KUALA TERENGGANU: Jamaludin Ismail has spent more than four decades jumping from aircraft, buildings and other high places – but there is still one structure he dreams of conquering.
At 71, the veteran base jumper has his sights set on Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building at 828m.
“The Burj Khalifa is certainly one of my targets,” Jamaludin told Bernama. “If the opportunity and sponsorship arise, I hope to make that dream a reality.”
The Johor-born former Malaysian Armed Forces commando engineer began skydiving in 1980 before eventually moving into base jumping, which involves parachuting from fixed objects or natural features.
He estimates he has completed around 6,000 recorded jumps, although the real total may be much higher.
“If counted from 1980, the figure may have reached 10,000,” he said. “I am not entirely sure because I have made so many jumps.”
Jamaludin credits his military background with helping him develop the discipline and technical skills needed for the sport. While stationed at Sungai Udang Camp in Melaka, he underwent advanced free-fall training and later took part in base-jumping exhibitions.
His highest jump was from about 7,620m from an aircraft – a height that required the use of oxygen.
Over the years, he has jumped whenever suitable opportunities arose, including from unfinished buildings, although he stressed that safety and site conditions always come first.
His long involvement in the sport earned him recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records in 2014 through the “Jump for World Peace” programme.
Rather than encouraging him to slow down, the recognition gave him another reason to remain active. “As long as I have the opportunity and ability, I will continue pursuing this passion. It has become part of my life,” he said.
The Burj Khalifa has been on Jamaludin’s wish list for about a decade. His experience and jumping record have previously been proposed for a possible recognition event in Dubai, which could give him the opportunity to attempt the leap.
For now, however, the timing remains uncertain. “My name has been included in plans for such a record for several years, but at present, it is uncertain when I can go there,” he added.
Until that chance comes, Jamaludin continues to jump closer to home. He was among the participants at the recent Terengganu International Basejump Challenge 2026, held at the Kuala Terengganu City Council Tower.
The event brought together 36 jumpers from 12 countries, including 10 Malaysians and participants from the US, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, Portugal, China, Australia, Russia, Thailand and Indonesia.
