Malaysia’s marine sensitive area notice 01/2026 took effect on September 11, establishing a marine sensitive area (MSA) and designated fairways near the eastern approaches to the traffic separation scheme (TSS) in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore.
Cargo vessels and oil tankers are barred from entering the MSA if they are more than 300 metres long and more than 40 metres wide.
Vessels in the area must travel at no more than 12 knots. Anchoring is allowed only for search and rescue, because of vessel damage, or to address specific pollution incidents.
Cargo transfers require written government permission. Bunkering is prohibited under the Exclusive Economic Zone Regulations 2026, subject to the exceptions specified in those regulations. Dredging, salvage, research and installation or repair of cables or pipelines also require written government approval.
Gard said the restrictions could affect westbound routing. “Some westbound vessels may remain south of the area before turning towards the westbound lane, rather than joining the traffic flow further east,” the marine insurer said.
Gard also warned of compliance checks and prosecution in Malaysian courts. Citing its local correspondent Spica, it said penalties could reach MYR1 million ($244,439).
The regulations allow detention if a breach leads to a discharge that damages, or threatens damage to, Malaysia’s EEZ or continental shelf. A bond or other financial security of up to MYR1 million may secure release pending proceedings; this is separate from a fine.
Vessel owners, masters and agents are covered by the notice, which gives WGS84 coordinates for the boundaries and designated sea lanes in its appendix. The underlying regulations came into force on June 29.