SEMPORNA – A soldier has died while another remains missing during Operation PASIR Semporna Sector Series 3/2025 in the waters off Mataking Island on Friday.
According to a statement from the Public Affairs Division, Joint Task Force Headquarters 2 Forward Operating Base (POH) Kukusan Camp, Tawau, the deceased has been identified as Private Muhammad Irfan Haiqal Abdullah, 20, from Company C, Fifth Battalion, Royal Malay Regiment (5 RAMD).
The army confirmed that Muhammad Irfan was found unconscious before being declared dead despite emergency treatment administered by the medical team at the scene.
Meanwhile, Private Muhammad Zulkarnain Jaffar, 27, also a member of 5 RAMD, has yet to be located.
“Search and rescue (SAR) efforts are being actively conducted with the cooperation of various agencies, including the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and the Sahabat team,” the statement read.
Authorities believe the incident may have been caused by drowning, though investigations are still ongoing to determine the exact cause.
The statement added that updates on the progress of the SAR operation will be provided from time to time.
Operation PASIR, which has been ongoing since 2000, is a continuous security effort to safeguard the waters of Sabah’s east coast against threats such as cross-border crime and intrusion by armed groups. The operation involves the Malaysian Armed Forces working closely with security agencies to strengthen maritime security and protect the sovereignty of the nation.
The tragic incident has brought a sombre reminder of the risks faced by military personnel while on duty. The Armed Forces extended their condolences to the family of Private Muhammad Irfan and assured that all necessary support and assistance will be given.
As of Saturday evening, the search for Private Zulkarnain continues, with teams combing the waters around Mataking Island in hopes of locating him.
