Tanjung Sedili:The Southern Region office of the Marine Department Malaysia has established an investigation team in response to a collision that occurred between a bulk carrier and a barge approximately 32 nautical miles off Tanjung Sedili.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the team will conduct a preliminary investigation to collect detailed information and identify the factors that led to the incident. The collision, which took place around 2 pm, involved the bulk carrier MV QI LIN, registered in Majuro, and the barge ADAMANTIUM, registered in Kuching, being towed by the tugboat HIGHLINE 56, also registered in Kuching.

At the time of the incident, the barge was transporting roughly 9,000 tonnes of natural gypsum from Thathong, Thailand, to Kobexindo, Indonesia, while the MV QI LIN was en route from Cai Lan, Vietnam, to Singapore. The collision resulted in damage to the port side of the ADAMANTIUM, allowing water to enter the barge, though reports indicate its condition remains stable and under control.

No fatalities, injuries, or oil spills have been reported thus far. The extent of damage to the MV QI LIN is still unknown, pending a safety assessment and review of the prevailing conditions. The Marine Department has emphasized its commitment to conducting a thorough and impartial investigation to determine the cause of the accident.

The department is also concentrating on navigational safety, barge stability, and the risk of marine pollution, underscoring its dedication to enhancing maritime safety and protecting the marine environment.