KUALA LUMPUR: A report released today by the Royal Malaysian Navy attributed the sinking of the KD Pendekar to a navigational error that led to its collision with Stork Reef, as well as the vessel's advanced age.
"Records indicate that KD Pendekar strayed from its planned route and collided with Stork Reef," the report, released today concluded. The ship, which is over 45 years old, exhibited structural weaknesses that compromised its flood control capabilities, allowing water to quickly spread to other compartments.
The Navy also reported that the death of Leading Seaman I Arman San Hermansa, 28, resulted from strong currents and limited visibility that caused his safety line to become entangled, causing him to drown.
"The investigation has confirmed that his drowning was due to strong currents and visibility limited to about one foot. The diver's safety line became entangled with the ship, and emergency procedures were ineffective in preventing the tragedy," the report added.
The investigation found that standard operating procedures (SOP) and safety measures were properly followed prior to the dive. The diving equipment was confirmed to be functional both before and after the operation, and the diver was deemed competent for the task.
The report added that salvage operations conducted by a local firm were successfully completed on Oct 15, and the KD Pendekar is currently undergoing technical inspections.
"The RMN takes these findings seriously. The safety of personnel and operational readiness are its top priorities. The organisation is committed to ensuring that all members can perform their duties safely and in accordance with established guidelines," the report stated.
The KD Pendekar sank on Aug 25 while on a patrol mission, approximately two nautical miles southeast of Tanjung Penyusop in Kota Tinggi.
All 39 crew members were safely evacuated to the commercial vessel MV Ashley, with no injuries reported.
However, a diver was killed during the salvage operation at the site of the wreck on Aug 28.