Distribution

Azhar, who runs a marina for yachts and builds boats at Telaga Harbour Park here, emerged a national hero after becoming the first Malaysian to sail solo around the world in 1999.His main mast broke during a storm in the waters off Cape Horn, South America, causing him to be stranded for days.With the government's assistance and support from Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, the prime minister, Azhar managed to continue and completed his mission in 190 days, boosted by the spirit of "Malaysia Boleh".Azhar was 41 when he set sail for the mission on Feb 2, 1999, in the RM2 million "Jalur Gemilang." He arrived back in Malaysia on Aug 11 the same year.

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v3/bm/printable.php?id=278196