RANAU: A 27-year-old local became the latest to suffer injury while climbing Mount Kinabalu after he experienced difficulty in breathing and a fall on his track.
Ranau Fire and Rescue Department Chief PPgB Ridwan Mohd Taib (pic) said the incident happened around 11.58am, Wednesday, at Km 5.8 when the victim was descending from the summit.
He said it is very cold up Mount Kinabalu now, which has caused a number of incidents since early this year. The victim in the latest case had barely managed to reach the summit before he got injured.
“The victim suffered Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and knee injury. PBB Auxiliary Fire Officer Mountain Search and Rescue (MoSAR) personnel had to carry the victim using a Robinson Stretcher to Timpohon Gate.
“The rescue operation was led by Operations Officer PPgB Mohd Asri and the victim was taken to the Ranau Hospital by an EMRS vehicle. The operation ended at 5.02pm.”
Ridwan advised future climbers to do self-health assessment before climbing the mountain.
He said they must be mentally and physically prepared, and to bring along only suitable and necessary items.
He also reminded climbers to be extra careful during the current rainy season because the ground surface and rocks are more slippery than usual.
“Always climb in groups. Don’t climb alone and make sure to be attentive to the guide’s advice, which is so important to avoid any untoward incidents.”
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