TANJUNG MANIS, 8 May 2025 – A 26-year-old fisherman from Bintangor sustained serious injuries to his right hand after being entangled in a pulley cable while fishing near Pulau Bruit waters late last night.
The victim, identified as Mohd Rafi Abdullah, was believed to have been operating a pulley system during the process of lifting the boat’s towbar when the accident occurred at around 8.30pm.
According to Tanjung Manis Maritime Zone Director, Maritime Commander Mahkos Juing, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) received a distress call from the captain of the fishing vessel at 9.45pm. In response, the PETIR 82 patrol boat was immediately deployed to assist.
“The rescue team successfully transferred the injured fisherman from the fishing boat to the Tanjung Manis Passenger Terminal Jetty by 1.05am. He was then transported to the Tanjung Manis Health Clinic by an APM (Civil Defence Force) ambulance,” he said in a press release today.
Commander Mahkos praised the quick coordination between the maritime rescue unit and local emergency responders, stating that their swift action ensured the victim received timely treatment. The fisherman is now reported to be in stable condition and under medical observation.
The maritime authorities are reminding the fishing community to always adhere to strict safety procedures while working at sea. Equipment like pulley systems and towbar mechanisms must be handled with care to prevent such accidents.
Commander Mahkos added, “We urge all sea operators and fishermen to stay alert and prioritise personal and crew safety at all times to avoid tragic incidents.”
This incident serves as a strong reminder of the risks faced by fishermen daily and the importance of proper training and safety practices on board.
