Kuala lumpur: The Penang Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and several enforcement agencies have increased security through Ops Khas Bersepadu to prevent trespassing in Protected Areas and Protected Places (KLTL) beneath the Penang Bridge and the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah Bridge.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Penang MMEA stated in a recent announcement that the operation was conducted in collaboration with the Penang Chief Government Security Office of Malaysia (CGSO), the Malaysian Highway Authority (LLM), Jambatan Kedua Sdn Bhd, and Projek Lebuhraya Utara-Selatan Bhd (PLUS). The operation, led by Penang MMEA deputy director of operations, Maritime Commander Mohd Hashim Mat Zain, involved 35 officers and personnel using two MMEA assets.

The operation aimed to prevent trespassing and ensure legal compliance, as both bridges are gazetted as KLTL under the Protected Areas and Protected Places Act 1959 (Act 298) and classified as National Key Targets. Patrols and checks found no trespassers beneath both bridges, which were once popular fishing spots. Authorities noted this indicates high compliance among the maritime community.

MMEA reminded fishermen and boat owners that the prohibition covers the entire area beneath both bridges, including a 250-metre buffer zone on each side, to protect public safety and strategic infrastructure such as high-voltage electrical and communication cables. The agency added that they and other agencies are preparing standard operating procedures to regulate activities near both bridges.

They reiterated that individuals violating the prohibition face action under Section 7 of Act 298, which carries a maximum jail sentence of two years, a fine of up to RM1,000, or both. Offenders may also be investigated under Section 447 of the Penal Code for criminal trespass.