BINTULU: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) here detained a recreational fishing boat and a local man for sailing without a valid license yesterday (Apr 7).
MMEA Bintulu director Captain Muhammad Suffian Eldine Abdullah said the detention was made at 9.50 am during ‘Op Permai’, ‘Op Khas Pagar Laut’ and ‘Op Tiris’ patrols.
“The boat, operated by a 26-year-old man, was spotted at about 4.3 nautical miles north off Kuala Kemena.
“Further inspections revealed that the operator had failed to produce any valid documents or licences.
“Both the operator and the boat were escorted to MMEA Bintulu Vessel Detention Centre for further investigation,” he said.
The case is being investigated under the Boat Rules 1953, which provides for a fine or compound penalty, if convicted.
Suffian advised the maritime community, especially recreational boat operators and fishermen, to always comply with the regulations set and ensure that all boat-related documents are complete and valid before going to sea.
“Boat owners and operators need to focus on legal compliance and safety to avoid any unwanted incidents,” he said.
Members of the public are urged to report complaints, information, or emergencies at sea directly to the MMEA Bintulu Operations Centre at 086-314254 or the MMEA Sarawak Operations Centre at 082-432544.
