One Dead, One Missing After KMP Muchlisa Sinks in Indonesia

A tragic maritime accident has left one crew member dead and another missing following the sinking of the passenger vessel KMP Muchlisa in Indonesia’s East Kalimantan province. The incident took place around midnight WITA on May 5.

The KMP Muchlisa had been sailing for approximately 30 minutes after departing from Kariangau Port when crew members detected both engine trouble and a leak that was allowing water to enter the vessel. As water continued to flood in, the ship listed to the starboard side and eventually sank to a depth of around 20 meters.

At the time of the sinking, 44 people were on board—comprising 21 crew members and 23 passengers. Of these, 42 individuals have been rescued. Authorities have confirmed the death of one crew member, while another remains unaccounted for.

Rescue teams are continuing search operations in the area.

The KMP Muchlisa, flying the Indonesian flag, was built in 1980. The passenger vessel measures 44.4 meters in length and has a gross tonnage of 725.