Tapah: The appreciation and assistance extended by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to the Orang Asli families involved in the search and rescue (SAR) operation for missing climber Jaslinda Saludin has been described as meaningful recognition of the community's contributions and capabilities in supporting emergency response efforts.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Special Officer to the Perak Menteri Besar for Orang Asli Community Affairs, Chew Ho Beng, emphasized that this gesture highlighted the importance of the Orang Asli community's deep knowledge of forests and remote terrain, particularly in operations involving challenging environments. He noted the active participation of Orang Asli volunteers throughout the operation, which demonstrated a strong spirit of cooperation and a willingness to assist authorities by navigating dense forest areas to help expedite the search for the victim.
Chew stated, "The appreciation expressed by the Deputy Prime Minister is very meaningful because it recognises the Orang Asli community as a strategic partner to rescue teams in operations conducted in forest areas. It also proves that their traditional knowledge and experience of the forest environment are valuable assets that can be utilised in emergency and rescue operations," during an interview at Kampung Orang Asli Ampang Woh.
He further expressed gratitude to the government for its concern for the families of Orang Asli volunteers who took part in the operation by providing assistance to them through the Department of Orang Asli Development (JAKOA). Additionally, Chew thanked the Perak Menteri Besar's Office, the Tapah Member of Parliament, and the office of the MCA Deputy President for their contributions towards safeguarding the welfare of the volunteers and their families.
In a Facebook post yesterday, Ahmad Zahid expressed his gratitude following the successful discovery of Jaslinda, who had been reported missing while hiking at Gunung Batu Putih in Tapah. He acknowledged all parties involved in the SAR operation, including security personnel, rescue agencies, volunteers, and members of the Orang Asli community whose efforts contributed to locating the victim.
As a gesture of appreciation for their commitment and sacrifices, Ahmad Zahid mentioned that JAKOA had channelled assistance to the families of the Orang Asli volunteers who participated in the operation.