KEMAMAN – The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained a local fishing vessel in Kemaman waters after an inspection found five Myanmar nationals on board who were suspected of breaching fishing licence and immigration requirements.
The vessel was intercepted during a routine maritime patrol approximately 11.2 nautical miles south-east of the Kuala Kemaman estuary on Sunday (27 September).
Kemaman Maritime Zone director Maritime Commander Abdul Halim bin Hamzah said the vessel was being operated by five crew members, including its skipper, when enforcement personnel carried out the inspection.
All five crew members were identified as Myanmar nationals. According to Abdul Halim, initial checks indicated that the skipper and four crew members were suspected of working on the fishing vessel without authorisation from the Department of Fisheries Malaysia.
The alleged breach relates to the conditions attached to the vessel’s fishing licence and may constitute an offence under the Fisheries Act 1985.
Further checks also raised concerns over the immigration status of the five crew members. MMEA said the documents presented, including passports, were subject to further investigation, while the crew members were suspected of not possessing valid Temporary Employment Visit Passes (PLKS).
The five individuals were subsequently detained for investigation under the Immigration Act 1959/63.
“MMEA will continue to conduct monitoring and enforcement operations regarding fishing vessels to ensure all operators comply with license conditions, including ensuring that crew members working on the vessels possess valid documentation and authorization,” Abdul Halim said.
He added that inspection and enforcement activities would be intensified in Terengganu waters to address suspected breaches of licensing, immigration and other legal requirements.
Following the detention, the vessel and its crew were escorted to the Kemaman Maritime Zone Headquarters jetty.
They were then handed over to the investigating officer for further action under the relevant laws.
The operation highlights the checks carried out by maritime enforcement personnel on fishing vessels operating in Malaysian waters, including verification of vessel licensing requirements and crew documentation.
MMEA also reminded fishing vessel operators to ensure that their licences and permits remain valid and that all crew members have the necessary employment and immigration documents.
Operators are required to comply with the conditions attached to their licences and other applicable regulations while conducting fishing activities.
The agency said compliance with these requirements is important to ensure that fishing vessels operate within the conditions set by the relevant authorities.
The investigation into the detained vessel and its crew is ongoing, with further action to be determined in accordance with the applicable laws.
