KM Sentosa II Catches Fire in the Java Sea; Slamet Ariyadi Calls for Vessel Safety Evaluation
Jakarta, VIVA – A member of Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives (DPR RI), Slamet Ariyadi, has called on the government and relevant authorities to evaluate maritime safety standards and vessel seaworthiness. This statement was made in response to the fire on the Mutiara Sentosa 2 ship while sailing in the waters of the Madura Islands, East Java, on Sunday, 2 August 2026.
“We must evaluate maritime safety standards, including vessel seaworthiness, fire protection systems, evacuation procedures, and the readiness of safety equipment on all passenger ships,” Slamet stated in a written release on Sunday, 2 August 2026.
The PAN Party member representing the East Java XI constituency also emphasised that all passengers and crew must be evacuated safely, and that any missing victims must be searched for immediately. He further suggested providing medical and psychological services to survivors and establishing information posts for the families of passengers.
According to Slamet, a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire is crucial. He also requested that compensation be provided to all victims’ families.
“Conduct a comprehensive investigation to identify the cause of the fire and establish responsibility if negligence is found. Provide compensation and assistance to those who have died, as well as to those who have been injured or have lost property,” he added. He also called for increased supervision of ship operators to ensure all safety regulations are followed to prevent similar incidents from recurring.
The Mutiara Sentosa 2 caught fire while sailing in the Madura Islands waters, East Java, on Sunday, 2 August 2026. The incident occurred while the ship was en route from Surabaya to Makassar. According to gathered information, the vessel was carrying logistics cargo and was scheduled to arrive in Makassar on Monday, 3 August 2026, when the fire suddenly broke out mid-voyage.
As a result of the fire, parts of the ship’s hull were reported to have sunk. The exact cause of the fire remains unknown. Video footage showed dozens of passengers gathered on the deck wearing life jackets, with thick black smoke rising high from the burning vessel.
Government Response: The Ministry of Transportation, through the Directorate General of Sea Transportation, is continuing intensive coordination in handling the fire incident involving KM Mutiara Sentosa II in the Java Sea waters.