He reinforced saying that “local beliefs and customs are not to be disrespected.” The local residents were also offended. Many victims of the earthquake suffered injuries. The rescuers finished bringing down to safety 137 hikers who were stuck on the mountain for up to 18 hours, their descent blocked by damage to a key trail and the threat of continuing rockfalls. Climbing would be suspended at Mount Kinabalu for at least three weeks to allow for clean-up and repairs to damaged trails, accommodation and other facilities. Mount Kinabalu is a central tourism attraction. Strong earthquakes are rare in Malaysia.
