UiTM to review endurance event safety protocols following student’s death

Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) has announced a comprehensive review of its safety protocols following the tragic death of a student during an endurance challenge at its Jengka campus in Pahang. The incident occurred during the Komander Kesatria Endurance Challenge, according to Sinar Harian.

The university's vice-chancellor, Shahrin Sahib, emphasized that the safety, health, and welfare of students will not be compromised in this review. He stated that the university will collaborate fully with authorities in their investigation while examining every aspect of the event.

The unfortunate incident resulted in the death of 21-year-old Fadhlan Fakhry Solana Fellimal, and eight others were hospitalized. Seven of the hospitalized students received treatment at Jengka Hospital, while one was treated at Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Hospital in Temerloh. Another student also received medical attention at the same hospital.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the students experienced heat-related issues, such as oxygen deprivation, during the endurance programme. UiTM's Jengka branch expressed their commitment to providing full assistance to Fadhlan's family.

In response to the tragedy, the Jengka campus announced that all outdoor activities scheduled for the day would be cancelled. The organizers clarified that the event was conducted in accordance with strict health and safety Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Before the programme commenced, participants underwent health screenings, and health checks were conducted prior to each activity.