KUCHING, Jan 27: All vessels plying Sarawak rivers have been reminded to be extra vigilant during the wet season and when strong river currents are present.
Following a collision involving the “Linau 22” ship and “Angelina 2” ferry at the Ridan River ferry crossing in Marudi yesterday afternoon, Transport Minister Datuk Lee Kim Shin cautioned river vessels to be more careful when plying rivers in Sarawak.
“We would like to remind all vessels plying the rivers in the state to be extra vigilant and to ensure safe river navigation especially with the coming raining season coupled with strong river current.
“Officers from Sarawak Rivers Board Miri office and Marine Department Sarawak have been deployed this morning to jointly conduct a marine accident investigation.
“The investigation will cover all aspects including the skipper of the vessel, licences, machinery performance and extent of damages,” he said in a press statement today.
Lee added there were no human casualties and no oil spillage into the river reported.
He added the actual cause leading to the accident will only be known after the investigation is completed in a few days’ time.
Statements from the public who were present at the time of the accident will also be taken.
Lee disclosed that a police report on the accident was lodged yesterday by the owner of the ferry at the Marudi police station. — DayakDaily
