Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) is ready to deploy its Special Tactical Operation and Rescue Malaysia (STORM) team to Nepal, contingent on directives from the government. JBPM director-general Datuk Seri Nor Hisham Mohammad emphasized that deployment would hinge on requests from the Nepalese government and coordination with the Foreign Ministry and the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Nor Hisham stated that the STORM team is fully prepared with the necessary skills and documentation to facilitate rapid deployment. This readiness is informed by JBPM's past experiences, such as their involvement in a search and rescue mission in Turkiye, which necessitated advance preparation of personnel and travel documentation.

Nor Hisham also noted ongoing communication challenges with nine hikers, including two department officers, currently in Nepal. Despite efforts, contact has not been established with the group or their local agent. The hike, a private expedition, involved experienced participants, some of whom contributed to a previous JBPM Mount Everest expedition.

The group, which departed on August 24, was last heard from on August 26 while having breakfast before potentially embarking on a higher trekking route. Though the exact location of the group remains unconfirmed, JBPM continues to liaise with the hikers' families, utilizing various contacts in Nepal to gather updates.

Recent floods and landslides near the Nepal border have exacerbated concerns, with the Gyirong Port crossing in China affected and the death toll rising to 389, alongside 466 injuries. JBPM remains hopeful for the safety of the hikers and continues to monitor the situation closely.