It’s WhatsApp to the rescue for stranded hikers

It’s WhatsApp to the rescue for stranded hikers

The two 18-year-olds, who were hiking in the Cherok Tuk Kun recreational forest, sent their location to the fire and rescue department by chat message.

pendaki sesat
The hikers with the rescue team comprising firefighters from Bukit Mertajam and members of the public. (JPBM pic)
BUKIT MERTAJAM:
Two youngsters who got lost while hiking in the Cherok Tok Kun forest near here were swiftly rescued by the fire brigade, thanks to a handy smartphone.

State fire and rescue assistant director John Sagun Francis said the two 18-year-olds sent their location via WhatsApp to his department at 1.16pm.

“A team from the Bukit Mertajam fire and rescue station was deployed to the location.”

The state recreational forest is home to Bukit Cherok Tok Kun and Penang’s largest tree, with its enormous buttress roots.

Five personnel, aided by members of the public, were involved in the search and rescue operation.

He said the two hikers were found and brought down safely three hours later.

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