Kuala lumpur: Megah Port Management Sdn Bhd (MPM) today officially launched its marine services at Labuan Port, marked by the acquisition of four tugboats valued at RM23 million. The investment aims to bolster the safety, efficiency, and reliability of vessel operations within the port's jurisdiction. According to BERNAMA News Agency, MPM's managing director, Datuk Seri Patrick Tiong, emphasized that the purchase of the tugboats is a strategic move to support marine services under the recently signed Operation, Facility and Management Continuation Agreement with the Labuan Port Authority (LPA). Tiong stated that providing marine services is a mandatory duty for MPM as part of the agreement. At the launch event held at the Dermaga Merdeka Jetty, Tiong highlighted the critical role the tugboats will play in assisting vessels with berthing, unberthing, and navigating confined waters. The tugboats will also perform towing operations, manage vessel movements during adverse weather conditions, and assist ships wi th mechanical issues. Emergency preparedness is a key focus of the investment. Tiong noted that the tugboats would be integral in supporting rescue and evacuation operations, providing initial responses to maritime incidents, and collaborating with enforcement and maritime security agencies during emergencies. The marine services will cover several operational areas and major terminals within Labuan Port, including the DG Terminal, Petronas Chemicals Methanol Labuan Terminal, Asian Supply Base Fuel Terminal, and Shell Timur Terminal. MPM plans to work closely with the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, Marine Police Force, and other relevant bodies to ensure compliance with maritime laws and safety protocols. Tiong welcomed feedback from authorities to enhance marine operations continuously and underscored MPM's commitment to delivering professional and legal-compliant marine services for the benefit of the maritime community. The launch event also included an emergency response demonstration to showca se the tugboats' firefighting capabilities. Tiong expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Transport, LPA, enforcement and security agencies, industry partners, and media for their ongoing support since MPM assumed management of Labuan Port.