Historic handover: MMEA receives 56-year-old Cutter Steadfast from US Coast Guard

BALTIMORE: The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) has officially taken possession of the 56-year-old ex-United States Coast Guard (USCG) cutter, Cutter Steadfast, marking a new chapter in the nation’s maritime security.

The historic handover of the vessel took place today in a ceremonial event at the Wheaton O’Thorp Centre (WOTC) in the United States.

USCG Deputy Chief Acquisition Officer and Director of Domain & Integration Services, James Knight, signed the Certificate of Transfer before handing over the vessel to MMEA director-general Admiral Datuk Mohd Rosli Abdullah, witnessed by Home Ministry secretary-general Datuk Awang Alik Jeman.

Also present were Malaysia’s Ambassador to the United States, Tan Sri Muhammad Shahrul Ikram Yaakob, MMEA Intelligence Division director First Admiral Datuk Md Fauzi Othman, and MMEA Maritime Criminal Investigation Division director First Admiral Shahref Steve Mac Queen Abdullah.

Knight in his remarks, said the Steadfast was commissioned in 1968 and had served with distinction for 56 years.

“This ship has stood the test of time and contributed immensely to maritime security.

“We are confident that with its transfer to Malaysia, it will continue to play an important role in safeguarding the seas,” he said.

Rosli meanwhile congratulated all 50 MMEA crew members — comprising nine officers and 41 personnel — who had completed an intensive seven-week training programme on operating the 210-foot Reliance Class Medium Endurance Cutter.

“I wish to extend my heartfelt congratulations to our officers and men who have shown great commitment and dedication throughout their training.

“Their success ensures that this vessel will be fully utilised under Malaysian command,” he said.

He added that the acquisition of the Steadfast also symbolised the strong cooperation between Malaysia and the United States, particularly between MMEA and the USCG.

“This handover is more than just about a vessel. It reflects the close ties and trust between our two nations. We look forward to deepening this partnership in maritime safety and security,” he said.

The vessel will soon embark on its maiden voyage with its new Malaysian crew, in what will be the longest and farthest journey in MMEA’s history, crossing the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea, Red Sea, Suez Canal and Indian Ocean.

A ‘USGC Cutter’ is the term used by the US Coast Guard for its commissioned vessels.

The term “cutter” identifies a Coast Guard vessel 65ft in length or greater, with accommodations for a crew to live aboard.

Reliance Class Medium Endurance Cutters are typically used for open-ocean patrol and law enforcement, primarily performing search and rescue, drug and migrant interdiction, fisheries enforcement, and marine pollution patrols.

They also conduct other duties, including offshore oil rig inspections and safety inspections.

“This historic voyage will not only be a test of endurance but also a symbol of Malaysia’s growing maritime strength,” Rosli said, adding that the new asset would boost MMEA’s ability to safeguard the country’s maritime zones while enhancing cooperation with the US in training, technical exchanges and capacity building.

© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd

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