Bolstering Maritime Security: Birth of Sarawak Coastguard

Abang Johari (right), together with UKPS Director Datu Dr Chai Khin Chung, at the launching ceremony of the Island-Class Fast Patrol Vessel and the inauguration of the UKPS Miri Headquarters on July 18, 2023. Photo: Ukas

By Antonia Chiam

“The Sarawak Coastguard will enforce the law under the State Ordinance particularly State Fisheries Ordinance 2003, Forest Ordinance 2015, Wild Life Protection Ordinance 1998, National Parks and Nature Reserves Ordinance 1998 and Oil and Mining Ordinance (OMO) 1958.” Abang Johari (April 7, 2021)

THE establishment of the Sarawak Coastguard on April 7, 2021, marked a monumental step toward securing the State’s vast coastal areas and marine resources. This initiative, led by Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, seeks to protect Sarawak’s unique marine biodiversity, support local fishermen, and reinforce the State’s maritime security. The initiative came into being with an allocation of RM90 million in Sarawak Budget 2020 for the initial plan of acquiring six interceptors, 51 new recruits and nine patrol boats.

Guarding Sarawak’s Marine Parks

With the declaration of Sarawak’s coastal waters as critical for environmental conservation and sustainable development, the Sarawak Coastguard will play a pivotal role in enforcing regulations and safeguarding the natural treasures of this diverse region. One of the primary objectives of the Sarawak Coastguard is to oversee and protect the State’s extensive network of gazetted marine parks, which collectively span over 1.2 million hectares of protected waters. These marine parks—which include Similajau National Park, Tanjung Datu National Park, Talang Satang National Park, Miri Sibuti Coral Reef National Park, Santubong National Park, Limbang Mangrove National Park, Bruit National Park, and Luconia Shoal National Park serve as vital sanctuaries for numerous precious species of marine life, many of which are rare or endangered.

Abang Johari (second left) during a press conference after the launch of six island-class patrol vessels and the Miri Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) headquarters on July 18, 2023. Photo credit: Ukas

Recent sightings of marine mammals, such as the sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) and the common minke whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata), around Luconia Shoal National Park highlight the rich biodiversity of Sarawak’s waters. The presence of these majestic creatures reinforces the urgent need for and importance of preserving the State’s marine ecosystems. Abang Johari has repeatedly underscored the significance of safeguarding Sarawak’s marine environment, stressing that the State’s distinctive natural features should be preserved for future generations.

More Operational Bases

During the official launching event of the Sarawak Coastguard in 2021, Abang Johari affirmed the State government’s commitment to strengthening the Coastguard’s operational capabilities. Under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP), the government will establish five operational bases across the State in Kuching, Tanjung Manis, Bintulu, Miri, and Lawas. These bases will provide comprehensive coverage of Sarawak’s extensive coastline, ensuring that the Coastguard can effectively monitor and enforce maritime laws across all key maritime areas in the State.

In addition to the five operational bases, the Sarawak government plans to build four additional headquarters for the Sarawak Coastguard in Sejingkat, Tanjung Manis, Bintulu, and Lawas. This strategic positioning of personnel and resources is designed to maximise the effectiveness of the Coastguard’s operations and ensure rapid response times in addressing maritime threats and incidents.

Abang Johari uses a shovel to plant a young pandan coconut tree (cocos nucifera) at the launching of the Miri UKPS headquarters on July 18, 2023.

Protectors of Sarawak’s Coastline

While the Sarawak Coastguard has a central role in overseeing the State’s marine environment, it works in tandem with other key enforcement bodies, such as the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) and the Royal Malaysian Navy. This collaboration enables the effective implementation of maritime laws and ensures that all relevant agencies are working together to address security, environmental, and regulatory issues in Sarawak’s waters.

The Sarawak Coastguard enforces various laws under State Ordinances, including the State Fisheries Ordinance 2003, the Forest Ordinance 2015, the Wildlife Protection Ordinance 1998, the National Parks and Nature Reserves Ordinance 1998, and the Oil Mining Ordinance (OMO) 1958. These regulations are crucial for maintaining the health of the State’s ecosystems and for protecting its resources from illegal exploitation. The establishment of the Sarawak Coastguard also aligns with the government’s commitment to supporting local fishermen and ensuring their safety. In particular, the State government plans to enhance the protection of fishermen operating in Sarawak’s waters.

UPKS officers taking a photo at the Sarawak Coastguard Interceptor Placement Ceremony at the Kuching Express Boat Terminal. Photo: Ukas

Unwavering Commitment

Sarawak has set an ambitious goal to become a fully developed State by 2030, and enhancing its maritime security is an integral part of this vision. By safeguarding its marine environment, the State can bolster its position as a prime and safe destination for business and tourism, attracting both foreign investments and global visitors.

A secure and stable maritime environment will not only help preserve the State’s rich natural resources but also make Sarawak more attractive for investments in sectors such as eco-tourism, marine biotechnology, and offshore industries. In this context, the Sarawak Coastguard plays a key role in ensuring that Sarawak remains an attractive destination for international business ventures while prioritising sustainable development.

Abang Johari (fifth right) receiving a souvenir during the launch of SCNet in conjunction with the 8th Anniversary Celebration of UKPS on July 1, 2025. Photo credit: UKAS

As part of the State’s ongoing commitment to bolstering its maritime security, the Sarawak Coastguard will continue to enhance its operational capacity and infrastructure. This will significantly improve the protection of the State’s interests, including the eight marine national parks, which are vital for both conservation and local communities. With continued investment in personnel, technology, and infrastructure, the Sarawak Coastguard is positioned to be a key player in the State’s long-term environmental protection and sustainable development efforts.

The establishment of the Sarawak Coastguard stands as a testament to Abang Johari’s leadership and commitment to the welfare of the people, the protection of Sarawak’s natural resources, and the strengthening of the State’s maritime security.

The content featured here is an excerpt from the book “Rise of Sarawak: Abang Johari’s Era of Transformation”, published by Sage Salute Sdn Bhd.