A devastating accident off the coast of Pulau Perhentian has brought to light serious breaches in operational standards and safety protocols.
Authorities have confirmed that the individual operating the vessel lacked a valid licence, and the boat’s skipper was found to be under the influence of narcotics at the time of the incident.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has revealed that both the travel agency and the boat operator had flouted multiple legal requirements.
“These include operating with an expired license since April, failing to ensure that passengers wore life jackets and most alarmingly, the boatman tested positive for drugs,” he stated in an official release on Sunday (June 29).
The minister expressed deep sorrow and frustration over the incident, which claimed three lives and left nine others injured.
“I am deeply angered and disappointed by the tragic incident off Pulau Perhentian, which resulted in three deaths and nine injuries. I have immediately instructed the ministry to conduct a thorough investigation.”
Further investigation revealed the skipper had a prior history of drug-related offenses.
“Hiring such a person to ferry passengers is gross negligence… and a complete disregard for human lives,” Tiong said, condemning the agency’s hiring practices.
He also issued a stern reminder to all tourism service providers:
“Malaysia has already experienced numerous incidents that have cast a shadow over our tourism sector, damaging the country’s reputation and in some cases, prompting foreign governments to issue travel warnings against certain destinations here.”
“If left unchecked, this will severely affect our tourism industry,” he added.
Stay tuned for more updates.
Also read: 2 Children & Man Dies After Boat Capsizes in Pulau Perhentian, Driver Tests Positive for Drugs
