The death of a beloved Bali instructor in a freak surfing accident has rocked family and friends in Australia.
Samsul ‘Sam’ Kepompong, 33, was surfing with friends at Ekas Beach on the Indonesian island of Lombok last Friday when a large wave knocked him from his board.
The rope on his board had snapped, leaving him at the mercy of the rough ocean conditions, according to local media reports.
Mr Kepompong called out to another instructor for help who was unable to reach him due to the massive waves.
A friend rescued him by boat but Mr Kepompong died enroute to the medical centre.
Mr Kepompong was an Indonesian national who had family in Australia.
It’s understood the Bali local had travelled to the island with friends and guests from Central Lombok to conduct surfing lessons.
Members of Mr Kepompong’s community took part in a paddle-out in his honour on Monday.
Samsul Kepompong (pictured) died in a freak surfing accident last Friday
Members of Mr Kepompong’s surfing community took part in a paddle-out in Bali on Monday
His northern NSW-based cousin Lopan Lopan has established a GoFundMe page to assist with funeral arrangements and medical bills.
Mr Kepompong is believed to have worked in the front office at a Novotel hotel on Bali’s southern tip.
‘He was a friend, uncle, and son – someone whose kindness, laughter, and smile made the world a better place,’ Mr Lopan said.
‘Sam worked hard to support his family, especially his dad, who is the full-time carer for Sam’s brother with special needs.
‘The last thing he would want is for his family to face financial stress while mourning his loss.
A relative began a GoFundMe to support family of the beloved surf instructor, friend and son
Sam’s kindness, laughter and smile made the world a better place
‘Let’s come together to support the people he loved most and honor his memory with the kindness he always showed to others.’
More than $9,000 has been raised towards the funeral, which was held on the weekend.
Mr Kepompong’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief online.
‘We will no longer hear your voice, see your smile, joke with you. But believe me friend, you will always be my friend,’ one friend wrote.
‘He is my friend who is the family’s backbone, giving life to his father who works full-time taking care of his [sibling],’ another wrote.
‘He was so kind that God loved him too much and took him sooner.’
