Penang: The Penang Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) is evaluating a new site for a leased jetty for operational purposes and asset deployment in efforts to strengthen preparedness and improve enforcement effectiveness in the state’s waters. Its director, Maritime Captain Muhammad Suffi Mohd Ramli, stated the importance of selecting a strategic location to enhance the agency’s capability in enforcement duties, search and rescue operations (SAR), and the protection of the country’s maritime resources.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Captain Muhammad Suffi emphasized the agency’s focus on readiness and asset effectiveness to ensure optimal performance for the safety of national waters. A statement released today indicated that he, along with the Penang MMEA deputy director (operations) Maritime Commander Mohd Hashim Mat Zain and several senior officers, recently conducted an assessment visit to the proposed site at the Swettenham Pier Cruise Terminal (SPCT).

During this visit, representatives from Penang Port Sdn Bhd and the Public Works Department (JKR) were also present. They contributed technical insights and logistical support to ensure the proposed site meets the necessary operational requirements.

In other developments, Captain Muhammad Suffi mentioned a working visit with Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi to the Sultan Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Bridge during the minister’s recent state visit. During this visit, Maritime Commander Mohd Hashim provided a safety briefing before the delegation boarded an MMEA patrol boat for an underwater inspection and a survey of the main bridge structure area.