Incident Overview

On 7 November 2025, smoke was detected in the under-hatch area of bay 5 aboard the 4,957 TEU vessel Kyparissia, which is Malta-flagged, built in 2014, and measuring 255.34 m in length and 37.41 m in width. The ship had departed the Port of Tanjung Pelepas (PTP) for Lomé, Togo, but returned when the smoke alarm triggered. 

Explosion, Firefighting & Response

While cargo operations and investigation were underway at PTP, an explosion occurred — the blast claimed three lives, one of whom was a forensic scientist flown in from Singapore. Fire and rescue teams, supported by the port’s firefighting unit and tugboats, brought the blaze under control. The Malaysian Marine Department confirmed no hazardous or toxic gases were released following the explosion.

Casualties & Investigation Status

Victims included a 59-year-old Malaysian, a Filipino man in his 40s, and a Briton in his 40s. The injured parties — a 26-year-old Malaysian and two Filipino men in their 40s — are receiving treatment.  Maersk (whose chartered vessel was involved) issued a statement confirming the fatalities and ongoing efforts in coordination with the port, authorities, vessel owner and ship manager. 

Operational Impact

Cargo operations at PTP were temporarily suspended pending safety clearance, but full operations have since resumed. The cause of the fire and explosion remains under investigation.