‘ZERO PIRACY’ IN STRAITS OF MALACCA
Surveillance, close cooperation ensure safe passage for ships, says Liow
TIGHT security and surveillance by Malaysian maritime authorities in the Straits of Malacca have resulted in “zero piracy” there in the last four years.
The virtual elimination of piracy in the busy waterway was also due to good cooperation with counterparts in Singapore and Indonesia, said Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai yesterday.
“The Malaysian Marine Department is working closely with the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency and the navy to ensure the safety of ships and vessels cruising through the straits.
“We guarantee that Malaysian waters in the Straits of Malacca are safe,” he said after launching the 2017 Maritime Run here, where he participated in the 5km run. Some 2,000 people took part in the run.
Liow said Malaysia’s involvement in the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) council had benefited the country, especially in strengthening the marine sector.
“Malaysia has been re-elected to the council for the 2018-2019 term. It is the seventh consecutive term since the country was first elected to the council in 2006.
“This is a great honour and recognition of the country’s contribution to IMO and the marine industry,” he added.
Among the measures taken by Malaysia to contribute to the development of the international marine industry are increasing the country’s capacity building, undertaking technical change and championing national logistics.
“We have contributed financially to the World Maritime University and the International Maritime Law Institution to increase facilities and equipment at the institutions,” said Liow.
“And, we have sent officers to receive training and knowledge at these institutions.”
IMO is the global standard-setting authority for the safety, security and environmental sustainability of international shipping.
Its main objective is to create a regulatory framework for the shipping industry that is fair and effective, as well as universally adopted and implemented.
The IMO general assembly is held every two years.