JOHOR BARU: Maritime communities operating in the waters off Johor should take the necessary safety measures during the present monsoon season, says the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA).

       State MMEA director First Admiral Nurul Hizam Zakaria said a total of 68 search and rescue operations were recorded through the Johor Baru Maritime Rescue Sub Centre involving a value of RM3.4mil rescued vessels.

       “From these cases, it involved 325 victims with 257 of them being rescued and brought to safety, 42 deaths and the remaining 26 victims are still missing at sea," said Nurul Hizam.

       “In facing the monsoon season, the maritime community, especially fishermen, should always be vigilant and monitor the weather and sea conditions closely when they want to do fishing activities,” he added on Friday (Dec 31).

       Nurul Hizam also urged the maritime community to do some preparations, such as getting weather forecast information in advance and ensuring that safety equipment such as jackets and safety buoys are in the best condition.

       He also said the maritime community should always contact the nearest maritime offices to inform them of their activities and locations as practiced by the maritime community in Japan and other developed countries.

       “The worst incident this year involved a capsized boat ferrying 50 illegal immigrants at Tanjung Balau in Kota Tinggi on Dec 15, which claimed the lives of 21 victims.

       “Taking a lesson from the tragedy, we would like to give a stern warning to foreigners who wish to enter the country to use the legal way, which is much safer,” he said.

       Nurul Hizam said immigrants should not engage the services offered by irresponsible agents or tekong as they were more interested in profits without prioritising safety and other risks.

       Those facing any emergencies or have information on sea activities should contact the Johor Maritime Operations Centre at 07-2199 401.