Tiong urges Sarawak, Sabah shipowners to go global for industry advancement - Borneo Post Online (2025)

SIBU (April 20): Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has encouraged the Sarawak and Sabah Shipowners Association (SSSA) to take part in global maritime exhibitions, such as those held in Indonesia or the Netherlands.

Tiong said such involvement would help them to stay abreast of the latest trends in digital management, smart logistics, safety monitoring, and big data analytics.

“Expanding avenues for international cooperation will enable Malaysia’s shipping sector to grow with resilience and confidence.

“Therefore, we must rapidly and continuously improve ourselves and adopt vessel types that meet international standards, so that we can expand routes around the world, develop more industry potential, and in turn attract more young people to join the maritime industry,” he said at SSSA’s 45th Anniversary Celebration here last night.

Tiong’s speech was read out by his special duties officer Agatha Ting, who represented him at the function.

The Bintulu MP pointed out while the shipping industry presents vast opportunities, it was vital for SSSA to focus on excellence and improvements so they can sail past the storms of global trade.

“This includes coping with differing tariff policies and complex legal frameworks across countries. Shipping companies must deepen international engagement and actively learn from best practices worldwide,” he said.

Tiong also acknowledged association’s role as a vital bridge between the government and the industry, working tirelessly to advocate for a more conducive development environment.

This has helped lay a solid foundation for the growth of the trade and logistics sector, not only in Sarawak but across Malaysia, he added.

“As a maritime hub within Southeast Asia, Malaysia is strategically positioned for shipping, and Sarawak – with its extensive coastline – is blessed with natural advantages that offer great potential for the development of the industry.”

In this regard, Tiong highlighted that the government has been actively formulating policies aimed at enhancing port competitiveness, strengthening regional maritime cooperation, and promoting a low-carbon, green transition – all designed to foster a more favourable business environment for the industry.

Earlier, he mentioned that the shipping industry plays a pivotal role in the functioning of the global economy.

The rise of international trade and e-commerce has opened up unprecedented opportunities in maritime transport, though not without its fair share of challenges, said Tiong.

“At this critical juncture, SSSA – with its proud history of 45 years – has stood firm like a steadfast anchor. It has led the way in enhancing the competitiveness of our local shipping sector, representing over 100 members and a fleet of around 2,500 vessels.”

Towards this end, Tiong also expressed hope the SSSA would step up its efforts to promote the industry to the younger generation.

“While many youths may perceive the shipping industry as physically demanding, it is precisely this spirit of grit and determination that we must inherit and uphold.

“Only then can we continue pushing Sarawak’s maritime sector beyond its current frontiers towards even greater heights.”

During the event, Tiong announced a grant of RM10,000 through Ting for SSSA to carry out its activities.

Also speaking at the event were organising chairman Tang Jung Lung, SSSA chairman Yong Ing Huong, Malaysia Shipowners’ Association chairman Mohamed Safwan Othman, and director-general of marine, Datuk Dickson Dollah, who was the guest-of-honour.

Dewan Rakyat Deputy Speaker and Lanang MP Alice Lau, Sibu MP Oscar Ling, Association of Marine Industries of Malaysia president Adren Siow, councillors Kevin Lau, Sean Wong and Sibu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCCI) president Datuk Lau Cheng Kiong, were among those in attendance.