Children account for 36pct of Kelantan drowning cases since 2023

KOTA BARU: Children represent 36% of the 96 drowning cases recorded in Kelantan since 2023, according to Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department director Farhan Sufyan Borhan. Notably, 35 out of the 96 victims were children under 17 years old. In 2023, seven children experienced drowning incidents, increasing to 14 in 2024, 11 in 2025, and three so far in the current year. Farhan emphasized that children continue to be the most vulnerable group, necessitating ongoing attention and supervision, especially when near water.

Comparing the figures, Kelantan saw 28 drowning incidents in 2023, resulting in 25 deaths. The following year, 2024 witnessed 31 incidents, leading to 23 deaths. In 2025, there were 27 incidents with 24 fatalities, while this year, 10 incidents have been recorded, resulting in 11 deaths. One incident involved more than one victim.

To address this concerning trend, Farhan stated that the department is enhancing preventive measures alongside search and rescue operations. A key initiative is the free "Jom Renang" program, which has engaged 300 children under 12 at various locations across Kelantan. This program teaches basic swimming skills, water safety, and self-rescue techniques in emergency situations.

The goal is to instill awareness from a young age that swimming is not only for recreation but also a crucial survival skill. Farhan urged parents and guardians to closely supervise children when they are near rivers, ponds, mining pools, drains, irrigation canals, beaches, and other water recreational areas, as water safety remains a top priority for the Kelantan Fire and Rescue Department in reducing drowning incidents involving children.