KUCHING: The Automated External Defibrillator (AED) at Stutong Community Market was not missing but was used in an attempt to save a life following a medical emergency there last month.
Kuching South City Council (MBKS), Mayor Datuk Wee Hong Seng, was responding to public speculation following an incident on December 27, 2025, when an elderly woman collapsed at a cake stall on the ground floor of the market at about 8:15 am.
According to Wee, members of the public immediately stepped in to perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) while an AED provided by MBKS was retrieved and deployed.
An ambulance was also contacted and arrived later to continue medical treatment.
“Despite the efforts of those present, including the use of the AED and assistance from emergency services, the victim could not be revived,” he said, adding that the incident should be treated with dignity and not politicised.
Wee stressed that AEDs are installed for emergency use and, once deployed, must undergo assessment and replacement of pads before being returned to service in accordance with medical and safety standard operating procedures.
“Following the incident, MBKS immediately initiated the replacement process. The supplier was contacted, the unit was assessed and a replacement AED was procured,” he said, adding that a new AED has since been installed at Stutong Community Market and is fully functional.
He also highlighted the importance of early defibrillation in cardiac arrest cases, noting that studies have shown survival rates can improve significantly when AEDs are used within the first few minutes.
“AED access, proper training and calm, informed action are crucial in saving lives. Every minute without defibrillation reduces survival chances,” he said.
Wee reaffirmed MBKS’ commitment to public safety, saying the council will continue installing and maintaining AEDs as well as working with communities to improve emergency response readiness.
“Public service is about being present before a tragedy happens, not about being the loudest voice after one,” he said.
