Another cadet dies following Aceh Hebat 2 ferry explosion, bringing death toll to three

Banda Aceh (ANTARA) - Another cadet from the Malahayati Merchant Marine Polytechnic has died following the engine room explosion on the KMP Aceh Hebat 2 ferry, bringing the total number of fatalities to three. Muhammad Zulfikar passed away in the early hours of Wednesday at approximately 01.00 WIB after receiving intensive care at the Zainoel Abidin Regional General Hospital in Banda Aceh. His remains have been returned to his family home in Sigli, Pidie Regency, Aceh. The explosion occurred in the engine room of the KMP Aceh Hebat 2, which serves the Banda Aceh–Sabang route, while the vessel was docked at Ulee Lheue Port in Banda Aceh on Friday, 12 June. The incident left 15 people with burn injuries, including 14 students from the Malahayati Merchant Marine Polytechnic and one crew member of the KMP Aceh Hebat 2. All received medical treatment at Zainoel Abidin Hospital. The three deceased victims have been identified as Fahri Herdi Eko, Muhammad Bilal Ramzi, and Muhammad Zulfikar. Andri Setiawan, General Manager of PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) Banda Aceh Branch, stated that since the first day of the incident, ASDP has continuously ensured 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), he expressed deepest condolences to the family of the deceased, praying that the departed find the best place and that the family is granted strength, fortitude, and sincerity in facing this trial. He stressed that safety and humanity are inseparable priorities. Since the incident, ASDP has been present to support the handling of victims, coordinating with the hospital and all relevant agencies, and attending to the families’ needs, including the repatriation of remains and burial. The company is also fully supporting the ongoing police investigation and a comprehensive evaluation of all operational aspects. Every lesson from this incident serves as a reminder to continue strengthening a safety culture as the primary foundation for providing ferry services.