PRELIMINARY findings into the death of national archer Haziq Kamaruddin have identified coronary artery atherosclerosis as the cause of death, according to the Health Ministry (MOH).

In a statement, MOH’s senior consultant for forensic medicine Dr Zahari Noor said it had not found any links to Covid-19 vaccination so far.

Haziq was among 242 athletes, who were vaccinated recently.

Atherosclerosis refers to a condition linked to the build-up of plaque in the arteries which could limit the flow of oxygen-rich blood to the organs.

The plaques usually comprises fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances found in the blood. Over time, plaque hardens and narrows the arteries.

Zahari said the death was investigated as sudden death as reported by the Kajang district police, and a post mortem was then ordered to determine the cause of death.

Zahari also confirmed that the late archer tested negative for Covid-19.

“The post-mortem results showed that the death was caused by complications in blood supply to the heart due to changes in atherosclerosis,” he said.

“However, further investigations are ongoing and a few lab results are expected. However, till now there is no proof that there is a direct link between the death and the Covid-19 vaccination,” he added.

Haziq, 27, was pronounced dead at 9.37am at the Kajang Hospital yesterday.

According to a family member, Haziq collapsed after performing the Subuh prayer at his house in Kajang.

He was laid to rest at the Taman Koperasi Serkam Darat Muslim cemetery in Merlimau early today. – May 15, 2021.