By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Aug 27: Six-year-old Enrique Bong, who was found by the riverbank about 200 metres from his home in Jalan Kim Chu Sin, Batu Kawa after being missing for 24 hours, is reported to be eating well and receiving treatment at the Paediatric Ward of Sarawak General Hospital (SGH).
Minister of Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah shared the encouraging update following her visit to Bong, a student of the One-Stop Early Intervention Centre (OSEIC), at SGH on Tuesday (Aug 26).
“I asked the attending doctor about Enrique’s condition. Apart from some scratches on his face and hands, everything else is fine and he is eating well,” Fatimah said in a message posted on her social media.
She was accompanied by OSEIC general manager Dato Dr Saadiah Abdul Samat and two of Bong’s teachers during the visit.
Bong, who has autism, was reported missing on Aug 24 and found safe at around 5.15pm the next day (Aug 25) following a Search and Rescue (SAR) operation involving multiple agencies and community members.
Among those mobilised were the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba), police, Civil Defence Force (APM), family members, local residents, and the Batu Kawa Security and Development Committee (JKKK).
Additional support came from Sarawak United Peoples’ Party (SUPP) Batu Kawa Branch, Padawan Municipal Council (MPP), and many volunteers.
The boy was ultimately spotted by a drone operated by his family near the riverbank, after which rescue teams quickly moved in to retrieve him.
In a heartfelt message of gratitude shared by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian on his social media, Bong’s family expressed their deep appreciation to all who assisted in the search.
“We are thankful to God that Enrique is still with us. Thank you to everyone who prayed for my son’s safety regardless of who they are, where they come from, or their race.
“This is a trauma for my child and family that we can never forget. May this incident never happen again, and let it be a lesson for us,” the message read.
The family further extended thanks to Dr Sim, the police, Bomba, community residents, friends, and all who volunteered in the operation.
“My family and I are deeply grateful for your help, cooperation, and concern. We cannot repay your kindness, but may God bless you all. When the news of my child’s discovery went viral on social media, there were so many kind comments that truly touched my heart, and I thank you for the love shown towards my child.” — DayakDaily
