At least five people have been confirmed dead and 41 others remain missing after a fire broke out aboard the Indonesian passenger ferry Mutiara Sentosa 2 while sailing from Surabaya, East Java, to Makassar, South Sulawesi, on 2 August 2026. The incident occurred off the coast of Madura Island, prompting Indonesian authorities to launch an extensive search and rescue operation.

The ferry was carrying a total of 271 people, consisting of 232 passengers and 39 crew members, when the fire erupted during the voyage. Thick smoke and flames quickly spread across the vessel, forcing many passengers to wear life jackets and jump into the sea in an effort to escape. Emergency services received the distress alert shortly after the fire was reported.

According to Indonesia\'s National Search and Rescue Agency (Basarnas), 225 people have been rescued, while search efforts continue for the 41 individuals who remain unaccounted for. The operation involves rescue boats, naval vessels, helicopters, and nearby commercial ships, although rough sea conditions have complicated the response. Survivors have been transported to shore for medical evaluation and treatment.

Authorities have not yet determined the cause of the fire, and a formal investigation has been initiated to establish how the blaze started and whether any safety or operational factors contributed to the incident. Officials are expected to examine the vessel\'s condition, emergency response procedures, and other relevant evidence as part of the investigation.

The incident has once again drawn attention to maritime safety in Indonesia, where passenger ferries play a vital role in connecting thousands of islands across the archipelago. Rescue teams continue to search for the missing passengers and crew, while authorities have stated that updates will be provided as the operation and investigation progress.