Incident Overview
SHAH ALAM: A cadet from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) lost his life during Palapes training at the university’s Shah Alam campus. Police have confirmed that the death resulted from heat stroke with no external injuries observed.
Findings from the Investigation
Selangor police chief Commissioner Datuk Hussein Omar Khan announced that the victim suffered multiple organ failure due to severe heat stroke. The case has been classified as a sudden death, with no foul play suspected at this stage.
Incident Details and Hospitalization
Comm Hussein shared that the cadet collapsed on Nov 10 during a marching session and was immediately taken to Shah Alam Hospital for medical attention. Preliminary investigations revealed that the student had recently joined the Palapes program in late October and was completing physical assessments ahead of basic training scheduled for next year.
Attempts to Stabilize the Student’s Condition
On the day of the incident, the cadet reportedly lagged behind during a run, prompting his trainer to assign push-ups as corrective action. Shortly afterward, he lost consciousness and was admitted to the hospital emergency ward with a high fever. Medical efforts to hydrate him and alleviate his condition were unsuccessful, and he was transferred to the ICU. Despite further treatment, the student succumbed to his condition on Nov 13.
Further Investigation Underway
Police have interviewed nine individuals, including the victim’s father, who filed a report on Nov 15. Authorities are calling for anyone with relevant information to contact Asst Supt Mohd Khairi Kamaruddin at 012-266 6025.
Allegations of Misconduct Addressed
The Armed Forces is conducting an inquiry following allegations that bullying during the Palapes training program might have contributed to the cadet’s death.