KUCHING: Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi have expressed their heartfelt sympathies to the families of victims involved in the recent boat tragedy during the Sarawak Regatta training session.
In his message to the victim’s families, Wan Junaidi and Fauziah said they are saddened by the loss of lives in the tragedy.
“Al-Fatihah and our condolences go to those who have left us forever.
“May they be placed among the righteous and the martyrs,” he said.
At the same time, Wan Junaidi also extended his appreciation to the rescue teams and authorities for their efforts in handling this situation.
He emphasised the importance of safety measures for all Sarawak Regatta participants in the future.
“It is crucial for participants to ensure the presence of safety escorts and proper monitoring by the authorities throughout training and races to prevent such unfortunate incidents from happening again,” he added.
The tragedy occurred on Friday (Oct 18) during the regatta training session near the Royal Bay Commercial Centre in Bintawa.
A boat carrying 16 participants capsized at 3.47 pm after waves from a passing fishing vessel caused it to flood and sink.
While 11 individuals managed to swim to safety, five went missing the same day.
Authorities were notified at 4.20 pm, prompting a large-scale SAR operation involving 13 agencies.
On Sunday (Oct 20), the bodies of five men, recovered near the Sarawak Barrage, have been confirmed as the paddlers who went missing during the regatta training.
They were members of the Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) under the Premier’s Department.
