BINTULU (May 12): The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained a tugboat on Saturday for violating shipping regulations near the Kemena River estuary. The vessel was intercepted during routine patrols about three nautical miles northwest of the river.
According to Capt Muhammad Suffian Eldine Abdullah, director of the Bintulu Maritime Zone, the tugboat was operated by a crew of eight, including six Indonesians, one Myanmar national, and one Malaysian, all aged between 23 and 51 years. A preliminary inspection revealed that the tugboat had not notified the Registrar of Ships about a change of captain, violating Section 22(2A) of the Merchant Shipping Ordinance (MSO) 1952.
This infraction carries a penalty of RM2,500. The tugboat and its crew were taken to the Bintulu Maritime Zone Vessel Detention Centre for further investigation. Capt Muhammad Suffian urged the maritime community to adhere to regulations and safety procedures to mitigate risks at sea.
For emergencies or to report incidents, the public can contact the Bintulu Maritime Zone Operations Centre at 086-314254 or the Sarawak State Maritime Operations Centre at 082-432544.
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