JOHOR BARU: The state Fire and Rescue Department is urging the public to take extra precautions during the ongoing northeast monsoon season.
This comes after five cases of missing persons in rivers across Johor.
Three of the victims were found in a two-day extensive search and rescue operations. They had drowned.
Johor Fire and Rescue Department director Siti Rohani Nadir advised people to heighten vigilance as rougher waters, strong currents and turbulent winds increased the risk of accidents.
There were five cases reported on Sunday – two in Kota Tinggi, two in Batu Pahat and one in Batu Pahat.
Three of the victims' bodies were found after a two-day SAR operation, with the recent recovery at 8am today.
The northeast monsoon season between November and March next year contributed to the recent rise in the number drowning cases in bodies of water.
Siti Rohani said it's important to adhere to safety guidelines, especially as weather conditions become increasingly dangerous with the monsoon.
She urged everyone particularly fishermen and water sports enthusiasts, to remain alert and prioritise safety.
She recommended that before venturing out to sea or rivers, its best to check the weather forecasts by the Malaysian Meteorological Department or reliable weather apps and to avoid rivers or open water if adverse weather warnings are in effect.
"The sea and river conditions are highly unpredictable during this season. It's not worth the risk if bad weather is expected," she told the New Straits Times, today.
She stressed the importance of carrying safety gear, including life jackets, which should be worn at all times, even by experienced swimmers and anglers.
"Life jackets are critical in preventing drownings, especially when waters are rough. They keep a person afloat, making it easier to survive if an accident occurs."
She added that life jackets are essential for all water-based activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming.
"These jackets not only save lives by keeping individuals afloat but also make them easier to spot in emergencies. It's a simple precaution that can make all the difference."
To improve safety, she advised that individuals inform family or friends of their exact location and estimated return time before embarking on any fishing or boating trips.
High-risk areas, such as rocky outcrops or exposed coastlines, should be avoided, and early morning or nighttime activities should be minimised due to limited visibility and sudden shifts in weather.
The public is encouraged to recognise early signs of worsening conditions, including thick clouds, stronger winds, or darkening skies, and to return to shore immediately.
Besides fishing and boating, Siti Rohani said risky recreational activities near rivers, beaches, and other bodies of water with strong currents, should be avoided totally.
For those living near hills or steep slopes, she warned of increased landslide risks due to heavy rainfall during the monsoon.
On Sunday in Kota Tinggi, a 15-year-old boy went missing after jumping into Sungai Johor in Teluk Sengat to retrieve a drifting boat when its mooring line snapped.
On the same day, a 26-year-old fisherman was also reported missing after his boat capsized in Sungai Kampung Sayang in Kuala Sedili. His body was found at 8am today.
While in Muar, a 14-year-old autistic boy's body was found floating at Marina Bay jetty. His visually-impaired father, lodged a missing person report on Saturday.
In Batu Pahat, a man, 27, fell into Sungai Simpang Kanan, also on Sunday.
His body was found near the Sengkuang bridge yesterday.