SERIAN: A leisurely outing at Ranchan Recreation Park here on Sunday turned tragic for two friends when one of them drowned while bathing at the famous waterfall.
The victim has been identified as Bong Yong Sheng, 26, from Kuching.
Serian police chief DSP Neil Beginda said that the victim and his 26-year-old friend arrived at the park around 4.30pm. It was their first visit to the park.
Investigations found that the victim proceeded to take a bath while his friend rested at the edge of the waterfall.
“Soon after, the victim waved for help and the friend swiftly attempted a rescue. However, it was unsuccessful as neither the victim nor his friend knew how to swim.
“The friend then sought assistance from members of the public at the site. With their help, the victim was retrieved from the waterfall and resuscitation efforts were initiated,” he said when contacted by New Sarawak Tribune on Monday.
He added that the police, paramedics and firefighters were promptly notified of the incident.
Upon arrival, paramedics pronounced the victim dead at the scene and his body was taken to Serian Hospital for post-mortem examinations.
Neil stated that the case has been classified as a sudden death and it is currently under investigation.
