The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), which owns the vessel, sank it near Manukan Island in the Tunku Abdul Rahman Marine Park.

State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Masidi Manjun, who witnessed the sinking, said the decommissioned ship would help re-create the ecosystem.

The Borneo Post quoted Masidi as saying that the new “asset” in the sea would indirectly attract tourists, especially shipwreck diving or ‘Wreck Dive’ in the country.

“With this new ecosystem, we believe it will diversify the existing biodiversity in this park,” he was quoted as saying.

MMEA First Admiral Mohd Zubil Mat Som, who was present at the sinking, said he was both sad and happy about it.

“Yes, I’m sad to see this ship will not be with us anymore but also happy as it will play an important part in our ecosystem here in Tunku Abdul Rahman Park,” The Borneo Post quoted him as saying.