A migrant boat sank near the maritime border between Malaysia and Thailand, leaving hundreds unaccounted for as search and rescue efforts continue. Malaysian maritime authorities have confirmed the recovery of ten survivors and one deceased person.
The vessel had departed from Buthidaung in Myanmar, carrying about 300 passengers, according to First Admiral Romli Mustafa, who is responsible for the maritime authority in the northern Malaysian states of Kedah and Perlis. He warned that more victims might still be found during the ongoing operation, which has lasted for over three days.
Among the survivors rescued off Langkawi were six men: three were from Myanmar, two belonged to the Rohingya community, and one was from Bangladesh. The body recovered was identified as a Rohingya woman, as reported by state news agency Bernama, citing Kedah police chief Adzli Abu Shah.
The Rohingya, a predominantly Muslim minority from Myanmar, face severe persecution. They are often viewed as outsiders of South Asian origin by the Buddhist majority, denied citizenship, and subjected to widespread abuse. Many attempt perilous journeys to seek refuge in countries such as Malaysia.
According to Adzli Abu Shah, the migrants initially travelled on a large boat. However, near the border area, they were directed to transfer onto three smaller boats, each carrying roughly 100 people. This method is frequently used to evade authorities’ detection.
The whereabouts of the other two boats remain unknown, and joint search-and-rescue operations by Malaysian and Thai authorities are ongoing.