LAWAS: The establishment of the proposed Sarawak Security and Enforcement Unit (UKPS) headquarters in Kuala Lawas will facilitate security control over the waters in northern Sarawak.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said the headquarters will enable the Sarawak Coastguard to patrol the waters of Sarawak, especially around Lawas and Limbang, including Brunei Bay.
For this purpose, Awang Tengah said the Sarawak Coastguard will continue to maintain a cooperative relationship with the relevant federal government agencies such as the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency.
Awang Tengah, who is also Bukit Sari assemblyman made these remarks when officiating at the Community Fire Programme, Fire Point and Public Safety Awareness Campaign organised by the Fire and Rescue Department (Bomba) Lawas District recently.
“So, the placement of the coastguard complex (UKPS headquarters) in Kuala Lawas will facilitate their deployment to the sea (in northern Sarawak).
“It aims to enhance safety, especially in the waters of Brunei Bay and its surrounding areas. You see, sometimes there are intrusions by fishermen from other waters, and we try to control the safety situation.
“Hopefully, this can be implemented. Currently, they (Sarawak Coastguard) operate using temporary buildings (in Lawas),” he said.
Meanwhile, he said such Bomba programmes will help enhance public response to fire incidents and fostering skills in operating fire extinguishers.
“Fire drills are very important so that we can act quickly in case of a fire and I hope we will use this opportunity to increase our knowledge and preparedness in case of emergencies,” he added.
Also present were Lawas MP Datuk Henry Sum Agong and Limbang Resident Unus Tambi.
