The participants of the expedition, organised by the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM), reached the top of the mountain between 5.45am and 6.30am in stages and ended their climb at Timpohon Gate between 4.30pm and 7pm.

IIUM deputy director Zulkifli Hasan, who headed the expedition, said the climb was extremely challenging for able-bodied persons, thus the capability of the six OKU climbers to complete the ascent was simply extraordinary.

“It was very difficult to climb Mount Kinabalu. Our participants and OKU climbers even fell several times. In areas where we had to use a rope to climb up the mountain, some did not manage to hold on. Alhamdulillah, the safety measures in place ensured everyone was safe,” Zulkifli, who kicked off the climb yesterday, said.

“There were some injuries, aches and fatigue, but it did not break our resolve to continue climbing and reaching the top of Mount Kinabalu today.”

Mount Kinabalu, which is 4,095m above sea level, is in the Crocker Range, about 86km from Kota Kinabalu and it is about 8.7km from the trailhead to the peak.

Zulkifli said the achievement, especially of the OKU climbers, was something to be proud of, adding that he planned to enable them to share their experiences so as to convey the message of inclusivity.

Ahmad Danial Mohd Sani, who is visually impaired, said although he could not see, he regarded the opportunity to conquer Mount Kinabalu as a blessing from Allah.

“I never wished for this blessing before, this is the first time I am savouring Allah’s mighty creation,” said the IIUM student.

He also thanked his expedition teammates for helping him complete the ascent.