A British man and his teenage son, who went missing while diving in Malaysia, surfaced before drifting away, the only known survivor of the group has said as the search for them enters the third day.

Adrian Chesters and his 14-year-old son Nathan Chesters had been diving in waters about 15 metres deep at a southern island, off the town of Mersing, when they disappeared on Wednesday.

Alongside them was Norwegian diving instructor Kristine Grodem, who was rescued on Thursday, and 18-year-old French national Alexia Molina, who remains missing.

Ms Grodem was pulled from the water by a tugboat around 40km from the dive site and airlifted to hospital.

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The 35-year-old, who was training the others, is said to be in a stable condition and without any serious injuries.

Survivor says she was separated due to strong currents

District police chief Cyril Edward Nuing said Ms Grodem told investigators the group surfaced after about 40 minutes and began a second dive. He said they surfaced again soon after because of rough water conditions before they drifted away.

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Ms Grodem told authorities she was then separated from the others due to the strong current.

“Based on her account, the three others managed to surface. With their equipment, their full gear, and their experience, we believe there is a strong chance of finding them alive,” Mr Nuing said.

Boat’s skipper tested positive for drugs

Authorities have now expanded the search area and deployed two planes, 18 boats, and about 90 personnel.

Police said the boat’s skipper tested positive for drugs and has been detained for further investigation.

All diving activities in the area have been suspended while an inquiry into the incident is carried out.

There are five islands off the town that are popular dive spots for local residents and tourists.

The Foreign Office is in contact with the resort Mr Chesters and his son were staying at and has offered consular assistance.

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