Malaysian maritime authorities seize illegal fishing gear and detain foreign nationals

The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has conducted two separate operations targeting unauthorized fishing and immigration violations in Malaysian waters.

In Perak, authorities seized 126 collapsible fish traps, known locally as “dragon traps,” and detained two unregistered fiberglass boats near Tanjung Piandang and Pulau Sangga Kecil. Four Myanmar nationals were detained during the operation and are suspected of lacking valid identification and work permits. The case is being investigated under the Fisheries Act 1985 and the Immigration Act 1959/63.

In Sabah, MMEA intercepted a foreign fishing vessel approximately 18 nautical miles west of Pulau Mantanani. Authorities detained 65 crew members, including a Filipino skipper, who were found unloading roughly four tons of seafood. The crew members are suspected of violating the Immigration Act 1959/63 and the Fisheries Act 1985 for fishing without authorization. The total value of the seized vessel, crew, and seafood is estimated at RM350,000.