Hilir perak: The Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT) has allocated substantial funds to keep the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) fully prepared for emergencies at all times. Minister Nga Kor Ming announced the approval of RM267 million this year to upgrade equipment for search and rescue missions.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, under the 12th Malaysia Plan, RM1.3 billion has been approved for the department to acquire critical assets, ensuring readiness for unforeseen disasters. Minister Nga emphasized the importance of maintaining a 100 percent standby status for the Fire and Rescue Department.

The announcement was made during a briefing on the Sungai Perak Phase 1 Integrated River Basin Development Project and related works in the Hilir Perak district. The minister was responding to inquiries about enhancing JBPM's search and rescue operations, particularly following the recent rescue of climber Jaslinda Saludin near Kampung Lubuk Gaharu in Tapah.

Minister Nga mentioned that the ministry would provide written details concerning the estimated costs of Jaslinda's search and rescue mission. He stressed that the priority was her safe recovery and acknowledged the need to address communication issues encountered during the operation.

Jaslinda was part of a climbing expedition with 13 others and two Forestry Mountain Guides on the Trans Spencer Chapman trail. The climb commenced at 2 am on May 23, traversing Pos Gedung through Gunung Bah Gading, Gunung Batu Putih, to Kuala Woh. She and another climber, Mohd Hanafi Neikmad, paused due to health issues, but Jaslinda reportedly continued toward the peak and was declared missing after being last seen on May 24.