In a tragic incident, a Malaysian climber has lost his life due to exposure and altitude-related illness while sheltering in a snow cave near the summit of Denali, North America's tallest mountain. The climber, identified as Zulkifli Bin Yusof, 36, was found deceased at an elevation of 19,600 feet (5,974 meters) in Denali National Park and Preserve.

According to park spokesman Paul Ollig, Yusof was part of a three-man climbing team from the Alpine Club of Malaysia. The team sent an SOS signal in the early hours of Tuesday, reporting that they were hypothermic and unable to descend after reaching Denali's summit, standing at a staggering 20,310 feet (6,190 meters).

Search and rescue efforts were severely hampered by adverse weather conditions, including strong winds, making it impossible to conduct a rescue operation immediately. However, late Thursday, a high-altitude helicopter managed to drop a bag with survival gear near the snow cave and spotted a climber waving at them. Unfortunately, the winds prevented an immediate rescue.

On Friday morning, under improved weather conditions, the park rangers were able to successfully rescue one of Yusof's partners, a 47-year-old climber, who had endured days of cloudy and windy conditions. This climber was later medevaced to an Anchorage hospital for further treatment.

The third member of the climbing team, a 48-year-old man, was rescued on Tuesday night after descending to a 17,200-foot (5,243-meter) camp. He suffered from severe frostbite and hypothermia and required immediate medical attention.

It was revealed that two of the climbers had prior experience on Denali, and all three had previously scaled other high-elevation mountains. The rescued climber, surprisingly, was in relatively good condition upon arrival at the hospital, considering the ordeal he had endured.

The authorities have decided not to disclose the names of the survivors or any additional details about them. The recovery of Yusof's body was completed on Friday night by the National Park Service.

This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the harsh and unpredictable conditions that climbers face while attempting to conquer Denali's towering peak. Park officials continue to urge climbers to be adequately prepared and equipped to ensure their safety in this challenging environment.