THE late Lt-Col Awang Askandar Ampuan Yaacub, who died in his ascent to Mount Everest, was posthumously given a Special Award at the Kedah Maulidur Rasul celebration today.

Kedah ruler Sultan Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin Sultan Badlishah presented the award to Kedah Civil Defence Force deputy director Major Mohd Muaz Mohd Yusoff, who represented Awang Askandar’s family.

They were not able to attend the ceremony.

Muaz said the award was in recognition of Awang Askandar’s contributions and services during his nearly six years as the state director.

“The late Awang Askandar made significant contributions, especially to the people of Kedah, where he was actively involved in flood operations, provided training to the community and the public, and collaborated with various departments and agencies in the state.

“Today, civil defence officers and his friends are also present at this meaningful award ceremony,” he told reporters after the ceremony held at a hotel in Alor Star.

The deceased was honoured with a certificate of appreciation, a commemorative gift and a mock cheque for RM7,000, which will be given to his family in Sabah.

Awang Askandar, 56, died during the Malaysia Everest 2023 expedition in May after he was reported to have fallen while making the final ascent at 8,000m.

At today’s ceremony, the Imam of Al-A’la Mosque in Jitra, Saidin Dogol, 75, received the Tokoh Imam Award and brought home a certificate of appreciation, a commemorative gift, and a cheque for RM7,000. – Bernama, September 28, 2023.