SARATOK – Members of the Civil Defence Force (APM) in Saratok demonstrated their versatility and commitment to public service this weekend by assisting a resident in retrieving a lost mobile phone.
The incident, which occurred at the Saratok Mini Stadium on Saturday, 18 July 2026, highlighted the agency’s readiness to handle even minor but distressing situations for the community.
The operation began after the Saratok District APM received a call from a member of the public who had accidentally dropped their cellphone into a drainage system within the stadium premises.
Recognising the distress caused by the loss of such an essential personal item, the control centre immediately mobilised a response team.
Three APM personnel were dispatched to the location to assess the situation. Upon arrival, the team identified the specific section of the drain where the device had fallen.
Using appropriate retrieval equipment, they carefully extracted the phone without causing further damage to the device or the infrastructure. The operation was conducted safely and under controlled conditions, ensuring no risk to the personnel involved.
Once recovered, the cellphone was promptly returned to its relieved owner. While the incident did not involve life-threatening emergencies or major disasters, it underscored the important role that civil defence units play in daily community support.
For many individuals, a mobile phone is a vital link to family, work, and emergency services, making its recovery a significant relief.
The Saratok District APM reiterated its dedication to providing high-quality service to the public, regardless of the scale of the request. This approach helps build trust and rapport between the agency and the local population, encouraging residents to seek assistance when needed.
Such incidents are common in public spaces where drains and grates are present. The APM’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to these calls demonstrates their operational efficiency and resourcefulness.
It also serves as a reminder to the public to remain cautious with personal belongings in areas with open drainage systems.
The successful retrieval at the Saratok Mini Stadium adds to the long list of community assistance cases handled by the APM across Sarawak. From flood relief to minor rescues, the force continues to be a visible and reliable presence in rural and semi-urban districts.
Local authorities often praise the APM for their willingness to go beyond traditional disaster management roles. By addressing everyday concerns, they contribute to the overall well-being and satisfaction of the community.
This holistic approach to public service aligns with broader government goals of enhancing civic engagement and support structures.
Residents are encouraged to continue reporting issues or seeking help through official channels. The responsiveness of the Saratok APM team in this instance sets a positive example for other districts, showing that no request for assistance is too small when it comes to serving the people.
As technology becomes increasingly integrated into daily life, the loss of devices like smartphones can cause significant disruption. The APM’s intervention in this case prevented such inconvenience for the owner, allowing them to resume their activities without the stress of replacing a costly item.
The event concluded with the owner expressing gratitude for the swift action taken by the three members of Squad Delta. Their professionalism and care in handling the retrieval process ensured a positive outcome for all parties involved.
