MMEA MOUNTS SAR FOR CREW OF CAPSIZED VESSEL NEAR PULAU PERAK

ALOR SETAR, Nov 26 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has mounted a Search and Rescue (SAR) operation for the crew of a vessel feared to have capsized in waters northeast of Pulau Perak, near Yan, today.

Kedah and Perlis MMEA Director First Admiral Maritime Romli Mustafa said the incident was reported at 10.45 am by the boat’s skipper, who said the vessel was in a dangerous condition about 14.6 nautical miles northeast of Pulau Perak.

“The skipper received initial information on the vessel’s condition from one of his workers operating the boat. Following the report, the SAR operation was activated at 11 am and MMEA asset KM Siangin was deployed to the scene to conduct an initial assessment and provide immediate assistance.

“Based on information so far, an estimated eight or more crew members were on board and their identities are still being verified. At present, none of the victims have been found,” he said in a statement today.

He added that weather conditions at the time were reported to be poor, with northeasterly winds blowing at 30 to 40 kilometres per hour (km/h) and wave heights estimated between 1.5 to 2.5 metres.

“Several maritime areas were also experiencing thunderstorms, further increasing risks to the crew’s safety and the rescue operation. To strengthen operational efforts, the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) has deployed KD Ledang to the area.

“The rescue efforts are now being carried out jointly by both security agencies. The cargo ship MAERSK SONGKHLA, en route to Port Klang, is also assisting in the SAR operation,” he said.

Meanwhile, Romli said deployed assets are heading to the scene, and appropriate action will be taken upon arrival, including assessing the vessel’s condition, ensuring the crew’s safety and determining the necessary next steps.

“Further updates on the crew’s status, conditions at the location and other information related to the operation will be provided as soon as official details are available,” he said.

-- BERNAMA