MMEA Adopts Cost-Efficient Strategy To Extend Fleet Life

PUTRAJAYA, Oct 7 (Bernama) -- The implementation of the Service Life Extension Programme (SLEP), refit and repowering initiatives for existing vessels of the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) is a strategic step to keep assets fully operational and reduce government expenditure.

MMEA director-general Admiral Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah said the initiatives would extend vessel service life by 10 to 15 years and enhance the operational efficiency of ageing assets, which continue to play vital roles in safeguarding the nation’s maritime safety and security.

“Their main tasks include preventing cross-border crimes such as smuggling, human trafficking and the illicit trade of drugs, cigarettes and subsidised goods, besides tackling other forms of maritime crime,” he said in a statement today.

He said MMEA also remains committed to curbing incursions by foreign vessels (FVIs) and strengthening protection of Malaysia’s maritime borders against foreign enforcement intrusions.

Mohd Rosli said each vessel remains a key element of MMEA’s operational strategy, including maintaining presence in national waters, conducting maritime awareness campaigns, executing early response operations and fostering cooperation with the maritime community.

Meanwhile, he said the maintenance programmes would accelerate vessel readiness, allowing ships to return to service within 15 to 18 months, far shorter than the three to five years needed to procure a new vessel.

“Through this approach, MMEA can ensure older vessels resume operations with better performance without incurring the high costs of new builds. Repairing an offshore patrol vessel (OPV) generally costs only 15 to 20 per cent of the estimated RM350 million needed for a new build,” he said.

Mohd Rosli added that besides enforcement duties, MMEA vessels also play a vital role in saving lives and protecting property at sea.

“With our existing technical expertise, we can ensure that ageing vessels remain operational, safe and effective,” he said.

-- BERNAMA