SEMPORNA: A soldier found dead yesterday on Pulau Mataking is believed to have drowned during Operasi PASIR.
Another remains missing.
Joint Task Force 2 commander Brigadier General Abd Munir Abd Rani said the case is under investigation to determine the exact cause.
He said the battalion has contacted their families and ensured that welfare support and arrangements are being provided immediately.
“Efforts to locate the missing soldier are being carried out, and any developments will be announced from time to time.
“Joint Task Force 2 extends its deepest condolences and sympathy over the death of its soldier who served the nation’s security,” Abd Munir said in a statement today.
Two soldiers from Company C of the Fifth Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment (5 RAMD) were reported missing during a routine attendance check yesterday.
A search was immediately launched at the location, including assistance from boats belonging to a nearby resort.
One of the soldiers was found unconscious along the island’s beach at 7.25pm.
He was, however, pronounced dead despite medical assistance, including CPR, being administered by the resort’s medical officer.
The deceased has been identified as Private Muhammad Irfan Haiqal Abdullah, 20, while the missing soldier is Private Muhammad Zulkarnain Jaffar, 27.
A search and rescue (SAR) operation is being carried out with the cooperation of multiple agencies, including the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and partner teams in the operation area.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
