A soldier from the 7th Battalion Border Regiment (RS), stationed at Kem Kidurong in Bintulu, has gone missing while on duty during 'Op Ukur'—a joint operation with the Sarawak Department of Survey and Mapping (JUPEM).
The soldier, identified as Private Muhammad Syafiq Hilmi Abd Halim, was performing escort duties in the Ulu Tutong to Bebuloh survey area along the Malaysia-Brunei border. His assignment, under the supervision of the 31st Border Brigade Headquarters, began on June 11 and was set to conclude on September 2.
According to a statement from the Malaysian Army (TDM), Private Muhammad Syafiq was discovered missing on June 18 at noon. The group leader realized his absence from the rear position of their formation. The incident took place approximately two kilometers along the Malaysia-Brunei border ridge, between the E500 and E600 border markers.
Immediate search efforts were initiated by the group, which consisted of two TDM personnel and five JUPEM members. Despite their efforts, they were unable to locate Private Muhammad Syafiq.
In response to the situation, the Malaysian Army (TDM) escalated its search operations starting on June 19. The intensified efforts included cooperation from the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM) and other relevant agencies, all coordinated by the National Security Council (MKN).
The Royal Brunei Armed Forces (ABDB) also joined the search operation, deploying their assets to aid in the efforts to locate the missing soldier.
Private Muhammad Syafiq's disappearance has drawn significant concern, prompting a comprehensive and collaborative search operation along the rugged border terrain. The joint effort highlights the commitment and urgency of both Malaysian and Bruneian authorities to resolve the situation. The search operations are continuing, demonstrating the resilience and dedication of the involved personnel in the hope of finding Private Muhammad Syafiq and bringing him to safety.
This incident underscores the challenges and risks faced by military and survey personnel working in remote and difficult environments. The Malaysian Army remains committed to investigating the circumstances surrounding the disappearance and ensuring the safety of its personnel during such operations.
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