Prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak told reporters that MISC’s 699-teu Bunga Mas Lima (built 1997), which was converted into an auxiliary ship for the navy in 2009, will be deployed “as soon as possible”.
“It will serve as a ‘mothership’ where we can place our men, complete with fast boats, and, if there were to be any kidnappings, hopefully we can intercept them before they cross the border,” he added.
The vessel is occasionally used for naval training and operations by the armed forces.
Two decommissioned Petronas oil rigs will also be turned into forward operating bases in waters between Semporna and Lahad Datu within six months.
