KUCHING, Nov 16: The state government will request funding from the federal government to implement the Vessel Traffic System (VTS) to enhance navigational safety and security in Sarawak waters.
Infrastructure Development and Transportation Minister Tan Sri James Jemut Masing said it is important to set up a VTS Control Centre in Sarawak ports, namely Kuching, Rajang, Tanjung Manis and Miri.
“With regards to surveillance technology for harbour security, the increasing threat levels from the Sulu Sea or elsewhere recognise a need to deploy modern VTS technology to monitor, detect and transmit information; thus, enable protective measures to be taken immediately by enforcement authorities,” the deputy chief minister said in his winding-up speech today.
Drawing on the practice and experience of Port of London Authority which has implemented the VTS, he said it would enhance security in Sarawak waters.
He added that the VTS Port Control Centre will be constantly in communication with ships via VHF radio and could inform the maritime police if there is any breach of security or security threat. In addition, they provide navigation, weather and tidal information.
The system can be used for surveillance, passage planning and tracking movement of vessels as evidence of what actually happened if and when there is an incident while the CCTVs provide visual monitoring, he added. — Dayak Daily
