Search for missing hiker Jaslinda Saludin focuses on new leads

The search and rescue operation for Jaslinda Saludin, a 49-year-old woman who went missing on Mount Batu Putih in Tapah, Malaysia, on May 24, is now concentrating on new information and clues. The operation, which will be conducted on a smaller scale starting tomorrow, will be managed and coordinated by the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) with support from the local community and volunteers.

Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad, Assistant Director of Operations for JBPM Perak, stated that his department will monitor any current information or leads that could aid in locating the victim. "We will take action if we receive new information or discoveries, including going to the identified location to conduct further searches," he said during a press conference at the Tapah District Police Headquarters.

Authorities are emphasizing that any individuals or groups wishing to join the search efforts, including experienced mountaineers or volunteers, must first report to the Tapah Fire and Rescue Station (BBP Tapah). This is crucial for coordinating their participation with the Forestry Department, as the search area is within a forest reserve that requires official permission and monitoring.

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We will take action if we receive new information or discoveries, including going to the identified location to conduct further searches.

The Incident Control Center (PKTK) for the operation has been closed, and the ongoing SAR will now operate from BBP Tapah. "So, if anyone wants to get involved, they need to report to BBP Tapah," Nor Ahmad added. He also noted the potential for the local indigenous community, who frequently traverse the forest, to provide valuable information if they find any clues related to Jaslinda's disappearance.

Currently, 23 personnel from the fire department, Forestry Department, and the 3rd Battalion of the General Operations Force (PGA) have been safely extracted via an Agusta AW139 helicopter. A smaller team of 10, comprising eight members from the Special Malaysia Disaster Assistance and Rescue Team (SMART) and two Forestry Department mountaineers, has been deployed back to a specific sector near the summit of Mount Batu Putih for a thorough sweep.

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So, if anyone wants to get involved, they need to report to BBP Tapah.