Rider dies after jumping from flats in Penang

GEORGE TOWN: A 35-year-old rider, who is believed to have been experiencing financial difficulties, died after jumping from his unit at the Rifle Range flats here on Saturday (May 9).

The victim, who lived with his wife and two young daughters at the flat, was a senior track rider at the Penang Turf Club.

The deceased had not been working since the movement control order (MCO) was implemented on March 18.

The victim's 34-year-old wife, who wished to be known as Sharifa, said her husband had told her that they were having financial problems.

She said she was sleeping in the living room with her two daughters when the incident occurred.

"Before taking his own life, my husband appeared normal," she said.

One of the victim's colleagues said they had not seen each other for more than 50 days and that they were still being paid.

It is learnt that the victim fell on a zinc roof below before falling to the ground.

Police arrived at the scene to investigate and sent the body of the deceased to Penang Hospital for a post-mortem examination.

When contacted, George Town OCPD Asst Comm Soffian Santong confirmed the case.

Those suffering from problems and in need of help are advised to contact the Befrienders service nearest to them.

For a full list of numbers as well as operating hours, go to https://www.befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia.