BALIK PULAU: The search and rescue (SAR) operation for two men who went missing following a boat capsizing in the waters off Kuala Sungai Pinang here since last Tuesday has been called off today.
The decision was made after efforts to locate Muhammad Ikmal Hakimi Ismail, 22, and his friend Nor Hasrul Abdullah, 25, yielded no new leads.
Southwest police chief, Assistant Commissioner Sazalee Adam, said the operation had covered an area of 4,802 nautical square miles (8,884 square kilometres) over the past five days.
He said the search involved 90 personnel from various agencies, using air and sea assets, as well as cooperation from local fishermen.
"Today, we are ending the search, but the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and local fishermen will continue.
"There have been no new leads. If the boat had capsized or broken apart, there would be debris. Yet the waters are also frequented by fishermen, and the weather has remained good throughout the operation," he said.
He added that the police would seek assistance from neighbouring countries, Indonesia and Thailand, to help locate the victims.
Meanwhile, Noor Azilah Jamaluddin, 44, said she always prays for her son's safety and hopes Nor Hasrul can be found soon.
"He is used to going out to sea in addition to doing village work to supplement his income.
"If he is found safe, I plan to host a thanksgiving feast (kenduri kesyukuran) and cook his favourite chicken curry. If not, I will accept it, but I still want to see his body," she said.
Previously, Harian Metro reported the two friends disappeared after the boat they were on was believed to have drifted due to engine failure around 11.30pm last Tuesday.