DCA transformed into Civil Aviation Authority Malaysia
PUTRAJAYA: The Department of Civil Aviation (DCA) has been transformed into the Civil Aviation Authority Malaysia (CAAM) effective yesterday, in line with the government’s commitment to spur the nation’s aviation industry to greater heights.
Transport Minister Datuk Seri Liow Tiong Lai said the statutory body, which will be overseen by his ministry, would regulate safety and security aspects relating to the civil aviation industry.
Liow said CAAM would play a vital role in maintaining the country’s competitive edge in the global aviation sector.
“As an independent regulatory body, CAAM’s responsibilities will include safeguarding civil aviation operations in Malaysia, exercising safety regulatory oversight of civil aviation, regulating the operation of aerodrome services and facilities in Malaysia, providing air navigation services within the Kuala Lumpur and Kota Kinabalu Flight Information Region, coordinating search-andrescue operations, as well as cooperating with any authority in charge of investigation of aircraft accidents and serious incidents.
“Beyond the regulatory and oversight functions, CAAM will also encourage, promote, facilitate and assist in the development and improvement of civil aviation capabilities, skills and services in Malaysia by providing technical and consultancy services relating to civil aviation, as well as providing education and training in this industry and promoting research and development of civil aviation sector,” Liow said in a statement.
He said CAAM began its operations effective yesterday, helmed by Datuk Seri Azharuddin Abdul Rahman as its chairman and Ahmad Nizar Zolfakar as its chief executive officer.
They will be joined by board members Datuk Dr Chuah Hean Teik, Professor Datuk Razali Mahfar, Captain Ahmad Ridzwan Mohd Salleh and Captain Mohamed Azharuddin Osman.
“The ministry’s deputy secretary-general (policy) and the Finance Ministry’s Statutory Body Strategic Management Division undersecretary will also hold posts as permanent members of the body,” Liow said.
“I am confident that CAAM will make great strides in strengthening our nation’s aviation standards as well as addressing existing challenges to advance Malaysia in the aviation sector, in line with our aspiration to be the leading hub for the industry in the region as well as in the global arena.”