KUALA LUMPUR: The recent drowning tragedy at Pantai Merdeka, which claimed the lives of two trainee teachers, has underscored the urgent need for stricter safety measures in outdoor activities organised by educational institutions.
Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye described the incident as deeply tragic, stressing that it highlights the critical importance of prioritising safety in all co-curricular and outdoor programmes.
While welcoming the Education Ministry’s move to review the standard operating procedure (SOP), he raised concerns over the timing of such measures.
He said educational institutions have a duty of care towards students, trainee teachers and staff, especially when activities involve higher-risk environments such as beaches, rivers, waterfalls and hiking trails.
“Proper planning, risk assessment, supervision and emergency preparedness must be mandatory, not optional,” he said.
Lee noted that Malaysia has witnessed numerous drowning incidents and outdoor mishaps over the years, adding that each tragedy should serve as a lasting reminder that safety must never be compromised for programme objectives or convenience.
Among the measures he proposed are comprehensive risk assessments before programme approval, detailed SOP tailored to each activity and mandatory safety briefings for participants.
He also called for an adequate ratio of trained supervisors, the engagement of certified lifeguards for water-based activities and close monitoring of weather and tide conditions.
He stressed the need for emergency response plans, including access to the nearest medical facilities, as well as the mandatory use of appropriate safety equipment.
