Three beach locations that are the focus of visitors to Terengganu have been identified as a 'death trap' for those who love bathing in the area. Terengganu Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) director Mohamad Shoki Hamzah said the three locations involved the areas of Pandak Chendering Beach, Kuala Terengganu and Teluk Lipat and Tanjung Bidara, Dungun.

"Although this area is a public focus, it is a dangerous place for visitors to take a bath based on the surrounding environment.

"This place could be used as a pilot project to house a one-stop center for the proposal to set up a Coastal Special Forces which also involves local authorities (UN), the Royal Malaysian Police (PDRM) and other agencies," he said.

He said special coastal rescue teams should be set up due to the geographical conditions of the state with large coastal areas.

"The recreation center in Terengganu is more concentrated in the coastal areas as the 244 kilometers (km) of the state is a coastal area.

"Looking at the shape and gradient of the beach in Terengganu, it is an unsafe beach for picnic and bathing activities.

"So, I suggest that we apply the concept overseas (Australia) to set up a special team of coast rescuers," he said.

In addition, he said the relevant parties would also like to study to introduce special syllabus (water safety) to students and institutions of higher learning (IPT).

"It's time for us to introduce the syllabus to students from an early age.

"It is an early step as we are all exposed to the terrain of Terengganu which is well known as the water tourism center," he said.