KUALA LUMPUR, July 30 — The Transport Ministry (MOT) has called on shipping industry players and maritime stakeholders to step forward with ideas and proposals to bolster Malaysia’s competitiveness in the maritime sector.
Its minister Anthony Loke said the MOT will compile all the ideas and proposals before presenting them to the Finance Ministry (MoF) for consideration for the upcoming Budget 2025 presentation in October.
“What we want from the MoF is to facilitate and encourage more investment in the local shipping industry as this is important for our economy, as well as the security and safety of our nation,” he said during his opening address at the Malaysia Maritime Week (MMW) 2024 today.
Loke believes collaboration between the government and the industry is crucial for developing policies that meet the industry’s needs and pave the way for a better future.
“It starts with the government giving the industry the focus it deserves. I am confident that with conducive policies, Malaysian maritime businesses can once again compete at the highest level,” he said.
Earlier today, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim officiated the three-day MMW 2024 with the theme “Navigating the Future: Safety First”.
The MMW 2024 celebrates the 50th anniversary of the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Seas (SOLAS) 1974, and Malaysia marks its 40th anniversary of ratifying the SOLAS convention this year.
— Bernama
