PETALING JAYA: A shortage of seafarers is deepening Malaysia’s reliance on foreign maritime labour, raising concerns about workforce development and the sustainability of national shipping interests. Industry players say the shortage, driven by both global and domestic factors, is straining operations and threatening the long-term resilience of the country’s maritime ecosystem. The shortage is already being felt across the industry, with existing seafarers facing heavier workloads, extended hours and fatigue, raising safety concerns. Among ongoing initiatives, Solahuddin pointed to the digital platform MarineCareerHub, designed to connect shipowners with local maritime talent and improve job matching. He urged all the relevant ­associations and policymakers to sit together to establish guidelines to encourage local seafarers to join and stay in the industry.

Source: The Star April 03, 2026 12:12 UTC