Malaika Khilji, described as Balochistan's first woman mountaineer, was given a warm welcome at the Quetta airport on her return after summiting a 6,000-metre peak in Skardu. Relatives, friends and admirers gathered at the airport to receive her.

Speaking to reporters, Khilji said becoming the province's first woman mountaineer was a great honour, and dedicated the achievement to the women and youth of Balochistan.

She said the climb had not been easy. Severe weather, difficult terrain and other challenges had tested her along the way, she said, but determination and hard work had carried her to the summit.

Khilji said pursuing her passion for mountaineering and biking had come with many hardships, but she had kept struggling to turn her dream into reality.

https://youtu.be/QZAWXw0265M

She called on the government to take special steps to promote mountaineering, biking and adventure sports in Balochistan, so that young people women in particular could find better opportunities in the field.

With attention from the government and the relevant institutions, she added, the youth of Balochistan could achieve notable success at the national and international level.

Published in Balochistan Dispatch, July 27th, 2026