Many boat operators working without permit in Melaka

Visitors to Pulau Besar getting on to a boat at Anjung Batu jetty on the mainland.

MELAKA: Many ferry and boat operators in Anjung Batu and Umbai jetties here are found to be operating without permits, said state Public Works, Transport and Amenities Committee chairman Mohd Sofi Abd Wahab.

He said the situation was made worse as they also have no insurance coverage in the event of any mishaps.

He said the operators had not attended training provided by the state Marine Department to obtain licences to operate the passengers’ ferries.

Mohd Sofi said safety measures for tourists travelling by ferries and boats to Pulau Besar should be given immediate priority.

“I have asked the Marine Department to conduct checks and rectify the shortcomings in the ferry and boat services at these two sites,” he said.

He said Melaka experienced a major ferry tragedy in 1998 where 11 people drowned while returning from Pulau Besar.

“We must place importance on the safety and interests of passengers travelling to Pulau Besar from both the jetties,” he told The Star.

Pulau Besar is an island off the coast of Melaka and connected by water transport such as ferries and boats. — filepic

 

Mohd Sofi said ferry operators must comply with safety requirements, including ensuring tourists wore safety jackets while at sea.

“The Marine Department should also ensure strict enforcement and act against illegal and errant operators,” he said, adding that a passengers’ name list must be made available before every trip.

“I have advised the operators to comply with maritime regulations and apply for permits,” he said.

The mystical Pulau Besar is a favourite destination among locals and also tourists.

Located about 15km southeast of the mainland, the island is known for its ancient tombs, shrines and mausoleums.

Later, after chairing the weekly exco meeting, Melaka Chief Minister Adly Zahari said a Transportation Trust Fund (TTF) had been set up to further improve the public transportation system in the state.

The TTF, he said, aims to enhance the system with an increase in buses and taxis, as well as funding for urban transport planning and policies.

“Donations can be made directly to TTF and we will utilise funds received to improve and provide free transportation services,” he said.

Adly said the state government would also work on tax exemption for TTF donors.