Passenger Boat Capsizes Amid Huge Waves En Route to Perhentian Islands: 3 Dead, 9 Injured

(Terengganu, 29th) — A passenger boat carrying 15 people capsized due to huge waves and bad weather on Saturday night near the Perhentian Islands in Terengganu, resulting in 3 deaths and 9 injuries so far.
This boat capsizing incident occurred at around 10pm on Saturday night, when the boat was traveling from Small Perhentian Island to Big Perhentian Island and reportedly lost control, capsizing about 0.05 nautical miles from a resort.
Among the passengers were 9 adults—4 women and 5 men—aged between 19 and 57, as well as 6 children aged between 3 and 11. After the incident, 3 people were confirmed dead, including a 6-year-old boy, a 3-year-old girl, and an adult male.

Terengganu Maritime Director Hamirudin said in an interview that authorities received a report about the incident from the Kuantan Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre (MRSC) at 10:55 pm on Saturday (June 28), and subsequently launched a search and rescue operation at 11:17 pm.
"After receiving the report, the Malaysian Maritime Patrol Vessel immediately set out for the scene. When they arrived, all the victims had already been swiftly rescued by villagers."
He pointed out that it is believed the boat capsized due to rough seas and bad weather. All survivors were sent by the 'PENGGALANG 45' maritime vessel to the Besut tourist jetty, and then transferred to Sultanah Nur Zahirah Hospital Kuala Terengganu for further examination and treatment.

"The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the true cause of the incident and to ensure that maritime safety measures are continuously strengthened."
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of maritime safety, especially during unstable weather. The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency urges all boat operators and tourists to always follow safety instructions, wear life jackets, and check the weather forecast before departure.