Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency mounts search and rescue operation for eight crew members after a vessel capsized in rough seas near Pulau Perak.
ALOR SETAR: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency has launched a search and rescue operation for the crew of a vessel that capsized northeast of Pulau Perak.
Kedah and Perlis MMEA Director First Admiral Maritime Romli Mustafa said the incident was reported at 10.45 am by the boat’s skipper.
The skipper received information about the vessel’s dangerous condition from one of his workers operating the boat.
The SAR operation was activated at 11 am with MMEA asset KM Siangin deployed to conduct an initial assessment.
An estimated eight or more crew members were on board, though their identities are still being verified.
No victims have been found so far in the ongoing search operation.
Weather conditions were poor with northeasterly winds blowing at 30 to 40 km/h.
Wave heights were estimated between 1.5 to 2.5 metres, complicating rescue efforts.
Several maritime areas were experiencing thunderstorms, further increasing risks to crew safety.
The Royal Malaysian Navy has deployed KD Ledang to strengthen operational efforts.
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.
Deployed assets are heading to the scene to assess the vessel’s condition and ensure crew safety.
Further updates on the crew’s status will be provided as official details become available.
