Cruise ship crosses danger zone

The Azamara Quest cruise ship is making its way slowly towards the Malaysian port of Sandakan, after an engine room fire, under heavy naval escort.

The ship is having to pass through waters known for militant attacks and pirates.

The Philippines coast guard says three Philippines navy ships would escort the vessel until it crossed the Malaysian maritime border.

SOUNDBITE: COMMANDER ALGIER RICAFRENTE, PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD, SAYING (English):

"What we want to ensure is that the vessel is safe and secured while she's still in our area of responsibility."

The ship was left drifting off the western Philippines when the fire disabled its engines.

Five crew members needed treatment for breathing in smoke.

Power was later restored.

The vessel is carrying 600 passengers, mostly European and American, and more than 400 crew.

Paul Chapman, Reuters