THE final search and rescue (SAR) operation for Malaysian climber Muhammad Hawari Hashim, 33, is expected to be held today as reported by the mainstream media.
A physically challenged climber, Muhammad Hawari, an employee of the Penang State Museum for over 10 years, was reported missing on May 19 while making his descent from the summit of Mount Everest.
It is learnt that the current SAR operation is conducted using a special permit as Mount Everest has been officially closed on May 29, ending the season this year.
The SAR operation also is conducted from the sky (using a helicopter) since there is no sherpa (mountain guide) at Everest Base Camp (EBC).
State Museum and Art Gallery director Haryany Mohamad, who is currently in Nepal to observe the SAR operation, said as of this morning, the SAR operation could not be continued due to bad weather.
“However, once the weather is good, the SAR operation will continue as usual,” she said.
Meanwhile, Penang State Sports Council (MSNPP) director Harry Chai Heng Hua said it is up to Wisma Putra and the Nepal government to decide the next course of action.
“Based on several important factors, they should decide whether to continue the SAR operation or resume it next year when Mount Everest is open again.
“As of now, the safety of the SAR team also should be prioritised as Mount Everest is closed due to the extreme weather. However, we hope for the best,” he said.
As for technician Muhamad Fazrul Che Lan, he hoped that Muhammad Hawari could be found as soon as possible.
“Hopefully, they can find him by today since it is the last day for the SAR operation.
“I always pray that Muhammad Hawari will be found safe. And I hope today is the day,” he said.
As for public servant Nor Azwina Shah Bodin, she hoped that the weather today will be good so that it will be easier for the SAR team to conduct the operation.
“This is important so that they can find Muhammad Hawari fast and avoid any unnecessary incidents due to the extreme weather there,” she said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Muhamad Amir Irsyad Omar