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.<br/> <br />The ship is having to pass through waters known for militant attacks and pirates.<br/> <br />The Philippines coast guard says three Philippines navy ships would escort the vessel until it crossed the Malaysian maritime border.<br/> <br />SOUNDBITE: COMMANDER ALGIER RICAFRENTE, PHILIPPINE COAST GUARD, SAYING (English):<br/> <br />"What we want to ensure is that the vessel is safe and secured while she's still in our area of responsibility."<br/> <br />The ship was left drifting off the western Philippines when the fire disabled its engines.<br/> <br />Five crew members needed treatment for breathing in smoke.<br/> <br />Power was later restored.<br/> <br />The vessel is carrying 600 passengers, mostly European and American, and more than 400 crew.<br/> <br />Paul Chapman, Reuters
