President Prabowo Expresses Condolences over Virgo Transport 8 Ship Accident, Ensures Thorough Investigation into It

President Prabowo Subianto expressed his deepest condolences and sent up prayers for the victims and families affected by the accident involving Virgo Transport 8 Ship in the Java Sea. The moment took place when the President conveyed his remarks at the inauguration of the Jakarta LRT’s Kelapa Gading–Manggarai route at Manggarai LRT (light rapid transit) Station, Jakarta, on Wednesday (09/16).

“On this occasion, we certainly always remember our brothers and sisters who have suffered tragedies, most recently, the Virgo ship en route to Banjarmasin, and we always pray that the bereaved families are granted fortitude and strength,” the President stated.

The Head of State assured everyone that the Government would continue to conduct an investigation to determine the cause of the incident. The findings are expected to serve as a basis for evaluation to strengthen prevention and preparedness efforts against similar incidents in the future.

“We will continue to conduct an investigation to discover the causes and circumstances of the incident so that in the future we can better mitigate risks and take the best possible measures,” the President emphasized.

In addition to the vessel accident, the Head of State kept reminding everyone that people in several regions are still facing difficulties due to various natural disasters. The Government, the President added, continues to work collaboratively in addressing these situations.

“There are also many of our brothers and sisters in various places experiencing hardship due to natural disasters. However, the entire Government, at the central and regional levels as well as all relevant institutions, has committed itself to working together effectively to address all these challenges and hardships,” he said.

The President noted that the synergy among the central government, regional governments, and various institutions in responding to disasters and public hardships reflects the spirit of unity in the life of the nation.

“I believe this is an example of how Indonesia conducts its affairs as a nation, and today I see this as an example of how Indonesia governs itself,” the President noted.

Previously, Virgo Transport 8 Ship was involved in an accident in the Masalembo waters of the Java Sea on Sunday (09/13), while en route to Banjarmasin. Search, rescue, and investigative operations related to the accident are still being carried out by relevant authorities. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (YA/TM)