Hiker Rescued After 8 Days on Mount Kinabalu, Fined

A Croatian hiker, Mauro Persic, was rescued from Malaysia's Mount Kinabalu, the country's highest peak, after being stranded for eight days. The 46-year-old London resident fell approximately 10 meters down a steep slope, sustaining injuries to his leg, ribs, and hands. He spent nearly a week trapped in a narrow trench with limited resources.

Rescuers, led by Luis Jai Matuas, reached Persic on his eighth day of being lost. Despite the challenging terrain and weather conditions, over 40 personnel were involved in his safe descent. Persic was subsequently fined the maximum penalty of RM25,000 for trespassing in Kinabalu Park.

Persic stated his trespass was a spontaneous decision driven by a desire to explore the mountain's beauty, not to evade entry fees. He publicly apologized to the people of Sabah for any disrespect, praising their kindness and care shown during his rescue. He reflected on the experience, calling it a dangerous gamble and acknowledging the significant resources expended for his rescue.