MMEA detains sunset cruise ship off Langkawi for violation of laws

 

Kedah and Perlis MMEA chief Romli Mustafa said the ship was operating without a captain, having expired passenger certificates and not displaying the ship’s licence. (MMEA pic)

PETALING JAYA: A “sunset cruise” ship carrying 26 tourists was detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) in Langkawi’s waters yesterday.

Kedah and Perlis MMEA chief Romli Mustafa said the action taken on the ship in the northeast of Pulau Dayang Bunting was in accordance with the Merchant Shipping Ordinance.

He said checks by MMEA found that the ship was operated by three crew members, comprising two local men and a Thai national.

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“They were suspected of committing several offences, including operating the ship without a captain, having expired passenger certificates and not displaying the ship’s licence,” Romli said.

The three were taken to the Bukit Malut maritime jetty for further investigations, reported Utusan Malaysia.

Romli urged cruise ship operators to comply with the laws in terms of licensing and insurance matters, as well as to ensure passengers’ safety on the vessel. - FMT