Bees attack S'pore climbers
Group stung while climbing Mount Ophir, four hurt. -TNP
Wed, May 14, 2008
The New Paper
AN outdoor trip to Johor ended up painfully for a group of 47 climbing enthusiasts from Singapore when a swarm of bees attacked them.
The attack on Saturday afternoon left four members of the party hurt, just as the group was on the way up Mount Ophir.
China Press reported that one of the men fainted after the attack.
The incident happened around 2.20pm at the Gunung Ledang (Mount Ophir) National Park.
The 31-year-old man who fainted suffered from bee stings on the left side of his neck, causing the area to become red and swollen.
| Tips |
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- Don't swat at the bees. Instead, run to a shelter. - Use ice or a cold compress to reduce swelling. - Seek medical attention immediately if you experience difficulty in breathing and feel giddy. |
He recovered shortly after, but had to be assisted down the mountain trail with the help of the park's staff.
It is understood that the Singapore group comprised locals and foreigners.
The group is reported to have arrived at Asahan, Malacca, around 5am and began their climb.
They came down the mountain only around 6pm.
The man who was stung on his neck was treated by paramedics and given medicine, while the three others who were stung did not appear to be badly affected.
It is not clear what had provoked the bees to attack the group.
Mount Ophir is a popular spot with hikers and bird-watchers. Visitors can reach the summit either from Sagil, a town in Johor, or via Asahan.
Mr Foo Soo Eng, 42, manager of the Gunung Ledang Resort, told The New Paper that there was a bus and van waiting for the group at the resort carpark when they came down in the evening.
He had been informed about the incident by the park's staff.
When he saw the group, he approached them and asked if they needed help.
But the group didn't wish to talk, and told him only that there was 'no problem'.
Shortly after, the group left. He wasn't sure where they were heading.
In Mr Foo's eight years working in the area, he has seen fewer than 10 such attacks.
He said: 'Bee attacks don't normally happen, but it's the jungle after all so anything can happen.
'Sometimes climbers may accidentally disturb the bees without realising it, causing them to attack.'
Mr Foo, who was stung by a bee once four years ago, recommended that climbers stick closely to their guides and follow the advice given.