MMEA detains five foreign crew, fishing vessel in Penang waters

GEORGE TOWN: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) apprehended a local fishing vessel along with five foreign crew members in Penang waters on Tuesday due to suspected licensing and immigration violations. The combined worth of the seized vessel and its contents was estimated at RM3 million. Penang maritime director, Captain Muhammad Suffi Mohd Ramli, revealed that the Class C vessel was apprehended during a routine patrol at a location 31.5km southwest of Pulau Kendi, approximately 9:55 am.

The search revealed that the vessel originated from Hutan Melintang, Perak, and was operated by a captain and four crew members aged between 25 and 52, including two Thai nationals and three Myanmar nationals. Further investigation uncovered that the vessel did not possess the necessary license, relevant documents, and fishing equipment.

Additionally, it was discovered that the four foreign crew members did not possess Temporary Employment Visit Passes (PLKS). Suffi stated that the vessel, its skipper, and all crew members were detained before being conveyed to the Vessel Detention Centre Jetty at the Penang Maritime State Headquarters for subsequent proceedings.

The MMEA emphasized that stringent action would continue to be enforced against any entity that flouts fisheries and immigration laws, aiming to safeguard marine resources and the sovereignty of the nation's waters. Maritime Malaysia pledged to intensify patrols and enforcement within national waters to ensure that fishing activities are conducted in accordance with regulations, while simultaneously curbing all forms of law breaches and protecting the country's maritime assets and resources.

The public is invited to report any maritime-related crimes or emergencies at sea by contacting the Penang Maritime State Headquarters Operations Centre at 04-262 6146 or 999.