GEORGE TOWN: A man is feared drowned after he fell from the Penang Bridge at KM2.2, island bound, early Wednesday (June 1) morning.

       A state Fire and Rescue Department spokesman said the 22-year-old victim left his personal belongings and his car on the bridge.

       "We received a call informing us of the incident at 5.39am Wednesday and a team of rescuers from the Prai fire station was rushed to the scene," said the spokesman in a statement.

       He added that the rescuers conducted a search-and-rescue operation (SAR) by scouring the bridge as well as the location where the victim had fallen.

       However, the spokesman said that judging by the strong currents in the area, it was feared the victim may have been swept away.

       He said the Fire and Rescue Department are currently continuing the SAR operation from a control centre that has been activated at its marine jetty in Mak Mandin, Butterworth

       Those facing problems can reach out to the Mental Health Psychosocial Support Service at 03-2935 9935 or 014-322 3392; Talian Kasih at 15999 or 019-261 5999; Jakim’s (Department of Islamic Development Malaysia) family, social and community care centre at 0111-959 8214; and Befrienders Kuala Lumpur at 03-7627 2929 or go to befrienders.org.my/centre-in-malaysia for a full list of numbers nationwide and operating hours, or email sam@befrienders.org.my.