Ghost Ship Towed to Safety for Inspection in Terengganu
Authorities prepare for hazardous materials check before full investigation
Ship Drifted for Days
CHUKAI – A mysterious “ghost ship” that drifted near the Semangkok A oil platform in Terengganu since August 12 is now secured. It will undergo a safety inspection before a full investigation begins.
The Pahang Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) confirmed the ship’s arrival at Kemaman Supply Base (KSB) in Teluk Kalung on Friday. The vessel reached the port at 11.30am after a two-day tow covering 140 nautical miles.
Hazmat Team Moves In
Pahang MMEA director First Admiral (Maritime) Mazlan Mat Rejab said 12 Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) experts boarded the ship Friday afternoon. They came from the Terengganu and Pahang Fire and Rescue Department.
“The Hazmat team will check the ship first,” Mazlan said at a press conference. “They must ensure it is safe before other rescue teams and agencies begin further inspections.”
Authorities remain cautious. The ship’s past fire raises concerns over possible hazardous gases or chemical residue. These could threaten the safety of anyone on board.
Operation Required Coordination
The towing mission was complex. It was coordinated by the Maritime Rescue Sub Centre (MRSC) Kuantan, the Marine Department of Malaysia (JLM) East Coast Region, and PETRONAS. Several private agencies also assisted.
In total, 62 personnel from various security agencies and oil and gas partners took part. A Dauphin AS 365 N3 helicopter provided aerial surveillance during the operation.
Special forces were also involved. The Maritime Special Task and Rescue Team (STAR Team) flew from Kerteh to the Larut Platform. They then transferred to the MV Aishah AIMS 1 before boarding the drifting vessel.
Securing the Towline
Mazlan explained that the STAR Team managed to attach the towline. That line was later connected to the MV JM Purnama rescue vessel, which completed the final leg of the tow to Kemaman.
He praised the team’s skill and coordination under challenging conditions. “The cooperation among all parties made this mission a success,” he said.
Mystery Surrounds the Vessel
The ship had no crew when it was found. Authorities have yet to confirm its name or origin. Its link to a fire on a foreign tanker near Tanjung Sedili Kecil, Johor, is under investigation.
That earlier incident occurred in eastern Johor waters near Kota Tinggi last week. Officials suspect the two events may be connected, but there is no confirmation yet.
The cause of the fire on the ghost ship remains unknown. Investigators believe hazardous gas or chemical cargo could be involved. This possibility adds urgency to the Hazmat inspection.
Safety First Before Answers
Mazlan stressed that safety remains the top priority. Only after the Hazmat team declares the ship secure will other security units begin a full investigation.
The examination will focus on fire damage, cargo contents, and any signs of illegal activity. For now, the vessel remains under tight control at Kemaman Supply Base.
Potential Environmental Risks
Authorities are aware of possible environmental threats. If hazardous chemicals are present, the clean-up could be complex and costly.
Oil and gas facilities nearby have been alerted. Contingency plans are in place in case of leaks or contamination.
Past Incidents a Reminder
Maritime experts note that ghost ship cases, though rare, often involve serious safety concerns. Abandoned vessels can drift into busy shipping lanes, posing collision risks.
In addition, fires at sea are notoriously dangerous. Without crew to contain them, flames can spread quickly and cause structural damage.
Investigation Could Take Weeks
The full probe into the vessel’s history and movements will not be quick. International maritime law requires cooperation between nations if the ship is foreign-registered.
The MMEA expects to work with regional authorities. This includes tracking the ship’s last known ports and cargo records.
Public Interest Growing
The unusual case has drawn attention in coastal communities. Social media users are speculating about the ship’s purpose and why it was abandoned.
For now, officials are urging patience. They stress that only verified information from the investigation will reveal the truth.
Next Steps
The Hazmat inspection’s results will guide the next phase. If the ship is safe, technical teams will conduct a deeper examination. This will include engine rooms, cargo holds, and navigation equipment.
Investigators hope to identify the vessel quickly. Any link to past maritime incidents will help explain how it ended up adrift in Terengganu waters.
Mazlan’s Closing Words
Mazlan concluded by thanking all personnel involved in the tow and initial safety measures. “Without their skill and cooperation, this mission would have been far more dangerous,” he said.
As the ghost ship now rests in port, the mystery remains. The coming weeks may reveal its secrets – and perhaps, its true story.
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