The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency intensifies operations against diesel smuggling and illegal bunkering in national waters, seizing millions in fuel last year.
PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying enforcement operations in national waters to crack down on diesel smuggling and illegal oil transfers.
MMEA director-general Maritime Admiral Mohd Rosli Abdullah said enforcement is conducted firmly and systematically in close coordination with other agencies to plug any gaps threatening national interests.
He stated that the MMEA welcomes the government’s strong push to tighten regulation and enforcement under the Subsidised Diesel Control Scheme (SKDS).
The agency is ready to lead maritime efforts to curb the leakage and smuggling of subsidised diesel following the government’s recent announcement.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof yesterday said a high-level committee would take firm action, including suspending and revoking fleet card approvals, against parties abusing diesel subsidies.
Fadillah, who is also the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation, said the committee agreed to appoint lead agencies for three key areas to tackle leakage.
The Ministry of Domestic Trade and Cost of Living will oversee the land sector, the Royal Malaysia Police will manage the border sector, and the MMEA will lead the maritime sector.
Mohd Rosli added that tightening bunkering regulations and establishing the Integrated Ops Tiris 4.0 Special Task Force in Sabah, Sarawak, and Labuan will enhance the effectiveness of ground operations.
He explained that the integrated Ops Tiris 4.0 approach will boost coordination between federal and state agencies to improve the nation’s overall maritime enforcement.
Last year, the MMEA seized nearly RM6.5 million worth of fuel, comprising 13,290 litres of diesel and 247,333 litres of petrol.
This statistic clearly highlights the MMEA’s commitment and capability in tackling fuel leakage in national waters, with efforts set to be continuously strengthened.
The agency is stepping up strategic monitoring using regional satellite technology, patrols, and intelligence in key hotspots to curb fuel smuggling.
Mohd Rosli warned that the MMEA will not compromise with anyone exploiting government subsidies and will take action against all legal violations without exception.
He also urged the public to report any suspicious activity or maritime crimes to their nearest State Maritime Operations Centre or by calling 999 for immediate action.
