SIBU: Swept 30 km downstream by strong currents, a 29-year-old man survived nearly 12 hours in the middle of the Batang Rajang by clinging to a bag as a float.
The ordeal began when the man, who had earlier been fishing at the Durin Bridge, slipped and fell into the fast-moving river while washing his feet.
Unable to fight the strong current, he was carried far from the bridge, desperately holding onto his makeshift lifeline.
At one point, he spotted people on the riverbank.
Frantically waving and shouting for help, his cries were heard, and a rescue operation was launched.
Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Zone 4 chief Andy Alie, said a team from the Sibu Central Fire and Rescue Station rushed to the scene after receiving a call at 3.11 am.
“When the team arrived, they found the man still afloat on the far side of the river.
“A rescue boat with three crew members was deployed, and he was safely pulled aboard at 4.13 am, near Riverside Residence,” Andy said.
The man was handed over to the police being taken to hospital by an ambulance for medical checks.
Despite the terrifying experience, he is reported to be safe and recovering.
