KUCHING: Three anglers were rescued after their fishing boat was left stranded at sea following an engine failure off Kuala Kabong yesterday (Aug 10).
The boat was about 24.5 nautical miles northwest of Kuala Kabong when the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Sarawak received a distress call at 11.57am.
The Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre (MRSC) Kuching immediately deployed KM Sri Aman, which was operating in the area, to locate and assist the stranded boat.
All three anglers aboard were found safe and unharmed.
The anglers and the fishing boat were then escorted to the Tun Abang Salahuddin Maritime Complex (KOMTAS) jetty for further action.
MMEA Sarawak director First Admiral Datuk Mohd Khairi Abd Aziz said the swift deployment of the agency’s assets reflected its commitment to prioritising the safety of the maritime community.
“The agency remains committed and prepared to provide assistance to the maritime community who encounter emergencies or difficulties at sea.
“Members of the public and maritime community, particularly fishing boat operators and owners, are advised to conduct thorough checks on their boats, engines, communication equipment and safety gear before heading out to sea to reduce the risk of untoward incidents,” he said.
Mohd Khairi said proper preparation and safety measures are essential to ensure maritime activities are carried out safely and to facilitate rescue efforts in the event of an emergency.
Those with information on maritime crimes or emergencies at sea can contact MMEA Sarawak Operations Centre at 082-432006 or the emergency line at 999.
