RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian Foreign Ministry has provided an update on the condition of Indonesian nationals who survived the boat accident off Pangkor Island in Perak, Malaysia, on May 11, 2026.

“As of now, the surviving Indonesians are still undergoing questioning by Malaysian authorities,” said Director for the Protection of Indonesian Citizens at the ministry, Heni Hamidah, in a text message to RRI on Monday, May 18.

Malaysian authorities are also conducting the identification process for the bodies of the victims. “The repatriation of the victims’ remains will be carried out immediately after the identification process is completed and permission has been granted by the Malaysian government,” Heni added.

Earlier, the ministry reported that Malaysian search and rescue authorities and the Maritime Police had rescued 23 Indonesians, consisting of 16 men and seven women aged between 21 and 48.

All survivors have been taken to the Marine Police Operations Headquarters in Kampung Acheh, Perak, for further assistance.

The ministry updated the casualty figures on Monday, May 18, stating that the number of victims recovered had reached 39, up from the previously reported 37. Of that number, 23 Indonesians survived, while 16 others were confirmed dead.

According to Malaysian authorities, the traditional boat met with an accident while carrying several foreign nationals suspected of attempting to enter Malaysia for work purposes.

Meanwhile, the Perak office of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) announced that the search and rescue operation had concluded on Saturday, May 16. (Gusti Panji)