Ipoh: The issuance of mountain guide licences to Orang Asli volunteers who assisted in the search and rescue (SAR) operation for a missing female hiker at Gunung Batu Putih here should be considered, given their extensive knowledge of the forest terrain in the area.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the coordinator of the volunteers, who is also the Special Officer to the Perak Menteri Besar for Orang Asli affairs, Chew Ho Beng, said the proposal could help reduce the risk of hikers becoming lost or missing, while also facilitating search efforts in the event of emergencies in the area. He emphasized the Orang Asli community's deep understanding of the forest environment, which includes trails and natural signs often difficult for outsiders to identify.
Chew mentioned that the proposal intends to reduce hiking risks and is not meant to belittle anyone. He stated the unique advantages of the Orang Asli community in assisting hikers and preventing them from getting lost during hiking activities. Recently, 22 Orang Asli volunteers from the Semai tribe embarked on a journey to Kem Sukaneka and Gunung Rayu to search for Jaslinda Saludin, 49, missing since May 24 while hiking the 2,132-metre mountain.
He suggested that if implemented, the licences should be restricted for use only at Gunung Batu Putih, highlighting the volunteers' specialised expertise in that area. Chew pointed out that most volunteers lack permanent employment, and this opportunity could provide them with a stable income and recognize their expertise.
Chew also referenced the recognition given to the Senoi Praaq, which acknowledged the Orang Asli community's skills in navigating forest terrain. He believes the volunteers possess similar skills and should be given the same opportunity for guide licences to demonstrate their capabilities.
Jaslinda was reported to have started the Trans Spencer Chapman hike with 13 others and two Forestry Mountain Guides (MGP) via the Pos Gedung-Gunung Bah Gading-Gunung Batu Putih-Kuala Woh route. She and another hiker, Mohd Hanafi Neikmad, 41, experienced health issues and paused their climb. However, Jaslinda, a clerk at a private company, reportedly continued her journey to the mountain summit and was last seen on May 24.