A Malaysian hiker who went missing during a challenging mountain trek has been found alive after surviving nearly two weeks in the wilderness, in a rescue operation being described as a miracle.
Jaslinda Saludin, 49, an experienced hiker, was discovered on Saturday in a forested area near Tapah in Malaysia’s Perak state, ending an extensive search operation that captured national attention.
Saludin had been missing since embarking on the demanding 34-kilometre Trans Spencer Chapman trek along the Titiwangsa mountain range. She was last seen after leaving a rest camp alone to climb Gunung Batu Putih, commonly known as White Rock Mountain.
Her disappearance triggered a large-scale rescue mission involving helicopters, Malaysia’s Fire and Rescue Department, local authorities and indigenous community members who assisted in searching the rugged terrain.
According to local reports, Saludin survived by drinking river water and eating berries and edible forest plants while stranded in the remote wilderness.
She was eventually located by local fishermen and rescued safely before being transferred to a hospital for medical treatment.
Officials said she suffered minor injuries, including insect bites and wounds to her head, but her condition was stable.
Friends and family expressed relief after her rescue. One of her close friends described her survival and recovery as a miracle, saying prayers had been answered after days of uncertainty.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim also thanked all rescue personnel and volunteers involved in the successful operation, praising their dedication and efforts in bringing the missing hiker home safely.
The remarkable survival story has drawn widespread attention across Malaysia and highlighted the risks of solo hiking in remote mountain regions.
