Malaysia mulls accepting 2nd vessel from US Coast Guard

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia is contemplating the acceptance of a second vessel from the US Coast Guard to enhance the capabilities of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA). Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail disclosed that a decision will be made following a thorough report on the vessel, ensuring its suitability for MMEA usage and maintaining reasonable maintenance costs.

The ministry's secretary-general would lead the technical inspections alongside experts from MMEA and engineers. Saifuddin clarified that the initial vessel received last year necessitated some upgrades, with the associated expenses partially subsidized by the US. Additionally, the home minister announced the finance ministry's preliminary approval to raise the current allowance rate for Rela personnel from RM8 per hour to a more reasonable amount, benefiting over 35,000 Rela personnel.

Meanwhile, Inspector-General of Police Khalid Ismail confirmed the initiation of an investigation into allegations of coercion involving Negeri Sembilan Menteri Besar Ismail Lasim regarding a proclamation to remove Tuanku Muhriz from his position as state ruler. The probe remains ongoing, with updates to be provided as the situation unfolds.