KOTA KINABALU: What was supposed to be a fun-filled picnic over the weekend nearly turned tragic when a teenager was swept away by strong currents while swimming at the TMEC Recreation Centre in Ulu Kimanis, Papar.
However, thanks to the swift action by the public, the 18-year-old boy, identified as Muhamad Haiqal Irwan, was rescued and provided emergency cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before help came.
Kimanis Fire and Rescue Services station chief Johainin Ruslam said a team of seven men were rushed to the scene after receiving a distress call at 11.38am on Sunday (June 2).
“The team arrived at the scene, which is 18km away from the station, at 12.02pm. The victim was unconscious when they arrived,” he said.
Johainin said medical assistants continued performing CPR on the victim who was later rushed to the Papar district hospital after he responded positively.
The operation ended at 1.30pm after the team inspected and found no further hazards at the location.
