The whole nation is mourning the recent loss of lives in the Tawau tragedy. It was a tragic incident that could have been prevented had relevant safety precautions been taken.

I feel that this is a wake-up call for all schools and institutions in Brunei to really reinforce safety measures when they go on field trips no matter how 'not dangerous' it may seem.

Utilities like life jackets for activities that involve contact with water bodies should not be taken lightly.

I could not stress strongly enough the importance of proper standard safety procedures.

The person in charge of any field trip as well as the students involved should be briefed on the basics. We do not want anymore unnecessary tragedies to happen.

Let us learn from this occurrence and improve Bruneian institutions and schools for the better.

My heartfelt condolences and prayers go to the families and loved ones of the dearly departed. Al-Fatihah.