28-12-2023 (KUALA LUMPUR) A tragic incident unfolded off the coast of Desaru in Malaysia as a Singaporean man, who went missing while in the water near The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, was discovered drowned on Thursday (Dec 28).
The 49-year-old man was swept away by powerful waves a day prior, leading to an extensive search and rescue operation.
Senior Assistant Superintendent Masri Ibrahim, the operations commander at Penawar Fire and Rescue Station, revealed that members of the public made the grim discovery at 5:30 am.
“The victim, wearing black shorts, was found approximately 5 kilometers away from the spot where he was reported missing. His body was located by members of the public,” stated Masri Ibrahim to Bernama on Thursday. He further added that the victim’s wife had positively identified the body, which was subsequently transported to Kota Tinggi Hospital.
Masri Ibrahim explained that on Wednesday, the man and his 16-year-old son were frolicking at the water’s edge when they were unexpectedly hit by powerful waves, sweeping them away. Fortunately, the boy was rescued by bystanders and promptly taken to Kota Tinggi Hospital for medical attention.
Moreover, Masri Ibrahim revealed that even before the incident occurred, a red flag had been raised at the beach to caution visitors against engaging in water activities due to adverse weather conditions.
