All six crew members rescued after vessel struck reef during low tide in Natuna waters
A cargo ship en route to Kalimantan Barat sank off the coast of Natuna, Indonesia, after striking a coral reef. Authorities confirmed no casualties as all crew members were safely evacuated.
Cargo Vessel KM Doa Selamat Sinks in Natuna
On Monday night, June 23, 2025, the cargo vessel KM Doa Selamat 14 sank in Selat Lampa, Natuna, Riau Islands Province, Indonesia, after hitting a coral reef. The 46 Gross Ton (GT) ship was bound for West Kalimantan, carrying agricultural and fishery goods essential to the region’s local economy.
The accident occurred at approximately 7:40 PM WIB, just off the coast of Desa Sabang Mawang Barat. Local authorities believe the vessel veered too far left from the designated shipping lane during low tide, causing it to strike a shallow reef and suffer a hull breach.
Swift Response Prevents Casualties
Thanks to immediate response efforts, all six crew members—including the captain—were successfully evacuated. The rescue was coordinated by a joint team from the local Fisheries Department (KKP), TNI, Polri, and nearby residents.
Camat Pulau Tiga, Wan Effendi, confirmed the accident, stating, “The ship leaked after hitting a reef. Fortunately, no one was harmed.” The evacuation concluded around 8:00 PM WIB, just 20 minutes after the ship began taking on water.
Crew Identity and Official Warning
According to Iptu Raja Oloan Purba, head of the Bunguran Barat Police Sector, the captain was identified as Rahmad Ilahi, with the crew comprising Arifin (engine room), and four deckhands: Basir, Pir, Adit, and Zulkifli. The ship was owned by a local resident, As’ari, from Desa Tanjung Kumbik Utara.
Purba urged maritime operators to exercise caution, especially at night and during low tide conditions. “The waters near the port are shallow. Mariners must navigate more carefully to avoid repeating such incidents,” he said.
Economic Importance of KM Doa Selamat
The sunken vessel played a vital role in transporting local produce and seafood from Natuna’s islands to Kalimantan Barat. Its loss may momentarily disrupt supply chains, although authorities are working to recover remaining cargo.
As of June 24, 2025, recovery and salvage operations were still underway. Residents and officials are cooperating to retrieve goods and attempt to raise the partially submerged ship.
This incident highlights the navigational hazards posed by shallow reef zones in the Natuna region, particularly during tidal changes. For communities relying on sea routes for economic sustainability, such events are sobering reminders of the importance of maritime safety. Increased vigilance and better route planning could help prevent future accidents that risk lives and disrupt livelihoods.
Sources: Ulasan (2025) , Tribun Batam (2025)
Keywords: KM Doa Selamat, Natuna Shipwreck, Coral Reef Accident, Indonesian Maritime, Cargo Vessel Sinks, Selat Lampa
