KDN Studies Use Of AI Tools, UAV To Predict Maritime Threats In Northern Waters

KUALA LUMPUR, June 29 (Bernama) -- The Home Ministry (KDN) is studying the use of artificial intelligence-based predictive analytics to identify high-risk areas and forecast potential maritime threats in the northern waters of Peninsular Malaysia.

Deputy Minister Datuk Seri Dr Shamsul Anuar Nasarah said the ministry has also agreed to expand the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), including drones, with phased deployment planned across national waters, including Langkawi.

He said UAVs would act as a force multiplier to existing maritime and patrol assets by enabling real-time aerial surveillance, particularly over vast, high-risk areas with limited monitoring coverage.

“This technology will enhance early detection of suspicious boat movements,” he told the Dewan Rakyat during Question Time today, in reply to Datuk Mohd Suhaimi Abdullah (PN-Langkawi), who asked about the readiness of security assets and personnel in Langkawi to address migrant smuggling and controlled goods trafficking, as well as the proposal to deploy drones.

The deputy minister said the initiatives are in line with the KDN’s Strategic Plan 2026-2030 and its AI Strategic Plan 2026-2030.

Shamsul Anuar also said that the KDN is reviewing a proposal to establish an Integrated Forward Operating Base in Teluk Ewa, Langkawi, which would house the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), Marine Police Force and General Operations Force.

The initiative, he said, is expected to improve operational coordination, speed up response times, and strengthen surveillance and enforcement capabilities in combating cross-border crime.

“For maritime monitoring, the MMEA is also using the Sea Surveillance System (SWASLA) to detect contacts and suspicious activities in national waters,” he said.

Meanwhile, in response to a supplementary question on ASEAN-level discussions regarding the influx of migrants, particularly Rohingya communities, Shamsul Anuar said the government’s priority remains strengthening national security through bilateral cooperation and regional enforcement.

He said Malaysia, through the MMEA, continues to work closely with neighbouring countries, including Thailand, Indonesia and Australia, to monitor foreign fishing activities and curb migrant incursions.

Providing statistics, he said the MMEA in Kedah and Perlis recorded 152 cases involving various offences in 2025, while 49 cases were recorded up to May this year.

The Marine Police Force recorded two cases under the Immigration Act involving 10 Thai nationals up to May 2026.

-- BERNAMA