GEORGE TOWN, July 7 – Malaysia and Indonesia have launched the 31st series of the Coordinated Patrol Operation Maritime Action Operation (PATKOR OPTIMA) on June 4, aiming to combat transnational crimes in the Malacca Strait. This biennial operation, spanning from June 4 to June 13, underscores the commitment of both nations to safeguarding one of the world’s busiest maritime routes crucial for global trade.
Mohd Zawawi bin Abdullah, Director of Enforcement and Maritime Coordination Division (BPPM) of Malaysia’s Maritime Enforcement Agency (Maritim Malaysia) and Malaysia’s Chief Maritime Operations Planner (TPOM), highlighted the critical role of PATKOR OPTIMA in addressing prevalent issues such as migrant smuggling, drug trafficking, contraband smuggling, and incursions by fishing vessels. The joint opening ceremony for PATKOR OPTIMA 31A/2024 was presided over by Mohd Zawawi and Basri Mustari, Director of Sea Operations at the Indonesian Maritime Security Agency (BAKAMLA) and Indonesia’s TPOM for PATKOR OPTIMA, demonstrating a unified front in maritime security efforts.
The collaborative initiative involves multiple Malaysian agencies including the Royal Malaysian Air Force (TUDM), Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), Malaysian Immigration Department (JIM), Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM), Ministry of Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs (KPDN), Malaysian Maritime Department (JPM), Department of Fisheries Malaysia (DOF), and Department of Environment (JAS).
Indonesian counterparts include the Indonesian Navy (TNI-AL), Indonesian National Police (POLRI), Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries (KKP), Indonesian Coast Guard (KPLP), Directorate General of Customs and Excise (DJBC), and Directorate General of Immigration (IMIGRASI). Last year’s operations under PATKOR OPTIMA resulted in significant law enforcement actions, with Malaysia recording 85 arrests and Indonesia conducting 176 sea inspections, reinforcing the operation’s vital role in maintaining maritime safety and security in the region.
