Perak: The Perak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) has proposed a review of the standard operating procedure (SOP) concerning the age limits for children involved in extreme activities and hiking expeditions in mountainous regions.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Perak JBPM director Datuk Sayani Saidon emphasized the importance of this review to mitigate risks associated with such high-risk activities. She highlighted the increased risk of physical injury for children navigating challenging terrains compared to adult climbers. Datuk Sayani suggested that if no SOP exists, it is crucial for the relevant authorities to address this matter with careful and transparent consideration to ensure the safety of young climbers.
The proposal comes in the wake of an incident involving six climbers, including two children, who were reported missing during the Trans Gerah Expedition in Gunung Gerah, Kelantan. The group, which included Wan Ahmad Aslam Wan Zairudin, 39, his wife Siti Zulaiha Norizan, 39, and their children Diya Raisha, 13, and Ahmad Raef, 9, along with two mountain guides, were found safe after a period of uncertainty. They were released from Pos Kemar and underwent health checks at the Post Health Clinic Kemar.
The climbers were initially reported missing after failing to exit the forest by the scheduled date of September 3. Concerned family members filed a police report when the group did not return as expected.
In addition to the JBPM's recommendation, Malaysian Mountain Guides Association (PMGM) chairman Muzafar Mohamad has urged for restrictions on high-risk and extended-duration climbing activities to individuals aged 17 and above. He pointed out that routes requiring more than three to four days of travel demand significant physical and mental endurance, which younger participants may lack. Muzafar emphasized that such measures are essential, particularly for mountain crossings that demand high levels of stamina and the ability to handle emergencies and extreme weather conditions in forested areas.