PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) today confirmed that no Rohingya boat landed on the coast of the Peninsula, in spite of having received information that four boats carrying 200 refugees were en route to Malaysia.
“On Oct 10, at 9am, the MMEA received information from the police that about 200 Rohingya refugees were on their way to Malaysian waters in four small boats.
“Based on past experience, we trust that it is likely the refugees have changed navigation direction and are heading to neighbouring countries,” said MMEA director-general Dato Seri Ahmad Puzi Abdul Kahar in a statement today.
However, he said the agency is always ready for any eventuality.
"We've watched every boat along the country's borders, especially in Langkawi waters, to ensure that no attempt to infiltrate is made,” added Puzi.
He said that they take the matter seriously, and ensure that intelligence sharing with neighbouring authorities is carried out regularly to thwart illegal immigrants.
Although the four boats failed to materialise, Puzi said the MMEA is strategically moving its assets, including ships, boats and helicopters, to patrol and monitor other parts of the sea.
In addition, the agency is monitoring its radar, especially in areas where the refugees might land.
Those with information on any suspicious activity along Malaysia’s borders are urged to contact the Maritime Operations Centre at 03-89434001 or the ‘999’ line.