JOHOR BARU, Dec 13 — A multi-agency search and rescue (SAR) operation for two missing Malaysians has been called off following the discovery of their bodies by Indonesian authorities on Bintan Island.
The Malaysian men, identified as Chang Chong Kuok, 51, and Tan Soon Heng, 35, missing since three days ago had sparked a SAR operation after their boat capsized while on a fishing trip about 500m from the Middle Rocks off the coast of Pengerang in Johor.
A Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) spokesman said Tan’s body was recovered by Indonesian authorities at 1.20pm today after his remains were found floating in the Lagoi waters at Bintan Island.
“We were told that Tan’s remains, together with Chang’s that was found yesterday, will be brought to Bhayangkara Polda Hospital on Bintan Island,” said the spokesman, adding that MMEA, as the lead agency, will be communicating with their Indonesian counterparts to bring back both remains to Malaysia.
Earlier today, MMEA deputy director (operations) Sanifah Yusof said that Chang’s body was found on the beach at Pantai Tanjung Berakit on Bintan Island at 1.30pm yesterday.
Chang was believed to have drowned and his remains washed ashore. His family have confirmed his identity based on the clothes he was wearing and marks on his body.
Chang’s body was found yesterday about 10 nautical miles from the incident’s location at Middle Rocks, while Tan’s was found about 8 nautical miles away. Both are believed to have drowned and washed away by strong sea currents to Bintan Island in Indonesia.
On December 10, Chang and Tan were out fishing at sea when their boat capsized. The incident saw MMEA initiating a multi-agency SAR operation together with the Royal Malaysian Navy and marine police.
