From a spirited 4x4 enthusiast to a true “keeper of legacy,” Grace Dayang Padan represents the strength and soul of Sarawak’s highlands. Her journey is not just about adventure—it is about responsibility, heritage, and the courage to carry both forward.
As the second-generation caretaker of Merapar Hotspring Lodge, Grace balances the demands of running a remote highland lodge with a lifestyle shaped by resilience. The journey to Merarap is no ordinary route. It requires navigating rugged terrain, steep mountain paths, and unpredictable conditions—challenges she has embraced as part of her everyday life.
Alongside her sister, Jasmine Saran, Grace takes that same strength into the world of off-road adventure. Together, they traverse extreme jungle tracks and highland routes across Sabah and Sarawak, even competing in 4x4 challenges. Their presence alone challenges expectations, proving that the toughest terrains are no longer reserved for men.
But Grace’s story goes beyond the driver’s seat.
Deeply rooted in her Lun Bawang heritage, she carries her culture with pride, ensuring that tradition remains at the heart of everything she does. Through her platform, she shares not just her adventures, but her identity—encouraging others to reconnect with their roots while forging their own paths forward.
She embodies what many now call the “expediesel” spirit—a blend of endurance, grit, and quiet strength. Whether in the stillness of the mountains or the chaos of muddy trails, Grace shows that resilience is not loud, but steady.
Today, Grace Dayang Padan stands as a bridge between tradition and progress. She protects her family’s legacy while carving out her own journey, proving that honoring where you come from can fuel how far you go.
Because for her, every road—no matter how rough—leads back to purpose.