By: Zaki Salleh
TAPAH: Search and rescue (SAR) operations for missing hiker Jaslinda Saludin at Gunung Batu Putih were intensified today with the deployment of additional personnel and aerial assets.
A total of 16 rescuers were flown into the operation area aboard an AW139 helicopter to expand the search coverage.
According to the Perak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), the team comprised members of the Special Tactical Operation and Rescue Team of Malaysia (STORM), PERHILITAN’s Team Pelindung, the Forestry Department, and experienced mountain guides.
The personnel were deployed to the summit of Gunung Batu Putih and to a newly established winching point at Kem Kantoi.
At the same time, PERHILITAN’s Team Pelindung retrieved footage from surveillance cameras installed along forest trails for analysis in the hope of uncovering new leads in the search effort.
Earlier, 34 personnel had remained overnight in the operation area to continue search activities.
With today’s additional deployment, the total number of personnel involved in the SAR operation has increased to 50.
The integrated operation involves multiple government agencies and volunteers working together to locate the missing hiker as quickly as possible.
Meanwhile, Saarani Mohamad visited the SAR Operations Control Centre and received the latest briefing on the progress of the mission.
He expressed hope that Jaslinda would be found safe and urged the public to continue praying for her well-being and for strength and resilience for her family during this difficult time.
