KUANTAN: Women have been stepping up to take on increasingly challenging roles, even on the high seas.
A shining example is acting maritime sub-lieutenant Nur Syuhada Faizah Mohammad Yazid, a boarding officer for the KM Langkawi.
Often, Nur Syuhada and her team are deployed on high-speed boats from the KM Langkawi during missions.
She has served as a boarding team leader of the law enforcement vessel over the past eight months.
“We are deployed when we receive reports regarding boats or ships that require inspections.
“Checks are carried out on the compartments and equipment, as well as on the crew’s travel documents to ensure that everything is legal.
“Each boarding carries its risks. Before each mission, we have a communications check with the team to ensure they comply with instructions such as maintaining a certain speed,” she said.
Nur Syuhada also said firearms are brought onboard as per mission requirements to ensure the boarding party’s safety during inspections.
“There are those who do not comply, so we are forced to exert pressure.
“Some might speed up or change their route, and this will lead to a chase at sea.
“Fortunately, we have not found any vessel with firearms during our checks,” she said.
Nur Syuhada said she does not feel overwhelmed by her duties, as she has the full support of her all-male team.
“As team leader, I am grateful to have their support,” she said.
Maritime commander Eizanizam Muhammad, who serves as KM Langkawi’s commanding officer, said fishermen from Vietnam have been encroaching into local waters, especially during bad weather, in an effort to thwart enforcement.
“When we approach them, they will try to provoke us. So we have to possess knowledge of the seas and the courage to operate,” he said.
KM Langkawi participated in a two-day media programme that involved bringing journalists out to sea for a firearms demonstration.
The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency also conducted a mock boarding inspection led by Nur Syuhada.
