| Azlan Othman |

THE Ministry of Defence (MinDef) yesterday said the Search and Rescue Operation (SAR) for Brunei fishermen reported missing in Sabah waters has been intensified.

Two out of 11 fishermen reported missing, were found safe around Pulau Tiga at noon on Friday after their boat drifted into Malaysian waters on August 7.

The ministry stated the SAR is coordinated under the National Search and Rescue Coordination Centre (NSARCC) Brunei where the Royal Brunei Navy was conducting a search along the western border.

MinDef added they will provide support as required and directed by NSARCC.

Besides Royal Brunei Armed Forces, other departments under the coordination of NSARCC, the Royal Brunei Police Force, Fire and Rescue Department and BSP Aviation Department are assisting in the search operation.

Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency sources said one victim appeared weak and was brought to the Sepanggar jetty before being taken to hospital for further treatment.

Sabah seamen informed the Kota Kinabalu Maritime Rescue Sub-Centre that they saw nine people wearing safety jackets in Semarang waters last Wednesday.