Temotu honours MV Helper 1 for saving MV Awka passengers

BY DOUGLAS VAHIA

The Temotu Provincial Government has formally honoured the captain, operation commander, crew, and medical team of the Vanuatu-flagged vessel MV Helper 1 for their critical role in the successful rescue of passengers from the troubled vessel MV Awka.

Premier Stanley Tehiahua conveyed the provincial government’s appreciation during a welcome and acknowledgement reception hosted onboard MV Helper 1 at Lata yesterday, a statement by the provincial government yesterday said.

Speaking on behalf of the provincial administration and the people of Temotu, Premier Tehiahua expressed gratitude for the dedication and cooperation demonstrated by the vessel’s team in bringing the passengers to safety.

MV Helper 1 played a vital role in the maritime emergency by receiving passengers transferred from MV Awka and safely transporting them to shore at Vanikoro.

Mr Tehiahua noted that the timely assistance provided by the crew brought immense relief to the families and communities of those onboard.

“We sincerely appreciate your professionalism, cooperation, dedication, and commitment during this challenging maritime emergency,” Tehiahua said during his address.

He extended the goodwill of the province to the crew and wished them a safe voyage as they prepared to depart for Honiara, subject to local weather conditions.

In his remarks, the Premier also acknowledged the vital contributions of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), specifically the officers deployed aboard Patrol Boat Gizo.

Tehiahua thanked the national, regional and international partners who supported the coordinated rescue mission.

He said the incident was deeply concerning for Temotu Province, where remote island communities rely heavily on maritime transport to access essential services.

He stressed the urgent need for relevant authorities to strengthen national maritime safety standards, enforce vessel seaworthiness, and improve emergency preparedness to prevent future incidents.

Tehiahua emphasised that continuous cooperation between private maritime operators, government agencies, and emergency responders remains essential to protect human lives at sea.

The Temotu Provincial Government concluded by extending its broader thanks to all individuals, agencies, and vessels involved in the operation.

Officials described the successful rescue outcome as a powerful reminder of the importance of collective responsibility, compassion, and swift inter-agency cooperation when human lives are at stake.

Photo credit: Temotu provincial government

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