Rear Admiral (Maritime) Mohd Rosli Abdullah, Director-General, Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency

THE Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) was officially established on Feb 15, 2005, under the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency Act 2004 (Act 633). Its formation aimed to streamline and strengthen maritime law enforcement, which was previously handled by multiple agencies such as the Marine Police, Royal Malaysian Customs, Fisheries Department, Marine Department, and the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN). As maritime threats grow more complex, including security risks, border incursions, and geopolitical competition in the South China Sea, the agency remains committed to strengthening its capabilities through investment in assets, technology, and regional partnerships. Here, ahead of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) 2025, its Director-General, Admiral (Maritime) Mohd Rosli Abdullah, replies to the Asian Defence Journal’s questions on force-modernisation efforts  and other related developments. 

ADJ: Maritime crimes such as smuggling, illegal fishing, and human trafficking remain persistent challenges. How is the MMEA addressing these threats?

D-G: MMEA is currently planning to expand the deployment of advanced surveillance technology equipped with high-tech radar and high-definition video recorders. The development of the Maritime Surveillance System (SWASLA), integrated with cutting-edge radar technology and key components such as optronic cameras and sensors, will be extended to critical areas to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of real-time monitoring. The installation of SWASLA radar systems at strategic locations will strengthen surveillance coverage in high-risk zones, which are hotspots for criminal activities such as drug smuggling, human trafficking, and contraband smuggling.

Additionally, the use of drones and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) will enhance surveillance in hard-to-reach maritime areas, providing greater flexibility and effectiveness in long-range monitoring while bolstering Search and Rescue (SAR) operations. With the government’s planned procurement for MMEA, the agency will be able to further strengthen its operational capabilities in maritime law enforcement, safeguard national waters and conduct humanitarian and rescue missions more efficiently.

The acquisition of several Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) equipped with helicopter landing capabilities will significantly increase MMEA’s operational presence at sea. These OPVs will not only enhance patrolling efforts within Malaysia’s Maritime Zone but also extend their reach into international waters to combat transnational maritime crimes and execute SAR operations beyond national maritime boundaries.

ADJ: Could you share updates on the MMEA’s effort to modernise its fleet and operational infrastructure to meet evolving demands?

D-G: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) is actively modernising its fleet and operational infrastructure to address evolving maritime challenges. Key initiatives include:

1. Procurement of Multi-Purpose Mission Ship (MPMS)

MMEA has signed an agreement with Desan Shipyard of Turkiye for the procurement of an MPMS, which is expected to be operational by the first quarter of 2027. The 99-meter-long vessel will enhance maritime surveillance, particularly in the South China Sea. Designed for extended operations, the MPMS is capable of sustaining continuous deployment for up to 30 days. The vessel is equipped with advanced assets, including four fast interceptor craft for rapid response, two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for aerial reconnaissance, a helideck to accommodate helicopter operations, onboard medical facilities and a detain facility for detained individuals during enforcement operations.

2. Procurement of New Generation Patrol Craft (NGPC)

MMEA has received RM160 million in funding for the procurement of two NGPCs to strengthen patrol and enforcement capabilities. Each NGPC measures 45 meters in length and 7.7 meters in width and is capable of reaching speeds of up to 24 knots. These vessels can operate for 10 days at sea without requiring resupply. In addition to their patrol functions, the NGPCs are also equipped with systems for efficient oil spill response.

3. Repowering and Ship Life Extension Programme (SLEP)

MMEA is implementing the Repowering Programme and SLEP to extend the operational lifespan of existing vessels in a cost-effective manner. The RM144 million project, approved in 2022, involves six vessels. Work commenced in December 2022 on five vessels from the Langkawi, Gagah, and Gemia classes, while an additional Gemia-class vessel began refitting in January 2024. This initiative is scheduled to be completed within three years, from October 2022 to October 2025.

4. Procurement of Four AgustaWestland AW189s

MMEA will acquire four AgustaWestland AW189 helicopters to enhance its monitoring, enforcement and SAR operations. This RM530 million investment will significantly strengthen MMEA’s air operation capabilities. With advanced avionics, high endurance and increased passenger capacity, these helicopters will improve MMEA’s ability to respond swiftly to maritime threats and emergencies. This procurement aligns with Malaysia’s broader efforts to modernise its maritime assets.

