More locals now on M’sian ships, thanks to maritime academy

Since its establishment in 2006, the Pelita Maslaut Maritime Academy has reduced the number of foreign seamen working on Malaysian ships.

Its general manager Mohamad Nazim Masni said yearly statistics showed that locals make up to 50% of the total workforce on Malaysian ships.

Previously, foreign sailors monopolised work in the marine field in the country.

“Since the setting up of our academy, we have successfully produced more than 5,000 local workers in the marine professional field,” he said at the course completion ceremony and presentation of certificates to course participants.

A total of 58 trainees consisting of 20 deck officers and engine engineers, and 38 deck and engine marine cadets received the course completion certificate presented by Tellian assemblyman Royston Valentine.

Nazim said Pelita MasLaut had produced sailors and marine officers as certified by the Malaysian Maritime Department Standards and STCW (Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping) under the International Maritime Organisation.

He said the academy would continue to train and educate Malaysian youth, especially in Sarawak, to venture into the maritime field.

He also called on Malaysian shipping companies to support the academy for it to be the foremost maritime education institution in Sarawak.

“With the support of the Malaysian industry and shipping companies, we hope the academy will see more Malaysians working in local shipping companies,” he added.