The Hung Phat 89 (HP89), a cargo ship registered in Vietnam, was in the Singapore Maritime Search and Rescue Region when it became involved in an emergency 380 nautical miles east of Vung Tau, Vietnam. The incident happened on March 10, 2024, and maritime officials responded quickly.

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA)’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Singapore received a distress call from the HP89 at approximately 4 p.m. local time. MRCC Singapore promptly sent navigational broadcasts to nearby vessels, advising them to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the stricken ship. MRCC Singapore simultaneously notified MRCC Vietnam of the situation.

Thai Duong Marine Transport, a Vietnamese company, owned the troubled vessel and its eleven crew members. Fortunately, MRCC Vietnam notified MRCC Singapore that the Vietnam Coast Guard had successfully rescued all crew members by around 7 p.m. local time on the same day. However, the HP89 tragically sank despite the rescue efforts.

Swift action and cooperation must be taken to ensure the safety of seafarers and vessels navigating these waters. This occurrence demonstrates maritime authorities’ cooperative efforts in reacting to sea emergencies.

Reference: MPA