KKB Waterfall Tragedy Must Be Turning Point In Water Recreation Safety - Lee Lam Thye

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 (Bernama) -- The recent tragedy involving a water surge at Sungai Pertak in Kuala Kubu Bharu near here must serve as a turning point in water recreation safety, with stricter preventive measures, including the temporary closure of high-risk sites during adverse weather conditions, to prevent similar incidents from recurring.

Alliance for a Safe Community (IKATAN) chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said the incident, which had claimed five lives, with three others still missing, highlighted the dangers of recreational activities near rivers and waterfalls, particularly during the Northeast Monsoon (MTL) season.

As such, he urged the public to avoid swimming, bathing, picnicking and camping near rivers, waterfalls and rapids during periods of heavy rainfall, while advising hikers and campers to check weather forecasts before embarking on outdoor activities, stay away from riverbanks and move to higher ground immediately when conditions become unsafe.

“The public must also recognise warning signs such as sudden changes in water levels, muddy water, stronger currents and floating debris. They should never wait for these signs before taking precautionary action, as a water surge can happen very quickly,”  he said in a statement.

Lee said the authorities must strengthen preventive measures by temporarily closing high-risk recreational sites during adverse weather conditions, installing early warning systems such as water-level monitoring equipment and warning sirens, and ensuring that campsite and recreational operators have proper emergency evacuation plans.

He also called for better coordination among the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia), the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA), the Fire and Rescue Department, local authorities, the Forestry Department and recreational-site operators to ensure timely warnings and effective enforcement of safety measures.

Lee said Malaysia should work towards a national "Zero Drowning and Zero Preventable Deaths" objective during the monsoon season, which would require a collective commitment from the authorities, recreational operators and the public.

"Let us remember that no recreational activity is worth risking human lives. Public safety must always take precedence over enjoyment and convenience," he said.

He stressed that preventive action and preparedness were crucial in averting further loss of life, adding that the public should leave high-risk areas before conditions deteriorate.

-- BERNAMA