GEORGE TOWN: Efforts are underway to save the state's iconic ferry, which partially tilted at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) on Sunday.
The ferry is set to be transformed into the Penang Ferry Museum.
Printhero Merchandise Sdn Bhd, the company responsible for the project, said a qualified contractor has been appointed to re-float the ferry.
Its chief executive officer, Abdul Hadi Abu Osman, said this process is expected to be completed as soon as possible once the cause of the leakage is identified.
"The team will consist of skilled and experienced experts and divers.
"The company is committed to doing everything possible to save the ferry and will provide updates periodically," he said in a statement.
Earlier today, photos of the tilted ferry began circulating on social media.
The iconic ferry was successfully towed from the Bagan Dalam Slipway to SPCT last Thursday. It is now placed at the Tanjung City Marina, the designated site for the museum.
Abdul Hadi said the towing process went smoothly.
He said prior to the towing, the company sought professional advice from a company recognised by the Marine Department.
The towing procedure also received approval from the Marine Department, he added.
"While the ferry was at SPCT, the company conducted regular inspections, confirming that it remained safe.
"About 6.15pm last Sunday, the ferry was found to be slightly tilted, and upon inspection, it was discovered that water had entered the engine room.
"Immediate water pumping operations were initiated with the assistance of staff from Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB), SPCT, the Penang Port Fire Department, and contractors.
"The company also decided to tow the ferry to shallower waters near the SPCT warehouse to facilitate rescue efforts and a comprehensive inspection," he added.
Rescue operations are actively underway with the support of the Penang Port Commission and PPSB.