By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Death Toll in Malaysia Migrant Boat Disaster Rises to 21
At least 21 people have been confirmed dead after a boat carrying undocumented migrants capsized near Thailand’s Tarutao Island, close to Malaysia’s northern waters.
Authorities from both countries say search efforts are ongoing to locate possible survivors.
Officials reported that the vessel, which was carrying about 70 migrants—mostly members of Myanmar’s persecuted Rohingya minority—sank four days ago while attempting to reach Malaysia. The group was believed to be part of a larger convoy of around 300 migrants travelling in two boats.
Romli Mustafa, Director of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) for Kedah and Perlis, said five more bodies were recovered on Monday, adding to the 16 earlier found. Seven of the victims identified so far were Rohingya.
“Our Thai counterparts have recovered nine bodies, but no survivors were found in Thai waters,” Mustafa told reporters.
He said search operations involving 12 vessels are covering an area of roughly 250 square nautical miles—about the size of Singapore—and are expected to continue for several more days.
Rescue teams battling rough seas and scorching heat launched operations from Malaysia’s Langkawi Island. At least 13 people have been rescued alive, including both Rohingya and Bangladeshi nationals, according to police.
Authorities believe the migrants began their journey from Myanmar two weeks ago. The second boat travelling with them has not yet been located, raising fears of more casualties.
Malaysia, one of Southeast Asia’s most prosperous nations, attracts millions of migrant workers from poorer countries. However, the dangerous sea crossings—often organised by human trafficking rings—have led to frequent tragedies.
“These syndicates are exploiting desperate migrants, charging up to $3,500 per person for risky voyages,” Mustafa said, warning that the traffickers are becoming more active in the region.
The Rohingya, long persecuted in Myanmar, continue to flee violence and repression, often taking perilous routes by sea.
According to the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), at least 657 Rohingya died in regional waters in 2024 alone.Do you like this personality?
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