Kulim: The identities of the three victims who died after being swept away by strong currents during a water surge phenomenon at Taman Eko Rimba Sungai Sedim near Kulim today have been confirmed. Kulim Hi-Tech Fire and Rescue Station (BBP) chief Senior Fire Superintendent Mohammad Haiqal Izwan Nasir said the deceased were Muhammad Aariz Danial Md Radzi, 3, Muhammad Uzair Ahmadi Hussain, 12, and Nur Atikah Abdullah, 28.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, "All the victims were brought to the riverbank. One of the boys was given early cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) before the arrival of the medical team. However, all the victims were pronounced dead by the Ministry of Health staff. Their bodies were then handed over to the police for further action," he said in a statement today.

He said a thorough assessment of the scene confirmed that only three victims were involved in the incident, and the operation was ended at 5.04 pm. Mohammad Haiqal said all the victims were believed to have been picnicking and swimming at the Tree Top Walk area at the foothill of Gunung Bintang before the water surge phenomenon struck suddenly.

He said Muhammad Uzair Ahmadi Hussain was found about one kilometre from where the victims were believed to have been picnicking, while Muhammad Aariz Danial Md Radzi and Nur Atikah Abdullah were found about 50 metres from the location where the first victim was recovered. He said members of the public brought all three victims to the riverbank before firefighters arrived at the scene, and advised the public to remain vigilant when carrying out activities at rivers and to stay alert to weather conditions.

Meanwhile, Kampung Sedim resident Abd Padhil Ghani, 64, said the area was a popular spot for picnics and swimming, especially during weekends. "A friend of mine spotted one of the victims floating in the river, but was unable to rescue the victim because of the strong current," he said.