Rahim (fourth left) speaking with members of the Lahad Datu Fishermen Association. Source: ESSCom
LAHAD DATU: Fishermen here have been reminded to install the AIS and VHF16 radio on their boats to ensure their safety when they go out fishing in the open sea.
Eastern Sabah Security Command (ESSCom) head of operation centre, Brigadier General Dato’ Md Rahim Mohamad, said that the fishermen and tugboat operators have been advised to do so during a meeting with the Lahad Datu Fishermen Association, which was also attended by the Fisheries Department, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA), the Lahad Datu Marine Police Force and the Marine Department.
“Fishermen were advised to prioritize their safety while on the water, which is why the installation of the AIS and VHF16 radio is important and very much required.
“With the installation of both equipment, it will easy for the security forces to monitor their activity while at the same time facilitate the fishermen in contacting the security forces in the event of any emergency arising,” he said, adding that it will also enable the security forces to ascertain the location of the boat.
The meeting was aimed at providing explanation to the fishermen and boat skippers on the importance of installing the AIS and VHF16 radio, as it was found that many of the fishermen were not aware of the importance of the AIS and VHF16 radio in securing their safety.
The fishermen were also advised to report to the ESSCom Operation Centre at 089 863181 a day before they head out to sea and while they are at sea. They will be required to undergo basic radio communication test with the ESSCom operation centre while at sea.