MSOSH calls for safety audit after toddler's death at Victoria Bridge
IPOH: The Malaysian Society for Occupational Safety and Health (MSOSH) has called for a comprehensive technical investigation and safety audit by the relevant authorities following the death of a three-year-old boy who was believed to have fallen from the Victoria Bridge in Enggor, Kuala Kangsar, on Monday.
The Malaysian Society for Occupational Safety and Health (MSOSH) is demanding a thorough technical investigation and safety audit following the death of a three-year-old boy who fell from the Victoria Bridge in Kuala Kangsar on Monday. MSOSH President Datuk Ahmad Fakhrul Anuar Ismail said the audit should encompass the entire visitor route, openings in the structure, barrier height and design, floor and walkway conditions, lighting, warning signs, access controls, and suitability for children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities.
He emphasized the importance of examining risk assessment records, engineering inspection reports, maintenance schedules, damage reports, previous complaints, and public access approval status. The key question is not only how the victim fell but whether the hazard was identified earlier, who was responsible for controlling it, and if reasonable preventive measures were taken.
While the temporary closure of the site and installation of barrier tape are appropriate short-term measures, Fakhrul Anuar stressed that reopening should only occur after engineers confirm all hazards have been addressed, including installing child-friendly barriers, sealing openings, improving walkways, and implementing regular inspections.
The tourism industry must learn from this incident, he added, noting that development should not solely focus on historical value and visual appeal. MSOSH also proposed conducting safety audits at heritage sites and aging structures nationwide, prioritizing locations with fall risks, aging structures, narrow walkways, water proximity, and unsuitable visitor capacities.
The family is advised to seek legal advice and consider appropriate legal action to ensure accountability and justice. MSOSH stresses that heritage preservation must not compromise visitor safety, and the tourism value of a location should never outweigh a life. The organization hopes for a transparent investigation leading to concrete corrective actions, ensuring future tragedies are prevented at tourist destinations across the country.
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