging as Mount Everest.
“And while we welcome Malaysians to come visit our national parks, America’s crown jewels, there are many other options, from Yellowstone to Acadia, which are a little more restful and relaxing and don’t require weeks of mountaineering.”
Qobin gave Lakhdhir a framed collage of his adventures atop the world’s highest mountains and at the two Poles. Lakhdhir presented Qobin a book on the US’ national parks.