Sabah May Set Age Limit For Mount Kinabalu Climbers After British Tourist's Death
The government is reviewing safety protocols, including mandatory stamina training.
The Sabah government is considering new safety measures for Mount Kinabalu climbers, including a possible age restriction
This follows the recent death of a British man in his 70s, who collapsed while descending the mountain.
State Tourism, Culture, and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew expressed her condolences over the incident and confirmed that Sabah Parks is reviewing the incident.
"It is something we never want to see happen. We extend our sympathies to the family and have asked Sabah Parks to follow up," she said, according to the New Straits Times.
Liew said authorities are considering an age limit or a medical clearance requirement for climbers
She also emphasised that climbers should be responsible for their own insurance coverage.
Sabah Parks Director Dr Maklarin Lakim confirmed that they are reviewing safety protocols, including mandatory stamina training.
"We have existing SOPs and security measures in place, but we will study possible enhancements," he told The Star.
Liew has also met with the family of the British climber and requested a detailed investigation into his death. Further discussions with Sabah Parks officials are expected soon.
There have been multiple climbing deaths reported on Mount Kinabalu
The British man who died on 25 February was found unresponsive at the 8.2km mark, near the Sayat-Sayat Checkpoint.
Just two weeks earlier, a 65-year-old Malaysian man lost consciousness and died at the 5.5km point of the climb.
In 2023, two other climbers also died while attempting to reach the peak. A 53-year-old man collapsed while climbing with his wife and friends, while a 54-year-old woman reportedly suffered hypothermia on her way down and later died.
Image via Malaysia.travel
Mount Kinabalu, standing at 4,095m, is Malaysia's highest peak and a UNESCO World Heritage Site
It attracts thousands of climbers each year. In 2024 alone, 48,342 people attempted the climb — an average of 132 climbers per day.
Of course, there are the exceptions:
If you're planning to hike Mount Kinabalu, these are some things to take note of:
Aside from Mount Kinabalu, here are several mountains and hills to hike in Malaysia:
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