Enforcement against illegal ship-to-ship oil transfer to take effect by July 31

KUALA LUMPUR, July 11 — A new regulation aimed at tightening enforcement against illegal ship-to-ship (STS) oil transfers in Malaysian waters is set to take effect by the end of the month, said Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan.

He said the move reflects Malaysia’s commitment as a coastal nation to safeguard its maritime sovereignty and prevent the country’s image from being tarnished by baseless accusations.

“This ship-to-ship issue has become a thorn in our side because we are often accused of practising or allowing illegal oil transfers to take place in our waters. This is our territory, and we will guard and control it more strictly,” he said during a press conference at the close of the 58th Asean Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and Related Meetings today.

Mohamad said that under the new regulation, any vessel found conducting unauthorised oil transfers will be detained.

“Previously, when we asked for coordinates, they would provide them — but it turned out the activity wasn’t within our territory. This time, we will not let it slide. If we catch them, we will detain the vessel. We no longer want to be accused of being a country that facilitates such activities,” he said.

He added that this stricter enforcement will send a clear signal that Malaysia is serious about addressing the issue, even if some parties are displeased.

“We are going ahead with this in July. Many may be unhappy, but this is about protecting our national sovereignty,” he stressed.

Yesterday, Mohamad said Malaysia is a coastal nation and is formulating new regulations to strengthen maritime enforcement against illegal STS transfers.

— Bernama