“Beloved Penang Ferry ‘Pulau Kapas’ Sinks – A Loss Felt Deeply”
Source: The Rakyat Post
Early Wednesday morning, the iconic Pulau Kapas ferry, a symbol of Penang’s maritime history, tragically sank at the Sultan Abdul Halim ferry terminal in Butterworth.
Penang Wakes to Heartbreaking News
On the morning of July 24th, the people of Penang woke up to the shocking news that the Pulau Kapas ferry had sunk. Eyewitnesses reported that around 3 AM, the ferry was seen tilting heavily before it finally went under, with more than half of its structure submerged.
Efforts to Raise the Sunken Ferry
The Penang Port Commission (SPPP) is working hard to salvage the ferry and bring it back to its original position. Firefighters are also on-site, dealing with oil spills. Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin, the SPPP chairman, mentioned that an official statement would be released soon.
Turning Memories into Attractions
For many in Penang, the Pulau Kapas and other ferries were more than just transportation—they were part of the local heritage and held countless memories. These ferries, which ferried people and vehicles between Penang Island and the mainland for decades, were retired on January 1, 2021. Their retirement marked the end of an era, as locals felt a deep sense of loss seeing the old ferries replaced by modern boats.
A New Chapter for Old Ferries
In an effort to preserve the legacy of these ferries, plans were made to transform them into tourist attractions. Pulau Kapas, along with four other ferries—Talang-Talang, Pulau Payar, Pulau Undan, and Pulau Pinang—were handed over to companies to be turned into museums, floating restaurants, and tourist ferries.
A Legacy That Lives On
As Penangites come to terms with the loss of Pulau Kapas, they reflect on the memories it carried beneath the waves. Though the ferry may have sunk, its legacy as a symbol of Penang’s rich maritime history will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved it.
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