MIRI, July 2: Sarawak is an important player in Malaysia’s shipbuilding and ship repair (SBSR) industry, with 59 out of 100 operating shipyards in the country located in the State.
According to a report by Sarawak Public Communications Unit (Ukas), Minister of Transport Dato Sri Lee Kim Shin said Sibu has the most shipyards at 40, followed by Miri (12), Kuching (5), and one each in Bintulu and Limbang.
“This shows that the maritime sector in Sarawak has made a significant contribution to the economy of Sarawak,” he said when officiating at a briefing on the Proposed New Agreement Relating to the International Convention for Safety of Life (SOLAS) 1974 Merchant Shipping (Safety At Sea) Act 20XX at Miri Imperial Hotel on Thursday (June 30).
Speaking about the briefing, he said it is very important that all industry players in the shipping sector can be prepared and learn about best practices for achieving the goals of SOLAS.
“The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) Member State Audit Scheme (IMSAS) started as a voluntary scheme in 2006 and became a mandatory agreement in January 2016.
“It aims to provide audited member states with a comprehensive and objective assessment of how they effectively administer and implement the mandatory IMO instruments covered by the scheme.
“Therefore, the Sarawak Ministry of Transport has proactively engaged and sought feedback from relevant stakeholders both from the government and private agencies to be updated on new developments in maritime matters related to Sarawak,” he added.
Also present were Deputy Secretary of the Maritime Division of the Ministry of Transport Malaysia, Norhasliza Mat Salleh and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport Sarawak, Datu Buckland Bangik. — DayakDaily
