KUALA LUMPUR: The Quantum Metal Ekspedisi Perpaduan Watikah Kemerdekaan 66 London-Kuala Lumpur 2023 (QMEPWK66) riders had to backtrack a hundred kilometres after hitting a dead end at the Uzbekistan - Kyrgyzstan border.
The six riders were unable to enter Kyrgyzstan as its Uchqurg'on Chegara border was closed five years ago.
They then made their way back 100kms to enter the country via the Osh, Uzbekistan border.
"When we asked them about it, they informed us that the border was closed and we returned to enter via the other border," said Ahmad Fadali Baharudin, one of the expedition participants.
Earlier, the QMEPWK66 riders were flagged off by Malaysia ambassador in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, Ilham Tuah Illias at the ambassador's office.
He said he felt honoured that the team had dropped by to visit historical sites in Tashkent such as Quran Uthman to promote Malaysia.
"I pray for the riders to be under Allah's protection and hopefully be able to return home safely to their respective families after travelling for so long," he said.
The QMEPWK66 participants left London on a 66 day journey, crossing 16 countries and covering a distance of over 22,000kms before arriving in Malaysia on Aug 31.
QMEPWK66 is organised by Global Bike Explorer Sdn Bhd, with Quantum Metal Sdn Bhd serving as the main sponsor, and GB13, KMF Network, and Bullion Success Group as co-sponsors.