Nationwide maritime and logistics support throughout Malaysia

Crew members are STRICTLY PROHIBITED from:
-carrying medicines, tablets, or medical products on behalf of:
a. vessels
b. other crew members
c. passengers
d. shore personnel
e. third parties

-Accepting packages, bags, or parcels from unknown persons.

-Transporting any substances not officially declared through ship documentation.

⚠️ Ignorance of contents is NOT accepted as a legal defence under Malaysian law.

Certain prescription medicines may be classified as controlled or dangerous drugs in Malaysia. Crew must ensure:
-Personal medication is declared.
-Medication remains in original packaging.
-A valid doctor’s prescription is available.
-Quantities are strictly for personal medical use only.
-Unauthorized import or possession of controlled drugs is prohibited under Malaysian law.

SAFETY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (SMS) CIRCULAR

Document No.: SMS–SEC–MY–001
Revision: 00
Date: 1 January 2026
Issued By: Oceanex Solutions & Services Sdn Bhd
Applicable To: All Masters, Officers, Crew Members, and Shipboard Personnel
Subject: Malaysia – Controlled Drugs Regulations & Prohibition on Carrying Medicines or Packages on Behalf of Others

1. PURPOSE

The purpose of this circular is to ensure compliance with Malaysian laws concerning controlled drugs and to safeguard vessel personnel from severe legal consequences arising from unauthorized possession or transport of medicines or prohibited substances while operating in Malaysian ports or territorial waters.

This circular forms part of the Company’s Safety Management System (SMS) under the International Safety Management (ISM) Code, specifically relating to:

• Compliance with applicable laws and regulations (ISM Code §1.2.3)

• Shipboard operational safety procedures

• Crew awareness and risk prevention

2. LEGAL BACKGROUND – MALAYSIA

Malaysia enforces strict drug control legislation under, inter alia:

• Dangerous Drugs Act 1952

• Poisons Act 1952

• Related Customs and criminal laws

Drug trafficking offences may attract severe criminal penalties, including long-term imprisonment and capital punishment, subject to judicial determination under Malaysian law.

Malaysian authorities apply strict liability principles. Lack of knowledge regarding contents of carried items may not constitute a legal defence.

3. POLICY STATEMENT

All crew members are strictly prohibited from carrying, transporting, or accepting any medicines, parcels, or substances on behalf of another person unless formally declared and authorized under shipboard procedures.

This prohibition applies whether onboard, ashore, or during transit through Malaysian jurisdiction.

4. PROHIBITED ACTIONS

Crew members shall NOT:

1. Carry medicines or tablets belonging to another person.

2. Accept packages, envelopes, or bags from shore personnel or third parties.

3. Transport undeclared substances ashore or onboard.

4. Deliver items on behalf of agents, visitors, contractors, or other crew members.

5. Store personal medication outside approved declaration procedures.

5. CONTROL OF PERSONAL MEDICATION

Crew members bringing personal medication into Malaysia must ensure:

• Medication is for personal medical use only.

• Items remain in original labelled packaging.

• A valid medical prescription or certificate is available.

• The Master shall record declared medicines in the Ship Medical Log where applicable.

6. MASTER’S RESPONSIBILITIES

The Master shall:

• Brief crew prior to arrival at Malaysian ports.

• Ensure compliance with SMS procedures.

• Verify declaration of controlled medicines.

• Prevent unauthorized transfer of items between ship and shore.

• Record compliance briefing in ship records.

7. CREW RESPONSIBILITY

Each crew member is personally responsible for all items in their possession.

Non-compliance may result in:

• Arrest and detention by authorities

• Criminal prosecution

• Severe penalties under Malaysian law

8. REFERENCES

• ISM Code – Sections 1.2, 6 & 7

• Dangerous Drugs Act 1952 (Malaysia)

• Company Security & Compliance Procedures

Yes. Malaysia enforces strict drug control legislation. Serious offences may carry severe criminal penalties, including long imprisonment and possible capital punishment under law.

Drone use may require permits from Malaysian authorities.

Normal respectful public behavior is expected. Avoid public intoxication or disorderly conduct.