WATER SAFETY MEASURES: Dire need for 'lifesavers'

28 February 2014| last updated at 11:21PM

Many have expressed their condolences, including the prime minister and deputy prime minister and their wives.

The issue now is how to prevent such deaths in the future.

In the past 10 years, at least six people have drowned in Sungai Muar near Buloh Kasap.

According to the Fire and Rescue Department, the number of deaths by drowning in 2013 was 330 persons. Until Feb 22, there were 67 deaths. This is a serious matter.

Many had blamed a company involved in sand extraction activities at the river as being responsible for the tragedy.

This may be true, but it is also high time for the government to look at the whole issue of drowning cases and deaths over the years, and introduce drastic measures to deal with the problems.

The government should take up the proposal by the Life Saving Society of Malaysia (LSSM) that "drowning cases in Malaysia are wholly preventable and avoidable".

The time has come for Malaysia to set up a National Water Safety Council (NWSC) to take the lead in promoting and enhancing water safety in the country.

The NSWC, to comprise representatives from various government agencies, together with NGOs like LSSM, aims to reduce drowning incidences and to promote a water safety culture for Malaysians.

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WATER SAFETY MEASURES: Dire need for 'lifesavers'