By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Aug 29: The tragic boat accident in Sungai Kayan, Lundu, which claimed the lives of three students, has been described as a stark reminder of the importance of safety by Minister of Women, Childhood, and Community Well-Being Development Dato Sri Fatimah Abdullah.
Speaking after distributing government assistance and support from Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS) to the victims’ families at Dewan Aseng Kampung Bitokan 2, Lundu, Fatimah emphasised that safety should never be compromised, especially when it comes to crossing rivers.
“This tragedy serves as a lesson learned and a wake-up call. Safety must be our top priority,” Fatimah stated, noting that the residents of Kampung Selampit and other areas still rely on boats to cross rivers due to the lack of bridges, or despite the availability of bridges, they opt for the river route for convenience.
She urged parents, particularly those who send their children across the river, to ensure that lifejackets provided by the Ministry of Education (MoE) are used consistently.
“Even though we know that the river is small, it has fast underwater currents and is infested with crocodiles. Familiarity should not lead to complacency,” she warned, adding that the tragedy highlights the dangers that can arise from underestimating seemingly ordinary situations.
On Aug 20, three students from SMK Senibong in Kampung Selampit drowned when their boat capsized while crossing Sungai Kayan to get to school.
Their bodies were recovered during a search and rescue operation conducted over the following days.
Opar assemblyman Billy Sujang and PETRONAS Sarawak Senior Manager Norazibah Md Rabu also attended the event, offering their condolences and support to the affected families. — DayakDaily
