Search efforts for missing hiker Jaslinda Saludin resume at Gunung Batu Putih with improved GIRN communications and aerial support.
TAPAH: The search and rescue (SAR) operation for Jaslinda Saludin, 49, who was reported missing while trekking Gunung Batu Putih, continued today with improvements made to communication facilities under the Government Integrated Radio Network (GIRN) at the control centre in Kuala Woh.
Perak Fire and Rescue Department assistant director (Operations) Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad said the SAR operation would focus on routes leading to Gunung Rayu and Pos Musoh, which are believed to be among the possible paths taken by Jaslinda.
“The equipment and communication systems will also be enhanced with the presence of Sapura, the party responsible for the GIRN (Government Integrated Radio Network) system at the control post (PKB) location,” he said in a statement.
Today’s operation would continue with the assistance of an AW139 aircraft from the JBPM Northern Region Air Base, with 12 rescuers deployed by air to assist eight rescuers who remained at the summit of Gunung Batu Putih after spending the night there.
He added that the PKB remained at Kuala Woh, while the Forward Control Post (PKH) involving aircraft operations was stationed at the 3rd Battalion of the General Operations Force (GOF) Camp in Bidor.
Jaslinda was reported to have begun the Trans Spencer Chapman expedition at 2 am on May 23 via the Pos Gedung-Gunung Bah Gading-Gunung Batu Putih-Kuala Woh route.
She and another climber, Mohd Hanafi Neikmad, 41, reportedly experienced health complications and stopped to rest. However, Jaslinda was believed to have continued the climb towards the summit and was last seen by a Forestry Mountain Guide (MGP) member at about 7.30 am on Sunday.
Mohd Hanafi was successfully evacuated by the JBPM team using a helicopter yesterday.
