Strengthening trail safety

Jungle safety: Malaysia must transform from a reactive ‘search and rescue’ culture to a preventive ‘safety and standards’ model, says the writer. — Filepic/The Star

THE safe return of Jaslinda Saludin after 14 days lost on Gunung Batu Putih, Perak, is a moment for gratitude – and for honest reflection. Our search and rescue (SAR) teams worked tirelessly in treacherous terrain. Many volunteers, including Orang Asli trackers, gave their time and energy. We owe them respect.

Yet the fact that Jaslinda was ultimately found by a villager, not by the organised search, suggests room for improvement – not in effort, but in systems. Let us focus on lessons, not fault.