MMEA TO RECEIVE NEW SHIPS, UPGRADE FLEET WITH RM675 MILLION ALLOCATION

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 23 (Bernama) -- The RM675 million allocation to the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) under Budget 2025 is set to further enhance the agency's capabilities in safeguarding the country’s maritime security, says its director-general, Admiral Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah.

He said the funds would be used for maintaining existing vessels and procuring new ones to strengthen the agency's preparedness in managing MMEA zones.

He noted that RM150 million of the allocation would be used for the maintenance of six existing vessels under Phase Two of the Ship Life Extension Programme (SLEP), ensuring the vessels' operational lifespan could be optimised.

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Meanwhile, RM350 million has been earmarked for the acquisition of a Multi-Purpose Mission Ship (MPMS), which will be equipped with capabilities for various mission operations, allowing the MMEA to conduct more effective maritime operations.

“A total of RM160 million is allocated for the acquisition of two New Generation Patrol Craft (NGPC), which will be equipped with the latest technology to boost patrolling and enforcement capabilities in wider and more challenging waters,” he said in a statement today.

Mohd Rosli added that the MMEA would receive a United States Coast Guard Cutter (USCGC) to further bolster the agency’s ability to monitor national waters, particularly in strategic areas.

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“For this purpose, the government has allocated RM15 million for the maintenance and repairs of the vessel before it is brought back to Malaysia next year,” he added.

He stressed that the announced allocation underscored the MADANI government's commitment to ensuring that the MMEA could enhance its operational and patrolling capabilities, thereby overcoming all forms of criminal threats in MMEA zones.

-- BERNAMA