KAPIT – A search and rescue operation (Ops SAR) was launched in Kapit District on Friday following reports of a missing person at Rumah Bunsi, Kampung Atas Kubu, along Jalan Sri Balleh.
The Kapit Civil Defence Force (APM) confirmed receiving information from the Kapit Fire and Rescue Department (BOMBA) at 1:42 pm. The missing individual was identified as 21-year-old Brandon Jawa Anak Mamba.
The operation was led by the Kapit District Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), with support from APM and BOMBA.
The team mobilised at 2:00 pm and reached the site by 4:00 pm. Upon arrival, the operation commander conducted a safety briefing before the search began.
A search radius of one kilometre around the reported location was established. Despite a thorough effort, the victim was not found by the end of the first day.
Authorities later announced that the operation was temporarily suspended due to safety concerns and adverse weather conditions.
The Kapit District PDRM, acting as the operation commander, ordered the postponement, with plans to resume the search the following day.
Ops SAR in Malaysia typically involves close coordination between multiple agencies, including the police, civil defence, and fire services.
Such operations are especially critical in rural districts like Kapit, where challenging terrain and unpredictable weather can hinder rescue efforts.
The case has raised concern among local residents, who have expressed their hope for the safe return of the missing youth.
In Sarawak, search and rescue missions often highlight the importance of inter-agency cooperation, particularly in hard-to-reach areas.
Kapit APM has urged residents to stay vigilant and provide any information that could assist in locating Brandon. The search is expected to continue with expanded coverage and further collaboration between agencies.
