TAPAH — Fourteen days after vanishing into the dense canopy of Gunung Batu Putih, hiker Jaslinda Saludin, 49, has been found safe. The supply chain executive, who disappeared while on a group expedition, is now recovering in stable condition at Tapah Hospital.
Jaslinda was discovered at approximately 5 p.m. on Saturday near Kampung Lubuk Gaharu, Pos Musoh, by a local resident. Nazri Bah Eng, who was heading to the river to fish, spotted the exhausted hiker and immediately brought her to the village chief’s residence for urgent assistance, food, and water.
Perak Health Director Datuk Dr. Feisul Idzwan Mustapha confirmed that Jaslinda underwent a CT scan at Teluk Intan Hospital to ensure no internal complications resulted from her ordeal. While initial examinations revealed no serious injuries, she remains under close medical supervision to monitor her recovery from exhaustion and various minor wounds, including insect bites sustained while navigating the rugged terrain.
Recounting her survival, the hiker shared that she spent nearly two weeks wandering the wilderness after becoming separated from her group during the Trans Spencer Chapman expedition. She navigated steep slopes and difficult terrain, surviving by finding water sources, including dew and rainwater gathered from plants.
The search and rescue operation, which saw intense collaboration between the Fire and Rescue Department, police, local volunteers, and the Orang Asli community, was officially terminated following her discovery. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim expressed his gratitude to all rescue teams and the local community members who provided the crucial support that led to her safe return.
Medical authorities state that the duration of her hospital stay will be determined by her ongoing recovery progress. For now, the focus remains on her physical healing after a journey that has captivated and relieved the nation.
