School’s currently out, which means loads of families are probably on holiday right now. One family from Kelana Jaya was no different when they travelled to Batu Ferringhi, Penang recently.
However, what was meant to be a fun family getaway soon turned tragic at 7.30pm on Monday (11th June) when 9-year-old Jordan Phang Wen Jie died after the jet ski he was on collided with another jet ski that was being ridden by his mother. His family had just checked into a beach hotel a few hours before the incident took place.
The child’s harrowing death has shocked the nation, and as investigations are ongoing, here’s what we know so far;
1. The young boy suffered brain and spinal cord injuries
For illustration purposes | Source: FMT
After the crash, Jordan had reportedly fallen into the sea, prompting his family members to immediately pull him out of the water and conduct CPR on him in attempts to save his life. However, when paramedics soon arrived, they confirmed that he had died at the scene.
A post-mortem was conducted to determine the cause of death. According to the New Straits Times, the young boy suffered severe traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries due to blunt impact from the horrific accident.
2. Eyewitnesses blamed the strong waves for the fatal crash
For illustration purposes | Source: Trip Advisor
According to Free Malaysia Today, eyewitnesses told reporters that the jet skis may have crashed due to the strong waves that day. However, authorities are still investigating the official cause of the crash.
Penang Island City Council (MBPP) Mayor Yew Tun Seang told reporters earlier this morning (13th June) that investigations are currently underway, and was quoted by the New Straits Times as saying,
“The rules and guidelines are there to be adhered to. While we are sad with the latest incident, we will wait for investigations to complete before we know what really happened.”
“Some are saying the incident occurred because of the strong waves while others said it was due to negligence. We will wait and see.”
MBPP is reportedly working with Penang police throughout this investigation.
3. The operator that rented the jet skis assured their machines were in good condition
Source: NST
According to the New Straits Times, the operator that rented the jet skis to Jordan’s family has since come out to assure that their machines were not defective. A representative from the company, which has been operating for more than 10 years, told the daily,
“This is the first time we have reported any fatal accident since we began operations. Our jet skis, priced at RM50,000 each, are fitted with necessary safety features. The beach boy, in his late 20s, has vast experience in maneuvering the jet ski.”
“We will work together with the council to identify the cause of the incident, including possible negligence. I was told there was negligence which resulted in the child falling and sustaining serious injuries. We will investigate.”
4. The jet ski operator has since been suspended
Source: FMT
In the midst of this tragedy, the MBPP mayor also revealed that the council already held an inquiry with the beach sports operator regarding the accident earlier this morning (13th June), according to the New Straits Times. He said,
“As such, we have decided to suspend the company’s operations with immediate effect pending investigation. Both jet skis involved in the accident had also been confiscated for further investigation.”
5. Batu Ferringhi has often been criticised for its inadequate safety protocols for water sports
For illustration purposes | Source: Fave
The MBPP mayor added that despite this tragic incident, water sports accidents have generally gone down significantly after stricter laws were enforced in 2016.
However, according to Free Malaysia Today, MBPP statistics have revealed that there were 13 beach sport-related accidents in the first nine months of 2016, while 20 accidents occurred in 2015.
Many water sports operators in Batu Ferringhi have also been criticised for not taking enough safety measures, as parasailers have landed on trees, broken their bones or injured themselves while landing. Some have claimed that they were even flung aside due to strong winds. However, these operators often blame customers for not following the safety briefings.
Let’s hope that this case is investigated thoroughly so that this tragedy will never repeat itself. Our deepest condolences go out to Jordan’s family and we hope they find strength during this difficult time.
Also read: Baby Killed in Seremban Accident After Being Flung Out of Car From Father’s Lap
