Ahmad Zahid (left) visits boat capsize victims in Sabak Bernam after observing the search and rescue operation at the Hutan Melintang Jetty. — Bernama photo
HUTAN MELINTANG: Those responsible for the death of victims in the boat capsize in Sabak Bernam yesterday will face stern action under the Anti-Trafficking In Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants Act (Atipsom) 2007, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said yesteday.
He said the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and the Royal Malaysia Police would investigate the incident.
“I want those responsible for ‘victimising’ the illegal immigrants to know that the penalty under the law is heavy,” he told a media conference after observing the search and rescue operation for the victims of the boat tragedy at the Hutan Melintang Jetty here.
As such, he advised those involved in smuggling of persons in and out of the country to stop their activities.
“Do not think only about money, think about their life,” he added.
The deputy prime minister extended condolences to the Indonesian government for the loss of lives of its citizens in the tragedy.
“The Malaysian government wishes to expresses its sympathy and sadness on the death of 15 Indonesian citizens in the boat tragedy in waters off Sabak Bernam,” he added.
Ahmad Zahid said besides MMEA and the police, also involved in the rescue operation were the Fire and Rescue Department, the Civil Defence Department and the People Volunteer Corps.
“We will continue to cooperate with the Indonesian Embassy on action to be taken,” he added.
He said the bodies of 15 victims of the boat tragedy were now at Raja Permaisuri Bainun Hospital in Ipoh and the Teluk Intan Hospital, while 19 of the passengers who were safe had been taken to the MMEA office in Klang for further action. — Bernama