Crew members were rescued from a cargo ship that began sinking off the coast of Indonesia.

All 18 mariners aboard the privately owned vessel were saved by KM Egon, a ship operated by PT Pelayaran Nasional Indonesia, also known as PT PELNI (Persero), in the Java Sea on Tuesday.

Reports said the crew of KM Egon received a distress call at around 3 pm local time from Masalembo Radio, reporting that the cargo ship KLM Puji Manunggal Sejati had suffered a hull leak caused by heavy waves and had begun to sink.

The captain of KM Egon, Suryadi, ordered the vessel to divert from its route at around 3:30 pm to reach the scene, which was located approximately four miles away.

Footage shows distressed sailors floating in the sea, some wearing life jackets, with others using flotation devices as they awaited rescue.

Captain Suryadi said: 'Thank God, the entire crew was successfully rescued at 5:32 pm local time. After the evacuation process was completed, KM Egon continued its voyage to Surabaya with all evacuated crew members safe and sound. The safety of human life at sea is our top priority.'

Officials confirmed the entire crew was safely evacuated and remained on board KM Egon, which continued its voyage from Batulicin to Tanjung Perak Port.

Authorities urged vessels operating in the area to remain cautious, monitor weather conditions closely, and prioritise safety amid rough seas.