As Malaysia reels from over 500 Covid-19 cases, perhaps it was only a matter of time that someone succumbs to their illness. And today, the bells of gloom have tolled.
On Tuesday (17 Mar), our northern neighbour has reported its first 2 Covid-19 deaths.
According to Malaysia’s Health Ministry on Twitter, the 2 deceased were Cases 178 and 358 respectively. Both aged 34 and 60.
We translate their tweets below.
Malaysia’s Health Ministry tweeted that the first death – Case 178 – involved a 34-year-old male Malaysian.
He was linked to the religious event in a mosque in Kuala Lumpur, where 95 Singaporeans were also attendees.
He reported onset of symptoms on 5 Mar and was hospitalised at Permai Hospital for treatment. He tested positive on 12 Mar, and was sent to Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as his condition deteriorated.
The man passed away today (17 Mar).
Case 358 involved a 60-year-old pastor from Sarawak, East Malaysia.
The pastor at Emanuel Baptist Church in Kuching – Sarawak’s capital – passed on at 11am this morning at Sarawak General Hospital, according to Malaysian English daily Malay Mail.
Health Minister Dr Adham Baba said he had a history of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension.
He had fever, cough and breathing difficulties on 7 Mar before seeking medical treatment at the Sarawak General Hospital on 14 Mar. He tested positive the same day, said Dr Adham.
His condition deteriorated and was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). He was pronounced dead today.
In the meantime, the state is currently carrying out contact tracing. And 193 close contacts are required to undergo home-quarantine.
This tragic development comes after Sarawak confirmed 11 new Covid-19 infections today as well.
As of today (17 Mar), Malaysia has a total of 566 confirmed cases with only 42 recoveries. They are now the worst-hit country by Covid-19 in Southeast Asia.
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This is breaking news. More information to come soon.
Featured image adapted from South China Morning Post.
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