BINTULU: A tragic accident occurred yesterday evening in Tatau when a boat engine exploded during a test run, leaving one man dead and two others seriously injured.
Tatau District Police Chief, DSP Jame Reis, confirmed the incident, which took place around 4.00pm at a local workshop. The victim, aged 23, was working alongside two colleagues and the workshop owner to prepare a boat engine for the 2025 Tatau Festival Speed Boat Race scheduled for today.
“During the test, the boat’s engine suddenly exploded, sending debris towards the workers nearby,” he said in a statement.
The 23-year-old victim was rushed to the Tatau Health Clinic but succumbed to his injuries. Two other workers, aged 41 and 28, were severely injured and are currently receiving treatment at Bintulu Hospital. The 59-year-old workshop owner escaped unhurt.
Investigations revealed that the blast was captured on closed-circuit television (CCTV). The footage showed the engine suddenly exploding while under test.
DSP Jame explained that initial findings confirmed the case was an accident, with no criminal elements involved. “The case is classified as sudden death (SDR). The victim’s body has been sent to Bintulu Hospital for post-mortem,” he added.
Police have urged the public not to speculate on the incident. They also called on anyone with further information to contact Tatau Police Station at 086-584539 or reach Investigating Officer Sergeant Rafiziezuan Mohd Yakop at 016-5254225.
The incident has cast a shadow over the Tatau Festival Speed Boat Race, a much-anticipated local event that draws participants and spectators annually. Authorities have yet to announce whether the accident will affect the scheduled races.
This tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of safety checks and precautions during engine testing, especially ahead of major community events.
