Mount Kinabalu Evacuation Simulation (OPS) Tests Disaster Preparedness
RANAU: The Sabah Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) successfully conducted a three-day OPS Mount Kinabalu Evacuation Simulation Exercise from June 3 to 5.
Sabah JBPM Director, Mohd Pisar Aziz, said the exercise not only commemorated the tragic earthquake incident on June 5, 2015, but also served as a platform to assess disaster preparedness in high-risk areas such as Mount Kinabalu.
“This simulation covered the area from Panalaban to the summit of Low’s Peak, with 49 participants positioned in the mountain zone and 20 participants at the foothill.
Each contributed their expertise and energy to ensure the success of this exercise,” he said during the closing ceremony held in conjunction with the 2025 Mount Kinabalu Earthquake Memorial.
He extended his appreciation to all agencies and partners involved directly or indirectly in the operation, including:
Sabah Parks (TTS)
National Security Council (MKN) Sabah
Ministry of Health (KKM)
Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM)
KEPSAS
Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM)
Mountain Guide Association
Porter Association
Sutera Sanctuary Lodge (SSL)
KOKTAS
Mountain Torq
Sabapak Eco Berhad
The event concluded with the official closing ceremony of the Mount Kinabalu Evacuation Simulation Exercise and the 2025 Earthquake Memorial Service.
“The commitment and professionalism shown by all involved were exemplary and should serve as a benchmark for future drills of this nature,” he added.
Mohd Pisar also recalled that the 2015 earthquake, which claimed 18 lives—including climbers and mountain guides—and injured many others, had triggered major changes in safety protocols on Mount Kinabalu.
“Exercises like this test the coordination, communication, and emergency response systems among agencies, while also educating the local community—including tourism operators, mountain guides, porters, and villagers—to be more disaster-ready.
“Such drills must be conducted regularly to ensure all parties remain at an optimal state of preparedness.
“We cannot afford to be complacent, as disasters strike without warning. Let us maintain our commitment to making Mount Kinabalu not only a world-class tourist destination, but also a safe and resilient area prepared for any challenge,” he said.
– Agency