6-7-2024 (KUALA LUMPUR) A Malaysian soldier who went missing during a border mapping operation has been found alive and well after enduring 19 days in the dense jungles of Sarawak. Private Muhammad Syafiq Hilmi Abd Halim, from the 7th Battalion of the Border Regiment (RS), was discovered by search and rescue teams this morning, bringing an end to a extensive multi-agency effort.
The Malaysian Army Headquarters confirmed that Private Muhammad Syafiq was located at 11:29 am, concluding the gruelling search operation dubbed ‘Op Ukur’. The soldier, who had been stationed at Kidurong Camp in Bintulu, was participating in a joint operation with the Department of Survey and Mapping Malaysia (JUPEM) when he became separated from his unit on 18 June.
“We are relieved to report that Private Muhammad Syafiq has been found safe, with his equipment and weapons intact,” a spokesperson for the Malaysian Army stated. “While weakened by hunger and dehydration, he is in stable condition and has received initial medical treatment at the discovery site.”
The successful rescue was attributed to the soldier’s adherence to survival training protocols. Muhammad Syafiq reportedly followed guide markers along the designated pilot route near the search area, which ultimately led to his discovery.
The operation that Muhammad Syafiq was involved in was part of a larger initiative to mark and measure the Malaysia-Brunei Darussalam border from Ulu Tutong to Bebuloh, Limbang. This mission, overseen by Headquarters 31 Border Brigade, was scheduled to run from 11 June to 2 September 2024.
In the wake of the successful rescue, the Malaysian Army expressed its gratitude to the various organisations involved in the search effort. “We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Sarawak government, Royal Malaysian Air Force, Royal Malaysia Police, Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department, and JUPEM for their unwavering cooperation and commitment,” the statement read. Special acknowledgement was also given to the Royal Brunei Armed Forces for their support during the operation.
The soldier’s family, who had been anxiously awaiting news, has been informed of his safe recovery. The Malaysian Army has arranged for them to be flown to Sarawak at the organisation’s expense for an emotional reunion.
As the immediate concern for Private Muhammad Syafiq’s safety subsides, attention now turns to understanding the circumstances that led to his separation from the unit. The Malaysian Army has announced plans to establish a Board of Inquiry to investigate the incident thoroughly. “This inquiry will help us determine the root cause of the incident and identify areas where we can improve our existing standard operating procedures,” a military official explained.
