Search for missing Indian woman in Malaysia abruptly halted due to ‘challenging conditions’

Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa announced the decision after a thorough review of expert and technical advice on the operation, which had reached its ninth day. “After nine days of search and rescue (SAR) and consideration from the Cabinet as well as experts including the police, the search team, geologists and more, we’ve decided to halt the search efforts today,” she told reporters at the sinkhole site, as reported by The Malay Mail.

Dr Zaliha noted that although an obstruction was detected during the search, it could not be positively identified. “At this point, we also have to consider the safety of the SAR personnel involved as conditions for the SAR were extremely challenging,” she was quoted as saying by The Malay Mail. She added that the appearance of a second sinkhole in the area raised concerns about the increased risk to search personnel.

“Apart from that, we need to resume normal activities here and ensure the safety of the people using these streets.” Dr Zaliha mentioned that efforts to locate the woman would continue but would transition to a new stage under different agencies.

She explained that Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) would oversee utility mapping, land structure analysis, and work with vendors to help resume activities in the affected areas. “DBKL will handle the recovery and reconstruction in the affected areas, which will include cordoning off the entrance from Mydin to ensure public safety,” she said.

As per a report by PTI, Dr Zaliha also communicated with the Indian ambassador to Malaysia, who expressed gratitude for the efforts to find his compatriot and understood the rationale for ending the active search. She confirmed that the victim’s family had been informed of the decision and that their visas had been extended for another week to support them during this difficult time.

The search and rescue operation, which began the same day, involved various security forces and local authorities employing techniques such as tracker dog units and the ‘jetting’ method.

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