Family Seeks Fair Probe Into Teen’s Drowning At Pantai Balok

KUANTAN, April 23 (Bernama) -- The family of the late Muhammad Luqman Kamil Jamaluddin is calling for a fair and transparent investigation into his death, after he was reported to have drowned while searching for shellfish at Pantai Balok here last Friday.

His father, Jamaluddin Wahudin, 57, and mother, Siti Roslina Misban, 56, said they are still awaiting findings from the authorities and the school to determine what actually happened.

“We have heard various versions of the incident, but as a family who has lost a child, we hope the investigation will reveal the truth,” Jamaluddin said when met at Felda Lepar Hilir 3 today.

He added that he was not informed of the activity, as he did not sign any consent form, although his approval is usually required for his son’s participation in school activities.

Previously, it was reported that Muhammad Luqman Kamil, a Form Four student of Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan Sultan Abu Bakar, was found drowned at 2.15pm on April 18 after he was believed to have gone missing while searching for shellfish at Pantai Balok a day earlier.

Pahang Fire and Rescue Department assistant director (Operations) Mohd Salahuddin Isa said the body was found floating about 400 metres from the river mouth and was later handed over to the police for further action.

The incident also drew attention from Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, who extended condolences to the family.

In a Facebook post, she said the Ministry of Education’s priority is to ensure the family receives the necessary support.

Meanwhile, Siti Roslina described her son as affectionate and family-oriented.

“He was a good child. He spent most of his time either at home or in the hostel. When he went out, it was usually to town with the family,” she said.

-- BERNAMA