A TRAIL running event in Penang, where a participant tragically died of heatstroke amid the ongoing hot spell, has been found to have fully complied with all established standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Penang Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen said the organiser had met all essential requirements, including the provision of sufficient water stations and medical teams along the route, and had responded swiftly when the victim showed signs of distress.
“The victim, a 42-year-old man from Tampin, Negri Sembilan, had successfully completed the 30km category before collapsing.
“The medical team immediately transported him to the hospital for treatment, but he later passed away.
“The cause of death was confirmed as heatstroke. It is possible the man had underlying health conditions, particularly as the event featured categories of up to 50km,” he said during a press conference at his office in Komtar today.
On behalf of the Penang government, Gooi also extended his condolences to the victim’s family.
The Penang State Health Department (JKNPP) reported on May 3 that the victim had died on April 26 following his participation in the run.
Gooi emphasised that compliance with SOPs is a prerequisite for the approval of any sporting event in the state, especially in ensuring adequate medical preparedness for emergencies.
“To date, paramedic coverage for sporting events in Penang has been sufficient. We advise participants to remain mindful of their health, stay hydrated, and avoid pushing themselves beyond their physical limits,” he said.
In a separate development, Gooi noted that Penang remains free from monkey malaria (Plasmodium knowlesi) infections, despite a rise in cases in Sabah.
“In Penang, we have not recorded any cases of monkey malaria so far, but the situation continues to be closely monitored by JKNPP,” he added.
He also highlighted a significant decline in mosquito-borne diseases in the state, with dengue cases dropping by 39% compared to the same period last year.
Previously, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad reported that Sabah recorded 357 cases of monkey malaria in the first four months of this year, including one fatality.
At the same press conference, Gooi also announced the Ten Outstanding Penang (TOP) 2026 programme, a recognition platform aimed at honouring exceptional individuals and businesses in the state.
“Such platforms are vital, as every strong society needs role models. We need individuals and organisations whose contributions can be recognised, appreciated, and shared with the wider public.
“In Penang, we are fortunate to have many who contribute positively in diverse ways. Some lead through enterprise and innovation, others through community service and social initiatives, while many work quietly behind the scenes without seeking recognition.
“That is why initiatives like TOP are so meaningful. They help foster a culture that values leadership, service, and positive impact,” he said.
Members of the public can submit nominations or obtain further information at https://topenang.com/.
Also present were JCI Butterworth City local president Damon Wong and TOP 2026 organising chairman Wayne Loh.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Law Suun Ting