(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) – The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) has confirmed that a RMN mine diver from the Diving and Mine Warfare Command (MSPPA) tragically lost his life during a diving operation as part of the salvage efforts for KD Pendekar in the waters off Tanjung Pengelih today.
The deceased diver has been identified as Leading Seaman (LS) I PLM Arman San bin Hermansa.
In a statement issued by the RMN’s Strategic Communications Department, it was announced that a Special Investigation Board has been established to determine the cause of the incident.
“The body of the deceased is currently at Sultan Ismail Hospital, Johor, for a post-mortem examination and will be transported to Lahad Datu, Sabah, for burial,” the RMN stated this evening.
The RMN will ensure that all necessary support and assistance are provided to the family of the deceased during this difficult time.
The RMN also expressed its deepest condolences to the family and hopes that the soul of the deceased will be placed among the martyrs and the righteous.
Two days ago, the 45-year-old RMN fast attack craft, KD Pendekar, sank entirely at its position two nautical miles southeast of Tanjung Penyusop, Johor, at 3:54 PM.
The swift action of the maritime community successfully rescued all 39 crew members of KD Pendekar before the vessel was fully submerged, with no injuries reported.
According to the RMN, KD Pendekar experienced a major leak and flooding at around noon today, at a position two nautical miles southeast of Tanjung Penyusop, Johor, while on duty.
The RMN believes that the leak was caused when the 45-year-old warship struck an underwater object.
“The leak, initially detected in the ship’s engine room, spread rapidly and uncontrollably,” the RMN stated.
“All crew members were rescued after efforts to control the leak and stabilize the ship were unsuccessful,” the RMN added.
The RMN will immediately establish a special investigation board to determine the cause of the incident and extend its gratitude to the agencies involved for their swift response and assistance during the incident.
Among the agencies that responded promptly were the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and the surrounding maritime community.
A Singaporean authority vessel was also seen at the scene.
KD Pendekar, with the pennant number 3513, was commissioned into RMN service on August 21, 1979, making the fast attack craft 45 years old this year. — DSA