GEORGE TOWN: A clearer maritime route, stricter speed controls and stronger vessel traffic monitoring are needed around Penang ferry terminals to prevent vessel collisions, said Penang MCA chairman Datuk Tan Teik Cheng.
Tan, a former Penang Port Commission (PPC) chairman, said maritime routes around ferry terminals should be reviewed and clearly demarcated, with dedicated lanes for passenger ferries and commercial vessels.
"Stringent enforcement of maritime traffic corridors is also needed to prevent commercial vessels and public passenger ferries from operating in dangerously overlapping paths," he said in a statement on Thursday (Sept 3).
At 8.40pm on Tuesday, the Teluk Bahang ferry, travelling from the island to the mainland, collided with oil tanker MV Mekar Jaya, which was travelling from Butterworth Deep Water Wharf to Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal.
The impact caused several motorcycles on the ferry to topple, with 21 of the 140 people on board sent to Hospital Seberang Jaya for treatment. All have since been discharged.
The collision left a large dent at the front of the ferry. Passengers said it had to turn around while berthing, allowing them to disembark through the rear entrance.
Tan said vessel traffic monitoring, navigation controls and communication between vessels and port authorities should be strengthened, while stricter speed controls and mandatory safety protocols should be imposed near ferry terminals.
He also proposed regular joint emergency response drills involving the port operator, ferry operators and rescue agencies.
Tan said the authorities should publish the findings of the independent investigation to ensure lessons from the incident were translated into stronger safety measures and standard operating procedures.
He also urged Transport Minister Anthony Loke to clarify the immediate remedial measures and assistance available to the injured passengers and their families, including coverage for medical expenses, transportation and other necessary support.
Tan commended the Penang Fire and Rescue Department for its swift response at the scene.
"The priority now is to restore public confidence by ensuring that every passenger and crew can travel safely.
"Penang's iconic ferries are not merely a mode of transport but are also part of the state's tourism experience and heritage.
"Any perception that its maritime routes are unsafe could undermine tourist and investor confidence, besides affecting Penang's tourism industry and foreign direct investments," he said.
