Azalina calls for red flags, warning signs at high-risk Desaru beaches

Kota Tinggi - Datuk Seri Azalina Othman Said, member of parliament for Pengerang, is urging the installation of red flags and warning signs on Desaru's coastal beaches, including Pantai Tanjung Lompat, to safeguard swimmers from high-risk areas. The call comes following a press conference after visiting the family of a drowning victim at Pantai Tanjung Lompat.

Azalina, who serves as Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Law and Institutional Reform), emphasized the importance of the proposal due to the anticipated influx of visitors during school holidays. She urged families to avoid sea activities from September to December due to strong winds and noted that visitors might not be aware of the risks, especially at campsites lacking clear signs prohibiting swimming.

Azalina acknowledged the need for beach patrols or lifeguards, but suggested that the extensive coastline in Pengerang would entail additional costs, unlike at resorts where lifeguards are already part of the management. She highlighted that sea conditions in Pengerang differ from other coastal areas like Terengganu, Mersing, and Tioman, as it serves as a trade route with strong currents.

Strong winds can create the illusion of calm waters on the surface, concealing unsafe, swirling currents beneath. Currently, three of the four victims in the recent drowning incident have been found drowned, while the search for the fourth, Mohamad Haiman Fitri Supian, who remains missing, continues.