Kuala lumpur: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has conducted approximately 720,000 inspections and 161,000 searches since 2023, resulting in the detention of 4,401 individuals as part of efforts to combat cross-border crimes in the country's waters.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, MMEA Maritime Security and Surveillance Division Border Security and Data Branch principal assistant director Commander Mohd Khairul Azhar Ishak highlighted that illegal fishing, smuggling, and the entry of illegal immigrants are the primary threats being tackled by the agency. He noted that illegal fishing remains a persistent issue, involving both unlicensed local and foreign fishermen.
Commander Mohd Khairul revealed that out of the 4,401 individuals detained since 2023, more than 3,100 were involved in illegal fishing, smuggling, and illegal immigration. He emphasized the importance of cooperation from the maritime community, particularly fishermen, who serve as crucial informants in detecting suspicious activities at sea.
He encouraged the maritime community to report any suspicious activities to the MMEA, providing details such as locations, times, and descriptions of suspicious boats or vessels. The Sahabat Maritim programme has been implemented nationwide to foster collaboration between the MMEA and the maritime community, leveraging their familiarity with local waters.
On enhancing operational capabilities, Commander Mohd Khairul mentioned that the MMEA is acquiring two Multi-Purpose Mission Ships (MPMS) from Turkiye, which will enable extended operations in national waters. Additionally, the agency has received an AW189 helicopter and is finalizing the procurement of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to improve monitoring and surveillance.
He also noted plans to acquire coastal radar systems for strategic areas, particularly in Sarawak and along the east coast of the peninsula, through the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN). These radars can detect vessel movements up to 50 to 60 nautical miles away, allowing for early identification of suspicious activities and quicker deployment of resources.