5. Procurement of SWASLA for the East Coast of Sabah, Sarawak and the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia

The SWASLA is an initiative by the MMEA that plays a vital role in safeguarding the nation’s waters. This system is equipped with advanced radar technology and high-definition video recorders to detect, analyse and transmit real-time information on maritime activities. Currently, there are two operational SWASLA zones: SWASLA Lumut, which monitors the Strait of Malacca, and SWASLA Sabah, which oversees the waters off the west coast of Sabah. In an effort to enhance surveillance efficiency, MMEA plans to expand SWASLA installations to other strategic areas identified as maritime crime hotspots, including Sarawak and the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia. This initiative aims to strengthen monitoring efforts against activities such as drug smuggling, human trafficking and unauthorised maritime intrusions

ADJ: As part of the regional maritime security framework, how does the MMEA collaborate with its ASEAN and regional counterparts to address shared challenges?

D-G: Regional collaboration is a core pillar of MMEA’s maritime security strategy. We work closely with ASEAN and regional partners through a variety of mechanisms that enhance our collective capability to address maritime threats.

One of our key engagements is in coordinated operations and joint exercises, such as the Thailand-Malaysia Sea Exercise (SEAEX THAMAL) and OP PATKOR OPTIMA MALINDO with Indonesia. These exercises strengthen our operational readiness and improve coordination in maritime security enforcement.

MMEA also actively participates in regional maritime security forums and high-level discussions. We are a key contributor to the Heads of ASEAN Coast Guard Meeting (HACGAM), as well as the ASEAN Coast Guard Forum (ACF), both of which serve as essential platforms for strategic dialogue, policy alignment and capacity-building initiatives. Additionally, our engagement in bilateral meetings with regional counterparts, including Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines, allows us to streamline enforcement strategies and improve information-sharing mechanisms.

Additionally, MMEA takes part in regional information-sharing initiatives that enable real-time intelligence exchange on transnational maritime crimes, including smuggling, illegal fishing and piracy. Through these collaborations, we contribute to maintaining regional stability and security in the maritime domain.

ADJ: Could you highlight recent international collaborations, joint exercises, or training programmes that have strengthened the MMEA’s capabilities?

D-G: Strengthening our operational capabilities is a continuous effort, and our international partnerships play a crucial role in this. Our collaboration with the Japan Coast Guard remains strong, focusing on maritime law enforcement training and technical capacity-building programs. This partnership will be further reinforced with the signing of a Memorandum of Cooperation, setting our commitment to enhanced maritime security cooperation.

Collaboration with the Australian Border Force have strengthened our enforcement capabilities through joint initiatives like Operation Redback, which targets maritime smuggling. Under the Civil Maritime Security Working Group (CMSWG), we have also engaged in shared training sessions focused on maritime domain awareness, search and rescue operations, and information-sharing mechanisms.

Additionally, we engage in capacity-building programmes with the US under the Bureau of International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL), focusing on maritime interdiction techniques and law enforcement training. Our collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) also supports MMEA officers in developing expertise in counter-trafficking operations and maritime crime prevention.

At the regional level, MMEA actively participates in key international maritime security forums and conferences. Notably, we are part of HACGAM and contribute to regional maritime security policy discussions. Our attendance at strategic dialogues and maritime security conferences underscores our commitment to international cooperation and knowledge sharing. Through these engagements, MMEA continues to strengthen its enforcement capabilities while fostering meaningful partnerships that contribute to maritime security in the region.

ADJ: With the growing importance of technology in maritime enforcement, what innovative solutions is the MMEA incorporating into its operations?

D-G: The agency is actively integrating advanced technologies to enhance its maritime enforcement capabilities. A significant focus is on the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) across various facets of its operations.

In January 2025, the agency was selected by the Home Ministry to pioneer AI technology integration. AI technology would serve as a catalyst for operational reform, enhancing efficiency and promoting the use of modern technology to safeguard national security.

To support this initiative, MMEA has outlined specific training programs to equip its officers with advanced knowledge and skills in AI. The agency plans to leverage AI in areas such as surveillance, data analysis, and risk management to address increasingly complex maritime security challenges.

Additionally, MMEA is planning to acquire new radar systems integrated with AI under the Malaysia Coast Guard Maritime Domain Awareness (MCGMDA) system. These radars are intended to be deployed in strategic locations, including the waters off Sarawak and the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, to enhance surveillance coverage and enforcement effectiveness.

Furthermore, MMEA has been utilising the Fulmar Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) to extend its operational capabilities. The Fulmar system offers high-performance surveillance features, including automatic detection and tracking, and has been installed on six New Generation Patrol Crafts to support various missions such as counter-piracy and border surveillance.

