Viral messages have been making waves on social media lately claiming several boats are attempting to land on Malaysian shores.
Is it true that Rohingya migrants are coming into the country via Kedah and Penang?
Verdict:
FALSE
The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has urged the public not to speculate or share unverified information.
This comes after several claims on social media that Rohingya migrants were coming into the country via the coastlines of Kuala Muda, Kuala Kedah, Yan and Penang.
MMEA Kedah and Perlis director First Admiral (Maritime) Romli Mustafa said every piece of information received is assessed, reviewed and verified before any action is taken.
He also said disseminating inaccurate information could not only cause public unrest but also potentially disrupt surveillance, intelligence and enforcement efforts carried out by authorities.
"The public is urged to obtain information from official sources and refrain from spreading unverified allegations as they could create confusion and anxiety among the community," he said, reported Bernama.
Romli said MMEA is constantly enhancing its operational readiness through continuous patrols, intelligence-based surveillance and strategic cooperation with other security agencies to curb intrusion attempts or the entry of illegal immigrants through maritime routes.
He said MMEA would take action on any activity that threatens the country's maritime security and sovereignty.
He said every intelligence report is followed up with appropriate enforcement action to ensure the nation's maritime borders remain secure.
Romli also urged coastal and fishing communities to continue playing their role as the eyes and ears of authorities by providing information if they detect any suspicious activities at sea or along coastal areas.
He also reminded the public not to take action themselves against individuals suspected of committing offences.
"Information regarding suspicious activities should be channelled immediately through official MMEA channels or relevant security agencies to enable verification and enforcement actions to be carried out swiftly, effectively and safely," said Romli.
