Shipwreck in Malaysia: 39 Indonesians Found, 16 Dead

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu) and the Indonesian Embassy (KBRI) in Kuala Lumpur have confirmed they are closely monitoring the handling of the shipwreck incident in the western waters of Pangkor Island, Perak, Malaysia. Following the conclusion of the search and rescue (SAR) operations, a total of 39 Indonesian citizens (WNI) were found, consisting of 23 survivors and 16 fatalities.

The incident, which occurred on 11 May 2026, triggered an intensive six-day search operation. Malaysian SAR authorities officially ceased the search on Saturday, 16 May 2026, at 19:00 local time, after an area spanning 244.76 Nm² was surveyed without finding additional victims.

Spokesperson for the Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Yvonne Mewengkang, explained that the number of victims found exceeded initial estimates. While crew members previously suggested there were approximately 37 passengers, field reports revealed a higher figure.

“From the entire search operation, Malaysian authorities successfully found a total of 39 Indonesian citizens, consisting of 23 survivors and 16 deceased,” Yvonne Mewengkang stated in a written briefing on Monday (18/5).

The survivors originate from various regions in Indonesia, including Aceh, Banten, Riau Islands, Lampung, West Nusa Tenggara (NTB), East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), Southeast Sulawesi, and North Sumatra. Currently, the Indonesian Embassy in Kuala Lumpur is focusing on the identification process for the deceased and providing consular assistance.

The Indonesian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also expressed appreciation to the Malaysian SAR authorities and the Malaysian Maritime Police for their cooperation in the rescue efforts and the handling of victims during the emergency period.