Missing Indonesian Fisherman Found Safe After 13 Days Adrift in Palau

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – An Indonesian fisherman who went missing at sea for 13 days has been found safe on Palau's Peleliu Island. The Indonesian government oversaw his medical treatment and return home.

A crew member of the fishing motor vessel (MV) El Malika, Rahmad Labada, 31, lost contact with his ship on Friday, August 7, 2026, while using a small auxiliary boat, known as an ayuda boat, during a fishing operation. The boat became separated from MV El Malika after being hit by waves and subsequently drifted away.

Rahmad was eventually found safe on Peleliu Island on Thursday, August 20. "After he was found, Rahmad received assistance and underwent medical treatment at a local hospital until Thursday, August 27. His condition continued to be monitored before he was cleared to travel back to Indonesia," Indonesia’s Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries said in a statement on Monday, August 31, 2026.

To ensure his safe return, the ministry said it coordinated with several parties, including the Indonesian Honorary Consulate in Palau, local government authorities, and the vessel's owner. The coordination covered Rahmad’s medical needs, travel documents, transportation and assistance throughout his journey.

Rahmad left Koror, Palau, for Manila, Philippines, on Friday, August 28, where he was assisted by the Indonesian embassy. He arrived at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport in Tangerang, Banten, on Saturday, August, 29, before continuing his journey to his home in North Minahasa Regency, North Sulawesi.

The ministry's Director General of Capture Fisheries, Lotharia Latif, appreciated everyone involved in Rahmad's rescue. He stressed that the safety of fishing crews remains a government priority and that assistance does not end once a missing crew member has been found.

"We will continue to monitor the repatriation process to ensure that he remains in good condition and that his return is carried out safely, orderly and smoothly," Latif said in an official statement issued in Jakarta on Monday.

Rahmad’s case also highlights the importance of maritime safety preparedness. Latif urged vessel owners and captains to ensure that their vessels and auxiliary boats are seaworthy, that communication and safety equipment is available, and that operating procedures are followed before going to sea.

The ministry also called on all crew members to understand emergency procedures and maintain communication while carrying out fishing operations. Such preparedness is crucial to speeding up rescue efforts when circumstances threaten the safety of crew members.

"Crew safety must be the top priority from the moment a vessel leaves port until it returns. Vessel readiness, safety equipment, communications, and an understanding of emergency procedures must never be neglected," Latif said.