BINTULU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Maritim Malaysia) Bintulu zone seized a passenger boat for operating recklessly in the waters off Bintulu.
The vessel was intercepted yesterday at approximately 12:40pm, 2.5 nautical miles northwest of Kuala Kemena.
Maritime Captain Muhammad Suffian Eldine Abdullah, stated that the boat was found operating in violation of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance (MSO) Act 1952.
The boat had failed to report a change of skipper and was manned by an insufficient number of crew members to safely operate.
The crew on board included two local men, aged 48 and 23, who were taken into custody.
“The boat has been taken to the vessel detention centre for further investigation,” he said in a statement.
“Such violations are taken seriously as they compromise maritime safety and compliance.”
The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency reiterated its call for all maritime operators to adhere strictly to licensing terms and maritime laws.
Compliance ensures safety and legality in maritime operations, which is essential for the well-being of all sea-going activities.
The public is encouraged to report any complaints, information, or emergencies at sea to MERS 999 or the Bintulu maritime zone Operations Centre at 086-314 254, or the Sarawak State Maritime Operations Centre at 082-432544, for prompt action.
