THREE people, including two young girls, lost their lives after a boat carrying 15 passengers capsized during stormy weather off Pulau Perhentian late last night.
Besut police chief Superintendent Azamuddin Ahmad @ Abu confirmed the victims as S. Arumugam, 40, his three-year-old daughter A. Sarrvihka, and a 10-year-old relative, V. Vennpani.
The incident occurred around 10.30pm amid heavy rain and rough seas. Twelve others, including a six-year-old in critical condition, were rescued and sent to Besut Hospital for emergency treatment.
According to Azamuddin, initial investigations revealed that none of the passengers were wearing life jackets at the time of the accident.
He also confirmed that the boat’s driver, a local man in his 20s, has been detained for questioning. “The individual tested positive for drugs and has five previous drug-related records,” he said.
He urged the public to place greater emphasis on safety, especially when visiting resort destinations. “Boat operators must prioritise the safety of tourists and strictly adhere to regulations, particularly the mandatory use of life jackets,” Bernama cited him adding.
Terengganu director of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), Maritime Captain Hamiludin Che Awang, stated that a search and rescue operation was launched at 11.17pm following notification of the incident at 10.55pm.
“All victims were brought to the Besut Tourist Jetty aboard the Penggalang 45 Maritime Boat, and have since been transferred to Sultanah Nur Zahirah Hospital in Kuala Terengganu for further medical examination and treatment,” he said.
Hamiludin added that a full investigation is underway to determine the exact cause of the tragedy.
“This incident is a stark reminder of the critical importance of safety at sea, especially during unpredictable weather. Maritime Malaysia urges all boat operators to comply with safety regulations and always check weather forecasts before departing,” he said. - June 29, 2025
