One UiTM KKEC Participant Dies, Eight Others Unconscious

KUANTAN: One participant has died, while eight others are receiving treatment in hospital after experiencing health issues while taking part in the Komander Kesatria Endurance Challenge (KKEC) 2026 programme at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) in Jengka, Maran.

Maran District Police Chief, Superintendent Wong Kim Wai, said the police received a report regarding the incident at 6.59 pm yesterday.

“The deceased victim is a 21-year-old male student, and further details will be provided after the post-mortem report is received,” he said when contacted by Bernama.

It is understood that all of them lost consciousness before being rushed to hospital for further treatment, believed to be due to hot weather conditions.

Meanwhile, UiTM Pahang Branch, in a statement, expressed its condolences and extended its sympathies to the family of the KKEC programme participant from UiTM Negeri Sembilan Branch, the late Fadhlan Fakhry Solana Mohd Fellimal.

The university management always prioritises the welfare of its members; therefore, UiTM is giving its full attention to the welfare of the deceased’s family.

“The university management has mobilised comprehensive assistance to ensure that all matters relating to the management of the remains, documentation, transportation, and emotional support for the victim’s family proceed smoothly and without any difficulties,” according to the statement.

UiTM informed that, as evidence of the university’s commitment to student safety and health, the organisers have decided to cancel the KKEC 2026 outdoor activity competitions scheduled for today.

According to the statement, the annual programme, which brings together warrior commanders from all UiTM branches across Malaysia, was held from 2 to 8 September at UiTM Pahang Branch, Jengka Campus, and had complied with strict health and safety standard operating procedures (SOPs).

“All participants were required to undergo health screenings before the programme began, as well as periodic health checks before each event commenced. In fact, several participants had previously been asked to withdraw after failing the final screening,” according to the statement.

UiTM takes this incident seriously and will continue to closely monitor the current situation to ensure the welfare of all parties involved is safeguarded.

“Any inconvenience is deeply regretted, and the cooperation and prayers from all parties are greatly appreciated in facing this difficult time,” according to the statement.

Bernama