Kuala Lumpur: Two ethnic Indians have been conferred Malaysia`s prestigious Datukship title in recognition of their achievement in scaling the Mount Everest. M Magendran and N Mohanadas received the Datukship, a title similar to the British knighthood, from the ruler of Penang state.
The titles are conferred by the Sultans of various states to individuals found worthy in various fields.
Bollywood actor Shahrukh Khan was bestowed the Datukship last year by the Malacca state.
"The way we were welcomed and recognised by the state government makes us feel like we have just returned from Mount Everest... It brought back fond memories of our conquest of the mountain 13 years ago," said 49-year-old Mohanadas. Magendran, 47, said it was good to know that the people recognised them for their achievement.
Magendran was the first to reach the peak followed by Mohanadas 15 minutes later on May 23, 1997.
Bureau Report
