KUALA LUMPUR: A comprehensive probe is underway to determine the cause of an incident at an offshore platform in the Terengganu-Kelantan waters which claimed three lives, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister said the government viewed the incident seriously and was confident that the relevant authorities will conduct a thorough investigation.
“The government will continue to strengthen workplace safety measures to better protect workers’ welfare nationwide,” he said in a social media post.
Anwar also expressed condolences to the families of the victims.
“May they be granted strength and patience in facing this difficult test. May those receiving treatment recover soon,” he said.
On Sunday, three workers died while another was critically injured after the lifeboat they were in fell into the sea during maintenance work at the Sepat platform in Terengganu-Kelantan waters.
Kuala Terengganu OCPD Asst Comm Azli Mohd Noor said in the incident, which occurred at 12.50pm, all four victims were believed to have boarded a lifeboat on the platform to lower themselves into the sea to carry out maintenance work on the lower section of the platform.
However, the rope or hook attached to the boat is believed to have detached, causing the victims and the boat to fall into the sea.
The deceased were identified as Ahmad Fiqri Zakaria, 38, from Batu Berendam, Melaka; Muhammad Faezuan Hakim Mohammad Bustamam, 28, from Kuantan, Pahang; and Nik Muhammad Hafifi Asri Ab Majid, 38, from Bandar Indera Mahkota, Pahang.
The fourth victim, Mohd Taufik Mohd Ruslan, 37, from Banting, Selangor, is reported to be in critical condition and is receiving treatment at Sultanah Nur Zahirah Hospital.
Meanwhile, Petroliam Nasional Bhd (PETRONAS) said that investigations into the cause of the incident are ongoing.
“PETRONAS extends its deepest condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased. The company’s immediate priority is to support the well-being of those affected.”
