LUMUT – The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained a local Class C fishing vessel along with its Malaysian skipper and three Myanmar crew members in Perak waters over suspected breaches of fishing licence and immigration requirements.
The vessel was intercepted at about 3pm on Sunday (27 September), approximately 4.07 nautical miles north-west of Pulau Nipis, while it was carrying out fishing activities.
Perak Maritime director Maritime Captain Mohamad Shukri Khotob said the detention was carried out by an MMEA patrol vessel conducting Op SAYONG, Op KHAS TANJUNG 2 and Op TIRIS in the state’s waters.
He said an inspection found that the vessel was being operated by a Malaysian skipper and three Myanmar nationals aged between 35 and 54.
According to Mohamad Shukri, preliminary checks indicated that the vessel was suspected of breaching conditions attached to its fishing licence by conducting fishing activities within 15 nautical miles of the coast or an island.
The suspected breach is being investigated under the Fisheries Act 1985.
The three Myanmar crew members were also detained after they were unable to produce valid identification documents during the inspection.
MMEA said the immigration-related allegations would be investigated under the Immigration Act 1959/63.
All four fishermen were detained to assist with the investigation. The vessel, its catch and fishing equipment were also seized by enforcement personnel.
The seized items were subsequently taken to the MMEA jetty before being handed over to the investigating officer for further action under the relevant laws.
The detention formed part of maritime enforcement operations conducted in Perak waters to monitor fishing activities and compliance with licensing requirements.
Authorities have been carrying out patrols under several operations, including Op SAYONG, Op KHAS TANJUNG 2 and Op TIRIS, as part of efforts to monitor activities at sea.
MMEA said enforcement operations would continue to be strengthened to ensure fishing operators comply with applicable laws and the conditions attached to their licences.
The agency also said continued monitoring was necessary to support the protection and sustainability of fishery resources while maintaining the security of Malaysian waters.
Fishing vessel operators are required to comply with the conditions of their licences and ensure that crew members have the necessary identification and other required documentation.
The latest detention involves suspected offences that remain subject to investigation. Further action will be taken by the relevant authorities based on the findings of the investigation and applicable legislation.
