KOTA KINABALU — A 45-year-old man died of complications from altitude sickness while scaling Mount Kinabalu on Tuesday (April 25).

Alexzander Kueh Check Boo and his wife were attempting to scale the peak on Tuesday when the incident occurred.

Ms Christina Liew, minister for Sabah Tourism, Culture, and Environment, said in a statement that the deceased and his wife, 35, had arrived at Panalaban, a mid-point rest stop as part of the climb on Monday.

Initially, Kueh's wife complained of a headache and respiratory difficulties at approximately 9pm.

The Mountain Search and Rescue (Mosar) Team gave her oxygen for first aid.

An hour later, the rescue team decided to stretcher her down to Timpohon Gate and then to the Ranau Hospital for further treatment.

Not long after, at approximately 2am, her husband experienced breathing difficulties and muscle cramps.

He was subsequently stretchered to Timpohon Gate.

Both victims were sent to the Ranau Hospital by ambulance.

However, Kueh was pronounced dead at 4.30am on Tuesday at the hospital.

Ms Liew said based on the symptoms, altitude mountain sickness was believed to be the cause of death.

The wife's condition was reported to be stable.

Ms Liew extended her condolences to Kueh's family.

She has asked Sabah Parks, which falls under her ministry, to assist the deceased's family wherever necessary.

Ms Liew also advised climbers to be prepared physically and mentally before venturing to climb Mount Kinabalu in the future. NEW STRAITS TIMES