BINTULU: Two fishermen have been reported missing after the fishing vessel they were on capsized due to rough seas and strong winds about three nautical miles northwest of Tanjung Payung yesterday evening.
Bintulu Maritime Zone Director, Maritime Captain Muhammad Suffian Eldine Abdullah, said the incident was reported to the Maritime Rescue Sub Center (MRSC) Kuching at around 6.15 pm after his team received a distress report from the captain of the tugboat TB. SWEE. The tugboat had rescued four fishermen from the sunken vessel at the scene.
According to one of the survivors, Nasri Harun, the class C fishing vessel sank suddenly after being hit by strong waves. He added that two of their crewmates are still missing despite efforts to locate them immediately after the incident.
Following the report, MRSC Kuching activated a Search and Rescue Operation (CARILAMAT) and deployed a Malaysian Maritime Patrol Boat to the area to begin search efforts.
“The four rescued victims are currently en route to Bintulu Port for further treatment. One of them sustained injuries to his hand and chin,” said Captain Suffian.
He added that the search operation is ongoing, involving several agencies under the coordination of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA). Weather conditions in the area remain challenging due to continuous strong winds and rough seas.
The Malaysian Maritime reminds all seafarers and fishermen to avoid going out to sea during bad weather and to always follow maritime safety procedures and navigation laws to prevent accidents.
Members of the public are urged to report any information or maritime emergencies to the 999 emergency line, the Bintulu Maritime Zone Operations Centre (086-314 254), or the Sarawak State Maritime Operations Centre (082-432 544) for immediate action.
