Malaysia

Three children drown in wastewater pond in Sibu Jaya

Authorities confirm identities as siblings and friend after tragic accident; families in mourning

Updated 6 months ago · Published on 05 Feb 2026 11:59AM

Three children drown in wastewater pond in Sibu Jaya
The victims were siblings Macx Devdynne Sharie Merdeka, 12, and Macx Welwait, 9, along with their friend Daniella Arissa Tayas Ak Maringgai, 10 (Photo from Sinar Harian) - February 5, 2026

THE identities of three children who tragically drowned in a wastewater pond near Flat Sibu Jaya on Wednesday have been confirmed by authorities.

The victims were siblings Macx Devdynne Sharie Merdeka, 12, and Macx Welwait, 9, along with their friend Daniella Arissa Tayas Ak Maringgai, 10.

A spokesperson for the Sarawak Fire and Rescue Operations Centre (PGO) said that the three children were initially rescued from the pond by two members of the public and brought to the pond’s embankment.

Emergency services received the distress call at 4.03 pm, after which a team from the Sibu Jaya Fire and Rescue Station rushed to the scene.

The incident involved two girls and one boy, and all were later confirmed deceased by the Ministry of Health (KKM).

“Two of the children were siblings, and all victims have been confirmed dead,” the spokesperson told Sinar Harian. “The bodies have been handed over to the police for further action.”

The tragic event has sent shockwaves through the local community, with emergency personnel and residents expressing deep sorrow over the loss of the young lives. - February 5, 2026

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