One cadet dies following Aceh Hebat 2 ferry engine explosion

Banda Aceh (ANTARA) - One of the cadets affected by the engine explosion incident aboard the KMP Aceh Hebat 2, Fahri Herdi Eko (19), has died after receiving treatment at the Zainoel Abidin Regional Hospital (RSUD) in Banda Aceh. The patient passed away in the presence of family and nursing staff in ICU 1 on Saturday night (20/6) at approximately 10.50 p.m. Western Indonesia Time, said Rahmadi, Head of Public Relations at RSUD Zainoel Abidin, on Sunday.

The explosion occurred in the engine room of the KMP Aceh Hebat 2 ferry, which serves the Banda Aceh - Sabang route, whilst it was docked at Ulee Lheue Port in Banda Aceh on Friday, 12 June. The incident resulted in 15 people suffering burns, including 14 students from the Malahayati Merchant Marine Polytechnic and one crew member of the KMP Aceh Hebat 2. All received medical treatment at RSUD Zainoel Abidin.

Following the performance of fardhu kifayah rites in the mortuary and funeral prayers at the Raudhatul Jannah Mosque at RSUD Zainoel Abidin, the body was immediately taken home. At 1.50 a.m. Western Indonesia Time, the body was transported by ambulance to Medan, North Sumatra. Rahmadi expressed hopes that all his good deeds would be accepted and that he would be granted the best place in the sight of Allah SWT.

Meanwhile, PT ASDP Indonesia Ferry (Persero) conveyed its deepest condolences on the passing of Fahri Herdi Eko, praying that the deceased be granted the best place in the sight of Allah SWT. ASDP also extends its profound sympathy to the bereaved family and hopes they are granted strength, fortitude, and sincerity in facing this sorrow, said Andri Setiawan, General Manager of ASDP Banda Aceh Branch. He added that the company will continue to provide support and assistance to the family of the deceased and the other victims still undergoing treatment.

Furthermore, the company expressed its appreciation to the medical staff, port officials, authorities, and all parties who have assisted in the handling process since the beginning of the incident. ASDP is currently continuing to coordinate and fully support the investigation process being conducted by the relevant authorities to ascertain the facts and exact cause of the incident. The company respects the ongoing process and is committed to following up on every evaluation result as part of efforts to strengthen operational safety aspects, Andri Setiawan concluded.