KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 20 — “No one should point fingers at the forest mountain guides (MGP) before the full investigation is completed,” said Sabrie Zoo, referring to the case of hiker Mustaqqeem Mansoor, whose body was found atop Gunung Liang in Tanjung Malim, Perak.

Sabrie, 44, a veteran mountain guide at Gunung Tahan with over 27 years of experience, stressed that blame cannot be placed on the two guides involved until the investigation is finalised, according to Berita Harian.

He noted that each MGP undergoes extensive training to ensure the safety of hikers.

“Even though I am not a member of MGP, my duties and responsibilities remain the same. I was disappointed when some parties claimed that a guide abandoned a hiker at the summit of Gunung Liang, causing the victim to die from extreme cold (hypothermia),” he said.

Sabrie cautioned against making premature accusations before hearing explanations from the guides involved, saying the situation worsens when unverified stories circulate.

He added that unfounded allegations could damage the guides’ reputation, cause distress, and potentially threaten the safety of their families.

Many outsiders have allegedly made statements suggesting that the MGP abandoned the late Mustaqqeem at the summit. The repercussions of these claims have also affected the victim’s companions who participated in the hike.

The Pahang State Forestry Department (JPNP) is reported to be reviewing the incident in detail and will meet with the two guides involved. This is the first case involving MGP in Pahang before a report is submitted to the director-general of Forestry for Peninsular Malaysia.

Mustaqqeem, 34, reportedly began his hike on October 10 with 10 friends via the Bentong route to Gunung Liang. He did not return after the climb, prompting his wife to report him missing to the police.

A search and rescue operation was launched involving the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), police, and the Civil Defence Force (APM). Mustaqqeem’s body was discovered around 3.30pm last Thursday at the summit.

 Malay Mail – Malaysia