PETALING JAYA: The two ships involved in the search for the wreckage of the crashed Malaysia Airlines flight MH370, Fugro Equator and Fugro Discovery, have undergone winterisation to continue search operations, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai.

Liow said in a press release on Thursday that the winterisation process was to ensure that the required area was searched as quickly and effectively as possible.

"In addition, search operations over the coming weeks will be focused in the south of the search area to capitalise on the last of the better weather in that area prior to the expected onset of continuous poor weather during winter. Safety of the search crews remains a priority, particularly during the winter months," he added.

The winterisation process prepares a ship to operate in cold-climate conditions, and primarily focuses on the adverse effects and control of snow, freezing, sea spray and atmospheric icing on board the vessel, as well as material properties in cold temperature.

Such protective measures include protecting the vessel’s functions, systems and equipment considered important to safety, provisioning suitable equipment and supplies, and implementing procedures for safe operation and personnel welfare. 

Liow said that both ships would be deployed for the second phase of the search upon completion of the current 60,000 square kilometre area, and that the search and recovery teams faced exceptional challenges in search operations.

"Waves have been known to reach heights of 15 to 18m. Hence, by no small measure, it has been a challenge for the search and recovery team and we acknowledge all the efforts.

“As announced by the Joint Agency Coordination Centre (JACC) and as earlier determined, the contract with GO Phoenix will end with the fulfilment of their contractual obligation for the first phase of the search efforts," he added.

Liow said that Malaysia has committed more than 60 million Australian Dollars (RM174.24mil) to the search efforts

"More than 52,000sq km of the search area have been completed thus far," he added.