SINGAPORE: A search and rescue operation is underway for a Singaporean man who went missing off Malaysia’s coast of Desaru on Wednesday (Dec 27).
According to Malaysian media, the 49-year-old man and his son were hit by waves while they were in the water off The Westin Desaru Coast Resort.
The son, 16, was rescued by members of the public and taken to Kota Tinggi Hospital.
The operations commander of Penawar Fire and Rescue Department said a red flag had been raised at the beach to warn visitors against water activities due to rough seas.
“A red flag was raised there as a warning to visitors not to engage in activities on the beach due to weather conditions,” Senior Assistant Superintendent Masri Ibrahim said in a statement.
He added that a distress call was made at about 12.30pm on Wednesday, and that 17 rescuers were deployed to the scene.
CNA has contacted Singapore’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs for information.
Desaru, a coastal town in the state of Johor, is popular among Singapore tourists for its resorts and beaches. It is about a 90-minute ferry ride from Singapore.