ADJ: How is the MMEA utilising unmanned aerial and maritime systems to enhance its surveillance and enforcement capabilities?

D-G: These technologies including unmanned (both aerial and maritime) play a crucial role in improving operational efficiency, ensuring maritime safety and addressing the various challenges the MMEA faces in safeguarding Malaysia’s vast maritime domain. UAS and Unmanned Maritime Systems (UMS), such as autonomous surface vehicles (ASVs) and also underwater drones, which are robotic vehicles designed to operate on or under the surface of the water without the need for human intervention. UMS can be used for tasks such as surveillance of maritime traffic, border patrol, pollution monitoring and underwater inspections of vessels, ports and critical infrastructure. These systems are equipped with sensors like sonar, radar and GPS to gather valuable data about the maritime environment and track the movement of vessels.

The importance of these unmanned systems to MMEA’s role and function is more than obvious. The MMEA is responsible for ensuring Malaysia’s maritime security, which includes enforcing laws on the high seas, safeguarding Malaysia’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), combating maritime crime such as illegal fishing, trafficking, piracy and pollution, and providing SAR operations. The vastness of the nation’s maritime domain, spanning about 4,675 kilometers of coastline and rich in marine resources, presents a challenge for traditional methods of surveillance and enforcement.

The integration of unmanned aerial and maritime systems significantly enhances the MMEA’s surveillance and enforcement capabilities. These technologies enable real-time monitoring, improved response time, and greater operational reach, which is critical for tackling maritime threats such as illegal fishing, piracy, pollution and border violations. As maritime security threats evolve, the use of these systems will continue to play an essential role in ensuring Malaysia’s waters remain secure, safe and well-managed.

ADJ: As the MMEA looks ahead, what are the key priorities for the agency over the next decade?

D-G: As a maritime nation that relies on secure and stable waters for economic growth and national security, Malaysia faces increasing challenges in safeguarding its maritime domain. To address these evolving threats, the MMEA has identified several strategic priorities, focusing on strengthening maritime law enforcement, enhancing border security and improving surveillance and monitoring capabilities.

To ensure better control over Malaysia’s waters, MMEA is committed to continuously modernise its maritime and aerial assets. This includes acquiring the aforementioned MPMS and NGPC, implementing SLEP to optimise the lifespan of existing vessels, procuring AgustaWestland AW189 helicopters, deploying drones, and expanding SWASLA across Malaysia’s waters.

Strengthening maritime security also means reinforcing efforts to combat transnational crimes such as smuggling, human trafficking, and illegal incursions. To achieve this, MMEA is enhancing its Command, Control, Communication, Computer, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (C4ISR) system through the second phase of its development. This system integrates key technologies, including the Malaysia Coast Guard Maritime Domain Awareness (MCGMDA), Malaysia Coast Guard Vessel Tracking Management System (MCGVTMS), and Malaysia Coast Guard Intelligence Information System (MCGIIS). These capabilities will enable maritime operations centers to detect and monitor suspicious activities within Malaysia’s waters in real-time, allowing swift and effective enforcement action.

To improve SAR operations and maritime disaster response, MMEA is establishing a Regional Centre of Excellence as a dedicated training hub for SAR specialists. This initiative also includes upgrading critical rescue coordination infrastructure, such as the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), Maritime Rescue Sub Centre (MRSC), and Mission Control Centre (MCC), to ensure faster and more effective emergency responses. Additionally, MMEA is integrating advanced tracking and communication technologies, such as Cospas-Sarsat, the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System – Digital Selective Calling (GMDSS-DSC), and the Search and Rescue Optimal Planning System (SAROPS), to improve the detection of vessels and individuals in distress.

Moving forward, MMEA is also prioritising digital transformation and the modernisation of its management systems to enhance efficiency and governance. This includes developing a comprehensive logistics management system, leveraging AI for crime monitoring and analysis, and reinforcing integrity in law enforcement operations.

As part of its long-term vision to become a world-class maritime enforcement agency, MMEA is investing in human capital development. This involves intensifying professional training, strengthening officer welfare, and expanding international collaboration programmes to ensure its personnel are well-equipped to tackle the increasingly complex challenges of maritime security. Overall, MMEA’s strategic focus for the next decade is to modernise assets and operations, strengthen maritime law enforcement, enhance SAR capabilities, and develop a highly professional and efficient organisation.