PASIR PUTEH: A new reality in illegal immigration has emerged, after authorities found that immigrants brought in via Kelantan waters had learned Bahasa Melayu in their home country to facilitate their movement in Malaysia.
Kelantan Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) director Capt Erwan Shah Soahdi said the findings indicate the presence of well-organised syndicates operating across borders with increasingly sophisticated planning.
“Preliminary investigations show the entry of immigrants is not random. It is managed by syndicates that prepare them in advance before bringing them into the country.
“We found that they have studied the language in their home country, demonstrating careful preparation prior to entry.
“This strengthens our suspicion that syndicates are managing their movement,” he said, according to a Bernama report.
Erwan Shah said smuggling activities continue to evolve with technology.
“Smugglers’ modus operandi has become more sophisticated to evade authorities.
“We have detected them using drones to monitor areas, mirroring the technology employed by enforcement agencies, including night-vision equipment,” he said.
Current smuggling tactics include the staged use of small boats and advance surveillance before landing, as well as drone monitoring of movements of enforcement officers.
Kelantan-Terengganu waters have been identified as key intrusion points based on MMEA seizure patterns.
Erwan Shah said most incursions occur near the border ends of the two states, allowing foreign boats to quickly retreat to controlled waters if detected.
“Records show foreign fishing boats usually operate around 120 to 130 nautical miles, staying close to the Kelantan-Terengganu border, demonstrating caution and readiness to escape,” he added.
Erwan Shah said foreign fishing boats typically travel at about eight knots, while maritime assets can reach 15 to 18 knots, enabling interception if detected early.
