Blue skies welcomed the PETRONAS Trans-Himalayas Expedition 2005, and the 63 team members in a convoy of 23 4-wheel-drive vehicles. Emotions ran high, with hugging and shouts of exultation from team members when they came face to face with the mighty Mount Everest (8,848m), the world’s tallest mountain. The Tibetans call her Mt Qomulangma (Goddess Mother of the Earth), and she is undoubtedly breathtaking and beautiful.

Everyone could clearly see her summit, dubbed the “Rooftop of the World.” According to statistics, 80 per cent of visitors to Everest Base Camp could not see the summit due to cloud cover. The team members have indeed been blessed.

Team members almost did not make it this far. Despite having the proper permits, the team was not allowed to pass the second checkpoint last night. Everest Base Camp was a mere 30km away but team members remain optimistic.

“At some point yesterday, we were not coming here, but I believe our perseverance paid off,” said Expedition Leader Halim Abdul Rahman, who is honoured to have lead the team here. He added that family and well wishers in Malaysia and Thailand had prayed for the team last night. There are five Thai participants as well.

“It’s a proud moment for the PETRONAS Adventure Team and for all Malaysians,” he said. “Thank you to everyone who prayed for us and wished us well.”

After being turned back last night, the team had camped nearby to await further negotiations with the authorities. After a sleepless night, the team was greeted with the best news they have ever heard. The team’s 70% chance of going on was upgraded to 100% at 9am this morning.

The team cleared Rongbuk Monastery (the highest monastery in the world) and were at Everest Base Camp by 10 this morning. It’s a historic occasion for the PETRONAS Adventure Team as this is the first time a convoy has been allowed into Everest Base Camp from the North side.

The expedition is sponsored by PETRONAS, PETRONAS Syntium, Ford, Kumho Tires, and MISC.