Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) director-general Maritime Admiral Mohd Zubil Mat Som said rescuers are currently faced with challenging conditions with waves reaching as high as 4.5m to 5.5m and wind speeds of 60kmh to 70kmh.

However, he said the operation would continue with the deployment of assets belonging to MMEA and other government agencies over a radius of five nautical miles near Pulau Perhentian.

“Apart from the Fire and Rescue Department, police and the Marine Parks Department, several local fishermen are also helping us in the search for the missing victim, Asaari Leh, age around 45.

“According to the victim’s friends, at the time of the incident, Asaari had the orange safety vest on,” he said in a statement today.

Bernama reported today that the boat with five fishermen capsized in Pulau Perhentian waters off Terengganu, after being hit by strong waves during heavy rain in the 1pm incident yesterday.

Earlier Besut district police chief Supt Mohd Rozak Muhammad said four of the five fishermen who were reported missing were found safe this morning.

Meanwhile, Mohd Zubil called on the maritime community to ensure that their vessels are safe, have adequate petrol and food onboard, and to inform their family members of their location and duration away, before going out to sea.

“This is vital in the event of an accident or emergency at sea and before going out, it is advisable to check on the weather conditions.

“Should the sea conditions be rough with strong winds and huge waves, postpone the trip,” he said, adding that in case of an emergency, they should report to the authorities through the 999 line for a SAR to be mounted immediately.