The Ministry of Housing and Local Government approved RM267 million in 2026 to upgrade equipment for search and rescue operations of the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) [1, 2]. This funding comes alongside a broader RM1.3 billion allocation under the 12th Malaysia Plan to acquire critical assets for the department.
Minister Nga Kor Ming announced the funding allocation and a directive for the Fire and Rescue Department to maintain 100 percent standby readiness during a June 7 briefing on the Sungai Perak Phase 1 Integrated River Basin Development Project in Hilir Perak [1, 2]. Nga said, "Under the 12th Malaysia Plan, we also approved RM1.3 billion for the department to acquire critical assets, because we never know when a disaster will strike. For that reason, the Fire and Rescue Department has been ordered to remain on 100 per cent standby at all times" [2].
The announcement was made in response to the recent search and rescue operation for hiker Jaslinda Saludin, 49, who went missing on May 24 and was found safe on June 6 near Kampung Lubuk Gaharu in Tapah [1, 2]. Jaslinda, a supply chain executive, had begun hiking on May 23 at 2 a.m. from Pos Gedung along the Trans Spencer Chapman trail, passing Gunung Bah Gading and Gunung Batu Putih on her way to Kuala Woh. She reportedly continued climbing alone after stopping due to health issues, while another climber also stopped [1, 2].
Minister Nga acknowledged problems with communication during the rescue. "What matters most is that she was found. That’s our priority. Of course, every mission has weaknesses. We will find the causes and fix them," he said [2].
The Fire and Rescue Department remains under orders to be fully ready for emergencies at all times. The RM267 million equipment upgrade forms part of ongoing efforts to enhance the department’s operational effectiveness in critical rescue missions [1, 2].
