Fire Dept Requires Approval, Screening For Jaslinda Search Volunteers

IPOH, June 4 (Bernama) -- Individuals or groups wishing to participate in the search and rescue (SAR) operation for a female hiker who recently went missing at Gunung Batu Putih near Tapah must first submit an application and undergo screening by the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia (JBPM).

Perak JBPM Operations Division assistant director Sabarozi Nor Ahmad said the screening process is necessary for safety and coordination purposes.

He said the Tapah Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) would compile movement details of individuals or groups intending to take part in the small-scale search mission after they report to the station to obtain approval from the Forestry Department to enter the Permanent Forest Reserve area.

“Participation will be screened by JBPM based on fitness level, experience, competency and expertise.

“JBPM will assist by providing briefings on the search area and ensuring that the equipment and supplies brought into the forest are suitable for the search objectives,” he said in a statement today.

Sabarozi said that according to information from the Perak Forestry Department, the hiking area has been temporarily closed to the public for recreational activities.

Meanwhile, he said that after the Incident Control Post (PKTK) was closed yesterday and operations continued on a smaller scale involving firefighters, mountain guides and the local Orang Asli community, JBPM would provide further assistance based on any new findings, information and the prevailing situation.

“As of today, eight STORM personnel from Perak JBPM together with two Forestry Mountain Guides (MGP) remain in the search sectors and are expected to exit the area this afternoon,” he said.

Yesterday, Sabarozi said the SAR operation for Jaslinda Saludin, 49, who was reported missing while hiking Gunung Batu Putih, would continue using a more focused approach based on new information or leads received.

Earlier reports stated that Jaslinda, together with 13 other individuals and two MGPs, began the Trans Spencer Chapman hike at 2 am on May 23 via the Pos Gedung-Gunung Bah Gading-Gunung Batu Putih-Kuala Woh route.

Jaslinda and another hiker, Mohd Hanafi Neikmad, 41, experienced health issues and stopped the climb. However, the clerk at a private company was reported to have continued towards the summit and was last seen on May 24.

-- BERNAMA