LUMUT – The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Maritime Malaysia) in Perak detained a Class A local fishing vessel and 10 people after the vessel was allegedly used for recreational fishing activities outside the conditions of its licence.
The enforcement action was carried out yesterday during a maritime patrol in Perak waters. The vessel was intercepted at about 3.06pm at a location approximately 1.7 nautical miles northwest of Pulau Tukun Perak.
Perak Maritime Director Maritime Captain Mohamad Shukri Khotob said enforcement personnel discovered 10 Malaysians aboard the vessel during an inspection. Those on board comprised a skipper, a crew member and eight anglers aged between 16 and 60.
According to the agency, the inspection raised concerns that the vessel had been used for an activity not covered by its existing fishing licence. The alleged breach involved recreational fishing being conducted without written permission from the Director General of Fisheries.
The vessel was subsequently detained together with all 10 individuals on board. It was escorted to the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency jetty before being handed over to the investigating officer for further action.
The alleged offence relates to the conditions attached to the vessel’s operating licence under the Fisheries Act 1985. Such licences specify the purposes and activities for which a fishing vessel may be operated, meaning operators are required to comply with the authorised scope of use.
Mohamad Shukri said the agency viewed the alleged misuse of vessel licences seriously and would continue enforcement and patrol operations in Malaysian waters.
He said the ongoing enforcement effort was intended to ensure vessels operated according to their approved licensing conditions and the requirements of applicable laws. The agency’s position also serves as a reminder to operators that vessels may not automatically be used for activities beyond those stated in their licences.
The case highlights the importance of compliance with licensing requirements for fishing vessels operating in Malaysian waters. Where additional activities require separate approval or written permission, operators are expected to obtain the necessary authorisation before conducting them.
Maritime enforcement agencies routinely conduct patrols to monitor activities at sea and respond to suspected breaches of maritime and fisheries regulations. Inspections can include checking vessel documentation, licensing conditions, the identity of people on board and the nature of activities being carried out.
Mohamad Shukri also reminded fishing industry operators and members of the fishing community that vessel licences are issued for specific purposes. He warned that using a vessel outside its permitted scope could result in enforcement action under the applicable legislation.
The 10 individuals and the detained vessel will remain subject to the relevant investigation process. Further action will be determined by the investigating authorities based on the findings of the case and applicable legal provisions. â Sarawak Daily
