Water surge in Malaysia's Selangor leaves 5 dead, 3 missing

Rescuers carry out rescue operations after a sudden surge of river water swept through a recreational area in Selangor state, Malaysia, Nov. 10, 2026. Five people have been confirmed dead and three others remain missing after a sudden surge of river water swept through a recreational area in Malaysia's Selangor state on Monday, authorities said Tuesday. (Photo: Bernama/Handout via Xinhua)

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 10 (Xinhua) -- Five people have been confirmed dead and three others remain missing after a sudden surge of river water swept through a recreational area in Malaysia's Selangor state on Monday, authorities said Tuesday.

The first victim was found early Tuesday morning, while four more bodies were recovered later in the morning, Selangor Fire and Rescue Department assistant operations director Ashrul Riezal Asbar told reporters.

Search and rescue operations are continuing for the three missing people, with the search area expanded to cover nearby waterways and a dam, he said.

Eight people were swept away by strong currents at several locations along the Pertak River on Monday evening. They included one Yemeni, four Indian nationals, one Nepalese, one Sri Lankan and one Malaysian.

Malaysia is currently experiencing the northeast monsoon season, which typically brings heavy rainfall and is expected to last until March next year.