BELAWAI – A routine fishing trip at Kampung Tepi Laut Beach took a tragic turn on 18 February when a 48-year-old fisherman was reported missing.
Sabaruddin Bin Awang Kamarudin had been catching prawns when witnesses noticed him struggling in the water. They saw his hands flailing before he slipped beneath the waves and disappeared from sight.
A search and rescue operation began the same day. Personnel from the Angkatan Pertahanan Awam Malaysia (APM) Tanjung Manis district unit, together with other local agencies, moved in to comb the area. Boats scanned the waters while teams searched along the shoreline. Despite hours of effort, there was no sign of him by the end of the first day.
The incident has unsettled residents in Belawai, a coastal stretch known for fishing and seaside visits. Many locals stepped forward to help, sharing information and assisting where they could.
APM officers said the operation will continue with a wider search radius. Patrols along the coast and sea sweeps are being carried out while teams keep close watch on tides and weather, which affect visibility and movement in the water.
Family members have remained near the scene, waiting for updates. Community leaders have voiced support and urged residents to keep the family in their thoughts.
For now, the search continues. Authorities say all available resources are in use as they work to locate the missing fisherman and bring answers to his loved ones.
