Minister Instructs Focus on Passengers Rescue After MV Putri Yasmin Fire

RRI.CO.ID, Mataram – Indonesia's Minister of Transportation, Dudy Purwagandhi, expressed his "deepest" condolences for the fire at the passenger motor vessel Putri Yasmin in the Lombok Strait on Wednesday, August 12, 2026. He instructed officials to focus on the search, evacuation, and passenger data collection.

"Our current priority is the safety of all passengers and crew members and ensuring that those found immediately receive the necessary assistance," Minister Dudy said while inspecting the SAR Post at Port of Lembar, West Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara's Lombok Island on Wednesday.

According to preliminary reports, the Putri Yasmin's manifest listed 114 passengers, not including crew members. As of Wednesday afternoon, 173 passengers had been recovered, with 172 survivors and one deceased.

"To the deceased victims, may they find the best place in the sight of Allah, and to the bereaved families, we offer our condolences and prayers for strength and fortitude," Dudy said.

He instructed a thorough verification to confirm the manifest data and the number of passengers found. The possible discrepancy between the number of passengers and the manifest data is a serious finding that will be followed up through a comprehensive investigation.

"It should be noted that when a ship applies for a sailing permit, the number of passengers is generally registered. However, before the ship actually sails, there are often additional passengers that are not reported. This is the basis for evaluation. Even though a sailing permit has been issued, additional passengers must still be reported," the minister said.

Regarding the cause of the fire, Dudy handed over the investigation to the National Transportation Safety Committee (KNKT). The minister said the ministry doesn't want to preempt the investigation results.

"The most important thing is that the cause of this incident can be clearly determined and used as evaluation material to improve shipping safety. It's important to note that the Putri Yasmin was seaworthy based on the results of its last inspection, conducted in June 2026," he added.

Dudy also stated that rescue operations will continue for the next seven days. A public complaint post has also been opened; therefore, anyone who feels she/he has lost a family member is encouraged to report the information to the post officers immediately.

"As we know, Lombok waters are characterized by strong currents, so when an accident occurs, a very quick response is required for rescue. I would like to thank all parties who assisted in this evacuation process," the Minister of Transportation concluded.

Dudy also visited several victims receiving treatment at Patut Patuh Patju Regional Hospital. He expressed his hope that all victims would recover quickly and return to their normal activities.