KUCHING, Oct 19 — The search for five missing paddlers in the Sarawak River has intensified as fears grow that they may have been swept downstream following a boat capsize during a regatta training session. A total of 127 personnel, including divers and rescuers from various agencies, have been deployed in the ongoing search and rescue (SAR) operation, utilising high-tech equipment to scour the river.
The tragic incident occurred yesterday afternoon (Oct 18) at approximately 3.47pm when a boat carrying 15 paddlers from the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) team capsized. While 11 paddlers managed to swim to safety, five of their team members remain missing. The paddlers, aged between 23 and 34, are identified as Mohammad Ikhmal Sama’ail, Majurie Maharuf, Mohd Afiq Isyamudin Asaari, Mohamad Khairul Bidin, and Muhammad Khairul Hisham Kasturi.
The accident reportedly happened after a fishing boat passing in the opposite direction generated a wave that flooded the paddlers’ boat, causing it to sink. Efforts to locate the missing paddlers are now concentrated downstream, as it is feared they were swept away by the Sarawak River’s strong currents.
SAR Operation in Full Force
As the SAR operation entered its second day, a 10-kilometre stretch of the Sarawak River has become the focus area for the search. Twelve agencies, including the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Sarawak, the police, and the Civil Defence Force, are coordinating the efforts with the use of drones, sonar imaging technology, and boats. Divers have been deployed for underwater searches, though their efforts have been hampered by poor visibility and a rocky riverbed, making it difficult to locate objects beneath the surface.
Sarawak Police Commissioner Dato Mancha Ata addressed the media during a press conference at the SAR operation base located at the Royal Bay Commercial Centre, Jalan Buruh Bintawa. He confirmed that the search had resumed at 6am today, with rescuers forming several teams to systematically comb the river from the accident site to the barrage downstream.
“While the weather remains relatively calm, the poor underwater visibility is proving a significant challenge. The riverbed is filled with rocks, which makes it even harder for divers to spot anything. Despite these difficulties, our team is fully committed to finding the missing paddlers,” he stated.
Hopes Remain High Despite Difficulties
There is growing concern that the missing paddlers may have been carried further downstream due to the barrage opening the previous night. Heavy rainfall had prompted authorities to open the barrage, which controls water flow, adding to fears that the strong current may have worsened the situation for the missing victims.
However, the barrage was closed earlier this morning to aid the search efforts. Another team has been assigned to search the waterway near the barrage, where rescuers believe the victims could have drifted. As of now, no positive indications have been found, but authorities remain hopeful.
“We are doing everything we can,” Mancha assured, addressing the victims’ families. “Our teams are working tirelessly, and we hope for favourable weather conditions to continue as it will significantly aid our operation. We understand the agony of waiting and urge the families to remain patient.”
The SAR operation continues with optimism, though the emotional toll on the families of the missing paddlers is evident. The authorities have promised to keep the public and the families informed of any developments.
United in Support
The local community has also rallied behind the SAR efforts, with many expressing their support and prayers for the victims’ safe return. Meanwhile, volunteers have been providing food and refreshments to the rescue teams, demonstrating the community’s solidarity during this difficult time.
The paddling community in Sarawak, known for its love of water sports and the historic Sarawak Regatta, has been shaken by this tragic incident. While water activities in the region continue to thrive, safety concerns are being raised, and authorities are likely to review safety protocols for future events.
As the operation unfolds, Kuching remains on edge, hoping for a positive outcome. The SAR team continues to push forward, despite the challenges posed by the river’s treacherous conditions.
For now, the focus remains on bringing the missing paddlers home and ensuring that their families receive the answers they desperately seek.