WhatsApp location helps rescuers find two lost hikers in Penang Youth Park

Rescuers from the Bagan Jermal Fire and Rescue Station found the two 25-year-old hikers safe 2km from the foot of a hill near the Penang Botanical Gardens about 1.5 hours after receiving an emergency call on October 3, 2026. — Pictures by JBPM Pulau Pinang via Bernama

First Published: Sunday, 04 Oct 2026 9:11 AM MYT

GEORGE TOWN, Oct 4 — Two men who lost their way while hiking in Youth Park near the Botanical Gardens here last evening have been found safe.

Penang Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) assistant director of operations John Sagun Francis said the department received an emergency call regarding the incident at 6.11pm, after which eight personnel and a fire engine from the Bagan Jermal Fire and Rescue Station were dispatched to the scene.

“Firefighters conducted a search and rescue (SAR) operation based on the location shared by the victims via WhatsApp, assisted by three police officers.

“Muhammad Hakim Razali and Muhammad Faiz Abdul Wahab, both 25, were found safe at 7.42pm, about two kilometres from the foot of the hill,” he said in a statement last night.

He added that the victims were safely brought down and handed over to the police for further action before the operation ended at 7.50pm. — Bernama