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The first astronaut from Malaysia has taken his first steps into space, carrying with him the hopes and dreams of every Malaysian.
Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor has said he is not just doing this for himself, but also for the nation, especially younger Malaysians.
Malaysia has its fair share of heroes, among them adventurers who sailed around the world and climbed the world's highest peak.
And its latest achievement is sending a man into space for the first time.
Dr Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor has that honour.
The 35-year-old physician beat more than 11,000 applicants in a nationwide search to become Malaysia's first astronaut.
He has said that "what the mind believes, the body can achieve".
A consultant to the space programme says the astronaut hopes to inspire future generations of Malaysians.
Nizal Mohammad, Consultant, Angkasa, says: "He has this belief that 'I want to create a long-lasting impact on the young generation'. That's his belief and promise to the nation."
Dr Sheikh Muszaphar's journey had been negotiated by Malaysia along with a US$900 million deal for the country to buy 18 Russian fighter jets.
Following months of training in Russia, he is finally on his way to the International Space Station, with American Peggy Whitson and Russian Yuri Malenchenko.
While in space, the bachelor will conduct experiments on tropical disease microbes, and proteins for a potential HIV vaccine.
He will also study the effects of micro-gravity and space radiation on cancer cells and human genes.
The physician also co-owns a restaurant with popular Malaysian chef Ismail Ahmad.
Ismail Ahmad, Chef and Business Partner, says: "When they chose him, I thought well he can do the research. He's very creative and he's daring. Even in diving. They tell us today we will dive 15 metres. He will do 25 metres. He's that sort of man."
Chef Ismail installed a large screen television at their restaurant so the patrons could watch live coverage of the historic event.
Malaysians from all walks of life are celebrating as Sheikh Muszaphar Shukor propels Malaysia into the prestigious league of nations that have sent a citizen into space.
The first Malaysian in space will spend more than a week on the International Space Station, where he will treat the long-term crew to a feast of local cuisine on Hari Raya Adilfitri this weekend.
Malaysians and tourists alike are thrilled by Dr Sheikh Muszaphar's achievement.
"I think this is tremendous news because I think Malaysia has made inroads in so many things internationally," says one Malaysian.
"It shows the country is really getting stronger and stronger, you know," says another.
Malaysia's first astronaut is expected to return to earth on October 21 with two Russian members of the space station crew. - CNA/ch
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