GEORGE TOWN: The remains of a teenager, feared to have drowned while trying to save his younger brother, has been found.
The body of Muhamad Firdaus Abdul Gani, 18, was recovered by rescuers at about 7.45pm, some seven hours after he was reported missing.
Northeast district deputy police chief Superintendent Izwan Abd Karim said Firdaus’ remains were found floating on the Miami Beach in Batu Ferringhi, not far from where he was reported missing.
“His remains have been sent to the Penang Hospital for further action,” he said.
Firdaus was enjoying a picnic with his family on the beach about 10.30am today after arriving from Bukit Mertajam.
About two hours later, his younger brother Muhamad Naim, 15, experienced some difficulty, and could be seen waving his hands for help.
Their father Abdul Gani Saad, 51, swam towards him to help.
Firdaus also joined in to help but was swept away by the waves.
Abdul Gani, who was met at the scene this afternoon, said: “My boys and I were swimming in the sea. Two hours later, I saw Naim gasping for breath and swam towards him.
“In the chaotic moment, I managed to push Naim nearer to shore. However, Firdaus was swept away by the waves. That was the last time I saw him,” he said.
He said Naim was rushed to the Penang Hospital and has been warded at the intensive care unit (ICU) to remove excess water from his lungs.
When met at the hospital, Noorain Md Noor, 48, said the sea was initially calm but the currents got stronger all of a sudden, pulling her son farther away from shore.
“All I could do was shout for help. Thankfully, there were other beachgoers who helped pull Naim out of the water but not Firdaus.
Noorain said the two brothers had persuaded their father to go for a picnic the night before, although he disagreed as their house is currently being renovated.
“I did not expect their desire to go for a picnic could end in a tragedy.”