The product tanker SMF Ixora (IMO 9414101) struck the Sungai Johor Bridge on the Senai–Desaru Expressway in Malaysia’s Johor state. The incident occurred on September 2 at approximately 2:30 p.m. local time.
According to preliminary information from the Malaysian Marine Department, the vessel had recently been lowered into the water from the Benzmark Marine Shipyard. A tugboat was assigned to escort and control the tanker, but a strong current caused it to drift towards the bridge.
The escort tug reportedly lacked sufficient power to stop the tanker or change its direction in time. As a result, SMF Ixora came into contact with the bridge structure.
Two additional tugboats were dispatched to assist the vessel. The tanker was moved away from the bridge at approximately 3:16 p.m. and subsequently anchored safely.
SMF Ixora reportedly sustained minor damage to its exhaust system, railings and navigational equipment. The bridge also suffered limited damage. No injuries were reported.
A technical inspection conducted after the incident found the bridge safe for road users. The Senai–Desaru Expressway remained open to traffic, while the operator said it would continue monitoring the structure.
The Malaysian Marine Department has launched an investigation into the incident and is working with the relevant organisations to ensure navigational safety and verify the structural integrity of the bridge.
SMF Ixora is a Malaysian-flagged product tanker built in 2007. The vessel is approximately 100 metres long and 16.3 metres wide. It has a gross tonnage of 3,991 and a deadweight capacity of 5,643 tonnes.
