The investigation into the Teluk Bahang ferry and MV Mekar Jaya collision has reached its final stage, with the report expected to be submitted to the Transport Ministry this month.
Penang Port Commission chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said several investigative measures had been carried out since the 1 September incident within Penang Port limits.
“It has reached the final stage of the investigation. As soon as we complete it, we will submit the final report to the Transport Ministry,” Yeoh told reporters after the Keretapi Sarong George Town programme held in conjunction with Malaysia Day at the Penang Ferry Museum, as reported by NST.
A Joint Investigation Committee comprising the Northern Region of the Marine Department Malaysia, the Penang Port Commission and Penang Port Sdn Bhd was formed after the incident to conduct a thorough probe. Bernama reported that the committee is tasked with identifying the cause of the collision and the parties involved, as well as proposing improvements to prevent similar incidents.
“Several investigative actions have been carried out and are ongoing, including inspections of the vessels involved and recording statements from relevant parties,” Yeoh said in a statement. He added that an initial report on the incident had already been submitted to the Special Task Force established by the Ministry of Transport.
The collision occurred at 8.40pm on 1 September when the Teluk Bahang ferry, heading towards Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal, struck MV Mekar Jaya within Penang Port waters. MV Mekar Jaya was travelling from Air Dalam Jetty in Butterworth to Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal at the time. Twenty-one passengers were initially reported injured, with 18 receiving outpatient treatment at Seberang Jaya Hospital.
Yeoh said the cause of the collision would be announced once the investigation is complete. He confirmed that the Penang Port Commission and Penang Port Sdn Bhd would continue to cooperate fully with all parties to ensure a transparent and thorough investigation.
“The cause of the collision will be announced later,” he told reporters at the event.
