The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has detained seven passenger boats near Pulau Redang for a series of serious safety violations, including dangerously overloading passengers beyond permitted limits.
The operation, conducted yesterday in the waters off Kuala Nerus, involved the inspection of 26 passenger boats. According to Terengganu MMEA director Hamiludin Che Awang, one vessel was found carrying 42 passengers in a single journey—far exceeding safety regulations.
“This isn’t a minor offence—it’s a case of negligence that could cost lives,” he said, warning boat operators that such behaviour puts everyone on board at risk.
Other offences identified during the operation included the failure to provide passenger manifests, discrepancies in captain identification compared to operating licences, and expired documentation. A total of 14 captains and crew members were issued compound fines under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance 1952.
Hamiludin stressed that the MMEA would not compromise when it comes to maritime safety, especially with operators who do not provide life jackets or ignore capacity limits. He also urged the public to report any high-risk maritime activity.
“Maritime safety is not the sole responsibility of MMEA. Don’t wait for a tragedy before taking action,” he said.
The operation comes in the wake of a fatal incident on June 28, when a tourist boat capsized near Pulau Perhentian, killing three people—including two children. Investigations revealed that none of the 15 passengers on board were wearing life jackets, and the skipper, who tested positive for drugs, had five prior drug-related offences.
In light of the tragedy and the upcoming school holidays and festive season, the MMEA has pledged to intensify enforcement efforts in popular tourist areas to prevent further loss of life.
