GEORGE TOWN, Oct 15 — Operation Redback, a joint maritime exercise between Australia and Malaysia will be enhanced, especially the training modules, as it has a good impact on enforcement.

Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) deputy director-general Datuk Mohd Taha Ibrahim said Operation Redback 8 has met the objectives of empowering and raising the readiness of members and assets.

"The maritime threats have become more challenging, complex with security issues such as human trafficking and migrant smuggling, smuggling of drugs and controlled items, piracy and terrorism.

"Operation Redback is a platform for us to enhance the coordination and support cross-border enforcement,” he told reporters after the closing ceremony of Operation Redback 8, here today.

Operation Redback 8 involving 100 officers and men of Australian Border Force (ABF) and MMEA began on October 9 in Port Klang, Selangor. — Bernama