A disagreement over compensation for damage to two jet skis involving a Chinese tourist and a water sports operator at Pantai Chenang recently escalated into a tense confrontation, prompting police intervention.
The incident drew public attention after a 26-second video showing the dispute went viral on social media. The footage captured a heated exchange believed to be between the foreign tourist and representatives of the jet ski operator.
Langkawi District Police Chief Assistant Commissioner Khairul Azhar Nuruddin confirmed that the incident took place last Monday and said police had received reports from both parties involved.
According to him, the tourist and his friends had rented jet skis at the popular beach but were alleged to have operated the watercraft without supervision from the operator.
“After the rental period ended, the operator found cracks and damage on two jet skis,” he said.
Dispute arose after the operator demanded compensation
He added that the dispute arose after the operator demanded RM1,000 in compensation for the damage, a sum that the tourist was reportedly dissatisfied with.
Khairul Azhar said police reviewed the viral video and confirmed that no physical altercation occurred during the incident.
“There was no physical fight, as the situation was stopped by one of the workers at the premises.”
Both parties were later called in to provide their statements. Police subsequently issued warnings to those involved to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
“They agreed to settle the matter amicably and have withdrawn the police reports that were lodged,” he added.
Authorities have reminded both operators and tourists to adhere to safety guidelines and rental conditions to avoid misunderstandings and potential conflicts.
Watch the video of the incident here.
