Malaysia: MMEA detains tanker, tug over suspected illegal ship-to-ship transfer in Selangor

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) on Thursday (8 October) said it detained a tanker and tugboat suspected of conducting an unauthorised ship-to-ship (STS) transfer in Selangor waters.

Selangor State Maritime Director Maritime Captain Abdul Muhaimin Muhammad Salleh said the two suspicious vessels were seen operating alongside each other about one nautical mile south of Pantai Tanjung Rhu, Kuala Langat at about 2am on that day.

He said inspection found that the tanker was believed to have transferred an oil cargo, suspected to be diesel, to the tugboat. 

“The investigation found that both vessels failed to submit the authorisation documents to carry out the ship-to-ship activity,” he said.

“Checks also found cash amounting to MYR 65,000 (USD 15,898) on board the tug boat.”

Both vessels were then detained for investigation under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance (MSO) 1952.

The captains for both vessels and a second engineer were brought to the Selangor State Maritime Headquarters for further investigation. 

Abdul Muhaimin added that those found guilty under the relevant provisions could face a fine of up to MYR 100,000, imprisonment for up to two years, or both.

Photo credit: Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency
Published: 9 October 2026