Navigation Error and Old Vessel Led to KD Pendekar’s Sinking
By Subaashinee Kupusamy,
29th October: The sinking of KD Pendekar on August 25 off Tanjung Penyusop, Johor, was attributed to navigation errors and the vessel’s aging condition, according to the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN). The KD Pendekar deviated from its planned route, hitting TerumbuPunggai, which led to severe flooding as weakened compartments failed to contain the water. All 39 crew members were safely transferred to MV Ashley, avoiding any injuries.
Efforts to salvage the KD Pendekar concluded successfully on October 15, with the vessel now undergoing technical inspections. Unfortunately, a navy diver lost his life while performing recovery tasks shortly after the incident. The RMN’s investigation attributed the tragedy to the diver’s equipment becoming entangled underwater, causing fatal challenges. The RMN emphasized that safety protocols and standard diving procedures were observed, ensuring the diver was fully competent and adequately equipped as stated in BULETIN TV3.
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