Between January and July 15, 2025, the Malaysian Marine Police Force (PPM) seized smuggled goods worth over RM419.5 million and arrested 1,254 individuals, most of whom were involved in migrant smuggling. This growing issue has become the top crime along Malaysia’s coastal regions.
Senior Assistant Commissioner Shamsol Kassim, who leads the PPM at Bukit Aman, revealed that during this period, authorities recorded 5,293 criminal cases. Of those arrested, 650 were Malaysian citizens, while 604 were foreigners involved in various maritime offences.
The illegal activities were committed under a range of laws, including the Immigration Act, Customs Act, Anti-Trafficking in Persons and Anti-Smuggling of Migrants (ATIPSOM) Act, as well as the Wildlife Conservation and Dangerous Drugs Acts. Notably, over 40% of all cases were linked to the smuggling of migrants, especially undocumented individuals attempting to enter or leave Malaysia through unsafe means.
Violations under the Fisheries Act were also highlighted, particularly those involving the hiring of foreign crew members without proper work permits. Many of these cases were connected to small boat operations led by Indonesian-based syndicates.
“These cross-border groups use boats at night, passing through remote rivers and quiet coastal routes to avoid marine patrols,” Shamsol explained. “They often disguise themselves as local fishermen and use social media apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and TikTok to plan and promote their smuggling operations.”
Shamsol urged communities living near coastal areas to stay alert and avoid helping smugglers. “We need the public’s support to keep Malaysia’s sea borders safe. If you see anything suspicious, please report it. Your help is vital to our national security,” he stressed.
To tackle the growing problem, the Marine Police said they are stepping up their patrols and improving strategies to stop illegal activities at sea. This includes closer monitoring of known smuggling routes and stronger cooperation with regional enforcement agencies.