By Aida Aziz
Photo: Maritim Perak
IPOH: Two Indonesian fishermen were successfully rescued late last night by the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) after drifting at sea for three days due to a damaged boat engine.
According to a spokesperson from the Strategic Communications Division of the Western Fleet Command headquartered in Lumut, the fishing boat had departed from Tanjung Balai, Indonesia, on June 19 to fish at sea.
However, on Saturday morning, the boat’s engine malfunctioned, causing it to drift and forcing the fishermen to steer manually.
“The two fishermen, aged 23 and 25, were exhausted after spending three days on the boat amidst rough sea conditions.
“Fortunately, they managed to bring the boat close to Pulau Jarak, located 39 nautical miles (72 kilometers) west of Kuala Perak, by midnight on Monday, where they were assisted by personnel from TLDM’s Jarak Station.
“On humanitarian grounds, the Jarak Station crew provided the fishermen with temporary shelter, food supplies, and other basic aid,” said the statement here today.
The statement also noted that the damaged engine was repaired with the help of TLDM’s Jarak Station crew.
In addition, information about the incident has been forwarded to the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (APMM) in Perak for further action.
“The repaired boat will be escorted out of Malaysian waters by KM Malawali,” it added.
The statement emphasized that as an institution responsible for national maritime safety and sovereignty, TLDM remains vigilant in safeguarding the welfare and security of the maritime community in Malaysia.
Assistance will be extended to those in need regardless of nationality, in accordance with national laws and international conventions.
