Passengers jump off blazing ferry bound for Kuala Perlis

Passengers jump off blazing ferry bound for Kuala Perlis

Toddler among 58 who escaped a ferry engulfed in fire off Kuala Perlis.

Rescuers on board the ferry after it caught fire during a trip to Langkawi. (Facebook pic)
GEORGE TOWN:
A ferry heading to Kuala Perlis from Langkawi caught fire this afternoon, forcing some among the 58 passengers and crew members to jump into the sea.

Fire and smoke were seen billowing from the stern of the ferry.

Rescue officials say a passenger made a call to 999 at 2.48pm.

Scores of fishing boats nearby soon came to their rescue.

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) deployed three boats and two jet skis for the rescue, assisted by the navy, police and Marine Department boats.

A Kedah Fire and Rescue Department official said a total of 52 passengers and six crew members were on board the ferry, including toddlers.

MMEA said in a statement all victims were brought to the Kuah Jetty on Langkawi Island, and no one was injured.

Kedah and Perlis MMEA deputy operations director Zulinda Ramly said they have yet to ascertain the cause of the fire.

She added the ferry is operated by Dragon Star Shipping Sdn Bhd.

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