Cargo Ship Sinks Off Malaysia After Hole In Ballast Tank, All 10 Crew Rescued

The cargo ship MV KUM JIN sank off the coast of Tanjung Rhu in Malaysia due to a significant leak in its ballast tank.

The vessel, which was conducting coastal cargo operations in Malaysian seas, succumbed to the damage despite efforts by its crew, including the captain, to contain the situation.

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) responded to distress calls at about 3:35 a.m.(local time).

Despite adverse weather conditions, the MMEA dispatched its rescue vessel, Perkasa 36, to the area quickly.

When they arrived, they discovered the MV KUM JIN in a dangerous position, with all ten crew members from Indonesia and Myanmar attempting to evacuate safely.

According to Captain Abdul Muhaimin Muhammad Salleh, Director of MMEA’s Selangor branch, the crew discovered a major crack in the front left ballast tank, prompting urgent evacuation measures.

Captain Abdul Muhaimin stated that the team’s priority was to ensure the safety of all the crew members on board the vessel.

All crew members, including the 53-year-old Indonesian skipper, were safely evacuated aboard the Perkasa 36.

They were then transferred to the Pulau Indah Marine Police Base Jetty for further health examinations and procedures.

Unfortunately, despite these attempts, the MV KUM JIN finally sank due to the severity of the damage sustained.

According to industry data, the vessel, owned by Malaysian company AR Shipping, was involved in coastal trade operations before the catastrophe.

Maritime Malaysia has issued a cautionary advisory urging the public to stay updated on adverse weather changes and maritime safety practices.

Reference: Container News, Free Malaysia Today