Story highlights 11 dead and others still missing after earthquake hits Mount Kinabalu

167 climbers safely rescued from by mountain guides, authorities say

Climber says escape was 'very difficult;' 'disappointed' with government for slow response

(CNN) Eleven people have died after a powerful earthquake struck a Southeast Asian mountain.

"Sad Day! I have just announced the recovery of 9 (additional) bodies by rescue teams," Malaysia's tourism minister Masidi Manjun said on Twitter. "Trying to get helis to bring them down. Fatalities to date: 11."

Mountain guides have helped 167 climbers to safety after the quake stranded them atop Kinabalu, one of Southeast Asia's tallest peaks, according to the official Twitter account of the Malaysia Fire and Rescue Department.

Two of those confirmed dead were Rubbi Sappingi, a 30-year-old mountain guide attached to Amazing Borneo Tours, and Rachael Ho Yann Shiuan, 12, a Singaporean student.

Eight people remain unaccounted for, added Manjun, saying that the nine new bodies recovered Saturday had not yet been identified.

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