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Kota Kinabalu: A pickleball player who had recently collapsed and lost consciousness after a match at Kolombong Infinity Sport Arena was saved thanks to the presence of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and the swift response of the Lions Ambulance.

The player fainted shortly after the game, prompting people at the venue to rush to assist.

Arena owner Kelvin Chai retrieved an AED that had earlier been installed at the facility by the Lions Club of Kota Kinabalu Vintage, while others contacted the Lions Ambulance.

Paramedics arrived within about 10 minutes, took over the emergency response and transported the player to hospital for further treatment.

Doctors later said the availability of the AED and the timely response helped prevent a more serious outcome.

The AED was installed under the Lions AED Community Project led by Lions Club of Kota Kinabalu Vintage president Harry Vun, which has placed 16 units at schools, sports venues and busy public areas in Kota Kinabalu.

“This incident clearly shows why AED devices must be available in public places. In cases of sudden cardiac arrest, every minute can mean the difference between life and death,” Vun said.

He said the initiative was launched to ensure communities have access to life-saving equipment before medical teams arrive.

“I hope this real-life incident will raise greater awareness about the importance of AEDs and encourage more organisations and individuals to support efforts that strengthen community safety,” he added.

Vun also urged members of the public to learn basic first aid skills and not hesitate to assist during emergencies, noting that quick action within the golden rescue window can help save lives.