TANJUNG MANIS: The call to prayer (azan) carried across the Belawai coastline this morning, marking the continuation of the search and rescue (SAR) operation for six more individuals feared missing in Saturday’s boat capsize tragedy.
The solemn and hopeful atmosphere reflected the determination of both villagers and rescue teams as the search entered another day.
The SAR operation continued with a deployment of 45 rescuers from various agencies, led by the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Sibu Zone 4.
Bomba Sibu Zone 4 chief Andy Alie said the search radius has been expanded to five kilometres, covering both upstream and downstream areas near the site of the incident.
“Two diving teams from the Sungai Merah and Betong fire and rescue stations were deployed today, along with two sniffer dog units to assist in locating the missing individuals.
“Today’s operation is focused more on surface monitoring of the river due to the strong currents and the receding water levels,” he said.
The operation is being carried out in collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police (RMP), Sarawak Coast Guard, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), Malaysian Armed Forces (ATM), Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS), and the Sarawak Rivers Board.
In addition to that, 39 villagers in 18 boats joined the operation, navigating parts of the river identified as possible routes where the missing individuals could have been swept away.
“The villagers here have shown great concern and have been with us since early this morning.
“Their help is invaluable, especially in scouting shallow and swampy areas that are inaccessible to larger vessels,” Andy said.
As of press time, the incident has claimed the lives of four individuals.
Meanwhile, seven passengers survived the incident, while six others including a child, remained missing.
It is understood that the fibre-type boat, which was carrying 17 passengers, capsized suddenly near Kampung Belawai beach at around 2:00 pm on Saturday.
The cause of the incident is still under investigation by the authorities.
