248 individuals still missing in East Coast waters over 21 years

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has recorded a total of 248 individuals who remain missing and are presumed drowned in the waters off Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang over the last 21 years. The agency has conducted 634 search and rescue operations in these East Coast waters during this period.

According to Pahang MMEA Director First Admiral Mazlan Mat Rejab, from 2005 to date, 1,953 victims were involved in various maritime incidents. Of these, 1,545 were successfully rescued, while 160 were found deceased. The remaining 248 individuals have yet to be found, highlighting the significant challenges in maritime search and rescue operations.

"The statistics prove that maritime search and rescue operations still face major challenges, demanding a high level of preparedness and continuous cooperation among all rescue agencies," Mazlan stated. He emphasized the importance of exercises like Sarex Jong Semerak 2026 to ensure agencies are ready for rapid, efficient, and effective responses to maritime emergencies.

The MMEA continues to prioritize saving lives at sea while strengthening enforcement against maritime crime and foreign fishing vessel intrusions. Sarex Jong Semerak 2026, coordinated by the Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre (MRSC) Kuantan with the MMEA Kelantan, served as a crucial platform to test the effectiveness of standard operating procedures for maritime search and rescue, aligning with the National Disaster Management Agency's standards. The exercise involved 23 departments and agencies, over 200 personnel, and 20 strategic assets, including sea, land, and air components.

“

The statistics prove that maritime search and rescue operations still face major challenges, demanding a high level of preparedness and continuous cooperation among all rescue agencies.