Kayaking tragedy: DAP man calls for transparent, independent probe

SIBU (April 6): The investigation into the recent kayaking incident in Kedah, which claimed the lives of two Sarawakian students, must be undertaken in full transparency, with the report to presented without concealment, and the names of the responsible parties and authorities involved be disclosed.

In making this call, Democratic Action Party (DAP) Sarawak committee member Stanley Chiew also said the investigation must be independent, with ‘no acceptance of internal investigation’.

“If this matter ultimately ends with just an ‘investigation closed’ outcome, without anyone or any party being held accountable, it would send the wrong message to society,” he said in a statement on Monday.

The tragedy, which occurred at Pantai Merdeka in Sungai Petani last Saturday, claimed the lives of two Sarawakians, in their early 20s, who were students of Teachers Education Institute (IPG) Perlis Campus.

Adding on, Chiew questioned the IPG not informing the families of the victims immediately after the incident.

“The families only learned about it through reports on social media.

“This tragedy is not merely an accident, but the result of human negligence and systemic failure.

“According to media reports, the activity was not reported to the maritime authorities.

“Were basic safety procedures followed?

“If even the most fundamental notification was not made, how can this still be called an ‘accident’?”

Elaborating, Chiew regarded accountability as ‘not about finding scapegoats, but about drawing clear boundaries to ensure that every decision, signature and action would carry corresponding consequences’.

“Without consequences, there will be no change.”

Nevertheless, Chiew expressed his deepest condolences to the families to the two victims, Christopher Ling from Kuching, and Joey Ling from Sibu.