The Malaysian-flagged product tanker SMF IXORA struck the Sungai Johor Bridge in Kota Tinggi, Malaysia, on September 2, 2026, shortly after leaving the nearby Benzmark Marine Shipyard.

Vessel Details – SMF IXORA

• Vessel: SMF IXORA
• IMO Number: 9414101
• Type: Oil Products Tanker
• Flag: Malaysia
• Year Built: 2007
• Length: Approximately 100 m
• Beam: Approximately 16 m
• Deadweight: 5,643 tonnes
• Gross Tonnage: 3,991 GT

The incident occurred at approximately 2:30 p.m. local time, when the tanker reportedly began drifting toward the bridge while being moved with the assistance of a tugboat. According to Malaysia’s Marine Department, strong currents contributed to the loss of control, while the escort tug reportedly did not have sufficient towing capacity to stop or redirect the vessel.

SMF IXORA Drifts Toward Sungai Johor Bridge

The SMF IXORA, an oil products tanker with an IMO number of 9414101, was being relocated from the Benzmark Marine Shipyard when the incident occurred.

The vessel was built in 2007 and measures approximately 100 metres in length, with a beam of around 16 metres and a deadweight of 5,643 tonnes.

During the manoeuvre, strong currents reportedly pushed the tanker away from its intended track and toward the Sungai Johor Bridge.

The tugboat assigned to control the vessel was reportedly unable to generate enough pulling power to prevent the tanker from drifting. As the situation developed, additional tugboats were brought to the area to assist.

Tanker Removed From Bridge

The SMF IXORA eventually came into contact with the bridge structure at around 2:30 p.m.

Two additional tugboats were subsequently deployed to assist with the recovery operation. The tanker was successfully moved away from the bridge at approximately 3:16 p.m. and was later taken to a safe anchorage.

The incident attracted attention from motorists using the bridge, with images and videos of the tanker alongside the bridge quickly circulating online.

Fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Sungai Johor Bridge Remains Open

Following the incident, the bridge was inspected by the relevant authorities.

The Senai-Desaru Expressway operator, Senai-Desaru Expressway Berhad (SDEB), said the inspection found the bridge to be safe for use. The structure reportedly sustained only minor damage and remained open to road traffic.

Reports also indicated that the tanker itself suffered minor damage, including damage to parts of its exhaust system, railing and navigation equipment.

Marine Department Investigates the Incident

Malaysia’s Marine Department has launched a further investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.

The preliminary information indicates that the tanker had just been launched into the water from the nearby shipyard before the accident. Authorities are examining the circumstances that led to the vessel drifting toward the bridge, including the effect of strong currents and the towing capability of the assisting tug.

At this stage, the investigation is ongoing, and the exact causes and responsibilities have not been officially established.

A Reminder of the Risks During Shipyard Manoeuvring

Although the incident resulted in no reported injuries and only minor damage, it highlights the risks involved when large vessels are moved in confined waters.

Shipyard departures and relocation manoeuvres can be particularly challenging because a vessel’s movement can be strongly affected by current, wind, available under-keel clearance, tug power and the vessel’s own manoeuvring characteristics.

Once a vessel begins to drift in a restricted waterway, there may be very little time to recover control, especially when a fixed structure such as a bridge is nearby.

The SMF IXORA incident also demonstrates why appropriate tug selection, risk assessment, communication and contingency planning are critical during vessel movements in confined waters.

The Marine Department’s investigation is expected to provide further information about exactly what happened and whether additional factors contributed to the tanker striking the Sungai Johor Bridge.