It is learnt the ship capsized at about 10am at a shallower portion of the straits.

Marine authorities scrambled to the location to rescue crew members.

The Marine Department is expected to issue a statement soon.

Meanwhile, Northern Region Marine Department director Capt Abdul Samad Shaik said the Hong Kong-registered ship had a 5-member crew on board.

Speaking to FMT, Abdul Samad said the ship collected fish from breeders around the region “a few times a year”.

It was on the way to the Pulau Aman area off Batu Kawan to collect fish from breeders there when the incident occurred, he said.

He also said the call sign affixed on the ship was not legible.

“We are trying to get in touch with the owners in Hong Kong. We will keep the press posted on more details,” he said when contacted.

He added he could not immediately comment on the status of the crew members who were rescued by fishermen.