Penang's First Floating Ferry Museum Tilts Due To Leak, Viral Photos Spark Concern
The ferry was found to be tilting last Sunday, 6 October.
By Celine Low — 10 Oct 2024, 11:28 AM
Pictures of the Penang Floating Ferry Museum appearing to lean slightly on one side have gone viral on social media
According to a statement by Penang Port Commission chairman Dato' Yeoh Soon Hin, Pulau Pinang, which is set to be Asia's first floating museum, was found to be tilting while docked at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT) on Sunday, 6 October at around 6.15pm.
Printhero Merchandise Sdn Bhd, the company responsible for the ferry's refurbishment, immediately carried out an inspection and found that seawater had entered the engine room.
"No oil spills have been detected so far, and monitoring of the ferry's condition is being carried out around the clock," Yeoh said.
"The company has also decided to tow the ferry to shallower waters near the SPCT warehouse to facilitate inspections and repairs," he added.
The process of pumping out water was carried out by Printhero, with assistance from SPCT, Penang Port Sdn Bhd, the Penang Port Fire and Rescue Department, and contractors.
Printhero said a qualified contractor has been appointed to refloat the ferry
The company said it is committed to doing everything possible to save the ferry and will provide updates periodically.
It remains unclear whether the opening of the ferry museum will be postponed due to the leak.
