Malaysian patrols are scouring the Andaman Sea for Rohingya refugees after a recent boat sank, claiming 21 lives. With 13 survivors rescued, the search continues for another vessel carrying 230 people. Many Rohingya risk dangerous journeys, fleeing violence in Myanmar and dire conditions in Bangladesh, hoping for safety in Malaysia.
A boat carrying Rohingya individuals from Myanmar sank near the Thai-Malaysian border, resulting in seven confirmed deaths and hundreds missing. Approximately 300 people were aboard the vessel, which departed from Rakhine state three days earlier. Search operations are ongoing, with 13 survivors rescued amid worsening conditions for the Rohingya community.
A tragic incident occurred at the Port of Tanjung Pelepas, Malaysia, where a fire on the MSC Kyparissia container ship claimed the lives of three crew members and critically injured three others. Emergency services responded swiftly, and an investigation is underway to ensure safety measures are reinforced to prevent future tragedies.
MISC Berhad has committed RM40 million to its Education Sponsorship program, supporting 153 students in maritime studies at Akademi Laut Malaysia (ALAM) over the next 3.5 years. This initiative emphasizes MISC’s dedication to nurturing future maritime leaders and enhancing Malaysia’s talent pipeline in the maritime sector.
Wärtsilä has launched an advanced simulation suite at Akademi Laut Malaysia (ALAM), enhancing maritime education. This state-of-the-art facility features dual-fuel simulator technology and virtual reality, preparing seafarers for sustainable fuels. Recognized as part of Wärtsilä’s MASTERS program, ALAM sets a new standard for Maritime Education and Training in the Asia Pacific.
The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA) detained a tugboat near the Kemena River estuary for violating shipping regulations. The vessel, operated by a crew of eight, failed to notify the Registrar of Ships about a captain change, incurring a penalty of RM2,500. Further investigations are underway.
Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Hans Leo Cacdac ensured support for Filipino seafarers repatriated from Malaysia. The crew of vessel MT Krishna 1 received financial aid and skills training vouchers. DMW will investigate the manning agency and shipowner. The repatriation reflects DMW’s commitment to safeguard overseas Filipino workers, the nation’s modern heroes.
Eight Filipino seafarers were detained in Malaysia for immigration violations. DMW conducted a welfare visit to assess their well-being. Labor Attachè and a lawyer presented a defense of good faith. DMW plans to investigate the manning agency and shipowner. The government’s response demonstrates a commitment to protecting OFWs’ rights and well-being.
The guide from the Centre for International Law at the National University of Singapore urges governments to collaborate with companies to enhance maritime awareness and track tankers in the dark fleet. By developing computer platforms and capabilities, coastal states can better monitor and manage maritime activities to ensure safety and security at sea.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) organized a table-top exercise with Indonesia and Malaysia to improve regional coordination for oil spills. Over 20 representatives from MPA, Indonesia, Malaysia, and ITOPF participated to enhance response capabilities in the Straits of Malacca and Singapore. This initiative aims to foster collaboration and communication during oil spill incidents.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi believes that Malaysia’s maritime industry has great potential for growth. By focusing on enhancing Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to produce a skilled workforce, Malaysia can excel in shipbuilding, ship repair, and marine technology, With strategic planning and investment in skills development.
Malaysia is ramping up security measures along its maritime borders after denying entry to almost 300 Rohingya refugees. Kedah state, bordering Thailand, will boost efforts to prevent undocumented migrants from entering Langkawi’s waters. The regional head stressed the need for agencies to collaborate in safeguarding the area, following recent refugee-related incidents.
The offloading of the naphtha cargo from the Hafnia Nile, which collided with the VLCC Ceres I in Malaysian waters five weeks ago, is currently underway. Malaysian authorities are leading the investigation, with Singapore monitoring as the flag state. Some cargo bound for Japan survived the accident, with offloading expected to be completed soon.
Officials from the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency provided an update on Monday regarding the collision of two tankers on Friday. Their involvement is winding down, with focus shifting to the investigation. All crew members are safe, with the Chinese VLCC, Ceres 1, towed to a safe area. Efforts are being made to secure the vessels and manage environmental concerns.
Malaysia’s coast guard reported a collision between two oil tankers, with one vessel, the “Ceres I,” leaving the scene and disabling its tracking system. The tanker, linked to the transport of Iranian oil, has prompted concerns about sanctions violation. Salvage operations continue to assess the situation in Malaysian waters.
