‘Player’s collapse underscores importance of having AED in public areas’

KOTA KINABALU (March 9): An incident at the Kolombong Infinity Sport Arena here recently underscored the importance of having the automated external defibrillator (AED) unit available at a public area.

According to witnesses, a player collapsed after the end of a pickleball match, prompting immediate attempts to treat him.

Kelvin Chai, owner of the sports arena, recalled that a unit of AED had been installed at the venue by the Lions Club of Kota Kinabalu Vintage.

“I quickly retrieved it, but amidst the tense situation plus lack of hands-on experience, many at the arena hesitated to operate the unit for fear of making things worse,” he said.

Nevertheless, Chai said someone had contacted the Lions Ambulance, which arrived within 10 minutes.

The paramedics took charge and later transported the pickleball player to the hospital for further treatment.

It was reported that the doctors later deemed having the AED on-site, augmented by timely intervention, as being crucial in preventing a far more serious outcome.

The AED units were procured as part of the Lions AED Community Project by Harry Vun, the president of Lions Club Kota Kinabalu Vintage.

It was supported by the community, including Junior Chamber International (JCI) sports venues, Luyang Foh Sang, and the 333 commercial area.

Plans are also underway to place AED units at tourist-heavy locations such as Gaya Street to enhance emergency preparedness.

“This was the first time such a serious medical emergency occurred at the arena,” said Chai.

“We’re grateful that the AED was installed last year, giving bystanders access to life-saving equipment when it mattered most.”

Vun stressed that the incident underscored the importance of having AEDs in public areas.

“This case proved that our project was the right decision. I hope it would raise public awareness of emergency equipment, and would also encourage more people to contribute to community safety,” he said.