Marine Department Suspends Skipper’s License, Launches Probe into Pulau Perhentian Boat Tragedy

The Marine Department has suspended the license of the skipper involved in the fatal Pulau Perhentian boat accident that claimed three lives, pending the outcome of a full investigation. The incident, which occurred on Saturday night, saw a small tourist board capsize after being struck by large waves while ferrying passengers between Pulau Perhentian Kecil and Pulau Perhentian Besar.

Eastern Region Deputy Director of the Marine Department, Mohamad Halizam Samsuri, confirmed that in addition to suspending the skipper’s license, the department has also revoked the boat’s operating license due to severe damage found on the vessel.

A committee has been formed under Section 334 of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 to investigate the incident and determine the exact cause of it, said Halizam during a press conference at the Terengganu Marine Department office.

He added that investigations will also focus on whether there were any breaches of license conditions or violations of maritime safety laws. If any are confirmed, stricter action, including the permanent revocation of the skipper’s license will be taken.

“The Marine Department has also suspended the boat driver’s licence, pending the outcome of the police investigation into the suspected drug abuse offence”.

Borno boat mishap: 6 bodies recovered – The Nigerian Xpress — Image Source: The Nigerian Xpress

Overcrowding and Lack of Life Jackets

Initial findings revealed that the boat was carrying more passengers than legally permitted. The vessel, measuring 7.9 metres, is licensed for two crew members and a maximum of ten passengers.

“A small boat measuring 7.9 metres is only allowed to carry two crew members and a maximum of 10 passengers. Based on the police statement, none of the passengers were wearing life jackets. The skipper should have been more firm in

The boat was returning from Pulau Perhentian Kecil to Pulau Perhentian Besar at around 10.30p.m after a dinner outing when it was hit by strong waves causing it to overturn.

Boat capsizes off Pulau Perhentian, 3 dead [WATCH] — Image Source: NST

Among the victims were 40-year-old S.Arumugam, his three-year old daughter A.Sarrvihka, and a 10-year-old relative, V.Vennpani. Two others sustained injuries while ten managed to survive.

Halizam emphasized that the Marine Department regularly conducts inspections on passenger boats in coordination with agencies such as the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and the Fisheries Department.

He also reminded boat operators to strictly follow operating hour regulation. In this case, the boat was found to be operating at night, which is a violation of its license terms.

The Marine Department is urging all maritime operators and tourists to prioritize safety and follow all regulations to prevent future accidents. The investigation committee is expected to deliver its full findings in the coming weeks.

Sources: MalayMail