MIRI – The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has rescued four fishermen who were adrift on an icebox for six days off the coast of Miri.
Miri MMEA director Mohd Shafie Paing said the fishermen aged between 25 and 44, were stranded 75 nautical miles out at sea but were brought back to Miri yesterday evening.
“Yesterday, our patrol boats responded to distress calls on a group of fishermen who had gone missing in the South China Sea off the coast of Miri.
“Our patrol teams embarked on a search mission yesterday and found the survivors floating inside an icebox in the ocean about 75 nautical miles from the Miri shore,” he said in a press statement.
Shafie said the fishermen were found weak and dehydrated, adding that they had gone offshore in the South China Sea on January 29.
He added that their boat had met with rough seas before it capsized.
“The four managed to swim and climbed into an icebox,” he said.
“They were found by our patrol teams, brought safely to shore at about 6pm yesterday, and transported to the Miri Hospital.”
Shafie reminded the fishing community to ensure their fishing vessels are in top shape before venturing offshore.
He said the weather could be inclement and dangerous in the deep seas during this season.
He also advised those going offshore to contact the nearest MMEA office to provide details of their activities and whereabouts in the ocean. – The Vibes, February 5, 2023
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