A group of seven Singaporeans were kayaking on Sungai Tesong in Perak, Malaysia, on Saturday afternoon when tragedy struck. The kayak of 30-year-old Koh Kah Wei hit driftwood and overturned, throwing him into the treacherous white water. His friends weren’t able to help due to the strong current, and could only watch as Koh was swept away.
A search and rescue operation was conducted that same day, but swift currents, heavy rain and fading light hampered efforts. The operation resumed early Sunday morning.
Unfortunately, Bernama reported that Koh’s body was found yesterday afternoon, about one kilometre from where he went missing. Search and rescue personnel found his body caught by tree branches at the river bank.
His death was shocking news to many of his friends and family, especially since Koh was an avid water sportsman, a lifesaver, and a veteran kayaking trainer. The Singapore High Commission in Kuala Lumpur will be extending consular assistance to Koh’s family.
