Tragic Boat Collision Claims Life of Tower Transit Employee

On March 27, 2026, a collision occurred between a pleasure craft and a supply vessel off Singapore's Southern Islands at approximately 4:15 AM. The incident involved three individuals aboard the pleasure craft, two of whom were rescued, while 37-year-old Chua Muhammad Syafidi went missing. Following an extensive search, his body was discovered floating off the coast of Karimun, Indonesia, on March 30, 2026, and was confirmed by Singapore police on April 5.

South China Morning PostMissing man’s body found in Indonesian waters after Southern Islands boat collision, he was a Tower Transit engineerBody found in Indonesian waters, police believe it's the missing man from Southern Islands boat collision

Chua Muhammad Syafidi was an engineering supervisor at Tower Transit Singapore, where he had worked for a decade, progressing from a vehicle technician to his supervisory role. He had recently completed a part-time diploma in operations and engineering management and was scheduled to graduate on May 5, 2026. Tower Transit described him as a "talented and creative engineer" who took pride in his work, notably constructing a life-size replica bus that is displayed at the Bulim Bus Depot. His colleagues remembered him for his kindness and willingness to assist others.

The Straits Times

In connection with the collision, a 49-year-old man has been arrested for rash navigation of a vessel. The Singapore Police Force confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore reported that all individuals aboard the supply vessel were accounted for, and no injuries were reported from that vessel.

Body found in Indonesian waters, police believe it's the missing man from Southern Islands boat collision

The tragic loss of Syafidi has resonated deeply within the Tower Transit community, with approximately 100 employees attending his funeral on April 5. The company expressed its condolences to Syafidi's family, including his wife and children, highlighting the profound impact he had on his colleagues and the community. His sister also shared her grief on social media, reflecting on his kindness and the void his absence has created.

Missing man’s body found in Indonesian waters after Southern Islands boat collision, he was a Tower Transit engineer

This incident has reignited discussions about maritime safety in Singapore's busy shipping lanes. The challenges posed by cross-border currents and the complexities of search operations in regional waters have been underscored by this tragedy. As investigations continue, there is a renewed call for enhanced safety measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Singapore Boat Collision Tragedy: Missing Man’s Body Found in Indonesian Waters

• “While he took pride in his day-to-day task of keeping our buses running safely and smoothly, Syafidi had a creative spirit.” — Tower Transit Singapore

The Straits Times

• “In a subsequent post, she mourned her brother, recalling him as a “kind” person who was “always there for everyone”, adding: Everyone who knew you loves you dearly and your absence has left such a deep emptiness in our lives.” — Chua Muhammad Syafidi’s sister

Missing man’s body found in Indonesian waters after Southern Islands boat collision, he was a Tower Transit engineer

The death of Chua Muhammad Syafidi serves as a poignant reminder of the inherent risks in maritime activities and the importance of rigorous safety protocols in preventing future tragedies.

Singapore Boat Collision Tragedy: Missing Man’s Body Found in Indonesian Waters