Two trainee teachers found dead after kayaking incident in Kedah, Malaysia
Two trainee teachers died after their kayak capsized during an outdoor education programme in Kedah, prompting investigations by authorities and a review of safety procedures by Malaysia’s education ministry.
- Two trainee teachers died after a kayak capsized in Kedah on 4 April 2026.
- Authorities say rough sea conditions likely caused the incident.
- Investigations are ongoing into safety procedures and compliance failures.
Two trainee teachers were found dead after their kayak capsized during an off-campus outdoor education programme at Pantai Merdeka in Kedah, northern Malaysia, on 4 April, authorities said, with investigations underway into safety compliance and the circumstances of the incident.
The victims, identified as Christopher Ling Jia Siang, 21, and Joey Ling Lin Siang, 20, were students of the Perlis campus of the Institute of Teacher Education (IPG), according to state news agency Bernama.
Kuala Muda district police chief ACP Hanyan Ramlan said the incident occurred at about 5pm, with preliminary investigations indicating that the kayak capsized due to rough sea conditions.
The pair were later found entangled in a local fisherman’s net, and their bodies were recovered at around 7.30pm. Both were reportedly wearing life jackets at the time.
Police have classified the case as sudden death and said it would be referred to the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) for further investigation into the maritime incident.
Education ministry launches probe
Malaysia’s Ministry of Education (MOE) said it has initiated an internal investigation to review whether standard operating procedures (SOPs) were properly followed during the programme.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek said in a Facebook post that other relevant authorities are also investigating the case, adding that the ministry is providing immediate assistance to the victims’ families.
“On behalf of MOE, I extend my condolences to the families of the two IPG Perlis Campus students who were involved in an accident while participating in an off-campus outdoor education programme. May their families be granted strength and resilience in facing this difficult time,” she said.
The ministry added that it is managing arrangements to repatriate the bodies to Sarawak, the victims’ home state.
Maritime agency raises safety concerns
The MMEA said it had not received prior notification of the kayaking activity.
Kuala Kedah Maritime Zone director Commander (M) Noor Azreyanti Ishak said organisers are required to inform authorities in advance of large-scale sea or open-water activities and obtain approval.
“This is to allow risk assessments to be conducted and necessary safety measures taken. This includes monitoring weather conditions, ocean currents and readiness of security assets should an emergency occur,” she said in a statement.
She added that organisers must ensure sufficient life jackets, proper supervision by certified personnel, and clear emergency response plans.
“All parties and outdoor programme organisers are advised not to view safety aspects lightly, especially when planning activities at sea. Early cooperation with security agencies can avoid untoward incidents and protect the lives of participants,” she said.
The agency also reiterated its commitment to raising public awareness on maritime safety and urged individuals to remain vigilant when engaging in sea-based activities.
