Fire broke out on Singapore-Batam passenger ferry off Kusu Island, no injuries reported
The 62 passengers on QUEEN STAR 2 were transferred to another vessel and have since arrived safely in Batam.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) was alerted to a fire in the engine room of a Singapore-registered passenger ferry 'Queen Star 2' off Kusu Island on May 5, 2023. (Image: Facebook/Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore)
SINGAPORE: A fire broke out in the engine room of a Singapore-registered ferry off Kusu Island on Friday (May 5), prompting the transfer of its passengers to another vessel.Â
The fire was put out by the six crew members of QUEEN STAR 2, which was on its way from Singapore to Batam when the incident happened.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said in a news release that it was alerted to the incident at 12.30pm on Friday.
"MPA, the Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), and Police Coast Guard (PCG) immediately deployed their crafts to provide assistance," said the authority, adding that a tug boat was also deployed to provide assistance and tow the ferry.
All 62 passengers on board, including Singaporeans, Malaysians and Indonesians, were transferred to another vessel, MERBAU ERA, which was going to Harbourfront Ferry Terminal in Singapore.
The vessel then headed to Batam in Indonesia and has since arrived safely with all the passengers.
"The fire onboard QUEEN STAR 2 was put out by the six crew members who remained onboard the ferry prior to SCDF's arrival," said MPA.
"SCDF fire fighters were also onboard the ferry to ensure that the fire had been completely extinguished."
No injuries or pollution was reported.Â
Officers were deployed by MPA at Harbourfront Ferry Terminal to attend to any passengers who require support.
The authority also issued navigational broadcasts to ships to stay clear of the site.
