Safety Statement
We extend our deepest condolences to the victims of the MT Federal II tragedy. This article is intended to raise awareness about critical safety issues in the maritime sector. Promoting accountability and reform is essential to ensuring such incidents are never repeated.
A. Dimitriou, for MaritimeHub Team
Tragedy Strikes at Batam Shipyard
In the early hours of Wednesday, a fire broke out aboard the MT Federal II, an oil tanker docked for repairs at the Tanjunguncang seaport in Batam. According to local police, the blaze killed 10 workers and injured 18 others, some critically.
The vessel was reportedly not carrying oil at the time, and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.
The local police official confirmed that the incident occurred at around 2:15 pm local time while the workers were cutting steel plates on the ship. Four of the injured sustained severe burns and were hospitalized, while one suffered minor injuries.
ASL Shipyard’s internal safety team controlled the blaze, which affected the vessel. It is suspected that a leak of flammable gas or vapor may have triggered the blaze, contributing to the rapid spread of the fire aboard the vessel. Investigation is ongoing to determine the exact cause of the incident.
Recurring Safety Issues
This marks the second fatal incident involving the MT Federal II in less than six months. A previous fire in June 2025 killed four and injured nine, allegedly caused by welding sparks. The recurrence raises serious questions about shipyard safety protocols and regulatory oversight.
Conclusion: A Call for Reform
The Batam tragedy is a stark reminder of the need for stricter safety standards in Indonesia’s maritime industry. As the nation mourns, stakeholders must act to prevent future disasters. Media outlets like Reuters are vital in bringing these issues to light and prompting reform.
Source: Reuters – Indonesia oil tanker catches fire, killing 10
Vessel FEDERAL II,image credit:detik.com
MT FSO Federal II – Vessel Particulars
- IMO Number: 8818946
- MMSI: 525020252
- Call Sign: PLFW
- Flag: Indonesia
- Ship Type: FSO (Floating Storage and Offloading Unit) / Crude Oil Tanker
- Year Built: 1990
- Age: 35 years
- Builder: (Shipyard details not publicly disclosed)
- Owner: PT Eastern Jason (Indonesia)
- Manager: International Andromeda Shipping (Monaco)
Dimensions & Capacity
- Length Overall (LOA): 232 meters
- Beam (Width): 42 meters
- Gross Tonnage (GT): 52,505
- Deadweight Tonnage (DWT): 96,759 metric tons
- Net Tonnage (NT): 29,506
Engine & Machinery
- Main Engine: Sulzer 6RTA62
- Engine Type: 2-stroke
The Maritime-Hub Editorial Team
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Maritime-Hub. Readers are advised to research this information before making decisions based on it.
