THE death of a two-year-old boy who fell into a manhole in Jalan Wong Soon Kai in Sibu, Sarawak, has prompted calls for improved measures in ensuring public safety, especially for at-risk groups like children.
National Consumer Action Council (MTPN) Sibu branch chairman Lucas Lau said the tragedy served as a reminder for parents, caregivers and the community to remain alert, especially in public spaces.
“Young children are often unable to recognise hidden dangers in their surroundings.
“This is why active supervision is absolutely essential for their safety,” he said in a statement.
“All of us shoulder the responsibility of ensuring safety for those around us.
“This requires cooperation from individuals, families, communities and local authorities.
“Adhering to safety standards will help build a stronger, safer community,” he added.
The toddler’s lifeless body was pulled up from the drain along Jalan Wong Soon Kai by firefighters on Aug 4 and sent to Hospital Sibu.
Sibu police chief ACP Zulkipli Suhaili said the case is being investigated under Section 3(1)(a) of the Child Act 2001 for neglect or exposing a child in a manner likely to cause physical or emotional injury.
The offence carries a maximum fine of RM20,000, a jail term of up to 10 years, or both, upon conviction.
A second investigation has also been opened and is classified as a sudden death report (SDR).
Lau stressed the responsibility of local authorities, including the Sibu Municipal Council (SMC), to act promptly in addressing hazards.
“Local authorities have to take swift action once a safety concern has been flagged.
“The public also play a role to monitor, identify and report such issues,” he added.
SMC deputy chairman Mohammed Abdullah Izkandar Roseley said following the child’s death, SMC was looking at using more durable non-iron-based drain and sewer covers to address the issue as well as combat theft.
He said SMC was considering using alternative materials with no resale value that are difficult to tamper with to prevent covers from being stolen.
Mohammed Abdullah said the irresponsible actions of those stealing drain covers to sell as scrap metal or removing them for fishing was illegal and endangering lives.
“A missing manhole cover can be a death trap,” he said.
He added that although the drain was under the Drainage and Irrigation Department’s (DID) jurisdiction, the SMC service team replaced the missing cover the next day, and placed warning tape in the area to prevent accidents.
The council is also working with the police to monitor and investigate cases involving theft of manhole covers, especially those involving sales to scrap metal centres around Sibu.
Complaints can be channelled through the Sarawak Service Line (082-555 999), talikhidmat.sarawak.gov.my or the SMC Cares mobile application.
