KUCHING: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has called for stronger public responsibility and enforcement following the tragic drowning of three children in Sibu Jaya.
Expressing his “deepest condolences” to the families, Dr Sim described the incident as heart-breaking and said he would obtain further details before determining the next course of action, including reviewing standard operating procedures (SOP).
“It’s such a sad loss of life. Safety is not just a responsibility when things happen – everyone must play their role and do their part,” he told reporters at the ‘Community Caring Programme: Safe Homes with the Sarawak Fire Department 2026, Kuching Zone’ at Emart Batu Kawa today (Feb 6).
Dr Sim also voiced concern over recurring vandalism of public safety infrastructure, which he suggested may have contributed to the tragedy.
“It’s so sad that instead of helping us, some members of the public are actually destroying these facilities. This is already the second time,” he said, adding that such infrastructure is put in place to protect lives.
The route had earlier been barricaded, but the barriers were later compromised by vandalism after being opened for construction activities, possibly enabling access to the dangerous area where the children drowned.
He stressed the need for greater enforcement while urging the public to understand why certain areas are fenced off or restricted.
“We fence off areas because they are dangerous. People must realise these measures are for their safety,” he said.
The Deputy Premier also cautioned against assigning blame after tragedies occur, saying prevention should be the priority.
“If you want to point fingers, point beforehand. We cannot bring those who died back to life. We will look at it, review the SOP, and see what else we can do,” he added.
