News Desk, the-news24.com: Three workers were killed and one person was injured after an accident during lifeboat maintenance work on a floating storage and offloading vessel operated by Malaysia’s state energy company Petronas.
The incident happened on Sunday at the FSO Sepat, located off Terengganu state on the east coast of peninsular Malaysia. Petronas said the accident occurred at around 12:50 p.m. local time.
Three Workers Pronounced Dead
According to Petronas, three workers were pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital. Another staff member was evacuated for medical treatment and remains under observation.
The company did not immediately release further details about the identities of the victims or the condition of the injured worker.
Accident Happened During Lifeboat Maintenance
The accident reportedly occurred while workers were carrying out maintenance work involving a lifeboat on the floating vessel.
Malaysia’s state news agency Bernama reported that the workers had boarded a lifeboat to lower themselves into the sea for maintenance work. A rope or hook connected to the lifeboat is believed to have detached, causing the workers to fall into the sea.
Investigation Underway
Petronas said investigations into the cause of the incident are ongoing in coordination with relevant authorities.
The company has not yet provided additional technical details about the accident, including whether equipment failure, operational error or other safety issues were involved.
What Is FSO Sepat?
FSO Sepat is a floating storage and offloading vessel used in offshore oil and gas operations. These vessels are commonly used to store crude oil or petroleum products before they are transferred to tankers or transported for processing.
Offshore energy operations often involve high-risk work environments, including heavy machinery, marine equipment, confined areas and emergency safety systems such as lifeboats.
Safety Concerns in Offshore Operations
The fatal accident has renewed attention on workplace safety in offshore oil and gas facilities. Lifeboat systems are designed to protect workers during emergencies, but maintenance and testing procedures can carry serious risks if equipment fails.
Industry safety experts often stress the importance of regular inspection, proper training, strict maintenance protocols and emergency preparedness to prevent fatal accidents in offshore environments.
Petronas Yet to Release Further Details
Petronas said it is working with authorities as the investigation continues. More details are expected once investigators complete initial assessments of the incident.
The company expressed that the matter is being handled with urgency, but no additional information was immediately provided.
Conclusion
The accident on Petronas-operated FSO Sepat has left three workers dead and one injured, marking a serious offshore safety incident off Malaysia’s east coast.
Authorities are now investigating how the lifeboat maintenance accident happened and whether any equipment failure or safety breach contributed to the tragedy.
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May 25, 2026
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