KUCHING: The sole survivor of the Batang Baleh boat tragedy in Kapit on Mar 7, passed away at the Sarawak General Hospital (SGH) yesterday (Mar 19).
Muhammad Firdaus Ngui Abdullah @ Moses Ngui, 47, was the only individual among the five men onboard the ill-fated vessel to be rescued after it capsized.
His demise was announced on Facebook.
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of Muhammad Firdaus Ngui Abdullah @ Moses Ngui, at SGH on Mar 19.
“His remains will be conveyed to his residence at Taman Sukma, with interment scheduled at the Semariang Muslim cemetery on Wednesday (Mar 20).
“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members of the deceased,” the post said.
On Mar 7, Muhammad Firdaus, Amerson John Nain, and Jack Balan were part of a team transporting explosives from Kuching to Nanga Tulie, accompanied by policemen Constable Iskandar Ibrahim and Sgt Jonathan Lambet.
At around 5 pm, tragedy struck as their boat capsized after veering slightly upstream and encountered a whirlpool near SK Lepong Baleh, Batang Baleh.
While four were pulled underwater, Muhammad Firdaus managed to be rescued by members of the public.
Three days later, the bodies of Jonathan and Jack were discovered near the Kapit market and in Pulau Kerto waters, respectively, while Amerson’s remains were found in Batang Lebaan.
On Mar 15, Iskandar’s body was recovered in Seputin area of Batang Rajang, about 2km from the incident.
