Historic partnership to revitalise maritime sector

SIBU: A groundbreaking Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed today (Dec 16) between the Sarawak Association of Maritime Industries (SAMIN) and the Methodist Pilley Institute (MPI), heralding a strategic partnership set to rejuvenate Sarawak’s maritime industry.

SAMIN president, Dr. Renco Yong King Hwa, said the partnership’s ambitious agenda for the year, including a series of training programmes and safety initiatives across Sarawak.

“This momentous occasion represents a mutual commitment to the future, aiming to enhance industry competitiveness through education and training,” Dr. Yong said during the MOU ceremony at MPI, which saw he sign alongside SAMIN secretary Peter Tay Kho Jim.

Founded on October 25, 2018, SAMIN comprises various maritime professionals, including shipbuilders, naval architects, and marine consultants. The collaboration begins with SAMIN companies prioritising MPI graduates for employment and offering internships to current students, ensuring practical experience and career development.

“MPI will be our preferred partner in training, strategy, and consultancy, driving Sarawak’s maritime industry towards robust development and nurturing exceptional talent,” Yong added.

Additionally, significant MOUs were signed with the Associated Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sarawak (ACCCIS) and SUNMOW Berhad, marking a collective push for educational and professional growth.

ACCCIS president Kong Chiong Ung, Youth chairman Alex Woo Boon Thai (both also representing SUNMOW), MPI chairman Paul Wong Hee Kwong, and principal Hii King Kai were the signatories representing their respective organisations.