KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) will deploy two upcoming Multi-Purpose Mission Ships (MPMS) in the South China Sea to strengthen maritime security operations, says its director-general Maritime Admiral Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah.
He said the second MPMS, which will serve as a mothership, forms part of the agency’s ongoing development programme and is a continuation of the first vessel.
“The second MPMS will have similar specifications and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, while the first vessel is scheduled for completion as early as February 2027,” he told reporters yesterday.
Mohd Rosli said the first MPMS is expected to be ready ahead of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition next year, where its capabilities will be showcased.
“The second vessel will mea-sure about 99m in length and be equipped with four interceptor boats to support enforcement and operational duties.
“Both ships will carry four interceptor boats each.”
He said the MPMS vessels are capable of operating at sea for up to 30 days, with each deployment typically lasting between two and three weeks.
“They will be deployed in sensitive areas to safeguard national waters, particularly in the South China Sea.
“With the support of interceptor boats, these vessels will enhance patrol capabilities and allow for more efficient border control operations, especially during extended deployments at sea.”
Mohd Rosli added that the development of such assets is crucial to achieving the agency’s target capabilities, particularly in strengthening maritime security.
He added that the MMEA would also enhance its Special Task and Rescue team with advanced technological equipment.
On Tuesday, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the ministry has secured a second MPMS for the MMEA.
The acquisition of the strategic assets is part of efforts to bolster Malaysia’s maritime monitoring and enforcement capabilities.
The MPMS vessels are designed to function as motherships equipped for patrol, surveillance, enforcement, deterrence and search and rescue operations.
They also have helicopter landing decks and advanced radar and communication systems.
