Safety of BASE jumpers a priority, says Resident

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Bobby McEntee from Ireland carries the Jalur Gemilang as he descends over the open space at Sibu Town Square Phase 1 in this file photo.

SIBU: All safety measures are in place for participants of the Sibu International BASE Jump, according to Sibu Resident Hii Chang Kee, saying organiser Sibu Division Tourism Task Group (DTTG) is giving priority to the safety of jumpers.

Hii, who is DTTG chairman, stressed this following the incident yesterday morning in which Australian Gary Favre smashed through the glass panel at Level 15 of the 126-metre tall Wisma Sanyan in a trial jump.

“Following the incident, jumpers have been reminded to be extra careful,” he said.

Gary was given first aid at the medical room and sent to a private medical centre in an ambulance. He suffered cuts on the legs and thigh.

Hii, who is also the organising chairman said the incident could be due to wind direction, body movement or landing location.

Malaysian Civil Defence Force, Fire and Rescue Department, the police and a medical team are on the ground to ensure safety.

In the 2013 jump, 63-year-old Yves Escudier from Francesuffered head injuries after his parachute did not open properly. He hit a wall before dropping onto a tree.