KUCHING: Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian has assured that efforts will be made to follow through with the relevant authorities in Kuala Lumpur, including facilitating legal assistance if necessary, following the tragic deaths of two Sarawakian trainee teachers in Kedah.
Christopher Ling Jia Siang, 21, and Joey Ling Lin Siang, 20, from Sibu, were reported drowned during an institute-organised kayaking activity at Pantai Merdeka near Sungai Petani on Apr 4.
Describing the incident as deeply heartbreaking, Dr Sim said the loss of the two young trainees, who were undergoing training at the Perlis campus of the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG), was a tragedy that should not have happened.
“I am extremely sad that we have lost fellow Sarawakian trainee teachers while participating in the IPG’s kayaking activity at Pantai Merdeka near Sungai Petani, Kedah on Apr 4.
“My deepest condolences to the families. May their souls rest in peace. Both young lives were unnecessarily, tragically cut short by the incident,” he said in his Facebook post after paying his last respects to late Christopher at Chan Funeral Parlor here on Tuesday (Apr 7).
He added that he would do his best to ensure the matter is properly addressed, including engaging with authorities at the federal level to determine accountability and next steps.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Education (MoE) is reviewing the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for outdoor activities across all its institutions to strengthen safety measures.
Its Minister Fadhlina Sidek said the ministry takes full responsibility for the tragedy.
“Justice must be served for the families. A transparent, thorough and comprehensive investigation is underway. Any breaches of regulations will be addressed, and no one will be shielded from accountability,” she said in a statement.
