KUALA LUMPUR: There must be a full-fledged government department established to prevent drowning cases; as well as a plan to enforce and implement drowning prevention measures, said National Water Activity Safety Council member Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
He said the rise in drowning cases over the last several months is alarming, and underscores a need for a dedicated department to look into the matter.
“In terms of road deaths, we have the Road Safety Department, as well as the police, the Road Transport Department and the Land Public Transport Commission to enforce the laws.
“However, when it comes to drowning cases, we have none.
“What we have is the Water Activity Safety Council, which has limited powers and is made up of representatives from government agencies, non-governmental organisations and academicians.
“A special department to oversee drowning cases would be able to plan, enforce and implement drowning prevention measures,” he said in a statement today.
Lee said on average, about 700 drowning cases are reported nationwide every year, averaging at two deaths daily.
“Unless something drastic is done, deaths due to drowning can become as serious as road accidents, which kill between 6,000 and 7,000 people every year,” he added.
On Friday, nine people drowned in three separate incidents in Kelantan, Terengganu and Selangor.
In Kelantan, five people in a family - Yazul Bahari Yacob, 46; Yusnina Yacob, 38; Yasmin Nor Aliza Yazul Bahari, 10; Zufika Suhaimi, 10; and Khaizuran Waliyuddin Suhaimi, 5, drowned in Pantai Tok Bali.
In Selangor, three men, identified as B. Peacaiswaran, 25; his younger brother B. Nagulan, 20; and their friend, G. Ganesan, 23, drowned at the Sungai Sendat waterfalls in Ulu Yam, Kuala Kubu Baru.
Lee said the deaths could have been prevented.
“The public must understand and take heed of warnings given by the authorities.
“A white flag flying on top of the lifeguard tower means that sea conditions are safe for swimming and water activities; while a red flag warns everyone to steer clear of the water,” he said.
Lee added that local authorities, who have jurisdiction over water activities, must be directed to take measures to prevent drowning, such as frequent audits of water activity areas, ensuring adequate signages are put up to warn the public of danger zones, as well as fencing-up disused mining ponds.
“They should also place lifeguards at beaches and have plans in place for quick response from the Civil Defence, Fire and Rescue Department, as well as police and other authorities in the event of emergencies.
“The Civil Defence Force’s initiative to set up Malaysia’s own ‘Baywatch’ lifeguards should also be complemented, as it could help save lives.”
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