Jaslinda Saludin was found by locals on the morning of 6/6. She was one of 12 tourists, along with two guides, who embarked on a trek up Gunung Batu Putih, Perak state, starting on 23/5. One day later, she became separated from her group and was reported missing.
The reason for getting lost was that Saludin and a 41-year-old companion experienced health issues and had to stop. After resting, Saludin continued the journey alone and subsequently lost contact with her group.
After her rescue, the tourist stated she "felt like she was about to die." As she had no food, she went without sustenance for 14 days. Her survival was solely sustained by natural water sources in the forest, primarily water collected in pitcher plants and dew.
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A pitcher plant, a species found in the rainforests of Malaysia. Photo: Freepik |
Sabarodzi Nor Ahmad, Assistant Operations Director of the Perak Fire and Rescue Department, reported that at one point, Saludin had no water for three days.
On the morning of 6/6, Nazri Bah Eng and his family were fishing when they spotted Saludin stumbling near a river in Lubuk Gaharu village. "We saw her crying in a weakened state, holding a plastic bag full of mushrooms," Nazri said. Saludin sustained only minor head injuries and had numerous insect bites.
When she met with media, she apologized for causing authorities to launch a large-scale search. "I apologize for causing trouble for everyone," she said.
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Rescue workers assist Jaslinda Saludin after she was found in a forest in Perak state, central Malaysia, on 6/6. Photo: AFP |
Muzafar Mohamad, Trekking Guide Coordinator for the Perak Forestry Department, expressed surprise at finding the victim in an area that rescue forces had previously searched multiple times, both upstream and downstream. The terrain there is complex, featuring valleys, waterfalls, and rugged paths, making it difficult to access even for experienced guides.
On 6/6, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim expressed relief on social media and extended his gratitude to the rescue team and the Orang Asli indigenous community in Lubuk Gaharu for protecting and saving the tourist's life.
Gunung Batu Putih is the 8th highest mountain on Peninsular Malaysia, standing over 2,100 meters tall. This climbing route demands high skill, with a 27-kilometer round trip. Participants typically need 16-22 hours to complete it.
Anh Minh (According to CNA)
