Malaysia Update 17/1/2019 – A search-and-rescue (SAR) mission to track down a missing fisherman ended on a happy note after he was found safe some 19.8 nautical miles southwest of Tanjung Simpang Mengayau here.
Liew Fuu Hyung, 49, was rescued by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and other enforcement agencies at about 4.30pm Wednesday (Jan 16) after going missing a day earlier.
Sabah MMEA director Rear Admiral Kamaruszaman Abu Hassan said a SAR operation was launched after a distress call was received, notifying authorities of Liew’s boat sinking off the coast of Kalampunian Island on Tuesday (Jan 15).
“Five assets from MMEA, the police and the Royal Malaysian Navy were deployed to cover a search area spanning 254 nautical miles
“The Fire and Rescue Department also searched for the victim along the coast of Kalampunian Island.
“We also asked for assistance from the Police Air Operation Force,” he said in a statement.
Kamaruszaman said the Kudat Fishing Boat Owners Association also helped the SAR efforts by alerting other vessels in the search area to keep an eye out for Loo.
“He was found safe and wearing a life jacket at around 1pm on the second day of the operation.
“The two-day operation officially ended at 4.30pm,” he added.
Kamaruszaman advised the maritime community to prioritise their safety and to always wear a life jacket while at sea.
“By taking our safety seriously, we will be more prepared in facing disastrous situations,” he said.
Sources : The Star Online
