Flashback in Maritime History: The Tragic Loss of the KMP Tampomas | Maritime Disasters

Fire is not often associated with disasters at sea. Water tends to be the death bringer of many a maritime disaster, which is why the fate of the KMP Tampomas II stands as a stark reminder that burning to death is far worse than drowning at sea. But when your choice is one or the other, which do you pick?
Before the slow downfall of this ship is unraveled, it is worth revisiting the origins because what led to the deaths of hundreds of passengers was more than the flames, but the complacency of inspectors, crew, and government.