I refer to the Malaysiakini report, Tourists describe terror on burning ferry .

This is the second ferry disaster within a year. First, it was the Langkawi ferry crash (November 2006) where my family and I were passengers. I can imagine what these people would have gone through. Believe me, it's HELL.

This is how public life is valued in Malaysia. Safety standards are compromised at all levels. I would believe that there were not enough safety jackets, as I did experience it in the Langkawi ferry crash. I also believe that the crew would have abandoned ship, as they did the same in the

Langkawi tragedy. The crew just did not know what to do.

Now, again the government had called for a investigation. What investigation? How could a ferry be allowed to without permit (as alleged)?

Officers of the relevant department should be hauled up for malpractices (should the allegation be proven). Charge them in court. If they would have been more diligent in their work, such tragedy would not have occurred.

The writer is director, National Consumer Complaints Center.