One Dead, Dozens Missing After Boat Carrying 90 People Sinks Near Malaysian Coast

A tragic incident occurred near the Thailand-Malaysia border when a boat carrying about 90 people capsized, leaving one person dead and dozens missing, Malaysian authorities confirmed on Sunday.

According to the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, at least 10 people have been rescued so far, while search and rescue operations are ongoing. The incident reportedly happened near Tarutao Island, just north of Malaysia’s popular Langkawi Island.

Local police chief Adzli Abu Shah said rescue teams are still searching for more survivors. Among those rescued were three Myanmar nationals, two Rohingya refugees, and one Bangladeshi man. The body recovered was that of a Rohingya woman, according to Malaysia’s state media Bernama.

Officials said the passengers were traveling toward Malaysia and had originally boarded a larger vessel. As they neared the border, they were transferred to three smaller boats, each carrying around 100 people, to avoid detection by authorities.

Many of the passengers are believed to be Rohingya refugees fleeing persecution in Myanmar. The Rohingya, a Muslim minority, face severe discrimination and are denied citizenship in Buddhist-majority Myanmar. Thousands have fled the country over the years to escape violence and seek better lives in neighboring countries like Malaysia and Thailand.

Journalist Rob McBride of Al Jazeera reported that the migrants are believed to have left Myanmar’s coast three days ago, heading toward Malaysia — a common destination for those seeking work and safety.

“This is a well-used route by refugees trying to reach Malaysia, where many already have relatives and friends,” McBride said.

Malaysia currently hosts millions of migrant workers and refugees from across Asia, many of whom are undocumented and work in low-wage sectors such as construction and agriculture.

Human trafficking networks often exploit refugees, arranging dangerous boat journeys that frequently end in tragedy. In one of the worst incidents in December 2021, more than 20 people drowned off the Malaysian coast in similar capsizing accidents.

Authorities say that worsening instability and civil conflict in Myanmar since the 2021 military coup are forcing more people to risk their lives at sea.

“This latest tragedy shows the desperation of those fleeing Myanmar’s ongoing crisis,” McBride added.Rohingya boat accident 2025.