KBRN, Bengkulu: Following the recent tragic tourism ship incident, Bengkulu Mayor Dedy Wahyudi has pledged to enhance tourism safety measures and improve industry standards to prevent future accidents from recurring.

"This is an important lesson for all of us. In the future, we will fix the tourism system and monitor it more closely," Dedy said Monday, May 12, 2025, in response to the fatal shipwreck that claimed seven lives on Sunday, May 11, 2025, rri.co.id reported.

He urged all tourism operators to comply with safety regulations, including load limits and ensuring all necessary vessel permits are complete. He said that adhering to standard procedures would significantly minimize the risk of accidents.

The Bengkulu City administration is committed to creating safe and comfortable tourism for all visitors. To prevent similar tragedies in the future, inter-agency synergy will be strengthened.

A tour boat carrying 17 passengers capsized on Sunday, May 11, 2025, while sailing from Cukuh Beach to Tikus Island. Seven were killed, eight survived, and the search for two others continued until Monday night.

Dedy conveyed his heartfelt condolences over the tragedy affecting tourists from outside the region. "May the families of the victims find strength and resilience in facing this difficult time," he stated.

He emphasized that the Bengkulu City administration, along with the Regional Leadership Coordination Forum and other key stakeholders, worked diligently to manage the situation.

Their assistance covered evacuations, body transfers, and support for families at the hospital, ensuring a comprehensive response to the tragedy.

Dedy appreciated the quick response of all elements in handling and searching for victims in the field. “The Police Chief, the Military District Commander, the Navy, the Search and Rescue Agency, the Governor, the Regional Secretary, the Regional Police Chief, the Military Resort Commander, and everyone else took action,” he concluded.

The joint team combed the sea and land using rubber boats and drones, with assistance from local fishermen. Bad weather and high waves had hindered the search for the two victims, who remained missing until Monday night. ***