SEMPORNA: A Chinese tourist has claimed trial in the Magistrate’s Court here on charges of negligently operating a jet ski, causing a collision that seriously injured a 54-year-old Malaysian man on August 15.
The incident occurred at about 10.30 am in the waters off Pulau Timbun Mata. The victim, a Malaysian tourist, was participating in a marine leisure activity with his child, riding a “flying fish” inflatable tube towed by a boat, when it was struck by a jet ski.
The jet ski was being operated by a Chinese national and one other individual. As a result of the collision, the victim sustained severe injuries and was initially taken to Semporna Hospital before being referred to Tawau Hospital for further treatment.
Following the incident, police investigations were conducted under Section 280 of the Penal Code (for rash navigation endangering human life) and Section 338 of the Penal Code (for causing grievous hurt by an act endangering life). The investigation paper was subsequently completed and forwarded for prosecution.
On August 18, the Chinese tourist and the other individual were jointly charged in the Semporna Magistrate’s Court under Section 338 of the Penal Code. The charge states that they operated a jet ski in a manner so rash as to endanger human life, which caused grievous hurt to the victim.
Both accused pleaded not guilty to the charge. The Chinese national was represented by legal counsel, while the other accused had no valid identification documents.
The prosecution was handled by prosecuting officer Inspector Muhammad Nur Faez Hazreeq Abdullah.
Magistrate Nurul Iman Ab Rahim allowed the Chinese tourist to be released on bail set at RM2,000 with two local sureties who have permanent addresses in Semporna. As an additional condition, the court ordered that the accused’s passport be surrendered and held by the court.
The second accused, who does not possess valid identification, was not offered bail and is to be detained under Section 259 of the Criminal Procedure Code.
The court has scheduled the next case management for 3 September 2026.
If convicted, the accused face a penalty of imprisonment for up to two years, a fine of up to RM2,000, or both, at the discretion of the court.
OCPD Superintendent Tan Hiap Wah, reiterated that police takes a serious view of any acts of negligence or reckless conduct at sea that endanger lives and the safety of other users. He advised the public, especially recreational activity operators, to strictly adhere to safety regulations, operate vessels prudently, and prioritize safety to prevent such incidents. – James Leong
Tan reiterated that police takes a serious view of any acts of negligence or reckless conduct at sea that endanger lives and the safety of other users.
