KUANTAN: One participant has died while eight others received treatment at hospital after experiencing health issues while taking part in the Komander Kesatria Endurance Challenge (KKEC) 2026 at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) in Jengka, Maran.
Maran OCPD Supt Wong Kim Wai said police received a report on the incident at 6.59pm on Saturday (Sept 5).
"The deceased was a 21-year-old male student. Further details will be provided after the post-mortem report is received," he told Bernama when contacted.
It is understood that all of them lost consciousness before being rushed to hospital, believed to be due to the hot weather.
Meanwhile, Pahang UiTM, in a statement, expressed its profound sadness and extended its condolences to the family of the participant from Negeri Sembilan UiTM, the late Fadhlan Fakhry Solana Mohd Fellimal.
"The university management always prioritises the well-being of its members and is therefore giving its full attention to the welfare of the deceased's family.
"The management has mobilised comprehensive assistance to ensure that all matters relating to the funeral arrangements, documentation, transportation and emotional support for the family are handled smoothly and with ease," the statement said.
UiTM said that, as part of its commitment to the safety and health of its students, the organisers had cancelled the outdoor events for KKEC 2026 scheduled for Sunday.
According to the statement, the annual programme, which brings together kesatria commanders from all UiTM branches nationwide, is being held from Sept 2 to 8 at Pahang UiTM, Jengka Campus and has been conducted in accordance with strict health and safety standard operating procedures.
"All participants are required to undergo health screenings before the programme begins, as well as periodic health checks before each event. In fact, several participants had previously been asked to withdraw after failing the final screening," it said.
The university said it takes the incident very seriously and will continue to closely monitor the situation to ensure the well-being of all those involved.
"We deeply regret any inconvenience caused and greatly appreciate the cooperation and prayers of all parties as we navigate this difficult time," it said. – Bernama
