Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) is set to receive four Augusta Westland AW189 Medium Lift helicopters in stages next year, which will enhance its operational capabilities. MMEA acting deputy director-general (Operations) Rear Admiral Mohd Zawawi Abdullah announced this development, alongside the near-completion of procuring two new vessels, namely the Multi-Purpose Mission Ship (MPMS).
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the MMEA will also acquire two New Generation Patrol Vessels (NGPV) and the ex-United States Coast Guard Cutter Steadfast, expected to arrive in Malaysia by the end of this year following minor repairs and modifications in Baltimore, United States. These acquisitions are part of the agency's strategy to strengthen operations with Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) that can accommodate helicopters, thus enhancing maritime security both nationally and internationally.
Rear Admiral Mohd Zawawi shared these details with reporters after the closing ceremony of OP Redback 20, attended by Australian Border Force (ABF) Counsellor at the Australian High Commission Supt Brooke Leung and acting Melaka and Negeri Sembilan MMEA director, Maritime Commander Norrimi Hassan. He emphasized that the asset modernisation initiative is integral to the 2023-2033 Strategic Plan, aimed at improving operational efficiency and reducing long-term maintenance costs.
Additionally, Mohd Zawawi reported the arrest of 17 illegal immigrants in Malaysia from January to April this year. The detainees, comprising eight Indonesians and nine Myanmar nationals aged between 15 and 60, were intercepted while attempting to enter or leave the country through illegal routes.
During the same period, enforcement actions led to the arrest of 16 individuals for smuggling controlled goods such as petrol and diesel, especially in Sabah waters, and 17 others for trafficking contraband items, including cigarettes, liquor, and LPG cylinders. The value of seized goods exceeded RM9.2 million.
Furthermore, Mohd Zawawi highlighted the ongoing efforts to combat maritime cross-border crime through Op Redback 20. This operation, conducted from May 5 to 9, involved strategic cooperation between the MMEA and the ABF, covering a 2,860 square kilometre area from Kuala Sepang, Selangor, to Kuala Kesang, Johor. A total of 122 inspections were conducted on various vessels.
He noted that the operation, initiated in 2012 under a memorandum of understanding between the Malaysian and Australian governments, serves as a critical platform for enhancing maritime law enforcement cooperation between the two nations, addressing threats such as smuggling, illegal activities, and unregulated fishing.