Dr Khaw Bee Ling, a specialist at Metro Specialist Hospital in Sungai Petani, Kedah, was reported missing on July 18 while hiking at Croda del Becco.

She was reportedly hiking with a friend when they decided to split up, with Khaw continuing the ascent while her friend turned back, Buletin TV3 reported.

At some point, Khaw managed to send a message to her friend saying she was lost and needed help, but she could not be reached after that.

Her friend contacted the authorities, who launched a search operation using a helicopter, drones and tracker dogs to look for Khaw.

She was found dead in a crevice on July 19.

The authorities believe she had strayed from the mountain’s path and slipped at a rocky area that was steep and slippery, before falling from a height of nearly 100m.