LAHAD DATU: A joint maritime operation in the east coast of Sabah resulted in the detention of one fishing vessel and inspections of 165 others, as Malaysian authorities intensify efforts to combat illegal fishing activities threatening the state’s marine resources.
The MARDOF Sabah 4/2025 operation, conducted from July 14-18 by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and Fisheries Department (DOF), targeted fishing vessels operating in waters off Lahad Datu.
MMEA Lahad Datu director Komander Maritim Dzulfikhar Ali said statistics recorded during the operation were 264 crew members documented (including 253 Malaysians and 11 foreigners), one vessel seized for serious regulatory violations and 165 vessels subjected to full compliance checks.
The apprehended vessel was found to be operating outside licensed fishing zones (Violation of Fisheries Act 1985) and failing to properly register crew changes (Breach of Sabah Ports and Harbours Enactment 2002), he added.
“Protecting our marine resources requires constant vigilance and firm action against violators,” emphasized Dzulfikhar.
He said 30 enforcement personnel deployed in coordinated teams focusing on vessel licensing validity, crew identification and permits and fishing gear compliance checks.
Dzulfikhar called on the public to report crimes or suspicious activities at sea to MMEA Lahad Datu Hotline (WhatsApp): 016-9305727 or MERS 999. – James Leong
