The search and rescue (SAR) operation for a fisherman who is believed to have fallen into the sea near the Penang Bridge entered its second day on Thursday, with the search area expanded to 15 square nautical miles.
The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) Penang said the operation resumed as early as 7.30am in an effort to intensify the search for the 39-year-old victim, who has yet to be located since the incident was reported.
According to the agency, the integrated SAR operation is being led by the MMEA with the support of several rescue agencies to maximise the chances of finding the missing man.
Among the assets deployed are an MMEA patrol boat, a Marine Police Force (PPM) boat, a Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM) boat, two Civil Defence Force (APM) boats, as well as a volunteer fire brigade boat.
The victim was reported missing on Wednesday after he is believed to have fallen into the sea while fishing with several friends near pillar number five of the Penang Bridge on the island-bound carriageway towards Perai.
Authorities said search efforts would continue comprehensively, with updates on the operation to be announced from time to time as rescuers work to locate the missing angler.
