THE Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has raised concern over the alarming number of maritime fatalities linked to the refusal to wear life jackets, with many sea-goers claiming they are “uncomfortable”.
According to the agency, nearly 80 per cent of the 226 maritime incidents recorded last year involved individuals not wearing life jackets.
“For the period from January to May 2024 alone, 1,599 individuals were involved in 334 maritime incidents, including 100 fatalities,” said First Admiral (Maritime) Mohd Tahir Khalid, Director of MMEA’s Air Operations Division.
“Records show that in 2024, there were 226 maritime incidents involving 1,348 victims. Of these, 1,259 were rescued, 64 died, and 25 remain missing,” he said at the Maritime Safety Day celebration themed *‘Float to Live’* held in Tanjung Harapan on Saturday.
“Already this year, up to May, there have been 108 cases involving 251 people, with 203 rescued, 36 dead, and 12 still missing,” he added.
Mohd Tahir said the statistics paint a worrying picture, and that if the current trend continues, Malaysia could witness a twofold increase in deaths and disappearances by the end of the year.
“Those heading to sea often claim life jackets are too uncomfortable to wear. However, many of these accidents occur during the Northeast Monsoon season,” he noted.
He stressed that wearing a life jacket significantly improves a person’s chances of survival, allowing them to stay afloat while awaiting rescue.
“There is an urgent need to increase awareness of maritime safety not only among seafaring communities but also the general public who may be exposed to marine risks,” he said.
Mohd Tahir also urged greater vigilance as the Northeast Monsoon approaches, expected to begin in November.
“Maritime communities are advised to check weather forecasts before setting out, ensure their vessels and equipment are in good working order, and bring along a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), life jacket, emergency kit, and inform family or friends of their location,” he advised.
He further stressed that maritime safety is a collective responsibility, and called on the public to learn basic survival skills.
“MMEA urges everyone to reassess their readiness and learn correct floating techniques. These skills are not only vital for fishermen or seafarers, but for anyone at sea—whether for work or leisure,” he said.
Also present at the event was Selangor Maritime Director Captain (Maritime) Abdul Muhaimin Muhammad Salleh.
On 6 June, police confirmed that six Malaysians involved in a fatal boat capsizing off Tanjung Harapan, Port Klang, had not been wearing life jackets. - June 28, 2025
