"I am happy with the positive development of the two Orang Asli children who were found safe last Friday, after going missing in the jungle since Aug 23," Deputy Tourism and Culture Minister Mas Ermieyati Samsudin said.

Mas Ermieyati said Norieen Yaakob, 10, and Mirsudiar Aluj, 11, had a strong will to survive by only depending on water from the river in the period they were missing.

"They are strong and were gutsy enough to endure life in the jungle, which has many challenges. Thank God, today I see they have an appetite to eat… they could eat half-an-apple already.

"I also gave them books and toys and I see they are happy with the gifts," she told reporters after visiting the two children who are receiving treatment at the Raja Perempuan Zainab II Hospital in Kota Baru yesterday.

Two being treated for dehydration

Mas Ermieyati, who is also Umno Puteri chief, was overwhelmed at the concern of the people in the country towards the victims who are being treated for dehydration.

"The people in the country are very concerned about them and I see their room is full of toys and fruits. I see the children are very happy," she said.

Mas Ermieyati also thanked and congratulated all the agencies involved in the search and rescue operation for the seven Orang Asli pupils who disappeared after fleeing from their school hostel on Aug 23.

They fled fearing disciplinary action against them from their teacher after they were caught bathing in a nearby river without permission.

The seven reported missing are Juvina David, seven; Linda Rosli, eight; Sasa Sobrie, eight; Ika Ayel, nine; Haikal Yaakob, eight; Norieen Yaakob, 10, and Miksudiar Aluj, 11; - from Kampung Gawin and Penad.

Police confirmed Sasa and Ika were dead while two children's skeletons that were found would be identified viad deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) tests, while one more is still missing.

- Bernama