Soldier safely found after missing for 17 days

LIMBANG: Private Muhammad Syafiq Hilmi Abd Halim, a member of the 7th Battalion, Rejimen Sempadan, based at Kem Kidurong, Bintulu has been found safe after being missing for 17 days during an operational survey in Limban.

The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) in a press statement confirmed that he was discovered by the Search and Rescue (SAR) team on July 6 at approximately 11.29am.

“Private Syafiq was able to locate the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Team A by following deliberately placed trail markers.

“He was found in a weakened state due to hunger and dehydration but was otherwise safe, with his equipment and weapon intact.

“He received initial medical treatment at the location and will undergo further medical examinations,” the statement said.

The Malaysian Army has informed Private Syafiq’s family and arranged for their travel to Sarawak, with all expenses covered.

Syafiq, serving as a security escort for Op Ukur with the Department of Survey and Mapping (JUPEM) Sarawak, was reported missing on June 18.

His absence was noticed when the team leader found out the soldier was missing from the rear position of the group, located two kilometres along the Malaysia-Brunei border ridge from boundary marker E500 towards E600.