The Madani government is enhancing MMEA’s capabilities with new Turkish ships and AW189 helicopters to secure Sarawak and South China Sea waters

MIRI: The government is strengthening the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency’s operational capacity with new strategic assets.

Deputy Home Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah announced the upcoming delivery of key air and sea platforms.

The first Turkish-made Multi Purpose Mission Ship is expected in mid-2027.

It will be stationed in Sarawak, with a second vessel destined for the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia.

Four Agusta AW189 helicopters will be received in stages starting this July. Shamsul Anuar said these helicopters will be based in Sabah.

“The placement of these assets was made after taking into account security aspects, operational needs and the threat level in these areas,” he told reporters.

He was speaking after launching MMEA’s 21st anniversary celebration and opening the new Miri Maritime Zone Complex.

The minister stated the additional assets will significantly boost surveillance, emergency response, and search and rescue capabilities. They will also strengthen maritime law enforcement efforts.

“This reflects the government’s continued commitment to ensuring the security and sovereignty of the country’s waters are constantly preserved,” he added.

The assets are aimed at tackling security threats and cross-border crime in strategic waters like the South China Sea.

The agency recently enhanced its long-range patrol capacity with the ex-United States Coast Guard cutter, Cutter Steadfast, received at the end of last year.

Shamsul Anuar also officiated the opening of the new RM118.3 million Miri Maritime Zone Complex.

The complex, developed under the 11th Malaysia Plan, features a modern administration building, an operations jetty, and 95 residential quarters.

It represents a significant infrastructure investment for maritime security in the region.

 The Sun Malaysia