KUANTAN, Nov 25 (Bernama) -- The Sultan of Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has ordered the establishment of a dedicated team to handle search and rescue operations in Sungai Pahang.
"It is time for Pahang to have a dedicated team for SAR. We know the hotspots are in Chenor, Temerloh, Jerantut, and Lipis, so we need to mobilise personnel from several districts and states to expedite the operations."
In a post on Kesultanan Pahang's Facebook page, the Pahang Ruler said the team could monitor the situation along Sungai Pahang.
“Also, put up notices and warning signs in every district so that the public, including anglers, will be more cautious," His Royal Highness said after observing the operation to search for a teacher of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Tengku Ampuan Afzan Chenor who went missing while fishing in Sungai Pahang, near the Chenor jetty in Kampung Chenor, here today.
The Pahang Sultan arrived at 1 pm to observe the operation and meet with the victim’s family to express condolences over the incident.
"I hope Cikgu Murdani’s family remains strong during this difficult time. I also hope the operation will successfully locate him,” Al-Sultan Abdullah said.
The Pahang Ruler also reminded those involved in the operation to take the utmost safety precautions due to the weather conditions and strong currents.
The SAR operation for the 53-year-old teacher Murdani Ab Rahman began at 8 pm yesterday, involving the Maran district police and local rescue agencies, including the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), the Civil Defence Force, and the local community.
It was suspended at 9.30 pm due to unfavourable weather conditions. It resumed at 8 am today with additional personnel and assets from other rescue agencies.
According to a statement from Pahang JBPM, today’s operation involved four teams, and the search area has been expanded to 40 kilometres.
-- BERNAMA
