Malaysia Allocates RM10 Million to Boost Seafarer Skills and Promote Maritime Careers

The Malaysian government, through the Skill Development Fund Corporation (PTPK), has allocated RM10 million this year to help seafarers enhance their knowledge and skills, announced Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook. This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to improving the skills of seafarers and acknowledging their contributions to the country’s economy. Interested seafarers can apply for this funding through the Malaysian Maritime Professional Association (IKMAL).

During the Seafarer’s Day and Lighthouse Carnival at Straits Quay, Loke highlighted the ministry’s efforts to promote the shipping and maritime industry to young people due to the promising opportunities it offers, including a relatively good income for seafarers. Currently, there are only around 11,000 active seafarers in the country, and the ministry aims to introduce more individuals to this profession to tap into the job opportunities it presents, especially for the youth.

In addition to the funding support, diploma and degree-level seafaring-related courses are available at both public and private universities to further enhance the skills and knowledge of individuals interested in pursuing a career in the maritime industry. The presence of Malaysian Marine Department director-general Capt Mohamad Halim Ahmed and Transport Ministry secretary-general Dr Nor Fuad Abdul Hamid at the event underscored the government’s commitment to supporting and developing the seafaring profession in Malaysia.

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