BATU PAHAT: A fire broke out on Malaysian cargo vessel the Malaysia Star 9.1 nautical miles (16.8km) from Tanjung Laboh here on Monday (Dec 2).
The Maritime Rescue Sub Centre (MRSC) reported the incident at around 8.40am, prompting swift action from the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA).
Batu Pahat zone MMEA director Maritime Commander Mohammad Zaini Zainal said following the distress call, two MMEA patrol boats and a Marine Police vessel were dispatched to the scene to conduct rescue operations and ensure safety in the area.
“The Malaysia Star was en route to Kota Kinabalu, carrying a crew of 19 – one Malaysian and 18 Filipinos.
“Fortunately, all crew members were safely rescued, with no reported injuries,” he said in a statement on Tuesday (Dec 3).
They were transferred to a patrol vessel that brought them to the Batu Pahat Maritime Zone Jetty.
It is learnt that efforts to extinguish the blaze are ongoing, as the fire broke out near the vessel's fuel tank.
“However, no oil spills have been reported so far. MMEA authorities have assured that continuous monitoring of the situation is (being conducted)," Cmdr Zaini added.
MMEA has issued a reminder to the maritime community to remain vigilant about safety at sea and be prepared for any unforeseen events that could threaten lives or property.
The agency said any criminal activity or emergencies at sea could be reported to the Batu Pahat Maritime Zone Operations Centre at 07-4349343 or the 24-hour emergency hotline at 999.
