BINTULU, 22 April 2025 — A recreational boat believed to be operating without a valid license and proper documents was detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) yesterday evening during a routine patrol in Bintulu waters.
According to Bintulu Maritime Zone Director, Maritime Captain Muhammad Suffian Eldine Abdullah, the boat was spotted heading into open sea during patrols carried out under Special Operation Sea Fence 1/2025, Op Tiris 3.0, and Op Permai 01/2019.
“The vessel, painted white, was operated by two local men aged 26 and 21,” he said in a statement released today.
During the inspection, the boat failed to provide any valid operating licence or supporting documents. It is now suspected of violating Section 474(1) of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance (MSO) 1952.
If found guilty, the individuals involved could face a fine or legal action as provided by Malaysian maritime laws.
The boat and both crew members have been taken to the Vessel Detention Centre at the Bintulu Maritime Zone. The case will be further investigated by MMEA’s Investigation Officers.
Captain Suffian took the opportunity to remind all members of the maritime community to always ensure they follow the law before setting sail.
“All recreational and fishing boat operators must have proper documents. Ignorance of the law is not an excuse,” he added.
He also urged the public to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activities or emergencies at sea by calling 999, or contacting the Bintulu Maritime Zone at 086-314254 or the Sarawak State Maritime Operations Centre at 082-432544 for quick action.
