a day ago
#NSTviral: Video of 'budget Flying Dutchman' detained in Malaysian waters goes viral
KUALA LUMPUR: A video of a foreign fishing vessel being detained by Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency members has gone viral because the ship resembles what some netizens called a "low budget Flying Dutchman".
A one-minute TikTok clip shows a Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) patrol closing in on the vessel, which appeared to "hover" above the horizon from a distance — an optical illusion that stunned viewers.
Two MMEA officers are then seen leaping aboard to detain the crew, suspected of illegally fishing in national waters.
The incident quickly lit up social media, with comment sections flooded with praise for the officers' bravery and calls for decisive action against illegal fishing.
"Respect to the maritime officers — fearless enough for just two of them to jump on board for an inspection," commented Pantalonalagend.
User Cawal, meanwhile, said it was time to reclaim and protect the country from intrusion from foreign fishing vessels.
"Never take this lightly. If we allow it, they will take all our marine resources," said Zarn.
The Flying Dutchman is a legendary ghost ship said to be cursed to sail the seas for eternity, unable to make port.
An interpretation of the ship is featured prominently in the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series of movies.