By Professor Ts. Dr. Mohamad Rosni Bin Othman (UPNM) & Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Mohamad Ghozali Hassan (UUM)
UUM ONLINE, 3 July 2025 – The Tun Sharifah Rodziah Sea Platform (PL TSR), once a PETRONAS oil rig, now stands at the forefront of Malaysia’s maritime defence in the waters of Beting Bogoya, Semporna, Sabah. A transformative initiative is currently underway to elevate PL TSR beyond its military role, positioning it as the future National Maritime and Coastal Marine Research Centre.
This transformation is spearheaded by a research consortium comprising the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM), Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM), and Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT).
This initiative marks a significant advancement in the pursuit of enhancing scientific research, formulating maritime security policies, and conserving marine ecosystems in the strategically important waters of eastern Sabah.
Since commencing operations on 31 July 2015, PL TSR, currently utilised by the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) as a Strategic Forward Base, has played a crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s waters against various cross-border threats. This platform, strategically located just a few nautical miles from the Philippine border – Paguan Island (15 nautical miles), Siluag 1 Island (22.1 nautical miles), and Maranas 1 Island (27.5 nautical miles) – has established itself as a vital line of defence against cross-border threats.
Equipped with radar systems and advanced optical surveillance technologies, and manned around the clock by members of the Malaysian Armed Forces including the elite PASKAL team, PL TSR has proven highly effective in deterring and responding to maritime crimes such as smuggling, kidnapping, and illegal incursions.
Currently, the government is evaluating the necessity of establishing a new, more dynamic and mobile platform to serve as a strategic maritime base. The consortium’s proposal is timely, offering a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach that not only reinforces national sovereignty but also elevates Malaysia’s standing in regional maritime research and diplomacy.
This initiative effectively utilises the existing facilities of PL TSR for academic purposes, innovation and maritime professional training.
UUM, recognised as a leading university in the field of strategic management and security policy, will provide its expertise in maritime resource management, border policy, and regional diplomacy, aligning with the nation’s aspirations towards security sustainability and a blue economy.
