BINTULU (Sept 11): The Malaysian Marine Department (MMD) has enhanced security measures at Bintulu Port following a reported security threat against liquefied natural gas (LNG) facilities in the area.

MMD director general Datuk Dickson Dollah, as the designated authority (DA) under the Merchant Shipping (International Ship and Port Facility Security Code) Act 2007, has declared Security Level 1 (Security Measures Level 2) for the LNG Terminal at Bintulu Port with immediate effect.

“All port areas and facilities in Bintulu are directed to immediately enhance their security measures,” the department said in a statement.

The directive comes after the National Security Council’s statement on Sept 8 reporting a security threat to LNG installations here.

MMD said the strengthening of security protocols is consistent with the Maritime Transport Security Plan (MTSP) and the Marine Facility Security Plan (MFSP) applicable to the respective port facilities.

Port authorities and facilities affected are also required to submit reports on the implementation of the enhanced security measures to the Maritime Transport Security Officer (MTSO) and the Designated Authority for monitoring.

MMD stressed that it would continue to monitor the situation closely together with other national security agencies to safeguard the security and integrity of the nation’s strategic assets.

“All parties are urged to extend their full cooperation to ensure that the country’s strategic facilities remain safe and secure at all times,” the department added.

By Yunus Yussop