Illegal Maritime Activity Foiled by Maritim Malaysia in Kuala Baram
MIRI, 6 May 2025 — A tugboat and barge attempting to operate illegally in Kuala Baram waters were successfully intercepted and detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Maritim Malaysia), Miri Maritime Zone.
Miri Maritime Zone Director, Maritime Captain Mohd Khairol Anuar Saad, revealed that the vessels were spotted behaving suspiciously approximately 3.2 nautical miles southwest of Kuala Baram. The incident occurred during a coordinated patrol under Op PERMAI 01/2019 and Op TIRIS 3.0, around 12.30 pm yesterday.
Upon inspection, authorities found that the crew failed to present any valid licenses or documents to support their cargo operations. The ships were carrying cargo without proper authorization, raising serious concerns about smuggling and maritime security.
“The inspection confirmed that the ships had no Domestic Shipping License and were operating illegally. They were transporting unauthorized cargo without any valid permit,” said Captain Khairol in a press release today.
The tugboat had a crew of eight men, including the captain. The crew consisted of four Malaysians, two Myanmarese, and two Indonesians, aged between 23 and 49 years. All individuals have been detained to assist in further investigation.
The case is currently being investigated under the Customs Act 1967 and the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952. These laws cover offences related to transporting goods without proper documentation and operating without a valid shipping license in Malaysian waters.
Maritim Malaysia assured the public that patrols and enforcement efforts will continue to be strengthened to prevent maritime crimes, especially smuggling and illegal operations along Sarawak’s coastlines.
The public is urged to report any suspicious activities at sea by contacting the Miri Maritime Zone hotline at 085-649111, Sarawak State Maritime at 082-432544 or 082-432016, or the national emergency line 999.
