KOTA KINABALU: The swift action of a tour guide and tourists saved six people following a collision between a tourist boat and a passenger vessel in Semporna.
The incident occurred at 8.30am on Thursday when the tourist boat, carrying eight Malaysians and a Swiss woman, was en route to Mabul Island while the other vessel was heading to Semporna from Bum-Bum Island.
According to Semporna acting OCPD Deputy Supt Jaafar Hakim, the two boats collided near a floating resort.
“Six villagers from the passenger boat fell into the sea. The guide and others from the tourist boat managed to pull them all to safety,” he said.
The boat then ferried the rescued villagers – four men and two women aged between 30 and 40 – to the jetty before continuing its journey to Mabul Island.
DSP Jaafar said the passenger boat’s front section was damaged while the tourist boat sustained minor damage to its front portion.
No one was injured, he added.
An investigation is underway to determine if there were elements of negligence or rash navigation.
DSP Jaafar warned that those found guilty could face up to six months’ jail, a fine of RM2,000 or both.
He also urged boat operators to comply with safety requirements at all times.
