The foreign ministry confirmed that five Malaysians, who were on board a vessel, were rescued by the Greek Coast Guard after it reportedly struck a reef and sank.

It said preliminary reports indicated that the vessel suffered technical and navigational system failures.

“Following the incident, three of the Malaysians were released by Greek authorities after completing documentation and immigration processes,” it said in a statement today.

“However, two Malaysians have been detained by local authorities to assist in the investigation regarding alleged violations of local environmental laws, specifically concerning damage to the marine ecosystem caused by the collision with the reef.”

Wisma Putra said the Malaysian embassy in Bucharest, Romania, is in close contact with the Greek authorities and is providing consular assistance to ensure the safety, welfare, and legal rights of the two detained Malaysians are protected.

“The foreign ministry will continue to monitor the developments of this case and provide updates as necessary,” it said.

FMT has reached out to Wisma Putra for further information.