Kota bharu: Four watchtowers at key beaches in Kelantan are helping to reduce the risk of near-drowning and drowning incidents through continuous monitoring by the Malaysia Civil Defence Force (APM), especially during holiday seasons and the Northeast Monsoon (MTL).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Kelantan APM acting director Lt Col (PA) Mohd Farid Ishak stated that the watchtowers are located at Pantai Geting in Tumpat; Pantai Cahaya Bulan (PCB) in Kota Bharu; Pantai Irama in Bachok; and Pantai Bisikan Bayu in Pasir Puteh. The placement of watchtowers and beach rescue teams at high-traffic locations enables more effective monitoring to be conducted.
"In recent years, there have been various near-drowning and drowning incidents at beach areas. With the presence of beach rescue teams and watchtowers at high-risk locations, we can reduce such risks," he told reporters after the APM with Media 2026 programme at the Wakaf Mek Zainab Sports Complex here today.
Mohd Farid mentioned that the programme aims to provide briefings and practical training on water rescue methods as well as initial actions to be taken during emergencies. Swift action is crucial as drowning victims can disappear within five minutes if immediate assistance is not provided.
"Do not simply wait for rescue teams as they may take some time to arrive. In emergencies, every second counts in saving lives," he said. He also advised the public against jumping directly into the water to rescue victims, as this could put themselves in danger. Instead, he suggested that bystanders use sticks, poles, or other long objects to assist victims while waiting for rescue teams to arrive.
Mohd Farid noted that APM receives emergency calls related to beach incidents almost every month, including at rapids in Gua Musang and Kuala Krai. He added that most recreational spots popular with visitors in each district have been identified as hotspots and are continuously monitored.
As such, he reminded the public not to swim or play in the water at beaches, rivers, and rapids during the Northeast Monsoon due to dangerous waves and currents. At the same time, he advised the public to seek shelter immediately during thunder and lightning, and not to take cover under trees or near electric poles.
He said those engaging in outdoor activities should seek shelter in nearby buildings or remain inside vehicles until conditions are safe. Yesterday, a Thai football club player died, and a Malaysian was injured after being struck by lightning during the Golok FA Cup match at the Santiphap Stadium in Sungai Golok, Narathiwat, Thailand.
Sungai Golok police chief Col Thun Sirikhunt reportedly said the incident occurred during heavy rain at about 5 pm local time, when lightning struck the centre of the field during the match. Earlier, 10 media practitioners, including from Bernama, TV3, Berita Harian, and China Press, participated in the APM with Media 2026 programme, which provided exposure to water rescue techniques and the use of scuba equipment.