Wakaf tapai: The Fire Department is undertaking a review of its Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for mountain climbing and other extreme sports. Its director-general, Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad, announced that this initiative aims to prevent incidents involving missing hikers. This decision follows the recent case of Jaslinda Saludin, who was missing for 14 days on Gunung Batu Putih in Ipoh before being found safe at the Lubuk Gaharu Orang Asli settlement.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the department plans to collaborate with relevant parties, including the Forestry Department and state park management authorities. These discussions will focus on areas frequented by hikers. Nor Hisham emphasized that outdoor recreational activities are gaining popularity as a healthy lifestyle choice, which the department supports and encourages.

The director-general stated that the department aims to enhance SOPs and regulations to reduce the frequency of missing person incidents. Since the department does not have direct control over these areas, identifying relevant authorities for enforcement efforts is essential. Additionally, the department is considering strengthening the registration system and forest trail marking measures. These comments were made after Nor Hisham officiated the closing ceremony of the 2026 Skill Parade and Competition at the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Academy (Eastern Region).

The event saw 287 participants from across the country competing in 10 events, with Kuala Lumpur JBPM winning the overall championship and receiving RM20,000 in prize money along with the challenge trophy.

Nor Hisham also addressed criticism regarding the high costs of the department's search and rescue efforts, including those for missing hikers like Jaslinda. He emphasized that the department's primary duty is to safeguard lives and ensure safety. Operations begin with the assumption that the victim is alive, requiring immediate, sufficient manpower mobilization.

While cost is a consideration, Nor Hisham stressed that the victim's life and rescue team safety are the top priorities. He assured that operations are managed efficiently without unnecessary expenditure.