ALOR SETAR: The search and rescue (SAR) operation for three crew members of a fishing vessel still missing after their boat sank in waters off Kuala Teriang, Langkawi, resumed Thursday (Nov 12) morning.
Kedah and Perlis Maritime deputy operations director Capt Mohamad Shukri Khotob said the operation covered an area of 35.7 square nautical miles (122.45sq km).
"The operation, which began at 7.30am, involves the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency’s (MMEA) assets KM Sugut and Bot Kilat 6, as well as Marine Police boat PLC 5 boat.
"The incident, involving fishing vessel KF5420 (B), was reported to have involved four crew members, but one of them was rescued," he said in a statement.
The three other crew members, including skipper Kee Swee Kiat, 51, remain missing.
Capt Shukri said the operation would expand the search area to improve the chances of locating the missing crewmen.
He said last contact with the vessel was at 11.33pm on Sunday (Nov 8) when it was about eight nautical miles (14.8km) west of Pulau Burau, Langkawi.
The MMEA has also stepped up search efforts through cooperation with relevant agencies and the local maritime community to expand the search area.
Anyone with information on the incident should contact the Kedah and Perlis Maritime Operations Centre at 04-966 2750 or the emergency hotline at 999. – Bernama
