The Dewan Rakyat of Malaysia has recently approved the Merchant Shipping Ordinance (Amendment) Bill 2016, a key legislative move aimed at aligning the nation’s maritime laws with international standards. The initiative, reported by Bernama, is part of Malaysia’s commitment to improving maritime regulations following its ratification of the Maritime Labor Convention 2006, which came into effect on July 31, 2013.
Deputy Transport Minister Datuk Ab Aziz Kaprawi emphasized the government’s dedication to ensuring compliance among merchant shipping companies with the updated national maritime laws. He assured that the Marine Department would undertake annual audits of these companies to verify adherence to regulations that enhance the welfare of seafarers.
Significant amendments include revisions to Section 90, which mandates that each seafarer on a Malaysian ship receives a minimum rest period of ten hours within any 24-hour timeframe, accumulating to a total of 77 hours over a week. This legislative change is designed to improve the working conditions for seafarers and ensure that they are not overworked, thus promoting their health and safety while at sea.
Furthermore, Section 103 has been amended to require shipowners—both Malaysian and foreign vessels operating in Malaysian waters—to provide adequate health protection and medical care for their seafarers. This provision includes stipulations for maintaining a well-stocked medicine chest and medical equipment, emphasizing the necessity of regular inspections by a designated responsible officer.
Overall, these amendments signify Malaysia’s proactive steps towards enhancing the rights and welfare of seafarers, ensuring their working conditions are reflective of international standards while also reinforcing the country’s maritime governance framework. The government’s commitment, as expressed by Kaprawi, illustrates a concerted effort to balance maritime industry growth with the protection of those who work within it.
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