MUKAH: National and state emergency services and agencies strengthened their search and rescue (SAR) operational capabilities through the Search and Rescue Exercise (SAREX) Level 3 Mukah 2026.
The exercise was organised by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and coordinated by the Maritime Rescue Sub Centre (MRSC) Kuching in collaboration with the Bintulu Maritime Zone Headquarters from August 4 to 6 in the waters off Mukah.
Sarawak Maritime’s Director, First Admiral Mohd Khairi Abdul Aziz, said integrated exercises such as SAREX serve as an important platform to ensure all relevant agencies remain at the highest level of preparedness in carrying out rescue operations.
“SAR operations require strong coordination among all agencies. Every asset and personnel plays a role according to their respective jurisdiction and expertise to ensure that every maritime emergency can be handled swiftly, efficiently and effectively.
“SAREX demonstrates MMEA’s continued commitment to strengthening operational capabilities for the safety of the maritime community and the sovereignty of the nation’s waters,” he said.
The exercise aimed to test the effectiveness of the standard operating procedures (SOP) for SAR operations and compliance with National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) Directive No. 1, while enhancing coordination among rescue agencies in responding to maritime emergencies.
Khairi also expressed his appreciation to all ministries, departments and agencies for their strong commitment throughout the exercise.
Among the agencies involved were the Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), the Marine Police Force, the Ministry of Health (MOH), the Mukah Marine Fisheries Department, the Malaysian Civil Defence Force (APM), the Fire and Rescue Department (JBPM), and the Sarawak Coast Guard.
The field exercise, held at the Mukah Public Jetty, focused on integrated SAR operation simulations, including the coordination of search and rescue efforts, inter-agency communication, and resource management to ensure emergency responses could be carried out systematically and effectively.
The organisation of SAREX reflects MMEA’s continued commitment to strengthening operational preparedness, fostering closer inter-agency cooperation, and enhancing the country’s capability to respond to maritime emergencies, in line with its aspiration to safeguard lives, property and the sovereignty of the Malaysian Maritime Zone.
