Indonesian among two held for ferrying tourists without licences

KUALA TERENGGANU: Two boat operators, including an Indonesian national, have been detained by the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) for ferrying passengers to Pulau Perhentian without valid licences.
Terengganu Maritime director Captain Hamiludin Che Awang said both boats were intercepted during routine patrols at 11am and 12pm yesterday.
"At the time of the interceptions, one boat was travelling from Pulau Serenggeh to Long Beach, while the other was en route from Ombak Dive to a diving site at Pulau Perhentian," he said in a statement.
The first boat was operated by a 35-year-old Malaysian man, and the second by a 24-year-old Indonesian man.
Both individuals are being investigated under the Merchant Shipping Ordinance (MSO), which carries a maximum fine of RM10,000 upon conviction.
Hamiludin said that such irresponsible behaviour not only violates maritime regulations but also endangers the lives of passengers.
"Unlicensed boats usually bypass technical and safety inspections, putting passengers at high risk during emergencies at sea," he said.

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