Education minister Fadhlina Sidek said in a Facebook post today that the relevant authorities were investigating the off-campus outdoor programme involving the two from Institut Pendidikan Guru Kampus Perlis, Bernama reported.

She extended her condolences to the affected families.

Kuala Muda police chief Hanyan Ramlan said preliminary investigations found that the kayak capsized due to rough sea conditions, with the victims later discovered entangled in a local fisherman’s net.

He said the case would be referred to the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency for further investigations.

The victims, identified as Christopher Ling, 21, and Joey Ling, 20, drowned while participating in the activity about 6pm. About 30 teacher trainees were involved.

The two bodies were recovered at around 7.30pm. They were still wearing their life jackets at the time.