Sibu MP calls for urgent SOP review, accountability after teacher trainees’ kayaking deaths
by Philip Wong · Borneo Post OnlineSIBU (April 7): The Education Ministry (MoE) has been urged to urgently review standard operating procedures (SOPs) for high-risk activities at all Institutes of Teacher Education (IPG) nationwide, particularly water-based and outdoor training programmes.
In making the call, Sibu MP Oscar Ling said existing safety mechanisms must be standardised and strengthened if there are ambiguities or inconsistencies.
“Students should no longer be allowed to participate in activities under unclear or incomplete safety frameworks,” he said in a statement following the recent kayaking incident at IPG Perlis in Pantai Merdeka, Kedah, which resulted in the deaths of two Sarawakian teacher trainees.
He expressed deep sadness over the tragedy and called for a thorough and transparent investigation, with findings disclosed to the public and explained clearly to the victims’ families.
He said such incidents are no longer isolated cases, stressing that systematic weaknesses must be addressed with immediate corrective action.
Ling also called for a stricter, binding approval system requiring independent professional assessment before any high-risk activity is conducted, including checks on weather, environment and equipment safety.
He said clear ‘no-go’ criteria must be established, with organisers held accountable if activities are cancelled due to unsafe conditions rather than shifting risks to students.
On personnel and equipment, he stressed that minimum requirements are not sufficient and safety standards must be raised further.
He added that all supervising staff must uphold relevant certifications and emergency response capabilities, while safety equipment must meet required specifications, with zero tolerance for negligence.
Ling also called for a clear accountability mechanism, saying those responsible must be held accountable if investigations confirm human negligence or weak management.
“Responsibility cannot be avoided on the grounds of unclear systems or procedural issues. Only through accountability can a real deterrent effect be achieved,” he said.
He further stressed that investigation must be independent and transparent, with full disclosure of findings and follow-up actions within a reasonable timeframe.
Ling said delays or vague statements would only erode public trust, adding that reform must be implemented through concrete action rather than promises.
“Every young life deserves to be protected, and the trust of every family must not be betrayed,” he said.