Spill from stricken MISC tanker

Malaysian authorities are battling to contain a spill form the stricken MISC tanker Bung Alpinia as the search for the fifth missing continues, Seatrade Asia online reports.

A total of four bodies have been recovered from the 38,000 dwt chemical tanker which was ravaged by fire and explosions early on Thursday morning while loading methanol in Labuan, East Malaysia, and a fifth seafarer remains missing.

The fire has now been completely extinguished and cooling operations are underway. However, a spill has been detected from the vessel. “Initial observations indicate that there is a minor slick emitting from Bunga Alpinia, which is currently largely being contained around the vessel by anti- pollution containment booms,” MISC said.

“The authorities and industry experts engaged by MISC have increased their efforts to contain the spill in ensuring the continuous protection of the environment and surrounding communities.”