The search and rescue (SAR) operation for missing hiker Jaslinda Saludin, 49, has entered its 14th day with no fresh breakthroughs, although search efforts have been scaled down since Thursday.
Perak Fire and Rescue Department Operations Division assistant director Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad said several items were discovered along riverbanks, slopes and search routes throughout the operation, but none were linked to the missing hiker.
He said a Special Tactical Operation and Rescue Team of Malaysia (STORM) unit comprising eight personnel, along with two Forestry Department mountain guides, had completed their deployment and exited the search area safely at 11.30am on Thursday.
Sabarodzi added that five search teams involving Forestry Department personnel and mountain guides continued operations in designated sectors during the latest phase of the mission.
Orang Asli volunteers who joined the search effort since June 3 also remain involved, although no significant findings have been reported so far.
Authorities said several volunteer applications were rejected due to compliance with standard operating procedures, equipment requirements and coordination issues with forestry officers.
However, selected volunteer groups were allowed to assist after meeting all necessary conditions.
The Fire and Rescue Department also highlighted the difficult terrain faced by search teams, describing steep slopes, slippery trails, river crossings and ravines as daily challenges affecting operations.
Jaslinda went missing during the Trans Spencer Chapman expedition, which began on May 23 at 2am involving 13 climbers and two mountain guides along the Pos Gedung–Gunung Bah Gading–Gunung Batu Putih–Kuala Woh route.
She and another climber reportedly experienced health issues during the expedition, before she was later said to have continued towards the summit and was last seen on May 24.
