Malaysia: MMEA detains cargo ship for anchoring illegally in Perak waters

The Perak state division of Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) on Wednesday (13 December) said it detained a cargo ship anchored for anchoring illegally at 46.2 nautical miles northwest of Pangkor Island at 4.30 pm on 12 December. 

State MMEA director Mohd Hambali Ya’akup said the cargo ship was spotted anchored by the Malaysian Maritime patrol boat while it was conducting routine patrol in Perak waters.

During inspection, the cargo ship was found to be operated by a captain assisted by 20 crew members from China, aged between  22 to 49 years old. They failed to produce any documents that permission had been obtained to anchor in Malaysian waters. 

The case will be investigated under Section 491B(1)(L) of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952 for anchoring without permission. If found guilty, individuals may be fined not exceeding MYR 100,000 or face an imprisonment term of not more than two years, or both.

The captain and chief engineer of the ship were brought to the Perak State Maritime Headquarters for further investigations. 

Photo credit: Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency
Published: 15 December, 2023