KUCHING, Nov 18: Sarawak Coastguard has received three fast patrol vessels, which was part of the six vessels built by Sarawak Slipways Sdn Bhd.
The remaining three vessels are expected to be received in January 2023.
Sarawak Public Works Department (JKR) handed over the vessels to Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) as the agency responsible for Sarawak Coastguard in a ceremony held at Kuching Port Authority today.
Present to witness the handing over was Deputy State Secretary (Administration) Datu Buckland Bangik.
The construction of these high-tech assets is one of the Sarawak government’s commitments in dealing with issues of safety and community wellbeing that occur in Sarawak waters.
Sarawak Coastguard commander Datu Dr Chai Khin Chung said these assets will be assigned to enforce State law on the coast of Sarawak, search and rescue, security control in official water events and will also assist the assignment of other security agencies.
Since the Sarawak Coastguard was inaugurated on April 7, 2021, it has participated in six search and rescue operations off the coast of Sarawak.
Meanwhile, Sarawak Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki in a speech text read by Buckland, expressed gratitude to UKPS, PWD and contractor in successfully building the Sarawak Coastguard’s capacity in accordance with the objectives of cost, quality and time period set in the contract.
He was confident that the fast patrol vessels, with its design and advanced technological equipment, can succeed in the Sarawak government’s initiative to create a more peaceful, safe and conducive atmosphere in attracting foreign direct investment as well as the creation of a safer environment for the fishing community in the coastal areas. — DayakDaily
