KOTA KINABALU: A British national, who lost consciousness while descending Mount Kinabalu and was later pronounced dead, had no prior history of health issues, according to authorities.
The victim, in his 70s, had completed the required indemnity form and attended a safety briefing at Timpohon Gate, the main entry point to Sabah’s sacred Mount Kinabalu, before beginning his climb.
Accompanied by his wife, he collapsed at KM8.3 on the Summit Trail at 7.17am on Tuesday (Feb 25), about 2.2km from the Panalaban base camp.
The camp serves as a rest stop for climbers before their early morning ascent to the summit or before they make their way down to Timpohon Gate.
Confirming the incident, Sabah’s Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew extended her condolences to the victim’s family and urged the public to respect their privacy.
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased during this profoundly difficult time. Our thoughts and deepest sympathy are with them,” she said in a statement on Thursday (Feb 27).
Liew added that the ministry is working closely with other agencies to understand the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
“The ministry is working closely with relevant authorities, including Sabah Parks, local rescue teams, and law enforcement, to ensure the highest safety standards across Sabah’s natural attractions.
“While we cannot comment further due to the ongoing investigation, we are fully committed to supporting the family and cooperating with the authorities in every possible way.
“Mount Kinabalu is one of the most closely monitored and regulated climbing destinations in the world. Sabah Parks has comprehensive safety protocols in place, including professional guides and climber limits, to ensure visitor safety,” she said.
According to Sabah Parks, a mountain guide discovered the unconscious climber and immediately alerted the Mountain Search and Rescue (MoSAR) Unit, which was joined by other rescue teams.
The victim was found unresponsive and suffering from hypothermia.
Despite efforts to revive him using CPR and an automated external defibrillator (AED), harsh weather conditions worsened the situation.
He was carefully evacuated to the Sayat-Sayat checkpoint and later transported to Timpohon Gate, where he was pronounced dead at 5.10pm.
