Penang ferry collision probe enters final stage, report due this month

GEORGE TOWN: The investigation into the Teluk Bahang ferry-MV Mekar Jaya collision has entered its final stage, with the report expected to reach the Transport Ministry this month.

Penang Port Commission (PPC) chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said several investigative measures had been carried out following the Sept 1 incident within Penang Port limits.

"It has reached the final stage of the investigation. As soon as we complete it, we will submit the final report to the Transport Ministry," he told newsmen after the Keretapi Sarong George Town programme held in conjunction with Malaysia Day at the Penang Ferry Museum.

Asked whether investigators had identified the cause of the collision, Yeoh said the findings would be announced upon completion of the investigation.

It was reported that 21 people were injured when the Teluk Bahang ferry collided with MV Mekar Jaya within Penang Port limits on Sept 1.

Following the incident, an initial report was submitted to a Transport Ministry task force as investigations continued.

Among the measures undertaken were inspections of the vessel and ferry involved, as well as the recording of statements from relevant parties.

Yeoh said the findings were expected to provide details on the circumstances surrounding the collision and the factors that led to the incident.