Sibu: DAP Sarawak Committee Member Stanley Chiew has described the recent kayaking tragedy at Pantai Merdeka, Sungai Petani, Kedah as a result of “human negligence and systemic failure,” rather than a mere accident.
The incident, which claimed the lives of two Sarawakian students studying at Institut Pendidikan Guru Perlis (IPG Perlis), has sparked serious questions over safety compliance and oversight.
Chiew questioned whether the activity had been reported to the maritime authorities and whether basic safety procedures had been followed.
“If even the most fundamental notification was not made, how can this still be called an ‘accident’?” he said, citing media reports.
He stressed that the tragedy points to human error and potential lapses in safety planning, including whether risk assessments were conducted, qualified instructors were present, and weather and water conditions were properly evaluated.
“Any failure in any one of these areas can be fatal. This is not negligence – it is dereliction of duty,” he said.
Chiew noted that water-based activities are inherently high-risk and should be governed by strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) and robust emergency response mechanisms.
The fatal outcome, he said, indicates a breakdown in the system.
He also criticised what he described as a recurring pattern in handling such incidents.
“Every time something happens, it’s always the same response: investigation, review, improvement. But has anyone been held accountable?” he asked.
According to Chiew, failure to hold individuals or institutions responsible risks reducing safety commitments to “empty slogans.”
He warned that a lack of transparency and accountability could signal that there are no consequences for lapses.
He called for immediate action, including an independent investigation, full public disclosure of findings, and the identification of responsible parties.
“If this matter ends with just an ‘investigation closed’ outcome without accountability, it sends the wrong message that human lives can be lost without consequences,” he said.
Chiew also cautioned that suspending water-based activities alone would not resolve the underlying issues.
“Today it is kayaking; tomorrow it could be mountain climbing or camping. If the system remains unchanged, tragedies can happen again at any time,” he added.
He concluded by urging authorities to clearly establish responsibility, emphasising that accountability is essential for meaningful change.
Chiew also extended his condolences to the victims, Christopher Ling Jia Siang of Kuching and Joey Ling Lin Siang of Sibu, and expressed sympathy to their families.
