MMEA clears Karakit-Kudat ferry after passenger safety concerns go viral

On August 26, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Kudat Zone carried out an inspection of a ferry operating on the Karakit-Kudat route after social media posts raised concerns about passenger safety and comfort. The inspection, which found no infractions or violations of regulations, determined that the number of passengers on board remained within the permitted limit and did not surpass the ferry's approved capacity.

MMEA Kudat Zone Director Maritime Commander Hasbullah Omar stated that the inspection aimed to ensure ferry operators consistently adhere to safety requirements and relevant regulations. He emphasized that the MMEA would continue to monitor and conduct inspections periodically to ensure maritime transport operators comply with regulations and prioritize passenger safety.

Omar noted that MMEA Kudat Zone takes all public information and complaints, especially those related to passenger safety and vessel operations in Kudat waters, seriously. The public was advised to seek verified information from authorities before drawing conclusions based on social media posts and to report any maritime safety concerns or suspicious activities at sea by contacting the emergency line at 999 or the Kudat Maritime Zone Operations Centre at 088-611858.