On August 12, the 16 meter long tugboat GMS Fortuna 6 ran aground at Batu Ferringhi, Malaysia. The tug had its anchor drag during a severe storm where large waves had washed the vessel onto the beach. No reports of injuries or damage. Authorities state no pollution was seen around the tug.
The 124 meter long , 12,395 dwt tanker No. 3 Heung-A Pioneer suffered an explosion off Penang, Malaysia. The tanker had departed from Penang bound for Singapore when a gas canister caught fire resulting in the explosion. The vessel requested assistance and returned back to port. One crewman was killed in the explosion and another five were injured. The extent of damage was not reported. Authorities has launched an investigation into the incident.
On August 1, the 231 meter long, 41986 dwt container ship Northern Democrat allided with the 294 meter long, 67,000 dwt container ship Mol Empire at Port Klang, Malaysia. The Northern Democrat was doing a maneuver in the harbour when it struck the stern of the Mol Empire. Both vessels sustained slight damage. Three containers fell off the Northern Democrat and one of the cranes on the quay sustained damage. No reports of injuries. Reports state both vessels were allowed to continue on their voyages after inspected by Authorities.
