SEKINCHAN: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has detained a cargo vessel for anchoring without authorization approximately 26 nautical miles southwest of Sekinchan. The incident took place at 1:40 p.m. yesterday, according to officials.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Selangor Maritime Director Maritime Captain Abdul Muhaimin Muhammad Salleh stated that the ship was intercepted by an MMEA patrol boat during routine operations in the waters off Selangor. The vessel's presence was initially detected through the Malaysian Maritime Sea Surveillance System (Swasla), which monitors maritime activities in the region.

The detained ship, believed to be en route from Singapore to India, was carrying 22 male crew members, including the captain. All individuals on board are Chinese nationals, aged between 28 and 63 years, and have valid identification documents. During the inspection, it was revealed that the captain failed to provide any authorization documents permitting the ship to anchor in Malaysian waters. This oversight is suspected to be a violation under Section 491B(1)(l) of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952.

Captain Abdul Muhaimin advised shipping operators and ship owners to seek permission from the Malaysian Marine Department before anchoring in Malaysian territorial waters. The agency emphasizes adherence to maritime regulations to ensure smooth and lawful navigation through the region.