KOTA KINABALU: A falling branch that killed a Chinese tourist at the Rainforest Discovery Centre (RDC) Sandakan was from a healthy tree, says the Sabah Forestry Department.
Deputy chief conservator of forests (Research and Development) Dr Arthur Chung said he inspected the tree and fallen branch following the incident on Tuesday (Jan 21).
“The tree is healthy. It would be difficult to tell that the branch was going to fall.
“It is really unfortunate. But the department will do whatever we can for the family," he said in a text message on Wednesday (Jan 22).
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Chung also thanked a doctor from the United Kingdom who happened to be at RDC at the time, as well as a veterinarian from Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) who helped while waiting for the ambulance.
The 74-year-old victim died from head injuries.
He was visiting the centre with family members.
The RDC has been closed temporarily for a safety inspection and will be reopened after any hazardous elements have been eliminated.
