Mount Kinabalu records 239 emergency cases involving hikers since 2022

A total of 239 emergency cases involving hikers were recorded on Mount Kinabalu from 2022 until now, according to Sabah Fire and Rescue Department director Mohd Pisar Aziz. The figure underscores the need for rescue teams to remain constantly prepared for the challenges posed by the iconic mountain, which draws both national and international climbers.

Despite its beauty and allure, Mount Kinabalu presents significant safety risks, as every incident necessitates comprehensive evaluation, suitable response, and effective collaboration among all involved parties. Mountain rescue operations are inherently difficult due to steep paths, rocky and slippery terrain, rapidly changing weather conditions, and communication difficulties, which often create substantial obstacles for rescue teams, especially when dealing with injured individuals who are unable to move independently.

Consequently, the department remains dedicated to providing emergency aid and executing search and rescue missions within the jurisdiction, competence, and capabilities it possesses. Pisar made these remarks at a dinner honoring the accomplishments of 26 participants in the Jelajah Akinabalu 4095: Sinergi Dua Entiti programme, organized by the Media Prima Club (MPC) in Kota Kinabalu.

Present at the event were Sabah Fire and Rescue Department deputy director Ashari Johari, Intan Syazwani Isa, head of Marketing and Communication at Agrobank Group, and Samuel Michael, head of Agrobank Sabah's Sales and Services Department. All 26 participants from MPC and Kelab Agrobank successfully reached the summit of Mount Kinabalu, standing at 4,095.2 meters, two days earlier.

The programme, a joint effort between MPC and Kelab Agrobank, brought together representatives from the New Straits Times, Berita Harian, Harian Metro, TV3, as well as seven members of Kelab Agrobank. Pisar emphasized that mountain rescue operations demand personnel with not only physical and mental resilience, but also technical skills and the capacity to make critical decisions in high-risk field situations.

He highlighted the department's commitment to personnel safety and continuous risk assessment to ensure the success of every search and rescue operation. The department has also adopted technological innovations, such as the Body Harness Carrier (BHC), designed based on real-world field requirements, to improve the efficiency of rescue missions along demanding trails.

Pisar stressed the importance of route selection, casualty management, weather conditions, and personnel safety throughout rescue operations. He noted the department's successful operation, Ops Mauro, which involved lowering a Croatian climber over five days starting September 6, demonstrating the dedication and endurance required to execute rescue missions in challenging mountainous landscapes.

Pisar further elaborated on the partnership between the fire department and media practitioners through the climbing programme, emphasizing the media's role in raising public awareness on safety and highlighting the roles and responsibilities of firefighters to the public. He expressed hope that the expedition served as a meaningful experience for all participants and provided an opportunity to observe firsthand the uniqueness of Mount Kinabalu and the challenges faced by mountain rescue teams.

Pisar concluded by reiterating the importance of the strategic relationship between the department and the media, aiming to build public awareness and understanding of safety and emergency preparedness, and using responsibly reported information to convey safety messages to a broader audience.