Another cadet dies following Aceh Hebat 2 ferry explosion, bringing death toll to three
Banda Aceh - Another cadet from the Malahayati Maritime Polytechnic (Poltekpel) has died following the engine explosion incident on the KMP Aceh Hebat 2, bringing the total number of fatalities to three after receiving treatment at the RSUD Zainoel Abidin Hospital in Banda Aceh.
“Yes, it is true, we have received the sad news of the passing of one of the victims named Muhammad Zulfikar,” said the General Manager of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) Banda Aceh Branch, Andri Setiawan, in Banda Aceh on Wednesday.
The deceased passed away in the early hours of Wednesday, around 01:00 WIB, after undergoing intensive care at RSUD Zainoel Abidin Hospital. His remains have now been returned to his family home in Sigli, Pidie Regency, Aceh.
Previously, an explosion occurred in the engine room of the KMP Aceh Hebat 2 ferry, which operates the Banda Aceh - Sabang route, while it was docked at Ulee Lheue Port, Banda Aceh, on Friday (12/6).
The incident resulted in 15 people sustaining burns, including 14 students from the Malahayati Maritime Polytechnic and one crew member of the KMP Aceh Hebat 2. All received medical treatment at RSUD Zainoel Abidin. To date, three people have died: Fahri Herdi Eko, Muhammad Bilal Ramzi, and Muhammad Zulfikar.
Andri stated that since the first day of the KMP Aceh Hebat 2 incident, ASDP has continued to ensure that every victim receives the best possible care so that families do not face this situation alone.
“On behalf of the Management of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero), we express our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased. We pray that the deceased receives the best place, and that the family is granted strength, fortitude, and sincerity in facing this trial,” he said.
He emphasised that safety and humanity are inseparable priorities. Therefore, since the incident occurred, ASDP has continued to assist in the victim management process, coordinating with hospitals and all relevant agencies, and overseeing the needs of the families, including the repatriation and burial processes.
Furthermore, the company continues to support the investigation process being conducted by the police, as well as a thorough evaluation of every aspect of operations.
“Every lesson from this event serves as a reminder for us to continue strengthening the safety culture as the primary foundation in the provision of ferry services,” concluded Andri Setiawan.