THE Malaysian government is keen to adopt a “blue economy”, where sustainable economic growth should align with maintaining ocean health.

Defence Minister Mohamad Hasan said striking a balance between achieving economic growth and maintaining ocean health requires proper planning and management of maritime space.

“Central issues like pollution control, marine ecosystem health, and sustainable fishing, should be the guiding priorities in achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals,” he said in his keynote address at the launch of the Langkawi Maritime Conference at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition today. 

He said due to the dynamic maritime geopolitical environment, the challenges the country will face are not limited to traditional threats.

“Our maritime security is greatly challenged by non-traditional threats, such as illegal trafficking of goods and humans; illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing; piracy and terrorism; threats to the marine ecosystem like climate change; and shipping and land-based pollution.”

“We need to revisit our approach in managing our sea areas and marine resources. Over the years of becoming a mature nation, Malaysia has passed at least 15 acts and orders to manage our maritime space.

“Enforcement is entrusted to more than 10 ministries and 31 maritime-related agencies. There is bound to be overlapping jurisdiction, which leads to inefficient use of resources,” he said.

“There is much to be done and many challenges to overcome for Malaysia to thrive as a maritime nation. Our vision will become a reality, provided we are willing to join hands and march forward together. This forum could be a launchpad for Malaysia to steer its way into becoming a maritime nation,” he said. – Bernama, May 24, 2023.