Pakistan and Malaysia are enhancing their maritime collaboration by exploring a framework focused on seafarer training and port-sector cooperation, as reported by 24NewsHD. This initiative, which includes plans for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aims to facilitate marine cadet exchanges between the two countries. Malaysian Deputy Minister of Transport, Datuk Hasbi bin Habibollah, recently conferred with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, during maritime engagements in the United Kingdom. The discussions centered on assessing current cooperation and identifying opportunities to bolster bilateral ties in the maritime sector.
Minister Chaudhry suggested establishing an MoU that would enable Pakistan to send its marine cadets to Malaysia for training, while Malaysia would reciprocate by sending its cadets to Pakistan for specialized programs. Chaudhry emphasized that this exchange would foster the professional development of young seafarers and promote long-term cooperation between the nations in the maritime domain.
In addition, the Pakistani minister highlighted the potential for Malaysia to leverage Pakistan’s advancements in digital port solutions. Specifically, he introduced the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) platform, which has been operational at Karachi Port and Port Qasim. This digital infrastructure is designed to enhance trade by reducing cargo clearance times and improving transparency.
Beyond training and digital initiatives, Chaudhry advocated for deeper operational cooperation on trade routes. He proposed the establishment of direct feeder shipping lines between Pakistan and Malaysia, with connectivity extending to Indonesia. This approach could facilitate increased rice exports from Pakistan to Southeast Asia and streamline imports of edible oil from Malaysia and Indonesia. The initiative aligns with Pakistan’s goal of enhancing maritime connectivity with ASEAN economies.
Both nations agreed to conduct further technical consultations in the upcoming weeks to finalize the MoU. They will define the training modules and establish mechanisms for implementing the cadet exchange program. This collaborative effort signifies a significant step forward in strengthening maritime ties and enhancing trade facilitation between Pakistan and Malaysia.
