SIBU – A tragedy struck the Sibu Jaya Flats on Wednesday when three children were found drowned after falling into a sewage pond in the area. The incident shocked the local community and sparked an immediate response from authorities.
According to a spokesman from the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) Operations Centre, the emergency call was received at 4.03pm. A team from the Sibu Jaya Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) arrived at the scene just seven minutes later, at 4.10pm.
“Upon arrival, there were three victims, two girls and one boy, who had already fallen into the sewage pond. Members of the public had rescued the children and brought them to the bank before our team arrived,” he said in an official statement.
The victims were found unconscious, and rescue personnel were awaiting the Ministry of Health (MOH) team for further confirmation as of 5pm. The identities of the victims have since been confirmed as Macx Devdynne Sharie Merdeka, 12, his younger brother Macx Welwait, 9, and Daniella Arissa Tayas Ak Maringgai, 10.
It was reported that two of the children were siblings. Despite the prompt actions of both the public and the fire brigade, all three children were confirmed deceased. The victims have been handed over to the police for further investigation.
Local residents expressed deep sorrow over the incident, highlighting the need for greater safety measures around open water bodies in residential areas. Authorities have reminded the public to supervise children closely and to report any hazardous conditions near ponds and drainage systems immediately.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a reminder of the dangers posed by unsecured water bodies in urban areas, especially to young children. Investigations into the circumstances leading to the tragedy are ongoing.
