Kota Kinabalu: A group of veteran hikers will embark on a 160km journey from Labuan to Penampang to honour the Sabah leaders who perished in the 1976 Double Six air crash and to promote unity.
The Memorial Walk Expedition (Misi Kembara Berjalan Kaki), jointly organised by Upko and the Gaso-Gaso Adventurer team, will begin at the Labuan International Ferry Terminal on May 30 and end on June 6 at the Double Six Memorial in Sembulan.
The journey will culminate in a tribute at Buhavan Square, Donggongon, to honour the late Datuk Peter Mojuntin, one of the victims.
window.googletag = window.googletag || {cmd: []};googletag.cmd.push(function() {googletag.defineSlot('/22826383987/dailyexpress_inline', [1, 1], 'gpt-passback').addService(googletag.pubads());googletag.enableServices();googletag.display('gpt-passback');});Upko Information Chief Dr Peter Jr Naintin said the expedition was not only to remember the past but also to inspire unity and reflection among Sabahans.
“This is more than just a walk. It is a deeply emotional mission to reflect on our history, honour our fallen heroes and rekindle the spirit of unity among the people of Sabah,” he said.
He added that the journey symbolises a shared struggle that must be embraced and continued — one that calls for unity, resolve and collective action.
The seven-day trek will pass through Menumbok, Kuala Penyu, Membakut, Kimanis, Papar and Putatan, with several community engagements planned.
Organisers said the full route will be shared soon to encourage public support.
Dr Peter also urged residents in areas along the route — including Labuan, Beaufort, Kimanis, Papar, Putatan, Kota Kinabalu and Penampang —to come forward and show their moral support as the team passes through.
The hikers — Palmis Suhi, Willis Sui, Haidin Ahmad, Suhaimie Suman, Mat Tahir Bahrin and Alfred Golimas — will represent the spirit of perseverance and remembrance throughout the journey.
Dr Peter will join them for the final 3km stretch from KDCA to Buhavan Square on June 6, symbolising a united step forward.
The expedition also aims to raise historical awareness among the younger generation and strengthen unity in Sabah.
The entire journey will be streamed via the TikTok channel Agang Binabang68, with organisers reminding participants to respect platform guidelines and sensitivities related to the tragedy.