By Zaki Salleh
IPOH: The search and rescue (SAR) operation at Gunung Batu Putih near Tapah is continuing as authorities intensify efforts to locate a missing female hiker, identified as Jaslinda Saludin, 49.
The victim was reported missing while taking part in a hiking expedition at Gunung Batu Putih on May 23 via the Pos Gedung–Gunung Bah Gading–Gunung Batu Putih–Kuala Woh route.
Developments on the SAR operation were shared by the Perak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) through updates posted on its official Facebook page.
JBPM Perak has strengthened the operation with the deployment of an additional 12 personnel, including members of the Special Tactical Operation and Rescue Team of Malaysia (STORM), to widen the search sectors.
A total of eight STORM personnel spent the night on the mountain peak to enable search operations to begin earlier and cover more challenging hilly terrain.
The operation is also being assisted by local mountain guides, who play a crucial role in navigating routes and identifying high-risk and difficult areas.
Earlier, a male hiker, Mohd Hanafi Neikmad, 41, was successfully rescued after suffering breathing difficulties and was evacuated using an AW139 aircraft.
The overall SAR operation is being led by PgKB I Sabarodzi Hj Nor Ahmad, who is coordinating search strategies across all operational sectors.
Meanwhile, Perak JBPM director Datuk Sayani Saidon also visited the Fire Operations Control Post (PKOB) at Kuala Woh to monitor the latest developments on the ground.
The operational briefing focused on manpower strength, the division of search sectors and the latest measures being carried out in the field.
Several agencies, including the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), General Operations Force (PGA), Forestry Department and the Fire and Rescue Air Unit, have also been mobilised to assist in the search effort.
The SAR operation is being carried out in an integrated manner with the full commitment of all agencies and mountain guides despite challenging terrain and weather conditions.
(Photo: JBPM Perak)
