(Miri, 4th) The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (Maritim Malaysia) Miri Maritime Enforcement Zone detained an oil tanker yesterday while on duty at sea because it failed to report a captain change to port officials, allegedly violating relevant laws. The ship was immediately detained for investigation.
Captain Mohd Khairol Anuar, Director of the Miri Maritime Enforcement Zone, stated that the enforcement action took place at 10:10 AM yesterday, approximately 1.7 nautical miles northwest of Baram Port. The violation was discovered during a joint operation by the Maritime Enforcement Agency patrol team in "PERMAI 01/2019" and "TIRIS 3.0".
He said there were four crew members on the detained oil tanker, including the current captain, consisting of three locals and one Indian national, aged between 24 and 76.
"This oil tanker failed to report the change of captain to port officials as required, violating the 1952 Merchant Shipping Ordinance. Therefore, it has been detained according to the law, and the ship and crew have been taken to Miri Vessel Detention Centre for further investigation by enforcement officers."
He emphasized that the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency will continue to intensify maritime patrols and enforcement efforts to prevent various illegal and maritime crime activities and ensure the safety of Malaysia's waters.
The authorities also urge the public to report any maritime violations or emergency situations by contacting the Miri Maritime Enforcement Zone Operation Centre (085-649 111), Sarawak Maritime Enforcement Agency (082-432544/082-432016), or the national emergency hotline 999 for assistance.
