Malaysia haunted by string of missing persons cases

SHAH ALAM - The rising number of missing persons in Malaysia has become increasingly alarming and concerning. Nearly every week, Malaysians encounter news of missing individuals through print media and social media.

Some missing persons cases have been resolved with the individuals found safe, such as Albertine Leo Jia Hui, a six-year-old girl who went missing in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, in July. She was found safe at a budget hotel near Batang Kali, Selangor, on July 23, bringing relief to the nation.

However, the tragic outcomes of some missing persons cases are deeply worrying.

Most recently, the disappearance of teacher Istiqomah Ahmad Rozi, 34, ended tragically when an severed body was discovered by the roadside near Kampung Tanjung Rimau, Pulau Sebang, Alor Gajah, Melaka, on December 31. DNA tests confirmed the body was hers.

Similarly, the disappearance of engineer Muhammad Hamizan Ramli, 33, on May 19 also ended in tragedy when his body was found in his car around Taman Sentosa, Johor Bahru, on June 5.

The case of single mother Mila Sharmila Samsusah, known as Bella, 32, who had been missing since December 14, also ended with an incomplete human skeleton discovered in Kampung Batu 7, Tongkang Pecah, Batu Pahat. DNA tests confirmed it matched the victim's family.

Another case involved Muhammad Akmal Hakimi Ishak, 20, a student from Taman Makmur, Kluang, who went missing on Pulau Mawar, Mersing, on February 3, 2023.

These cases represent just a fraction of the missing persons reports previously covered by the media.

As of this article's writing, incidents of missing persons continue to occur in Malaysia, with some cases possibly yet to be reported to authorities.

There are also concerns about missing individuals being taken to neighbouring countries and forced to work as scammers.

This raises questions about the potential links between these cases, with one case seemingly leading to another.

Previous reports suggested that not all missing persons cases involve criminal activities; some may include individuals going out with friends to relieve stress without informing their families.

Occasionally, people might get lost or return home late, while teenagers might stay overnight at friends' houses without notifying their families, leading to reports of them being missing due to safety concerns.

Nevertheless, cases where missing persons end in death are extremely concerning and should not be taken lightly.

Typically, these cases involve the victim encountering someone they know, potentially leading to arguments or misunderstandings that escalate into violence.

It is crucial for everyone to remain vigilant about their family members' whereabouts. Parents should monitor their children's movements and ensure they do not go out alone whenever possible. Negligence could lead to tragic consequences with lifelong effects.