Mount Kinabalu records 239 emergency cases involving hikers since 2022

KOTA KINABALU: A total of 239 emergency cases involving hikers who were injured or unable to continue their climb were recorded on Mount Kinabalu from 2022 until this month.

Sabah Fire and Rescue Department director Mohd Pisar Aziz said the figure highlights the need for continuous readiness among rescue teams at the state's iconic mountain, which attracts both domestic and international climbers.

He said that despite its beauty and appeal, Mount Kinabalu poses high safety risks, with every incident demanding thorough assessment, appropriate action, and effective coordination among all parties involved.

"Mountain rescue operations are not easy due to steep routes, rocky and slippery surfaces, rapidly changing weather conditions, and communication constraints.

"These factors often pose major challenges to rescue teams, particularly when dealing with victims who are injured and unable to move on their own.

"Therefore, the department remains committed to providing emergency assistance and conducting search and rescue operations within the department's jurisdiction, competency, and capabilities," he said.

He said this at a dinner celebrating the success of 26 participants in the Jelajah Akinabalu 4095: Sinergi Dua Entiti programme organised by the Media Prima Club (MPC) here last night.

Also present were Sabah Fire and Rescue Department deputy director Ashari Johari, Agrobank Group Marketing and Communication head Intan Syazwani Isa, and Agrobank Sabah Sales and Services Department head Samuel Michael.

All 26 participants from MPC and Kelab Agrobank successfully scaled the 4,095.2-metre peak of Mount Kinabalu two days ago.

The programme, held in collaboration with Kelab Agrobank, was joined by representatives from the New Straits Times, Berita Harian, Harian Metro and TV3, alongside seven Kelab Agrobank members.

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Elaborating further, Pisar said operations on Mount Kinabalu require personnel who possess not only physical and mental endurance, but also technical skills and the ability to make decisions in high-risk field situations.

He said the capability and commitment of the rescue teams were demonstrated during Ops Mauro, an operation to bring down a Croatian climber that took five days, starting Sept 6.

He noted that the operation showcased the dedication and endurance required to execute rescue missions in mountainous terrain.

"Bringing the victim down safely required careful planning, coordination among personnel, and the use of methods and equipment suited to the terrain.

"In such operations, every decision carries significant weight. Route selection, casualty management, weather conditions, and personnel safety must be continuously prioritised throughout the operation.

"To enhance the efficiency of rescue missions along challenging trails, the department has leveraged technological innovations such as the Body Harness Carrier (BHC), which was specifically developed based on actual field requirements," he said.

He added that personnel safety and continuous risk assessment remain top priorities to ensure the success of every search and rescue (SAR) operation.

Meanwhile, he said the partnership forged through the climbing programme organised by MPC reflects the close ties between the department and media practitioners.

"The media is a strategic partner for the department in delivering information, raising public awareness on safety, and highlighting the roles and responsibilities of firefighters to the public.

"I hope this expedition served as a meaningful experience for all participants while offering an opportunity to observe firsthand the uniqueness of Mount Kinabalu and the challenges faced by mountain rescue teams," he said.

Pisar added that the relationship between the department and the media extends beyond news reporting to building public awareness and understanding of safety and emergency preparedness.

He said accurate writing, reporting, and information sharing enable the media to convey safety messages to a broader audience.

"Responsibly reported information helps the public understand the real challenges faced by rescue teams.

"I hope this expedition allowed the media to see the uniqueness and challenges of Mount Kinabalu firsthand, bringing home experiences that can be shared with the public.

"May the strategic relationship continue to be strengthened for the benefit of the community and mutual safety," he said.