KUCHING: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) is ramping up maritime security in Sarawak through several strategic developments worth RM200 million, including radar installations, new vessels, and infrastructure upgrades.
Director-General Admiral (Maritime) Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah said three Sea Surveillance System (SWASLA) radar stations will be constructed at Canada Hill (Miri), Bukit Nyabau (Bintulu), and Tanjung Datu (Lundu).
“This initiative is crucial in strengthening surveillance to deter unwanted activities and uphold the sovereignty of Sarawak waters,” he said.
He said this after paying a courtesy visit to Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg at Wisma Bapa Malaysia today (Mar 25).
Rosli also announced the deployment of new assets, including the KM Tun Fatimah, an 83-meter patrol vessel, and a 99-meter Multi-Purpose Mission Ship (MPMS)—a mobile operations base equipped with four high-speed boats for patrolling and rescue operations.
To accommodate KM Tun Fatimah, the federal government has approved RM79 million to extend the Muara Tebas Jetty by 80 meters and construct a 100-meter jetty head.
“The extension is necessary due to shallow waters and a short existing jetty,” he added.
Rosli noted that joint patrols with the Sarawak Coastguard have resulted in zero intrusions by Vietnamese fishing vessels, reflecting improved enforcement coordination.
With these new assets, MMEA also plans to increase its current manpower of 648 personnel to support expanded operations across Sarawak waters.
