Penang: The investigation into the collision between the Teluk Bahang Ferry and the cargo vessel MV Mekar Jaya in the waters of Penang Port on Sept 1 is in its final stages. Penang Port Commission (PPC) chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said the final investigation report is expected to be submitted to the Ministry of Transport (MOT) this month once the investigation process is completed.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Yeoh stated, "The probe has reached the final stage. We will submit (the final report) to the MOT as soon as the investigation is completed," during an event at the Penang Ferry Museum. When asked about the cause of the collision, Yeoh mentioned that the details would be announced later.

Previously, Yeoh explained that a Joint Investigation Committee was established to conduct a thorough investigation. This committee includes the Northern Region of the Marine Department Malaysia (JLM), PPC, and Penang Port Sdn Bhd (PPSB). Their responsibilities include identifying the cause of the collision, determining the parties involved, and proposing improvements to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The incident occurred at 8.40 pm on Sept 1, when the Teluk Bahang Ferry was heading towards Sultan Abdul Halim Ferry Terminal (PSAH) and collided with MV Mekar Jaya in the waters of Penang Port. MV Mekar Jaya was en route from Air Dalam Jetty in Butterworth to Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal at the time of the collision. Initially, twenty-one passengers were reported injured.

Additionally, Yeoh, who also serves as Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman, commented on the haze situation affecting the region. He mentioned that no restrictions have been imposed on outdoor tourism activities thus far. The situation is being monitored, and if air quality reaches hazardous levels, programmes may be postponed. Compliance with directives from the Department of Environment (DOE) will be ensured.

According to the Air Pollutant Index Management System (APIMS), all four monitoring stations in Penang have recorded unhealthy Air Pollutant Index (API) readings as of noon today. Minden recorded 167, Balik Pulau 164, Seberang Jaya 162, and Seberang Perai 160.