PASIR PUTEH: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) today reminded all maritime communities such as fishermen and shipping communities particularly those in the East Coast area to exercise more caution during the northeast monsoon season.
Kelantan MMEA director Maritime Captain Syed Nor Adli Syed Ab Rahman said a similar reminder was also given to the oil exploration industry as well as enthusiasts of marine or coastal recreational activities.
"The weather forecast issued by Malaysian Meteorological Department stated strong winds at a speed of 40 to 50 km per hour with waves reaching 3.5 meters are currently hitting the country.
"It also stated that continuous heavy rain is predicted to occur until March next year.
"The phenomenon of high tide is also predicted from Nov 19 to Dec 31. This situation is a risk to all maritime communities," he said in a statement.
To create awareness about safety at sea, Nor Adli said the state MMEA has carried out various activities including meetings with the community and conducting coastal patrols from Tok Bali beach to Sri Tujuh beach.
"Through this campaigns, we hope the maritime communities will make their preparations for the safety of their lives and properties," he added.
As preparation for the monsoon phases, he said the leave of the MMEA officers have been frozen.
"I also would like to remind the maritime community to always check the weather forecast through "myCuaca" application issued by Met Malaysia.
"They also must wear a safety jacket and carry a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) if they intend or need to go to sea.
"Apart from that, those who plan to go to the sea are required to inform their family members, close relatives or the MMEA about the time and location when they will be at sea later," he added.
He also reminded them not to forget to bring communication devices with them while going to the sea.
