Be careful at sea during Hari Raya, reminds MMEA

PUTRAJAYA: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has advised the maritime community to be safe at sea and take heed of weather warnings during the Hari Raya Aidilfitri season.

MMEA director-general Admiral Datuk Hamid Mohd Amin said warnings of heavy rain, strong winds and rough seas issued by the Malaysian Meteorological Department (MetMalaysia) should not be ignored.

"This is necessary since the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations are on the way during the monsoon transition phase which started on March 29 and is expected to continue until May.

"We wish to remind those using boat or ferry services to return to their respective villages or islands to ensure that life jackets are provided by boat or ferry operators.

"Also ensure that overloading does not occur to avoid any untoward incidents at sea," he said in a statement on Tuesday (April 9).

He said throughout last year, 1,535 people were involved in incidents at sea nationwide.

"1,401 were successfully rescued while 90 other victims were reported dead and 44 victims still missing.

"From January to March this year, a total of 107 victims were successfully rescued," he said, adding that seven deaths were recorded while four victims are missing.

He said in order to reduce the rate of accidents at sea, the MMEA said it would intensify sea patrols while also monitoring jetties along the coast.

"This is to remind and spread awareness to the community about the importance of maintaining safety when at sea.

"We would like to also wish a Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri to all Malaysians, especially the Muslim community," he said.